Element of Estonia , of course, water. Not only that most of its territory is washed by the waters of the Baltic Sea, so even fresh water bodies in this Baltic country can not be counted. The rivers and lakes of Estonia are not only its picturesque landmark, but also a significant factor in the development of economic sectors and tourism.
The most famous lakes in Estonia
The history of the formation of numerous Estonian lakes is diverse. Some of them appeared due to the drying out of the river bed, others - after the global melting of glaciers. But there is also an unusual category of lakes - those that were formed on the ground of meteorite craters. Scientists have proved that above the territory occupied today by the Republic of Estonia, 7500 years ago there was meteor shower. Its fragments significantly damaged the landscape, and the remaining craters eventually filled with water. The largest lake in Estonia, formed on the site of the crater from the meteorite, is Kaali . The depth of the reservoir is 22 m. The crater lake of Kaali is recognized as a European natural monument.
The largest number of lakes in Estonia is in Illuka parish. This is due to the history of their education. The fact is that it was over this territory that many years ago a melting glacier moved, leaving behind a trace in the form of small lakes in place of depressions and depressions.
The largest lake in Estonia is Chudskoye . It is part of the whole lake complex (Chudsko-Pskov). The middle line of the reservoir is a conditional border between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Estonia. Chudskoye waters are rich in commercial fish. Here, bream, roach, burbot, pike, perch, pike-perch and other representatives of freshwater fauna (about 37 species of fish) are caught here. Lake Peipsi in Estonia has a relatively flat coastline, often there are wetlands due to lowland terrain. In the north the river Narva originates.
Among other Estonian lakes, it is worth mentioning the following:
- Alesti (the village of Angeria) - on the lake there is a beach and equipped places for fishing;
- Verevi (Elva city) - the lake waters are rich in pike, roach, tench and perch, on the city beach a clean and cozy beach;
- Võrtsjärv (the south of the country, the border of two counties: Viljandimaa and Tartumapa) is the second largest lake in Estonia after Peipsi;
- Maardu (Harju County) - in the northern part of the pond there is a recreation area, it is often possible to meet fishermen, especially in winter, as the lake is on a hill (33 m) and quickly freezes;
- Pühajärv (Valga county) - it is also called the "Blue Lake" and is considered one of the most picturesque Estonian reservoirs;
- Harku ( Tallinn ) - an excellent place to relax in the capital, the beaches are equipped with everything necessary for fun on the water, including fishing and water sports;
- Rõuge-Suurjärv (Võru County) is the deepest lake in Estonia, there are several equipped beaches;
- Karyuarv (Lääne-Saare parish) - this lake is associated with a local legend, which tells of the quarrel of the seven bears, who quarreled, dispersed on different sides. The Almighty, wishing to stop the swearing, brought down the torrential rain on the bears, which then formed a deep lake with seven bays, indicating the places where the bears fell out.
This is not the whole list of Estonian lakes. We mentioned only those that are of interest to a wide range of holidaymakers who prefer to spend time by the water on the well-maintained beaches. Fans of hikes and overnight stays in tents can choose more secluded lake shores. Only before building your hiking route through any lake, make sure that it is not in private ownership.
Rest on the lakes of Estonia
Far from all go to the Baltic States to rest by the sea. In addition, warm sea water is much less than fresh water. Therefore, many choose in the beach season the major rivers and lakes of Estonia.
We offer you a selection of the most popular holiday destinations on the shore of lakes:
- tourist farm Leigo - a picturesque composition of man-made lakes complemented by comfortable living and resting conditions;
- Farm "Vidrike" - is located in the south of the country near a beautiful lake in the form of a heart, about which many romantic legends tell;
- recreation center "Soka" - cozy cottages are built on the shore of two lakes, guests are given a wide choice of outdoor activities (football, paintball, archery, beach volleyball, hiking along nature trails);
- khutor "Witch State" on the shore of Lake Uhtjärve - an excellent place to relax with children, it is even possible to live in a "hut with chicken legs";
- cottage "White Crown" - a premium villa, all conditions for a comfortable rest are created for the guests;
- recreation center "Suvi" - a cozy place on the northern coast of Peipsi Lake for lovers of a quiet rest in peace in silence;
- "Canterville" castle - for rest "at the highest level", there is a SPA-complex, sports and children's playgrounds, you can even rent a sauna on a raft with a jacuzzi and a grill;
- cottage "Tirikoya" - the house is located in a private area on the shore of Lake Peipus in Estonia, suitable for a large company, it has 4 rooms;
- cottage town "Jarvevere" - is located on the shore of Lake Võrtsjärv, in the village of Valma, 4 cabins of different capacity are rented;
- the holiday house Villa Cumulus on Lake Peipsi - is designed for 17 beds, stands on a hill with an incredible view.
There are also recreation options on Estonian lakes of a different format - for those who like active tourism. For example, Lake Kurtna . Here you will have the opportunity to follow an interesting route, visiting 11 lakes along the way. You can make your trip plan and easily beat this record in terms of the number of water bodies passed. In fact, there are as many as 42 lakes on the territory of Kurtna.