Wild and Heritage Premium- Estonia in Essence : A Short Journey through time and wilderness
A 5-day immersion into wild beauty, quiet luxury, and Estonia’s timeless heart.
Discover Estonia in 5 immersive days — from the medieval charm of Tallinn to the wild beauty of Lahemaa National Park and a night deep in the forest inside a private bear hide.Stay in elegant manor houses, walk ancient bog trails, and experience the quiet magic of nature — all in a small group of just 8 guests.
Day 1: Arrival in Tallinn — A Step Back Through Centuries
Your journey begins in Tallinn, where medieval towers pierce the northern sky, red-tiled roofs glow against the sea breeze, and every cobblestone seems to whisper stories — of merchants, monks, and secrets from centuries past.
A private driver greets you at the airport and whisks you into the Old Town, where you’ll settle into the 4 star boutique accommodation — a 14th century merchant’s house turned boutique retreat. Tucked inside the city’s ancient walls, this historic gem offers the perfect blend of Old World soul and quiet luxury.
Later, your small group will be met by an English-speaking private guide, dedicated exclusively to your party. Together, you'll take a gentle walking tour through UNESCO-listed Tallinn Old Town, exploring hidden courtyards, Gothic spires, artisan studios, and centuries-old alleyways carved by time and trade.
As evening arrives, Tallinn is yours to explore. Whether you choose a tavern lit by candlelight, a modern tasting menu tucked behind medieval walls, or simply a slow walk under the glow of lanterns, this night is your first chapter.
Dinner is not included tonight, but your guide will gladly recommend restaurants tailored to your taste — rustic, refined, or something in between.
Day 2: Lahemaa National Park — Estonia’s Oldest and Wildest Playground
In the morning it’s time to leave the cobblestones of Tallinn behind and journey into the wild beauty of Lahemaa National Park — one of Europe’s oldest and most captivating nature reserves. Here, ancient forests, vast bog landscapes, and untouched coastlines stretch endlessly into the horizon.
At the mystical Viru Bog, wooden boardwalks gently guide you over serene wetlands. The trail is accessible and easy to walk — no strenuous hiking required — yet it offers an unforgettable immersion into Estonia’s primeval landscapes.
Noble Estates & Coastal Echoes
Step back in time at Palmse Manor, a meticulously restored 17th-century estate that seems frozen in another era. Its golden halls and manicured gardens evoke the elegance of Estonia’s noble past and tell stories of Baltic-German aristocracy.
You’ll enjoy a traditional Estonian lunch at Altja Tavern (Shared group dinner at a local restaurant — choose freely from the menu, pay locall), located in a charming old fishing village where locals still cast their nets into the sea. The tavern is surrounded by weathered wooden fishermen’s cottages, offering a glimpse into coastal life as it once was — and in many ways, still is.
Heritage Manor Hotel – Forests, Saunas & Farm-to-Table Dining
By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at your countryside sanctuary: Heritage Manor Hotel — a beautifully restored estate embraced by rivers, forests, and timeless serenity. Whether you prefer to unwind in refined elegance or step into a cherished local tradition, the choice is yours.
We invite you to experience the heart of Estonian wellness: a true sauna ritual. Let the gentle heat relax your body and mind, and — for those feeling adventurous — take a refreshing plunge in the nearby pond, just like Estonians have done for centuries.
Spa offers a range of experiences, including various saunas, massages, and cooling ponds — all designed to reconnect you with nature and yourself.
Dinner is served in the Manor House Restaurant, where heritage meets modern elegance. The menu celebrates local Estonian cuisine, with a blend of hearty countryside fare and refined manor-style dishes. Some recipes have even been resurrected from historical manor cookbooks and carefully reimagined by the executive chef.
A key part of Manor’s philosophy is sustainability: many ingredients come from the estate’s own organic Manor Garden, Eco-Farm, and surrounding local producers. The result? Food that’s not only rich in flavor, but also as fresh and pesticide-free as nature allows. ( Choose freely from the menu, pay locally).
Sleep Where History Breathes
As night falls, settle into your room at Manor, a place that perfectly balances historical charm with natural beauty. Recognized as the Historic Hotel of Europe 2020, the manor offers an unforgettable stay surrounded by stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and the peaceful rhythm of the Estonian countryside.
Day 3: A night with bears.
Today’s journey takes us along the winding roads of Lahemaa, through dense forests and far from the noise of city life.
As we travel deeper into the countryside, we pass charming woodland routes and sites rich in local culture and history.
For lunch, we stop at a stylish, seaside restaurant nestled by a pristine sandy beach — highly regarded for its fresh, seasonal cuisine. If the fishermen have been lucky, we may even enjoy local catch straight from the Baltic. (Shared group dinner at a local restaurant — choose freely from the menu, pay locally. )
Should the weather be kind, there’s time for a refreshing swim in the Baltic Sea or a gentle walk along the shore, where waves meet wilderness.
Transition to the Wild
After lunch, the road leads us deeper into the forest — beyond settlements, into a land shaped by bogs and ancient trees.
The land grows quieter. The trees seem older. The excitement rises.
And then, you arrive.
Into the Bear Hide
Tucked at the edge of a forest clearing awaits your private Bear Hide — a log cabin, built for quiet observation, comfort, and immersion.
Inside, you’ll find:
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Private viewing windows overlooking the forest
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Cozy rooms, for sleeping and for observing.
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Toilet, electricity, and soundproof walls for both comfort and quiet
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A sensitive outdoor microphone that brings the sounds of the forest indoors: birdsong, elk calls, rustling branches — and sometimes, the heavy footfall of a bear approaching
Your local wildlife guide will provide instructions and quietly depart. From that moment on, it’s just you, your small group and the forest.
Dinner comes with us and is enjoyed inside the hide — a satisfying meal, accompanied by tea or, if desired, something a little stronger to sip quietly while waiting for the forest to come alive.
Once inside, you remain until morning — part of the experience is the stillness, the anticipation, the sense of entering another world.
Twilight Whispers, Wild Encounters
As dusk settles over Alutaguse, patience becomes part of the magic.
Estonia is home to approximately 1,000 brown bears, and Alutaguse holds a big part of them.
The first signs may be subtle — a rustle, a shadow — and then, a magnificent brown bear steps into view.
Later, you might spot foxes, raccoon dogs, moose, or even the gleaming eyes of a lynx in the distance.
With an 80%+ sighting success rate in summer, this is one of Europe’s most intimate and thrilling wildlife experiences — and yet, it remains quietly respectful, with no disturbance to the animals.
Sleeping in the Wild
You'll spend the night in the hide — warm, safe, and fully immersed in nature.
Beds, pillows, and sleeping bags are provided. Your night is lit by moonlight and quiet wonder — no distractions, just the wild outside and the whisper of trees.
The early morning is often the most rewarding time to spot wildlife — the forest begins to wake, and the light returns gently through the trees.
You’ll leave the hide in silence, with the scent of pine still in the air and the memory of something extraordinary quietly settling in your heart.
Interested in something extra special? A private 2-person luxury hide upgrade may be available — perfect for couples or photographers wanting total solitude. Ask us for details.
Want to learn more about the bear hide experience?
👉 [Read our full Bear Watching Journal →]
Day 4 – Forest Trails and the Shores of Lake Peipsi
You wake in the hush of the Alutaguse wilderness, with the first light filtering through the trees and maybe a lingering memory of brown bears seen the night before.
We begin the morning with a short drive to a nearby local tavern, where a warm breakfast and strong coffee await — the perfect setting to reflect and share stories from the night in the hide.
After breakfast, we continue our journey, with stops along the way to explore a series of scenic forest trails — winding through boglands, mixed woodlands, and along a dramatic stream.
This region is also home to one of Estonia’s most elusive creatures — the Siberian flying squirrel. While the chance of actually spotting one is close to zero (they’re nocturnal, tiny, and very shy), we’ll still take a moment to share their story — and why this rare animal holds such a special place in Estonia’s natural heritage.
Fun fact: Despite being able to glide up to 50 meters between trees, the flying squirrel is so light (around 150 grams) that it barely makes a sound — making it more like a whisper in the forest than a visible animal.
As one local conservationist puts it:
“The flying squirrel is like Estonia itself — small, quiet, and often overlooked, but full of surprises once you get close.”
By lunchtime, we reach the shores of Lake Peipsi — one of Europe’s largest inland lakes, stretching farther than the eye can see. We'll enjoy a peaceful lunch at a lakeside restaurant (Shared group dinner at a local restaurant — choose freely from the menu, pay locally) with breathtaking views. If the weather is kind, there’s time for a swim in the calm, sandy waters — a refreshing pause between forest and city.
Peipsi is more than just a lake; it’s a cultural borderland, where Estonian and Russian traditions blend. Wooden houses dot the shoreline, and fishermen still haul in their catch using centuries-old techniques — a landscape of quiet resilience and deep-rooted heritage.
In the afternoon, we begin our return drive to Tallinn. By evening, we arrive back in the capital and settle once again into the elegant acommodation— the same charming boutique residence where our journey began. That night, we gather for a final shared dinner, reflecting on the wild beauty, stories, and unexpected moments that have shaped our time together in Estonia.
Day 5 – Departure: Quiet Reflections and Last Glances
Your final morning in Tallinn begins slowly — with the rustle of Old Town streets below, the scent of fresh coffee, and perhaps one last stroll through the quiet courtyards before the world fully wakes.
After breakfast , your private transfer awaits to bring you to the airport at your preferred time.
Though the tour ends today, Estonia leaves a mark:
the stillness of the bogs, the rustling forest where the bear appeared, the golden light over manor rooftops, and the feeling that time — at least for a little while — slowed just for you.
You came for something different.
You leave with something unforgettable.
Ready to secure your place on this unforgettable journey?
Your Journey at a Glance
What’s Included
Accommodation
Your journey combines authentic heritage with refined comfort, staying in carefully selected boutique hotels, historic manor estates, and one unforgettable night deep in the forest. Each place has a story — and each adds its own layer to the experience.
3 nights in boutique heritage hotels and restored manor estates, plus 1 unforgettable night in a private bearhide.
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Tallinn — 14th-Century Merchant’s House Hotel
Your first nights are spent in a former merchant’s residence dating back to the 14th century, now a charming boutique hotel with all modern comforts and amenities. Located right in the heart of Tallinn’s Old Town, it’s just a five-minute walk from the main square, surrounded by cafés, restaurants, and small artisan shops. The atmosphere blends medieval character with contemporary elegance — the perfect welcome to Estonia.
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Lahemaa National Park — Vihula Manor Country Club & Spa
Nestled in the quiet heart of Lahemaa National Park, Vihula is a heritage manor estate lovingly restored into a stylish country hotel and spa. The property features historic buildings surrounded by rivers, ponds, and forests, offering elegant rooms, a romantic millhouse restaurant, and a peaceful spa with views of the park. It’s a place where Estonian manor life meets modern serenity.
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Alutaguse Forest — Bearhide Experience
One night you’ll stay in a unique log-built bearhide, tucked deep in the wilderness. Equipped with lookout windows, comfortable beds, sleeping bags, and all necessary amenities, this is a rare chance to experience the forest’s nocturnal life up close, with safety and comfort. A night to remember — listening to the sounds of the wild .
Transportation
All travel logistics are thoughtfully arranged for comfort and ease.
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Private airport transfers at the beginning and end of your journey
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Comfortable private minibus for all travel throughout the itinerary
Our modern, air-conditioned minibus provides spacious seating and large windows — ideal for scenic drives through forests, coastal roads, and countryside landscapes. Travel is unhurried and flexible, with stops for photos, short walks, and local discoveries along the way.
Meals & Culinary Experiences
Food is an essential part of this journey — a way to taste Estonia’s nature, culture, and seasons.
Included meals:
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Daily breakfasts
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Dinner in the bearhide, a memorable night close to nature
All other lunches and dinners are enjoyed together at carefully selected local restaurants or manor house dining rooms along the route. These are often the most authentic places available — beloved by locals, full of character, and reflective of the region’s ingredients and traditions.
While we dine as a group, each guest is free to choose from the menu whatever speaks to them — perhaps a chanterelle burger, freshly caught local fish, or a seasonal vegetarian dish. Since most of these small, family-run kitchens change their menus with the season and availability, this flexibility ensures the most genuine culinary experience.
Your guide will always be there to recommend local specialties and help with choices. Along the way, you’ll also discover regional flavors such as smoked cheeses, wild berries, and other seasonal products.
You can expect to pay approximately €15–20 for lunch and €15–25 for a main course at dinner. Over the course of the trip, plan for about 3 lunches and 3 dinners that are at your own expense — around €120–160 per person in total.
Activities & Experiences
Every day on this journey blends nature, heritage, and authentic local life — guided by those who know Estonia’s wild corners and quiet stories best.
Private Exploration
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Private guided walking tour of Tallinn Old Town
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Bog walks, manor visits, and medieval sites across Lahemaa and Alutaguse
Wildlife & Nature
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Bear hide with overnight stay
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Optional morning wildlife safaris, nature walks, and scenic drives
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Along the way, your guide introduces Estonia’s living nature traditions — from identifying edible wild plants and berries to remedy herbs and foraging culture still practiced today.
Cultural Encounters
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Visits to traditional fishing villages, and local artisans (when available)
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Stops medieval castles, and historic houses
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As we travel, we often pause spontaneously to explore something of interest — a small chapel, a sea view, or a local market — moments that can’t be planned but make the journey special.
Wellness & Relaxation
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Access to spa and sauna facilities at manor hotel
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Optional treatments available for pre-booking
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Learn about Estonia’s ancient wellness rituals, sauna customs, and the deep connection between nature and wellbeing that still shapes life here.
Expert Guidance
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Private English-speaking guide throughout the entire tour
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Deep knowledge of Estonian nature, culture, and traditions, with a passion for sharing stories and local secrets along the way.
Group Size
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Exclusively small group: maximum 8 guests per departure
Flexibility
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Curated alternative experiences provided in case of weather disruptions
What’s Not Included
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International or domestic airfare
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Alcoholic beverages, dinners and lunches (unless specified for inclusions
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Optional spa treatments or private sauna bookings
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Travel insurance (highly recommended)
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Tips/gratuities for guide or driver (optional, at your discretion)
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Personal expenses: souvenirs, laundry, minibar, etc.
Ready for Your Wild Adventure?
Price
€1,290 per person, based on double or twin shared accommodation
Single supplement: €220
Travelling with children under 12. Contact us for a special rate.
This price applies to standard room categories in each accommodation.
Prefer an upgraded room or suite? Let us know — we’ll gladly check availability and pricing for premium options.
This journey operates as an intimate small-group tour (4–8 guests), ensuring a personal and unhurried experience.
The tour will depart with a minimum of 4 guests at the listed price.
For smaller private departures (1–3 guests), the same itinerary can be arranged at a special rate of €1,499 per person.
Due to the very limited group size, early booking is strongly recommended.
Who This Journey Is For
Are you a traveler who seeks the road less traveled — yet still loves crisp linens, candlelit dinners, and waking up to birdsong instead of city noise?
Then Wild & Heritage: Estonia is crafted just for you.
This journey is designed for:
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Nature lovers who appreciate boutique comfort and elegance
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Curious travelers drawn to culture, history, and wild landscapes blended seamlessly
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Wildlife enthusiasts seeking rare, respectful encounters in natural habitats
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Adventurers who value intimate groups over tourist crowds
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Story seekers who crave places where the past and present still whisper through the trees
If you dream of walking across ancient bogs, dining on freshly foraged and local island produce, watching brown bears at dusk, and sailing among seal colonies — all while staying in Estonia’s finest historic manor hotels — then this journey is yours.
Who This Journey is Perfect For
Are you a traveler who seeks the road less traveled — but still loves crisp linens, candlelit dinners, and waking up to birdsong instead of hotel traffic?
Then Wild & Heritage Estonia is crafted just for you.
This journey is designed for:
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Nature lovers who appreciate boutique luxury
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Curious travelers who want culture, history, and wild landscapes blended effortlessly
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Wildlife enthusiasts looking for rare, respectful encounters
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Adventurers who prefer intimate groups over tourist crowds
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Story seekers who crave places where the past and present still whisper through the trees
If you dream of walking across ancient bogs, dining on local fresh products and island seafood, watching brown bears at dusk, and sailing to seal colonies — all while staying in Estonia’s finest historic hotels — this is your journey.
Upcoming Departures
Our small-group journeys are limited to just 8 guests per departure to ensure an intimate, personalized experience.
Below are the current available dates for this tour:
Departure dates 2026
May 18.-22.05/ 28.05.-01.06
June 4.-9.06/11.-15.06/26.-30.06
July 2.-6.07/20.-24.07
August 10.-14.08/20.-24.08
September 7.- 11.09/10.-14.09
Looking for different dates or a private departure?
Whether you’re travelling with family or friends, we can often arrange special departures or bespoke versions of this tour. Simply get in touch — we’ll see what’s possible and craft something that suits you perfectly.
Wondering about saunas, bear hides, or what to pack?
You’ll find all the practical details in our [FAQ →].
Curious who’s behind Wild & Heritage?
Get to know the story (and soul) behind our journeys
Why Estonia?
Let us show you why this hidden gem might just be Europe’s best-kept secret .
Still have questions? Let’s schedule a call or join one of our free webinars — we’d love to guide you through it.
Here are the essentials to pack for your adventure in Estonia
Still Wondering If This Tour is For You?
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Prefer intimate, small-group journeys? ✅
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Dream of exploring hidden islands, secret forests, and timeless villages? ✅
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Want boutique luxury without rigid schedules? ✅
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Appreciate a sauna session and a wildlife safari? ✅
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Like a little storytelling and humor with your travel? ✅
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👉 If you said yes to these, Wild & Heritage Estonia was made for you.
Come curious. Leave transformed.
Still have questions? Let’s arrange a call or join one of our free webinars — we’d love to guide you through it.