
Estonia © TausP.
Estonia is a beguiling mix of the ultra-modern and firmly
traditional, a northern Baltic land of primeval forests, rivers,
and islands, with one of the smallest populations in the world.
Most Estonians have opted for city life, leaving the countryside
rather wild and filled with rare birds, plants and roaming deer,
elk, wild boar, bears and wolves.
The low, largely flat landscape is also dotted with relics of
Estonia's medieval glory, when the Teutonic knights reigned supreme
and built castles which are now left as decaying hulks, testament
to the wealth of traders who used the country's ports. The main
port, Tallinn (still the capital city today), was part of the
mighty Hanseatic League in the 13th century.
Its medieval prosperity has given the romantic city a wealth of
attractions for modern-day tourists to explore. Historical and
natural attractions are only one reason why Estonia is experiencing
an upsurge in tourism. Access is another, as the country is
sandwiched between east and west Europe, and is easily reached from
the south as well. All in all, it offers fresh and unspoilt
opportunities for those who enjoy the Nordic experience.
Estonia has only recently (in 1991) thrown off the shackles of
Soviet domination, and a vibrant spirit of freedom and rebirth
pervades the air. This is true of the capital, the lively
university town of Tartu, the busy industrial centre of Narva and
the idyllic summer vacation capital of Pärnu on the
southwestern coast.