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Wild and Heritage Christmas Market and Winter Wonderland  

From fairy lights to frozen forests, discover Estonia’s Christmas Market and winter wonderland in one magical journey.

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Christmas Market & Winter Wonderland

Tallinn • Lahemaa • Vihula Manor | 5 days / 4 nights

Step into an Estonian winter fairytale where medieval charm meets tranquil nature.
Begin in Tallinn’s Old Town, glowing with Christmas lights and the scent of spiced wine, then journey into Lahemaa National Park for serene forests, frozen bogs, and the quiet luxury of a heritage manor stay.
Small in size and rich in atmosphere, this intimate escape blends festive sparkle, local tradition, and Nordic stillness — the perfect way to welcome the season.

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  • small group tour up to 14  guests                
  • heritage accommodations        
  • Departure dates :  2025  4 –  8 December 2025, 11 –  15 December 2025  
  • Departures 2026  3 –  7 December 2026, 10 –  14 December 2026, 25 – Sunday 29 November 2026
  • from 990 eur/per person             
  • TOUR CODE- 5DC  

Day 1:  – A Fairytale Beginning in Tallinn

Welcome to Tallinn, a medieval gem glowing under a winter sky.
Step back in time as you wander the cobblestone streets of the Old Town — one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval quarters. Your guide will reveal stories hidden in every tower and courtyard, leading you toward the heart of the city: Town Hall Square.

Here, the Tallinn Christmas Market unfolds like a dream — a glowing tree in the center, rows of wooden stalls filled with handcrafted gifts, and the comforting aroma of spiced mulled wine and sizzling Christmas sausages in the air.
If snow falls, the red rooftops glisten, and music drifts softly through the square — it’s pure Nordic magic.

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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.

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 Day 2 – Winter Silence & Manor Elegance

Morning light filters through the old streets of Tallinn — it’s time to leave the cobblestones behind and journey east into the wild beauty of Lahemaa National Park, one of Europe’s oldest and most captivating nature reserves. As the city fades, pine forests and seaside villages unfold along the road, leading you into a world where nature slows and silence deepens. In winter, Lahemaa’s landscape transforms into a scene of quiet wonder — ancient forests dusted with snow, vast bogs frozen in stillness, and wind-swept coastlines meeting the Baltic Sea. Take a winter walk along the wooden boardwalks, surrounded by frost-touched trees and glassy pools, where the only sounds are the snow beneath your boots and the soft rhythm of your breath.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

​​​At the mystical Viru Bog, your guide leads the way along wooden boardwalks that wind through a landscape hushed by winter. As you walk, they share stories of Estonia’s ancient forests — of the plants that sleep beneath the snow, and how the land transforms when frost takes hold. Around you, frozen pools shimmer like glass, pine branches hang heavy with white, and the air feels almost sacred in its stillness. Afterwards, gather for a moment of warmth — a cup of hot tea in the quiet forest, surrounded by the soft beauty of a northern winter.

 

Continue to Palmse Manor, a beautifully restored 17th-century estate that reveals how the Baltic nobility once lived. Then, enjoy a hearty lunch in Altja (lunch is included), a charming seaside fishing village.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If the weather allows, take a short stroll along the snowy coast before arriving at your destination.

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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.

👉 [Read our full story of Manor Houses in  Journal →]

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 Day 3 – Slow Winter Moments in Lahemaa

Today is yours to live slowly. Wake to the sound of stillness and spend the day as you wish — perhaps with a spa ritual, a warm sauna, or a gentle winter hike through Lahemaa’s forests, guided by your local expert who shares stories of the frozen landscape along the way. The walk is weather-dependent, but unless conditions are truly extreme, there is beauty in every kind of winter day: the sparkle of a clear, frosty morning or the soft hush of light snowfall. Either way, the forest is quiet — resting, sleeping — its calmness wrapping around you like a blanket.

If you choose to stay within the manor grounds, there’s plenty to enjoy as well. Vihula Manor invites slow discovery — explore its two small museums, wander around the frozen lake and historic gardens, or simply admire the view from a cozy window seat with a cup of tea in hand. You may also pre-book spa treatments, stroll between the beautifully preserved outbuildings, and let time stretch gently through the day.

No crowds. No rush. Just winter’s soft beauty, heritage charm, and space to breathe.

Lunch in Vihula is included in the tour price .

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Return to the manor for a tranquil afternoon and another gourmet dinner by candlelight. The meal is crafted from traditional seasonal ingredients, celebrating the flavors of Estonia’s countryside — hearty, honest, and full of warmth. Inside, the atmosphere is cozy and calm, the flicker of candles reflecting on old walls as you enjoy the quiet charm of winter in the manor.

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 Day 4 – Art, Parks & Tallinn by Night

After breakfast, begin your leisurely drive back to Tallinn. Along the way, your guide may choose a few scenic stops depending on the weather — perhaps to admire a frozen waterfall, where ice cascades shimmer like glass under the winter sun, or to pause at a viewpoint over the snow-covered countryside.

Upon arrival in Tallinn, check in once more at The Three Sisters, your charming 14th-century merchant house hotel. Later, continue to Kadriorg, one of the city’s most beloved districts. Founded by Peter the Great in the early 18th century as a summer retreat, Kadriorg blends imperial grace with local soul. The baroque palace and park are framed by quiet paths, snow-dusted trees, and frozen fountains, while the surrounding streets reveal a different kind of beauty — century-old wooden villas lovingly restored, their carved doors and painted details glowing softly in the winter light.

This is also Tallinn’s cultural heart, home to three major art museums — Kumu, Kadriorg Art Museum, and Mikkel Museum — each offering a window into Estonia’s artistic spirit.

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In the evening, explore Tallinn’s modern quarters — Rotermann, Telliskivi, or Noblessner — where old factories have been transformed into elegant restaurants, wine bars, and studios. Industrial history meets candlelight and creative energy, offering the perfect final evening in Estonia.

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Day 5 – Farewell, Estonia

Enjoy a slow breakfast and perhaps a final walk through Tallinn’s quiet morning streets, where the air still carries the scent of winter and the memory of twinkling lights. If your flight leaves later, your guide will suggest charming cafés, hidden galleries, or local boutiques — perfect for a last taste of Estonian creativity before you go.

Whether the city was wrapped in snow or simply brushed with frost, you’ve experienced the quiet magic of Estonia in winter — its warmth, its stillness, and its timeless beauty. And as you leave, know that another world awaits when you return: the summer Estonia, where forests turn green, the sea shimmers under endless daylight, and the manors open their gardens once more. Different season, same soul.

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What’s Included

Accommodation

Stay in boutique heritage hotels and beautifully restored manor estates that reflect Estonia’s timeless charm and quiet elegance. Each property combines historical character with modern comfort — a balance of authenticity and refined simplicity.

Our standard package includes:

  • Tallinn: The Three Sisters Hotel – standard room

  • Lahemaa National Park: Vihula Manor (Vihula Mõis) – standard room

Both accommodations offer serene surroundings, thoughtful details, and a genuine sense of place — where history, nature, and comfort meet in harmony.

Transportation

All transfers during the tour are included, including  airport pick-up and drop-off for your convenience.
Throughout the journey, you’ll travel in a comfortable private minibus, allowing you to relax and enjoy the changing Estonian landscapes — from quiet forests to coastal roads and charming countryside villages.

Meals & Culinary Experiences

Food is an essential part of this journey — a way to taste Estonia’s nature, culture, and seasons.

Included meals:

  • Each day begins with a hearty breakfast  and 2 lunches in Lahemaa

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 1 lunches and 4 dinners that are at your own expense — around €100–150 per person in total.

Activities & Experiences

Immerse yourself in the authentic rhythm of Estonia — where wild nature, noble heritage, and quiet wellness come together in perfect harmony.

Cultural Encounters

  • Private guided walking tour of Tallinn’s Old Town small group

  • Visits to traditional fishing villages and heritage manors

  • Interactions with local artisans and craftsmen (when available)

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Wildlife & Nature

  • Bog walks, forest hikes led by expert local guides

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Wellness & Relaxation

  • Sauna and spa access at Vihula Manor

  • Experience both modern and traditional Estonian saunas

  • Optional eco-friendly treatments available for pre-booking

Expert Guidance

  • Private English-speaking guide throughout the entire journey

  • Deep knowledge of Estonia’s nature, history, and cultural traditions

Group Size

  • Exclusively small groups: maximum of 14 guests per departure

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Flexibility

  • Curated alternative experiences provided in case of weather disruptions, ensuring a seamless and memorable adventure

What’s Not Included

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  • International or domestic airfare

  • Alcoholic beverages (unless specified at select meals)

  • Optional spa treatments or private sauna bookings

  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)

  • Tips or gratuities for guide and driver (optional, at your discretion)

  • Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, minibar, etc.

Price

€ 990  per person, based on double or twin shared accommodation
Single supplement: € 260
Traveling 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’re happy to check availability and pricing for premium options.

Due to very limited group size (max 14 guests), early booking is strongly recommended.

Please notice that for the departure of a Foraging Journey the minimum group size with the price € 1150 is 4 guests.

 

For smaller group the price is € 1450 per person.

Who This Journey is Perfect For

Are you someone who finds beauty in quiet moments — who prefers snowflakes to screens, candlelight to neon, and real conversations over rush?
Do you love history, craftsmanship, and places that still feel genuine?

Then the Christmas Market & Winter Wonderland journey is crafted for you.

It’s for those who believe that winter can be full of warmth — in a shared cup of glögi, a walk through a sleeping forest, or a dinner by firelight in a centuries-old manor.
For travelers who crave atmosphere, not crowds; authenticity, not performance.
For those who enjoy the elegance of slow travel, and who see luxury not in excess, but in presence — the kind found in silence, candlelight, and the soft crunch of snow.

This journey invites you to:

  • Experience Estonia’s quiet magic and cultural depth in winter

  • Stay in heritage hotels and manors that blend comfort with history

  • Discover seasonal traditions, local flavors, and genuine hospitality

  • Feel reconnected — to nature, to stories, and to yourself

Because sometimes, the most beautiful season isn’t the loudest one — it’s the one that teaches us to slow down and glow from within.

Upcoming Departures

Our small-group journeys are limited to just 14 guests per departure to ensure an intimate, personalized experience.
Below are the current available dates for this tour:

​Departure dates :  2025  
  • 4 –  8 December 2025, 
  • 11 –  15 December 2025  
Departures 2026
 3 –  7 December 2026,
10 –  14 December 2026,
25 – Sunday 29 November 2026

​​​​​​​Prefer different dates or a private group experience? 

 

 

Ready to secure your place on this unforgettable journey ?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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 .

Packing List & Essentials 

Still have questions? Let’s schedule a call or join one of our free webinars — we’d love to guide you through it.

Still Wondering If This Tour is For You?

  • Prefer intimate, small-group journeys? ✅

  • Dream of exploring hidden islands, secret forests, and timeless villages? ✅

  • Want boutique luxury without rigid schedules? ✅

  • Appreciate a sauna session and a wildlife safari? ✅

  • Like a little storytelling and humor with your travel? ✅

 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.

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