Pärnu City and County

www.visitparnu.com
Pärnu City and County
The Baltic Seaside experience
resort that fascinates all year round
An internationally
recognised vacation
destination
The best beach vacation
Pärnu County is famous for its beaches, where the water
is warm and the sand is white. The most popular place for
a vacation is Pärnu’s central beach, whose shallow waters
make it suitable for families with children. The water in Pärnu
warms quickly – reaching almost 26 °C on hot summer days.
It is an honour for Pärnu beach to have been chosen by
Britain’s Independent newspaper as one of Europe’s best
beach vacationing spots!
Appreciated by adventure
tourists
The Soomaa National Park is unique in Europe. Soomaa
National Park is a member of the PANParks network
whose aim is to protect Europe’s wilderness areas. Hiking
tracks of different lengths lead over bogs past little bog
lakes. Swimming in these pools of dark but clean water is
an experience in its own right, banishing weariness and
providing refreshing cooling. Soomaa National Park was
selected by Adventure Travel Trade Association as one of
its top ten adventure holiday destinations, with its natural
environment and numerous recreational activities.
The island of Kihnu is included
on UNESCO’s Heritage List
The Kihnu cultural space, with its traditional way of life,
customs, folk culture and island nature, is included on
UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Kihnu Island has
held on to its ancient way of life – ancestral handicraft skills
are kept alive and people wear traditional clothing every
day.
2
3
The Romantic
Coastline combines
culture, nature and
history
The Romantic Coastline runs along the
250-kilometre long coast of Pärnu County,
including Kihnu Island as well as inland areas where
the Baltic Sea waterfront used to be. You can take
peaceful walks along the enchanting coastline and
appreciate idyllic villages and farmlands. Hikes in
quiet bogs, coastal meadows filled with joyous bird
songs and healing pine forests are all singularly
charming. On your journeys you will see how the
coast dwellers live, and experience unique customs
and enjoy food made from fresh local produce.
www.rannatee.ee
4
Tranquil vacation on
a secluded beach
When travelling along the coastline you can find
several beaches covered with white sand and pine
forests. The best known is undoubtedly Valgerand
(White Beach). However, tranquillity and privacy can
be found elsewhere, such as Matsi Beach to the North
of the city and Reiu and Kabli Beaches to the South.
For those interested in fishing and swimming there are
three lakes - Tõhela, Ermistu and Rae.
To the sea with local
fishermen
In Pärnu County you can be a real fisherman, which
means getting up at daybreak when nets are cast into
cool waters and taken out the next morning with their
daily catch. You can fish with our coastal fishermen all
year round. The Pärnu River is a singular sight in the
winter too when its icy lid is dotted with fishermen late
into the night. Pikeperch, bass, pike, roach and crucian
carp mainly bite here, but if you are really lucky, you
may even catch a sea trout.
5
Unique spa
treatments offer
a health boost
Resort town heritage and
long sauna traditions
Pärnu is a place to be pampered: the city’s many
spas offer a wide array of treatments and well-being
services. Old Estonian sauna culture lives on here,
with something of a modern makeover. Besides
contemporary urban spas, tourists are welcomed
at Pärnu County farmstays that offer hot Estonian
saunas with honey-based salves and traditional
birch switches. Water hits the stones with a hiss
and fresh birch leaves or juniper sprigs stimulate
the circulation. Heat is followed by the opposite
– an icy dousing in cold water or a snowdrift. You
can also try a smoke sauna or relax in a barrel sauna
with a starry sky overhead and hear wind rustling.
Year-round sun and a ‘silent
spa’ that offers privacy
The historical Pärnu Mud Baths building is home
to a modern boutique spa that offers unique experiences. Called a ‘silent spa,’ the establishment honours ancient traditions and is meant for quiet relaxation. It is open to those 14 years of age and up.
It’s a place to listen to oneself on a quiet backdrop.
The innovative solarium, open year-round, offers
Miami, Malaysia and Bali spectra of sunlight.
Cold therapy relieves
your pain
The idea of cold therapy originates from Japan.
The treatment is administered in a special cold
chamber at extremely low temperatures: from
–100 to –120 ºC. A single session lasts from 1.5 to
3 minutes. In dry and cold air you get a peculiar
stinging or pinching feeling which doesn’t resemble the usual sensation of cold. Cold therapy works
especially well if you have joint ailments or pain.
Relaxation straight
from nature
Pärnu offers relaxation treatments that are inspired
by Estonian nature. Treatments with therapeutic
mud and peat make you feel relaxed and help curb
your stress levels. A magnesium and home-brewed
beer procedure restores energy.
6
7
Unforgettable
sights, historic
wooden
architecture and
captivating city life
in Pärnu
A story of a castle town
The Pärnu moat (Vallikäär) invites visitors with an
illuminated shorefront promenade, where a romantic footbridge arches over a moat and the highest
fountain in Estonia pleases you with spectacular
displays of colour. The amphitheatre-like concert
venue calls you to take part in various cultural
events. One of the oldest buildings in town, historical Venus Bastion smithy, has been also restored.
Scale models displayed at Vallikäär provide a visual
overview of the development of Pärnu from a castle
town into a modern resort. Both the passageway
through the fort wall and the Tallinn Gate, which
marked the beginning of the former coachway,
are restored. Children can have fun on a sea-theme
playground.
Parks and beaches are
waiting for picnickers
Pärnu County’s beautiful and unspoilt nature is
much more than just delightful views and clean
air. Pärnu’s green parks are its pride and joy. Lovely
fountains, colourful flower beds and secluded
benches in the cool shade of big trees provide
ideal places for a picnic.
However, there are also amenities of modern life
because wireless Internet is available in many
parks. You will remember the moments spent with
your special someone by the lighthouse at the end
of the pier at the mouth of Pärnu River. If you wish
to enjoy real peace and quiet, you can take a trip
to the countryside surrounding the city. You are
welcome to our plentiful picnic sites, hiking tracks,
birdwatching towers and breathtaking sandy
beaches in Kabli and Valgeranna.
Ancient love story
Pärnu is a city of romantic walks, lovers and first
kisses. The legend of the pier here is part of the
city, as the city is part of the legend. According to
the ancient story, young lovers must walk together
to the end of the pier and seal their love there with
a kiss.
A ladies’ beach more than
90 years old
In the 1920s Pärnu beach was divided into three
parts: the ladies’ beach, the gents’ beach and the
mixed beach. A separate ladies’ beach was distinctive to that period and women in swimming costumes could enjoy themselves in privacy. Pärnu
ladies’ beach is still open for the very same reason,
and today women can sunbathe in the nude without being disturbed.
8
9
Beautiful wooden
architecture
You can spot many small and low wooden buildings
in Pärnu. When coming here from either Tallinn,
Haapsalu or Riga, colourful wooden houses line
the streets. Their number is greatest when heading
from the city centre towards the sea, where Boulevards will lead you through the largest district of
wooden villas in Estonia. Most of the old villas decorated with wooden lace have now been restored
and many of them are happy to accommodate you.
See the pearls
of Functionalism
In Pärnu you have an excellent opportunity to get
acquainted with fine Estonian architecture which
can be observed in such pearls of Functionalist
resort architecture as the Pärnu Beach Centre, the
Beach Hotel and other beachside buildings originating from the 1930s and designed by Mr. Olev
Siinmaa, who was then the city architect.
Discover
the city on a bicycle
In the summer a bicycle is undoubtedly the most
convenient way of travel around Pärnu. The city
of Pärnu has over 45 km of cycle and pedestrian
tracks that encircle the town. Favourite restaurants, concerts and beaches are all reachable on
bike. You will have no problem discovering the city
centre parks and getting to know the Jaanson track
running along the river and, by pedalling through
Pärnu, you can share in the mood of the city and
take with you its smells, sounds and impressions.
10
Cafés, a herb garden
and forests provide
local food which
is delicious and
healthy
Historical wooden villas
offer unique flavours
Pärnu offers flavours inspired by local and international cuisines. Many of these cafés and restaurants
are among Estonia’s top 50. One of the city’s calling
cards is romantic wooden villas whose interiors skilfully fuse local history and distinctive interior design. They serve organic food, gourmet dishes, and
a wide choice of fresh fish befitting the maritime
location. Spacious terraces and cosy summer cafes
offer an idyllic retreat.
A sunset dinner
The tower at the well-known Ammende Villa is ideal
for couples who wish to enjoy a romantic dinner at
sunset. Luxurious champagne, delicious food, aromatic wine and cosy candlelit moments with your
sweetheart – each day only grants us one sunset
which will never be repeated...
11
Raeküla rand
RAEKÜLA
Kale
t
ski
r-Ve
Suu
Suu
r-Jõe
Köie
Lai
Vä
ik
l
eR
Ve
iia m
ski
ÜLEJÕE i
kaKesklinna
e
nt
õ
J
n
sild
i
se ur
k
Riia mnt
Vahe
Kooli
La
Pik
nn Su
.Ja
hja
Kitse
Põ mö
J.V
Väike-Kuke
l
Kooli
i
Karja
Ma üütl
Su
Va
R
Karja ur-Kuke
na Suur-Kuke
S au g a
Vana-Sa a
ga
n
i
ug
Karja
n
Sa
Ku a
Väik e -Posti
uga jõgi
KESKLINN Aisa
un
Lõ
a
i
i
g
Aisa
d
Maarj
A.H
Rin
Rin naa
lu mnt
gi
Pardi
Haapsa
Karusselli
pla
Ringi
Auli
Es
sk
Ke
Kajaka
Kesk
Seedri
Sä
Luha
äs
a
e
d
l
Tammsaare pst
H.
a
A.
Soo
rek
se
Rannapark
Le
Me
Suvitu
Kaarli
he
e
l a h
up
Karja aa
m
.
Tam
msaare pst
P
ä
n u
P ä r
Vana-Pärnu
rand
te
ma
a
sad
a
ub
1 km
Ka
0,5
13
1:40 000
ad
0
s
K a u ba
Audru jõgi
tee
Kiltri
VANA-PÄRNU
PAPSAARE
rm
et
ee
Kahva tee
am
a
rm
et
ee
Nu
Uus-Sauga
j
ga
Nu
Saugamõisa tee
M
Sau
a
Mõrr
a tee
Nood
R
Al
hu
Ro
Voorimehe
le
Lil
ne
Nii
Kilgi
Härma
Hakke tee
SAUG A VALD
Rannapromenaad
Suur-Jõe
e
u
r n
a
ääm
Rääma
park
lika
Ilve
se
-Jõ
Vk
i
j õ g
Mäe
tr i
As
a
Oj
RÄÄMA
hu
Oja
Ro
Madara
la
ma
HuLille
i
Kilg
Turu
Sarve
Uus-Sauga
Rohu
Rohu
Tamme
Oja
Pihlaka
e
Lill
Kibuvitsa
du
Kuldse
ko
Kaevu
Tulika
u
ug
via
Sa
te te
e
Eh
ita
ja
Ranna pst
Mäe
Oja
Ehitajate tee
Kodara
Nelgi
Karikak
Mündi
ra
Sauna
Kõrtsi
vana
prügimägi
r a b a
Kanepi
Vana-Savi
Niidu
Savi
i
Sav
i
Sav
Len
nu
vä
Pärlimõisa tee
lja tee
lj Pärlimõisa t
Möldri
Rau
Le
nn
uvä
i
i
Jakob
Ankru
ee
at
Kutsari
Rehepapi
Kulli t
Lennuväli
Laeva
õg
i
papi
Rehe
u
Põllu
õisavahe
Põllu
Jakob
m
Par
Rõugu
Rõugu
a
Lubja
Lubja
Plaad
i
a
R au
e
Emajõ
Hobuse
ni
Betoo
Tuule
i
an
Ja
Jaani
Killust
Lõo
Kadri
iku
Kirsi
Lõo
Mihkli
S AUG A VA L D
e
Pae
u
Sal
Ilves
Tiigi
Allik
a
SAUGA
muul
da
Lubja
st
p
re
Me
li
R ä ä m a
se
ere
P.K
e
Ve emia
e de
Ve Aka
tu
Õh
a
Sadam
Muu
Õuna
TALLINN 130 km
a
ee
ja t
Ra
Aia
Pä
rn
Kuu
i
nt
m
na
n
i
l
l
Ta
Aia
Supeluse
e
kiv
lde Tellis
Ko
Vana
parg
i
vu
Kae
ni
oo
lin
he
Ro
Suur-Sepa
Hõbe
Piirikivi
M
gi
Vin
Aia
i
nks
Pro lla
Ku
K
Tulbi
Pilli
i
Tiig
nt
am
nn
si
Kir
irsi
Suur-Posti
ba
Tur
li
Tal
Männi
Kuuse
Lina
Side
Pärnu m
uul
Liblika
Keep your eyes open when hiking in our forests
because there is nothing better than taking
a break from a hike and picking naturally
growing strawberries, raspberries, blueberries
or mushrooms. Ask your guide for the best
places to do just that; cranberries, however, are
alongside our wooden bog tracks.
Liiva
Mureli
Tikri
Side
Pirni
Raba
use
rid
Ha
Liiva
Pick berries and
mushrooms yourself
Raba
Kanali
Lina
Tähe
Kesklinna rand
Kastani
Kase
Kanali
Liblika
Kanali
On the Tamme horticulture farm you can see
a model herb garden which also features
vegetables and edible decorative plants. Walk
around in the paradise of smells and flavours
and enjoy a cup of delicious herbal tea with a
slice of herb pie made by the hostess herself. You
can purchase preserves of berries, vegetables
and herbs, as well as various blends of herb teas
and other interesting products.
Niidu
Niidu
Niidu
Kaart: © REGIO 2015, KL -15-052
vi p
st
la
Leh
o
vi p
st
etsa
etsa
gi
ar
Luule
Laine
id
Ni
Papiniidu
PAPINIIDU
Mai
õe
Suur-J
Mai
nt
Metsa
Riia m
Metsa
SuurJõe
Pae
Madruse
Ravi
Jaama
Kase
Koolinoorte
metsapark
Merim
iku
Männ
vi
te
e
Lii
Ene
rgia
Papiniidu sild
Tammiste tee
Pootsmani
Tüüri
mehe
TAMMISTE
Tammiste te
e
Lao
Lao
Lepiku
u
Papiniid
Pärnu
haigla
Oja
u
Papiniid
iku
Kaas
Arukase
Raja
Kauba
Me
Karu rimets
a
Kä
o
Male Samb
va la
mn
t
Riia
K
Me äo
elis
e
Merim
Saia
Takja lille
Kum
meli
Kauba
Kale
t
Lät
LODJ
TAMMISTE
Randivälja tee
t
t
la
Vil
Vana-P
ärnu
äre
av
iä
Kra
are
r-K
a
Suu
tee
Uu
em
re
et s
aa
at
sik
ee
e
S
inil
t
V
ille
u
p
u
Pilliroo
ik
s
Ve
Saare
a
Jõ
Rist
iku
e
Lään
Saare
hv
ik
Sinika
Torm
Järv
i
a
Len
Hara
n
k
u
a
k
i
Lenn
uki
Saka Uku ps
t
la
Harju
Käbi
ärja t
Tammep
Pahke
Jõ
ek
ald
a
Lem
bitu
Vam
bola
mnt
VÄNDRA 41 km
Paid
e
Ted
re
Aromas and flavours of
the herb garden
a
ng
Ju
Tarv
a
e
Hirv
e
j õ g i
P ä r n
u
e te
jat
Hiie
ita
Ristiku
Ristiku
12
Hiie
Eh
ne
An integral part of food culture is the Good Food
Festival that takes place on the second weekend
in June each year. The objective of the festival
is to introduce the world to contemporary
Estonian food culture, and high-quality and
exciting foods and services. Culinary cultures
from other countries also appear alongside
Estonian food and culture. The delicious and
exciting food served in a naturally scenic
location accompanied by a cultural programme
and festival ambience add up to an enjoyable
whole that everyone wants to be part of.
Laa
The biggest food culture
festival in the Nordic
countries
Handicrafting
Valgeranna Adventure Park
www.maarjamagdaleenagild.ee
www.valgerannaseikluspark.ee
Pier
Birdwatching
www.seiklevabaks.ee
Bicycle
www.baltreisen.ee
www.bicyclerentalparnu.eu
Wooden villa
Architecture by Olev
Siinmaa
Beach
Coastal meadow
Spas
www.viiking.eu
www.strand.ee
www.wasa.ee
www.spaestonia.ee
www.hedonspa.com
www.terviseparadiis.ee
www.spatervis.ee
Golf
www.wbg.ee
www.parnubay.com
Sauna
www.maria.ee
www.ojako.ee
www.uueda.ee
www.veelaager.ee
www.vango.ee
www.aasapuhkemajad.eu
Bogshoeing
www.seiklevabaks.ee
www.soomaa.com
Museums
www.parnumuuseum.ee
www.mona.ee
www.kurgja.ee
www.visitestonia.com/en/
kihnu-museum
www.museumrailway.ee
Kihnu Island
Russian farmstead
www.venetalu.ee
Award-winning
restaurant or café
www.hedonspa.com/restoran/
www.kurgovilla.ee
www.visitestonia.com/en/
parnu-kalamajaka-cafe
www.limolounge.ee
Ammende Villa
www.ammende.ee
Tamme farm’s herb garden
www.tammetalu.eu
Berry and mushroom
forests
Soomaa National Park
Romantic Coastline Festival
www.soomaa.ee
www.rannatee.ee
Water activities
Lottemaa Theme Park
www.seiklevabaks.ee
www.jahtklubi.ee
www.aloha.ee
www.maxwave.eu
www.surfhunt.ee
www.terviseparadiis.ee
www.lottemaa.ee
Fishing
Extreme Sport
www.fishingvillage.ee
www.estfishing.ee
www.kalastustalu.ee
www.kihnurand.ee
www.puhkakihnus.ee
Winter activities
Mini Zoo
www.alpakafarm.ee
www.maria.ee
www.visitestonia.com/en/
mini-zoo-3
www.kuldrula.ee
Pärnu moat
More information
www.visitparnu.com
www.joulumae.ee
www.soomaa.com
www.seiklevabaks.ee
Auto24ring
www.auto24ring.ee
Pernova Nature Centre
14
tasku.co/pernova/
15
Join the locals’ festivities
The coast coastal inhabitants have lived on their
handicraft, fish and cucumbers for centuries. The
Pärnu County Pickle Festival enables you to share
in these valuable traditions. This is just one of many
open-air events showing you the life of coast dwellers, where you can talk to the locals and purchase
the products they have made. You can do the same
by joining other Romantic Coastline festivals. For
example, our summer favourites are the musicfilled Kabli Sunset Festival and the Kihnu Sea Party
promoting fishing traditions. Autumn brings its
rich forest bounty to Tihemetsa Mushroom Festival
and Estonia’s best violinists congregate at Kihnu Violin festival. The springtime open-air events start in
May with the Dandelion Festival and the RäimeWest
Fish Festival.
www.rannatee.ee
16
17
Enjoy the diverse
culture and history
of Pärnu County all
year round
11,000 years of history
The Pärnu Museum has found a home in a centuries-old granary. The exhibition of our city’s and
county’s history is vivified by a 13th or 14th century river gate which was discovered during renovations, and through which the Hanseatic goods
were traded. The so-called time-river created in
the Museum takes you through 11,000 years of
exciting history, and its interactive solutions guarantee a memorable experience for you and your
whole family.
Be part of the biggest festivals all over Europe
The small, idyllic city of Pärnu is capable of doing great things. Each year, the city hosts many
big international festivals well regarded all across
Europe. Whether it’s the Aloha Kite Challenge surf
and beach festival, the European championships
in beach football or ORC sailing, everyone can find
something to enjoy. The Pärnu Music Festival’s Järvi Academy offers high-calibre classical music for
all tastes during one sunny week in Pärnu. Besides
orchestras, a line-up of superb soloists take the
stage accompanied by orchestras and chamber
ensembles. During the days of the street festival
Night of the Arts, the city centre and beach area
are full of good food, enjoyable music and the fine
arts.
18
Hustle and bustle
in the winter
When the cold weather arrives, Pärnu’s cultural
events move from the parks indoors to concert halls
and art galleries. Pärnu offers a diverse programme
for even the most demanding cultural connoisseur:
music, dance, theatre and exhibitions. The Christmas market adds Yuletide spirit, it’s a place to buy
local craftsmen’s goods, savour Christmas flavours
and enjoy a cultural programme.
Kihnu follows the wisdom
of ancestors
Kihnu and Manija Islands are the home of a unique
native culture preserved on Pärnu County coastal
islands for more than six hundred years. The cultural space, which was included on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2003, keeps alive
Kihnu’s folklore, handicraft and customs. The island
of Kihnu is known as the home of seamen, fishermen and seal hunters. The men spent long periods of time at sea, entrusting the women with the
everyday island life. Women have become the preservers and passers-on of local handicraft, dances,
games and music. Their everyday clothing still includes a self-made striped Kihnu skirt called kört.
The rules of life on Kihnu have changed with time,
but to a considerable extent the ancestral wisdom
is still followed. Many traditions and rituals are still
alive, for instance, weddings on Kihnu Island last for
three days, and it is especially interesting to visit the
island on a day of popular or church celebrations.
19
Discover the history of Pärnu accompanied by a local
guide
On a guided tour, explore the city’s main sights, listen to exciting facts about Pärnu’s history and ask
questions about the way of life in modern times and
how people lived back in Hanseatic days. Besides
the traditional guided tour, specialized excursions
are offered – such as the ghost tour, Pärnu resort history tour and Pärnu churches and religion in Pärnu
throughout history. Walks are organized for solo
travellers and bigger groups. Tours are available in
Estonian, Finnish, English, Russian, Swedish, French
and German.
18 years
of exhibitions of nudes
Summer in Pärnu brings the international nude art
exhibition “Man and Woman” at the Pärnu Museum
of New Art, which puts the focus on the human
body and spirit, and harmony between the two.
Regardless of the topic – sea, yearnings, dreams or
others – the exhibition attempts to capture subtexts
in men and women’s relationships that have inspired
interesting artistic solutions.
A piece of Russian culture
in an Estonian farm
In the middle of the woods and bogs of Audru Parish, there is a little Russian cottage on the SangaTõniste farm. Peeking in you will feel as if you were
in a real Russian village where Yemelya lies on a
stove nibbling cookies, porridge is cooking, the
samovar is steaming and blushing maidens are
greeting guests. On this Estonian farm with a fascinating history you will learn about Russian national
culture and traditions, and you can see Russian national costumes, taste Russian food and become acquainted with Russian applied art.
20
21
Parks, bogs, forests
and water invite you
to spend active time
outdoors
The biggest summertime
extreme sports festival
The skate park in Munamäe Park in downtown Pärnu
offers younger people challenge and fun. Practice
your skills and spend time with friends all summer
long. A traditional extreme sport competition draws
top stunt riders from the world over. Skateboarding,
BMX bikes, skating and pushbikes all vie for trophies.
An adrenaline-charged experience for spectators and
competitors alike.
A place with five seasons
Springtime in Pärnu County brings blossoming
plants, returning birds and melting snow, and is the
time for those interested in taking river trips as the
water level is high and boats move faster. Memorable
experiences are gained in the flooded areas. Soomaa
is the largest flooded area in Estonia and the locals
there tolerate the flood waters as they have had centuries to adjust to them. There is a saying that there
are five seasons in Soomaa: spring, summer, autumn,
winter and flood.
22
Combine a seminar with
a relaxing holiday in nature
To bring new and exciting ideas into your workday,
why not move your office to a different location for
a day? Pärnu offers various conference rooms and
large multifunctional conference halls that can cater
to even the most demanding wishes. Farmstays in
Pärnu County can provide seminar services to smaller
parties in a more intimate atmosphere. For the best
result, combine the workday with relaxation in a spa
or a refreshing outing into nature. A joint bog expedition, boat trip or a teambuilding game can pep up
your body and mind, and strengthen e team spirit.
A popular place for bird
watching
Both Pärnu County and the whole of West Estonia are
important migration passages for millions of migratory
birds who pass through here every spring and autumn.
In special observation towers on the coast you can watch
the birds on your own or take a guided tour. Both expert
ornithologists as well as beginners discovering the world
of birds will find this experience fulfilling.
23
Bovines on beachside
meadows
Aquatic adventure on the river
and bay
Pärnu has a seaside nature reserve with 341
hectares of woodland, lagoons and coastal
meadows. These are short-grass meadows where
the reeds are mowed regularly and cattle graze.
Birds love to nest in the area. A 600-metre long
path follows the central beach, allowing visitors
to walk on boardwalks directly over ponds and
discover extraordinary plants, some of them
protected species. A path serving as an extension
of the beach promenade is a place to watch the
cattle, play on playgrounds and climb observation
towers.
The wide Pärnu river and the gradual, sandy beach offer great
opportunities for various activities out on the water. Walking
down the city’s promenade, you’ll find a windsurf club and
surfing area where beginners can take surfing training and
hire equipment. Or go out on a trip in a fishing boat or try
exciting water skiing or jetskiing. For calmer pastimes, hire a
rowboat and some tackle and go fishing. Tasty dinner is guaranteed if you get lucky!
Wind in your sails!
Discover the coast in
a kayak
A kayak trip is just the right pastime for those
loving nature, seas and crazy adventures. Discover
the Pärnu County coast with a tour-guide, paddle
to islets, or see the city’s sights from the river or
the bay.
Make a beeline for the Pärnu Yacht Harbour, port of departure
for the most pleasant yacht rides in Pärnu. We’ll hoist the sails
and set a course for the Bay of Pärnu or small islands in the
vicinity. Nothing tastes better than a sandwich on board of a
ship. There’s nothing better than being able to tell your friends
a story about jumping in the water from a ship’s deck. Sailing is
an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Bogshoeing
Pärnu County is the land of marshes and bogs. You can discover most of them by walking along wooden tracks, but in
places without such tracks you can go bogshoeing. Bogshoes
are very environmentally friendly because they do not allow
you to sink into the bog and damage the delicate soil. You can
have a wonderful experience both in the autumn when the
bogs are full of colour and in the winter when snow tracks offer
hints of animal life.
24
25
Eco-house filled with
environmental education
Spending time at Pernova Nature Centre offers entertainment
and education. There are activities for visitors of all ages. The centre has many permanent exhibits as well as constantly changing
expositions. Memorable experiences can be had in the “living
corner”, conservatory, species-rich greenhouse, observatory and
planetarium.
Play golf like a pro
Beautiful Valgeranna Valgeranna, very close to Pärnu, has an 18hole links-style golf course. Golf here is for everyone: beginners
get friendly instruction, while budding pros can put their experience to a test. And in autumn 2015, Pärnu Bay Golf Links in Reiu
Village, also near Pärnu, opened a course right on a coastal meadow. The 18-hole links/park course is the first in the Baltics.
Go on holiday with your family and enjoy.
A family vacation is something
you cannot put a price tag on.
Pärnu,
a UNICEF-recognized city
Pärnu and Pärnu County are a great place for
a family vacation. The title of Child and YouthFriendly City awarded to Pärnu by UNICEF means
that people here care about the needs of the littlest
visitors and residents, too. You’ll find relaxing
pastimes and exciting things to do for kids of all
ages. A peaceful environment, unspoiled nature
and fresh air are just what children need.
Work with masters
Top-quality racing circuit unique
in Northern Europe
A closed circuit for racing cars and motorcycles, which conforms
to FIA GRADE 3 standards, is only a ten-minute drive from Pärnu.
It is currently one of the newest motor racing complexes in all of
Northern Europe. The multifunctional sports complex provides
experiences for both spectators and motor sports fans who want
to speed around the track themselves. The circuit is also open to
amateur athletes; music festivals and other large events are also
held there.
The Mary Magdalene Guild, set in an old wooden
house, hosts various crafts workshops. Fashion
your own jewellery, try woodworking, felting,
glass melting and potter’s wheel. Everyone can
find something they like to do. A great gift for
yourself or a friend, and a souvenir for many years
to come.
A joyful trip on a push-sledge
It is a great joy to glide through snowy forests and over slippery
ice in a light and fast push-sledge. If you care for beautiful winter
nature, this is the entertainment for you. On a sporty trip you will
enjoy snowy views, hot tea, great company and fascinating stories
about the surroundings. We guarantee you blushing cheeks and
a good mood!
26
27
The biggest water park
in West-Estonia draws
young and old
The Tervise Paradiis (Health Paradise) water park
is a relaxing place for the whole family. For a shot
of adrenaline, try the water slides. A 4-metre-high
diving platform and “mountain river” rapids await
the courageous. There are also pools, of course, including an outdoor one with heated water, whirlpool baths, saunas and places to eat.
Joyful winter fun
in the city centre
In cold winters, families flock to the ice rink in Pärnu city centre, where ice skating can be enjoyed
by all ages. There’s a large rink and a smaller one
for beginners. A skate rental operation stocks 250
pairs. The rink is illuminated at night and speakers
pump out music. The highest point in the city is
next to the rink – Munamägi (Egg Hill). It teems
with laughter and red-cheeked children in winter.
Meet Lotte and her friends at
Lottemaa Theme Park
Lottemaa Theme Park is the biggest and newest theme
park in the Baltics for the whole family. Gadgetville, set in
an attractive coastal forest in Pärnu County, will be familiar to fans of Lotte films, musicals and books. You’ll meet
Lotte, Bruno, Albert and other residents and get to play
and invent with them. Enough fun to last the whole day, for
both kids and adults. Lottemaa offers over 100 attractions,
themed houses, food courts, theatre performances, souvenir shops and a swimming beach.
The adventure park attracts
everybody
In the adventure park in Valgeranna near Pärnu, both adventurous adults and kids over a metre tall can safely climb
the attractions built high above the ground. The bridges
and various obstacle courses on the trees allow you to experience something unique and enjoy views so much more
different than those when walking on the ground. If there
are at least a dozen adventurers in a group, you can all
climb the trees and go on a photo hunt.
Come and pet exotic reptiles
and see the Estonian farm zoo
Kids love animals and the feeling is mutual. Pärnu County
has a number of zoos of different sizes where the whole
family can come marvel at animals. The exciting Mini Zoo
features exotic terrarium animals like lizards, snakes and
spiders. Those who dare can also have a closer look and
stroke the animals. Alpacas with their amazingly soft wool
are farmed in Niidu Village near Pärnu. Animals popular
on Estonian farms can be seen at a number of farms in the
county – pigs, sheep, goats, cows, horses and rabbits. Hospitable hosts give tours of the farm and let children feed
and pet the animals.
28
29
It pays to invest
in Pärnu
Pärnu was already a well-known seaport and
Hanseatic town in the Middle Ages, having
claimed its place on the trade route between
the eastern and western countries. Business
here became more active at the beginning of
the 20th century together with urbanisation
and the first factories. In the beginning of the
previous century, Waldhof, Europe’s largest
wood processing company, was based here.
The economic structure of Pärnu County today
includes metal, textile and electronics industries
as well as recreation.
Thanks to major foreign investments, many of
the larger companies belong to international
groups. Henkel Makroflex, which manufactures
polyurethane construction foams; AS Wendre,
which manufactures household textiles; AQ
Lasertool OÜ, which processes metals and is
an Aros Group company; Scanfil OÜ, which
manufactures electronics and is a Sievi Capital
Group company; Laesti AS, which processes
timber and is a Norvik Group company – all
of which have settled here in this supporting
environment. These are just a few examples
of companies which find the location of Pärnu
County, between the Nordic Countries, Russia
and Central Europe, logistically the most
beneficial for their development, and which also
appreciate the excellent work culture and skilled
workers we have here.
• Approximately 42,000 people live in Pärnu city,
which is at the centre of Estonia’s largest
county.
• Approximately 86,000 people live in Pärnu Count
y.
• The Pärnu Resort is considered to have been create
d in 1838 when the first swimming
facility was opened here.
• The oldest settlement in Estonia, dating back
11,000 years, is located in Pärnu County.
• The coastline of Pärnu County is approximately
250 km long.
• Pärnu County includes more than 175 islets and
8 islands of which the two largest –
Kihnu and Manilaid – are on UNESCO’s World Herita
ge List.
• Pärnu County has about 750,000 foreign visitor
s each year.
Pärnu Visitor Centre
Uus 4, 80010 Pärnu, Estonia
Tel +372 447 3000, +372 5330 4134
info@visitparnu.com
parnu@visitestonia.com
www.visitparnu.com
PÄRNU
ESTONIA
www.investinparnu.com
WORLD HEALTH
ORGANIZATION
CHILD FRIENDLY CITY
Published by the Pärnu County Tourism Foundation and Pärnu City Government.
Photos by Strand SPA & Conference Hotel, Karmen Kärg, Andres Putting, Silver Gutmann, Museum of New Art,
Veiko Vostrjakov, MK Foto, Aloha Surf Centre, Lottemaa Theme Park, Tervise Paradiis SPA Hotel & Water Park,
Mary Magdalene Guild, Kihnu, Varje Härm, Indrek Aija, Soomaa.com, Kihnumua, Aino Valt, Romantic Coastline, Ivar Kadak,
Olev Mihkelmaa, Medical SPA Tervis, SPA Estonia, SPA Viiking, Villa Andropoff, Andres Adamson, Kerli Sosi, Margit Kurvits, Mehis Palotu,
Piret Volgerad, Rannahotell, Aiki Leit-Teetlaus, Tõiv Jõul, Seikle Vabaks, Indro Maalman, private collection of Ivar Kokka.
30
Cover photo by Kati Vaas. Models: Actress Kaili Viidas (winner of Endla theater’s Audience Choice Award 2013),
Artur Maier (winner of Pärnu’s 2012 Enterpreneur contest).
Translation by Päevakera, Wiedemanni Tõlkebüroo, A&A Lingua. Design and print by Ecoprint © 2015
31
Tallinn
Pärnu County
Pärnu
www.visitparnu.com
Finland
Norway
Sweden
Russia
Estonia
Latvia
Denmark
Lithuania
Germany
Poland
Belarus