With the summer of 2021 right around the corner, it is time to start thinking of your summer vacation! If you are looking for a historic country with a beautiful landscape, Estonia is the place for your to explore. Estonia is a small country located in northern Europe, bordering Latvia and Russia. Although you may have heard little of Estonia, its views and history are not to be looked over. With cathedrals, castles, rivers, festivals, and the perfect 70 degree weather, Estonia is the place to be in the summer.

Taking a deeper dive into the nature aspect of this country, Soomaa national park is one for the books. Resulting from a glacier melt over 10,000 years ago, this park is filled with rivers to canoe down. Surrounded by forests, you are sure to see some of the native animals that inhabit Estonia, such as deer, elk, and golden eagles. The most popular national park in Estonia is the Lahemaa national park. This park is about an hour drive from Tallinn, the capitol of Estonia, and small walkways allow you to venture close to the water and explore the wildlife around you. A unique feature about this national park is the Sagadi village in the middle of it. You can visit this town to learn more about the history and culture of the land. If you are looking for a beach getaway, be sure to visit the town of Parnu. This spot is a summer vacation spot for many Estonians, due to its perfect white sand beaches and beautiful sunsets. The beach runs along the shore, creating the perfect European coastal feeling.

If you want to stay in town and explore more of the history side of Estonia, Rakvere castle is where to go. This castle is located in Rakvere, in the region of northern Estonia. This castle was constructed in the 16th century, and is a place where the accent history is brought to life. Inside this castle you can experience knights polishing their armor, and tour one of the many wine cellars. Part of the castle is Shenkenberg Tavern, where you can have a tase of some classic medieval style cuisine. Located in the Baltic sea is the largest island in Estonia, Saaremaa. This island has history that dates back to over 8,000 years old, and was ruled by the Danes, Swedes, Germans, and Russians at the time. This place is a great balance of history and nature, containing castles and museums as well as a scenic place called Sõrve Peninsula.

Estonia has many festivals all throughout the year to celebrate and appreciate their historic culture. A few of the summer festivals that take place are the Juu Jaab festival, Viljandi Music Festival, and the Saaremaa Opera Days. The Juu Jaab festival is located in west Estonia and brings together jazz musicians to listen and play great music and celebrate with classic Estonian dishes. If you would like to experience European folk music, then attend the Viljandi Music Festival, traditionally held on the last weekend in July. Finally, for a little more music appreciation, the Saaremaa Opera Days are in July and located at the Kuressaare Castle. Over the course of six days, many talented opera singers and musicians perform.

Estonia has so much more to offer than what I have listed, culture, history, nature, and food wise. This country may be small but it is a trip of its own, housing many classic landmarks and traditional elements.