Solitary Escape to Soomaa: Embracing Estonia's Wilderness

Tranquility on the Trail & Wine After Dark

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of serene nature walks and the delightful discovery of local flavors. Soomaa National Park continues to surprise me with its diverse landscapes and peaceful atmosphere. It’s days like these that remind me why I cherish these solo adventures, offering a chance to connect with nature and myself.

My morning began with a hearty breakfast at the guesthouse, fueling up for a day of exploration. The local guesthouse breakfast was simple but satisfying, with dark rye bread, local cheese and strong coffee [i]. The cool October air was crisp as I set out for the Mukri Nature Trail. The drive itself was picturesque, with the Estonian countryside unfolding in a tapestry of autumnal hues. The Mukri Nature Trail is located in Rapla County and offered a unique opportunity to immerse myself in the Estonian landscape. The trail wound through lush forests and alongside tranquil wetlands. It was a perfect morning for a hike; the air was crisp and the sun, though shy, cast a gentle glow on the landscape. The trail was well-maintained, with pathways that meandered through the forest and alongside the wetlands.


Discover the serene beauty of Mukri Nature Trail in Rapla County, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
As I strolled along, I was immediately struck by the diversity of flora and fauna. Birdwatchers would find this area a paradise. The trail catered to all levels of hikers, with routes varying in length and difficulty. Informative signs provided insights into the natural surroundings and the ecological significance of the area.

I paused at the observation tower, climbing to the top for a panoramic view of the Mukri bog. The landscape stretched out before me, an endless expanse of peat bogs dotted with small pools of water. The silence was broken only by the occasional call of a bird, a truly peaceful moment of solitude. I thought of Hans-Peter, who would have loved to capture this vista with his paints. He always appreciated the raw beauty of untouched landscapes.

The quietude of the bogs and the warmth of the wine created a symphony of simple pleasures.

After immersing myself in the beauty of Mukri, I drove towards the Riisa õpperada, eager to experience another facet of Soomaa National Park. The Riisa study trail meanders through a picturesque bog and the forests by the Navesti River. As I set off, the trail led me through a landscape that felt ancient and untouched. The boardwalk wound its way through the bog, with soft mosses and low-lying shrubs painting the scenery in shades of green and brown. The air was filled with the scent of damp earth and pine, a refreshing change from the city air of Berlin. The Riisa Trail passes 8 rest stops and a watchtower.


Explore the serene hiking trails of Riisa Õpperada in Pärnu County, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
I reached the watchtower, climbing to the top for a breathtaking view of the bog stretching out in every direction. The silence was profound, broken only by the occasional rustle of wind through the reeds. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to escape the noise and distractions of everyday life. I paused to reflect on my life back in Berlin, my work at the Deutsches Historisches Museum, and the comforting routine I shared with Hans-Peter. While I cherished our life together, these solo trips allowed me to reconnect with myself and rediscover my love for nature.

For lunch, I enjoyed a simple picnic at one of the rest stops along the Riisa trail. I had stopped by Tori Konsum earlier in the day to pick up some local treats. I chose some local Estonian snacks, dark bread, smoked fish, and a few pieces of cheese. Tori Konsum is a local grocery store which serves both locals and visitors. It was a delightful experience sampling the local flavors amidst the tranquil surroundings of the park. It’s these small moments of culinary discovery that add an extra layer of enjoyment to my travels.


Explore local flavors and essentials at Tori Konsum, your friendly grocery store in Tori, Pärnu County, Estonia.
After a fulfilling day exploring the trails, I decided to indulge in a bit of local culture. My plan was to visit Como Wine Bar & Shop for dinner. I took a detour to Tori Konsum. The store was well-stocked with everything from fresh produce to packaged goods. It was open from 8 AM to 8 PM. I picked up a few Estonian products to take home with me.

As evening approached, I made my way to Como Wine Bar & Shop in Pärnu, a short drive from Soomaa. The bar is known for its impressive selection of wines, featuring both local Estonian varieties and renowned international labels. The moment I stepped inside, I was enveloped in a warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. The staff was knowledgeable and passionate about wine, readily offering recommendations and sharing insights into the different varieties.


Discover the charm of Como Wine Bar & Shop in Pärnu, where exquisite wines and artisanal snacks create a unique culinary experience.
I decided to try a local Estonian wine, a crisp white that was surprisingly refreshing. To complement the wine, I ordered a selection of small plates, each bursting with flavor and expertly paired with the wine. The atmosphere was lively yet relaxed, with soft music playing in the background and the murmur of conversations filling the air. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.

As I savored the last sips of my wine, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experiences of the day. From the tranquil trails of Mukri and Riisa to the delightful flavors of Como Wine Bar & Shop, Soomaa had once again revealed its hidden gems. These are the moments that make travel so rewarding, the chance to discover new places, connect with nature, and indulge in local culture. Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Lemmjõe keelemetsa õpperada and the Karuskose - Tõramaa matkarada, and perhaps enjoy a sunset at the Sunset Lounge, before this solitary escape comes to an end [i]. I anticipate more natural beauty and serene moments as I continue to explore Soomaa National Park.

For now, I’ll rest, ready for more adventures. Until then, head to Soomaa for your own journey of discovery.