Page 91 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Estonia Latvia & Lithuania

EST ONIA REGION B Y REGION 89

WESTERN ESTONIA

The region enjoys some of the country’s most stunning natural
landscapes and is also historically entwined with the Estonian
national identity in countless ways. The erratic, time-worn
coastline is punctuated with numerous places of cultural
interest as well as some lively summer resorts, while the
archipelago is remarkable for its unspoiled, timeless beauty.

Estonia’s history has, to a large extent, occupation in the form of countless
been shaped by its west coast. Swedes crumbling buildings that once served
settled in large numbers on the islands the enormous submarine base there,
and around Haapsalu, as they were in while the beautiful cliffs around the
the path of Nordic trading routes. Peter peninsula make it a wonderful place for
the Great seized Estonia and, in 1718, hiking. The whole coastline is dotted
built a port and naval base at Paldiski with tiny, picturesque villages, while
because he wanted a “window into the countless manor houses, medieval
West”. In Soviet times, the coastline churches, iconic lighthouses and other
served as a heavily guarded border zone. places of interest are strewn throughout
Western Estonia’s main coastal town this region.
is Pärnu, in the south, the country’s Of the Estonian islands, Saaremaa is
“Summer Capital”. Further north, Haap- both the largest and the most popular.
salu was a stylish resort during the 19th The island of Vilsandi is the remotest
century and has remained every bit as of all of Estonia’s national parks but,
attractive today. Soomaa National Park, covered with interesting sights, it is
which lies just inland, is an enchanting one of the most rewarding to visit. The
waterworld of bogs and rivers, while islands of Hiiumaa, Vormsi and Muhu are
Matsalu National Park is one of the less developed but their rugged beauty
biggest nesting grounds for birds in is a strong attraction for visitors seeking
Europe. On the northwest coast, the serenity of a pristine and somewhat
Paldiski offers testimony to the Soviet remote environment.

Traditionally attired dancers forming a circle at a celebration on Hiiumaa Island
The historic Ekesparre Boutique Hotel (see p298) in the grounds of the Bishop’s Castle in Kuressaare, Saaremaa Island