Evidence of the decade’s of Soviet occupation is evident in the Brutalist architecture of the capital Tallinn’s modern city and monuments, such as the World War II memorial the Bronze Solider, which provoked riots when moved from the city centre five years ago, along with the rustic cold-climate cuisine. Think: meat and potatoes, dumplings, herrings and black rye bread. Interestingly, when Estonia gained its 1991 independence from the Soviets without bloodshed or violence, they called it the Singing Revolution because Estonians used only their voices to propel change.
These days, Estonians see themselves as being culturally closer to Scandinavians, with traditions and tastes more akin to the Nordics than Eastern Europeans. A love of nature and the great outdoors is one thing they share with their northern neighbours. Ancient Estonians worshipped nature and a neo-paganism based on the reverence of nature that follows centuries-old folklore, such as summer solstice bonfire lighting, has been experiencing a revival.
It’s not surprising given that Estonia is blessed with more than 1500 beautiful islands; hundreds of deserted beaches, many backed by sculpted sand dunes; an abundance of wildlife, including wild bears, squirrels, lynx, wolves and millions of migratory birds; and forests comprising some 50% of the country, much designated as national park. As you’d expect, hiking is popular, with walking trails criss-crossing Estonia’s parks and forests, as is horse riding and bird watching, while on the lakes, coast and islands, Estonians like to swim, sail, kayak and canoe.