Solitary Escape to Soomaa: Embracing Estonia's Wilderness

Day 3: Embracing the Stillness of Soomaa

Today, I found myself enveloped in the tranquil embrace of Soomaa National Park, a place where time seems to slow and the whispers of nature speak volumes. It was a day of exploration and quiet contemplation, a chance to connect with the Estonian landscape on a deeper level. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of Berlin, I sought solace in the untouched wilderness, a journey that resonated with my own personal quest for peace and understanding.

My day began with a simple breakfast at the guesthouse, a hearty meal that fueled me for the adventures ahead. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth, a refreshing contrast to the urban atmosphere I'm accustomed to. After breakfast, I set out towards the Kuresoo vaatetorn, or Kuresoo observation tower. The drive itself was a treat, with golden leaves fluttering down like confetti, painting the roads in hues of autumn. I remember similar drives with Hans-Peter back in Latvia, the forests ablaze with color as we sought out hidden historical sites. I miss those times, but this solo journey feels necessary, a chance for introspection amidst nature's grandeur.

The road to the tower wound through quaint villages and past sprawling fields, offering glimpses into rural Estonian life. Upon arriving at the trailhead, I embarked on a short hike through the forest, the path lined with vibrant foliage and the ground carpeted with fallen leaves. The anticipation grew with each step, the promise of panoramic views spurring me onward. As I ascended the Kuresoo observation tower, the landscape unfolded before me like a tapestry woven with threads of green, gold, and brown. The vast expanse of the Kuresoo bog stretched out in every direction, its mosaic of pools and hummocks creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

The silence was profound, broken only by the occasional call of a distant bird or the rustling of leaves in the wind. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to escape the noise and distractions of modern life. I spent a long time at the top, simply soaking in the view and reflecting on the journey that had brought me here. It's moments like these that remind me why I love exploring new places, why I find such fulfillment in immersing myself in different cultures and landscapes. I thought about Hans-Peter and our shared love for historical preservation. He would have appreciated the untouched nature here, the sense of stepping back in time.

Leaving the Kuresoo tower, I drove towards the Öördi õpperada, the Öördi nature trail, eager to explore another facet of Soomaa's natural beauty. The trail meandered through a diverse landscape of forests, meadows, and wetlands, offering a glimpse into the region's rich biodiversity. The air was alive with the sounds of nature, from the buzzing of insects to the chirping of birds. I paused frequently to admire the scenery, taking photographs and jotting down notes in my travel journal.

The Öördi trail led me to the edge of the Öördi bog, a unique ecosystem characterized by its stunted trees, acidic waters, and specialized plant life. A boardwalk stretched out across the bog, allowing me to venture deep into its heart without disturbing the delicate environment. I marveled at the vibrant colors of the sphagnum moss, the delicate blooms of the bog rosemary, and the strange beauty of the carnivorous sundew plants. It was a world unto itself, a testament to the power and resilience of nature.

In the stillness of Soomaa, I found a reflection of my own soul, a reminder of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple beauty of the world around us.

As I walked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of connection to this place, a sense of belonging that transcended geographical boundaries. Perhaps it was the shared history of the Baltic region, the echoes of ancient cultures that resonated in the landscape. Or perhaps it was simply the universal language of nature, a language that speaks to the deepest parts of our being. I thought about my childhood in Cēsis, Latvia, and the forests that surrounded my home. This bog reminded me of those landscapes, the quiet solitude and the sense of wonder that nature inspires.

After the Öördi trail, I decided to visit the Käsitööpood Kunstiköök, a local handicraft shop, hoping to find a unique souvenir to remind me of my time in Soomaa. The shop was a treasure trove of handmade items, from intricately woven textiles to beautifully crafted pottery. I spent a pleasant hour browsing the displays, admiring the skill and creativity of the local artisans. I ended up purchasing a small wooden carving of a beaver, a symbol of the region's rich wildlife. It will be a nice addition to our collection back in Berlin, a reminder of this solitary adventure.

For dinner, I ventured to the Beach lounge, a restaurant recommended by the guesthouse owner. The restaurant was situated on the edge of a picturesque lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. I savored a delicious meal of local specialties, accompanied by a glass of crisp Estonian cider. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, the perfect way to end a day of exploration and reflection. I thought about Hans-Peter and how much he would have enjoyed this view, the quiet ambiance and the taste of local cuisine.

As I savored my meal, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of Soomaa National Park. It was a day that had nourished my soul, a reminder of the importance of connecting with nature and embracing the stillness of the present moment. I made a mental note to share my experiences with Hans-Peter, to encourage him to join me on my next adventure. Perhaps we could explore the Hüpassaare õpperada together, or visit the Soomaa looduskeskus, learning more about the park's unique ecosystem [Itinerary of Tomorrow].

Tomorrow, I plan to delve deeper into Soomaa's cultural and natural history, visiting the Soomaa Nature Centre and exploring the Hüpassaare nature trail [Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I'm also intrigued by the prospect of visiting the Soomaa Kanuumatka- ja saunakeskus, perhaps indulging in a traditional sauna experience after a day of hiking [Itinerary of Tomorrow]. And, of course, I'll be sure to sample the local fare at Baar Romantic, eager to discover more of Estonia's culinary delights [Itinerary of Tomorrow].

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow across the landscape, I returned to the guesthouse, my heart filled with gratitude and contentment. Soomaa had worked its magic, weaving its spell of tranquility and leaving me with memories that I would cherish for a lifetime. As I prepare for another day of exploration, I feel a sense of excitement and anticipation, eager to uncover more of Soomaa's hidden treasures. Perhaps I'll even find some inspiration for my next genealogy project, tracing the roots of the Estonian people and their connection to this ancient land. Until then, I'll continue to listen to the whispers of the mire, allowing its wisdom to guide me on my journey.

Back at the guesthouse, I reviewed my notes from the day, reflecting on the blend of nature and local culture I had experienced. The visit to the Käsitööpood Kunstiköök was a highlight, reminding me of the importance of supporting local artisans and preserving traditional crafts. I thought about the similarities between Estonian and Latvian folk art, the shared motifs and techniques that speak to our common heritage. Perhaps I'll try my hand at weaving when I return to Berlin, a way to keep the spirit of Soomaa alive in my daily life.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a point of charging my camera and ensuring my hiking boots were ready for another day of adventure. I also realized I had forgotten my binoculars, a minor oversight that I hoped wouldn't hinder my wildlife observations tomorrow. The portable charger, also left behind, was a bigger concern, especially with a full day of photography planned. It seems even the most meticulous archivist can have a lapse in memory!

As I closed my eyes, I felt a deep sense of peace, a sense of being exactly where I was meant to be. Soomaa had embraced me with its stillness, its beauty, and its ancient wisdom. And I, in turn, had opened my heart to its magic, allowing it to transform me in ways I could never have imagined.