Lääne-Viru County Essentials

Lääne-Viru County spans from the limestone cliffs of the northern coast to the dense forests of Lahemaa National Park. The region features the 13th-century Rakvere Castle ruins and the Katko point of the UNESCO-listed Struve Geodetic Arc. Natural highlights include Ehalkivi, the largest erratic boulder in the Baltic states, and the turquoise Äntu lakes. Historic manor culture is preserved at Vihula, while the Oandu Beaver Trail provides insight into local riparian ecosystems.

Rakvere Castle

13th-century fortress ruins of the Livonian Order. The site features a medieval theme park with interactive workshops, a torture chamber, and an armory.

Katko

A survey point of the Struve Geodetic Arc, a UNESCO World Heritage site established in the 19th century to accurately measure the Earth's size and shape.

Käsmu field of boulders

A dense collection of glacial erratic stones deposited during the last ice age, located within the maritime landscape of Lahemaa National Park.

Ehalkivi

The largest erratic boulder in the Baltic states by volume, measuring 930 cubic meters. The pegmatite rock sits on the shoreline of the Letipea peninsula.

Vihula mõisa tuuleveski

A restored Dutch-style windmill located on the grounds of the 16th-century Vihula Manor estate.

Rakvere tammik

A 25-hectare urban oak grove representing one of the northernmost natural oak forests in Estonia. It includes a memorial to victims of the Soviet occupation.

Emakeele ausammas

A monument in Kadrina dedicated to the preservation of the Estonian language, featuring a stylized sculpture of the word 'Sõna' (Word).

Oandu koprarada

A one-kilometer nature trail along the Altja River valley showcasing beaver dams, lodges, and the specific flora of the riverbanks.

Äntu beach

A sandy swimming area at the Äntu lakes, which are known for having the clearest spring-fed water in Estonia.