Estonia is situated in the north-eastern part of Europe, on the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland of the Baltic Sea. The closest neighbour in the north is Finland. By sea it is only 87 kilometres from Tallinn to Helsinki. The border between Estonia and Russia courses along the Narva River and across Lake Peipsi. In the south of Estonia there is a land-based border with Russia and Latvia.
Estonians belong to the oldest peoples in Europe. The settlement of modern day Estonia began around 8500 BC, immediately after the Ice Age. Over the centuries, the Estonians were subjected to Danish, Teutonic, Swedish and Russian rule. Finally in 1991, after collapse of Soviet Union, Estonians regained their independence and returned to their rightful place in Europe and the world. Today, the country has gained recognition for its economic freedom, its adaptation of new technologies and as one of the world's fastest growing economies.
Although Estonia is the smallest republic among the Baltic States, there are many interesting and beautiful places waiting to be discovered. The capital of Estonia, Tallinn, is one of the best-preserved medieval European towns. The unique value of Tallinn’s Old Town lies first and foremost in the well-preserved completeness of its medieval milieu and structure. Since 1997, the Old Town of Tallinn has been on the UNESCO’s World Heritage list.
Further east from the capital Lahemaa National Park attracts visitors with lush forests and beautiful coastal trails. Tartu – the Estonia's leading artistic and cultural centre, boasts numerous museums, theatres and galleries, as well as one of Europe's oldest Universities. South of the Estonia's winter capital Otepää, is the highest point of Estonia Suur Munamägi. Southern Estonia is a hilly country with big forests and many small lakes. Traditional handicrafts and folk music festivals are held there.
West of Estonia is popular with a beautiful coastline and many islands. Pärnu is the best known Estonian resort on the mainland. In the summer the town is buzzing with activity as locals flock to the beach. Further west lies Estonia's largest island, Saaremaa, covered in thick pine and spruce forests, while old windmills, slender lighthouses and tiny villages appear as if unchanged by the passage of time.
Estonia is very rich in forests - various kinds of forests cover almost half of Estonia's territory. Elk, wild boar, bear and lynx are amongst Estonia’s common large mammals. About 10 per cent of Estonia is a nature reserve.
Estonia's size means it is easy to travel around, with a more diverse range of sights and attractions than you could wish to enjoy in one trip!