Things to do in Võsu and Lahemaa National Park
Võsu is the perfect place to slow down and leave the rush of everyday life behind. It is also a good starting point for exploring Lahemaa National Park. If you are looking for things to do in Lahemaa, you will find Võsu beach, coastal villages, hiking trails and historic manor houses all within easy reach.
Võsu and Its Surroundings
Võsu’s charming streets, lined with pine trees characteristically leaning in the coastal breeze, offer a pleasant route for strolling. Along the way, information boards introduce the life and history of Võsu.
During the summer, the area near the main street comes alive with a variety of cafés and shops offering local treats, crafts, and a small food market. The wide sandy beach is ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Children can enjoy the beach playgrounds and pump track, while sports enthusiasts have access to volleyball and basketball courts, as well as an outdoor gym.
On the bay, you’ll often spot windsurfers, paddleboarders, water skiers, and other watersport lovers.
At the mouth of the Võsu River, the marina’s breakwater marks the beginning of a 6-kilometre illuminated walking and cycling path that winds along the coast and through the pine forest from Võsu to Käsmu. Along the trail, you’ll find Võsu’s traditional village swing and a unique boat-shaped viewing platform that opens up to stunning views over Käsmu Bay and the peninsulas of Käsmu and Vergi.
Käsmu and Other Coastal Villages
In the Captain’s Village of Käsmu, you’ll find massive glacial boulders and stony beach ridges typical of the area, as well as the distinctive white captain’s houses. Notable sights include the Maritime Museum, a unique wooden lighthouse, and a small chapel.
Hiking trails lead through the pine forest to the shores of Eru Bay and Lake Käsmu. When the sea level is low, it’s even possible to walk to the small island of Kuradisaare.
In addition to Käsmu, there are many other unique coastal villages within a short drive from Võsu. For example, Altja Fishing Village features typical coastal farmsteads from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, along with restored net sheds. In Vainupea, you’ll find Estonia’s closest seaside chapel – Vainupea Chapel.
On the coast at Toolse rise the ruins of a medieval crusader castle. The village of Viinistu, located on the Pärispea Peninsula, is home to Estonia’s only private art museum, and from the Viinistu harbour, boat trips to the beautiful island of Mohni are available.
In Hara village, on the Juminda Peninsula, you can visit the remains of a former Soviet submarine base, now known as the Hara Harbour.
The Manor Houses of Lahemaa
Lahemaa National Park is home to several grand manor estates. From Kolga and Vihula Manors to Palmse Manor, visitors can explore beautifully restored buildings and landscaped parks. At Palmse, there is also a palm house featuring exotic plants, birds, and fish.
The Sagadi Manor complex includes an elegant main building, a park with majestic old trees, and an educational forest centre.
Oandu, Hiking Trails, and Viru Bog
Nature enthusiasts are welcome at the Oandu Visitor Centre, which offers in-depth information about the natural environment of Lahemaa. Several hiking trails start from Oandu, including the popular Beaver Trail and the 375-kilometre RMK Oandu–Aegviidu–Ikla hiking route.
The latter also passes through Viru Bog – a scenic wetland landscape dotted with bog pools. Along the boardwalk that winds through Viru Bog, you’ll find a designated swimming spot, a viewing tower, and a restoration area of a former peat extraction field.
After a day in Lahemaa
If you would like to stay in Võsu a little longer, Reute Residences offer spacious seaside apartments with access to the private Reute Spa. End the day with dinner at Reute Restaurant and enjoy the calm atmosphere by the sea.
