Laulasmaa Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Laulasmaa in Estonia with our comprehensive travel guide. Find the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture to experience.


Introduction to Laulasmaa

Laulasmaa is a small seaside resort located in North Estonia. The area is well known for its beautiful sandy beaches, pine forests, and seaside villas. Laulasmaa is an excellent destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, or swimming. The town is also rich in cultural heritage, making it an ideal place for sightseeing.

List of Places to Visit in Laulasmaa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Laulasmaa Open Air Museum: The Laulasmaa Open Air Museum is a replica of a traditional Estonian village. The museum features several authentic farmhouses, a blacksmith shop, and a windmill. Visitors can learn about the daily life of Estonian villagers and take part in workshops and activities.
  • Keila-Joa Castle: The Keila-Joa Castle is a neo-Gothic castle located near the Keila waterfall. The castle was built in the 19th century and now serves as a luxury hotel. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful architecture and the scenic views of the Keila River.

Natural Attractions of Laulasmaa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Laulasmaa Beach: Laulasmaa Beach is a long, sandy beach located near the town center. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a picnic.
  • Palmse Manor: The Palmse Manor is a beautiful estate located in the Lahemaa National Park. The manor features a park, a garden, and several historic buildings. Visitors can take a guided tour of the manor or explore the park and the surrounding forest on their own.
  • Nahkjalg Lake: Nahkjalg Lake is a small picturesque lake located near the town center. The area is perfect for hiking, fishing, or just relaxing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Laulasmaa

Laulasmaa is an excellent destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The town offers a variety of trails and routes suitable for all levels of experience. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Laulasmaa Hiking Trail: The Laulasmaa Hiking Trail is a 6 km trail that starts from the town center and leads through the forest, past the beach, and up to the Nahkjalg Lake. The trail offers breathtaking views of the sea and the forest.
  • Keila-Joa Hiking Trail: The Keila-Joa Hiking Trail is a 7 km trail that starts from the Keila-Joa Castle and leads through the forest, past the Keila Waterfall, and up to the Pakri Cliff. The trail offers magnificent views of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Laulasmaa: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking: Kayaking is a popular activity in Laulasmaa. Visitors can rent a kayak and explore the coast, the Nahkjalg Lake, or the nearby islands.
  • Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is another popular activity in Laulasmaa. Visitors can take a guided tour through the forest and enjoy the scenic views.
  • Sightseeing Tours: Laulasmaa offers several sightseeing tours, including walking tours, coach tours, and boat tours. Visitors can discover the town’s history, architecture, and nature.

Week-Long Itinerary for Laulasmaa

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Laulasmaa:

  • Day 1: Visit the Laulasmaa Open Air Museum and enjoy a picnic on the Laulasmaa Beach.
  • Day 2: Explore the Keila-Joa Castle and take a hiking trip to the Keila Waterfall.
  • Day 3: Take a horseback riding tour through the forest and the beach.
  • Day 4: Rent a kayak and explore the Nahkjalg Lake or the nearby islands.
  • Day 5: Visit the Palmse Manor and take a guided tour of the estate.
  • Day 6: Enjoy a sightseeing tour around the town and its surroundings.
  • Day 7: Relax on the beach or take a leisurely hike through the forest.

Food and Drink Scene of Laulasmaa

Must-Try Dishes

  • Herring: Herring is a traditional Estonian dish that is commonly served with potatoes and sour cream.
  • Black Bread: Black bread is a dense rye bread that is popular in Estonia.
  • Blood Sausage: Blood sausage is a type of sausage made with pork blood, onions, and barley.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Beer is the most popular alcoholic beverage in Estonia. The country produces a variety of beers, including light and dark lagers, pilsners, and stouts.
  • Vana Tallinn: Vana Tallinn is a sweet liqueur made with rum, vanilla, and citrus.

Where to Stay in Laulasmaa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some accommodation options in Laulasmaa:

  • Laulasmaa Spa Hotel: The Laulasmaa Spa Hotel is a modern hotel located near the beach. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a spa, a sauna, and a fitness center.
  • Laulasmaa Holiday Centre: The Laulasmaa Holiday Centre is a guesthouse located in a quiet area of the town. The guesthouse offers simple rooms, a garden, and a barbecue area.
  • Hostel Caravan: Hostel Caravan is a hostel located near the Keila-Joa Castle. The hostel offers affordable rooms, a kitchen, and a common room.

What to Buy in Laulasmaa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Amber Jewelry: Amber is a popular souvenir in Estonia. Visitors can buy amber jewelry, sculptures, or decorative items.
  • Rye Bread: Rye bread is a typical Estonian food. Visitors can buy fresh rye bread from local bakeries.
  • Handicrafts: Handicrafts, such as knitted items, wooden toys, or pottery, are also popular souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Laulasmaa

The Estonian culture is rich in traditions and customs. Visitors to Laulasmaa can learn about the Estonian identity and heritage by taking part in cultural events, visiting museums and historic sites, or enjoying local food and drinks.

Best Time to Visit Laulasmaa

The best time to visit Laulasmaa is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is warm and sunny, and the days are long. Visitors can enjoy the beach, outdoor activities, and sightseeing. However, the town can be crowded during the peak season, and prices can be higher.

Do’s and Don’ts of Laulasmaa

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take care of the natural environment and wildlife.
  • Try the local food and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Disturb the wildlife or the locals.
  • Ignore safety rules and regulations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Laulasmaa

Laulasmaa is a safe destination for visitors. However, visitors should take common precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended, following the traffic rules, and avoiding suspicious areas at night.

Health in Laulasmaa

The tap water in Laulasmaa is safe to drink. Visitors should also be aware of ticks, which can be found in the forest. It is recommended to wear long clothing and use insect repellent when hiking or walking in the forest.

Getting to Laulasmaa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Laulasmaa is located about 30 km from Tallinn, the capital of Estonia. Visitors can reach Laulasmaa by car, bus, or train.

Airports Near Laulasmaa

The nearest airport to Laulasmaa is the Tallinn Airport, located about 30 km away from the town.

Bus Stations Near Laulasmaa

Visitors can take a bus to Laulasmaa from Tallinn. The journey takes about 40 minutes.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi from Tallinn to Laulasmaa.

How to Get Around in Laulasmaa

Visitors can get around Laulasmaa by foot, bike, or car. The town is relatively small and easy to navigate.

Where to Go Next from Laulasmaa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Laulasmaa can explore nearby destinations, such as:

  • Tallinn: Tallinn is the capital city of Estonia. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, the museums, and the shopping streets.
  • Lahemaa National Park: Lahemaa National Park is the largest national park in Estonia. Visitors can explore the forest, the lakes, and the historic manors.
  • Paldiski: Paldiski is a port town located about 20 km from Laulasmaa. Visitors can explore the abandoned nuclear submarine base and the historic railway station.

Conclusion

Laulasmaa is a beautiful seaside resort located in North Estonia. The town offers a variety of activities and attractions, including hiking, biking, kayaking, and sightseeing. Visitors can also learn about the Estonian culture and traditions by visiting museums and historic sites or enjoying local food and drinks. Laulasmaa is an ideal destination for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, natural landscapes, and cultural heritage.

Algae in Lahepere Bay outside Laulasmaa Algae in Lahepere Bay outside Laulasmaa