Endla Nature Reserve

Endla protects a system of raised bogs, fens, lakes and karst springs in central Estonia, covering around a hundred square kilometres, and it holds one of the oldest bog research stations in the world at Tooma, established in 1910. The Mannikjarve bog is the accessible part: a boardwalk trail runs out over the mire past bog pools and hummocks to an observation tower with a view across the open expanse of sphagnum, dwarf pine and pools that is the characteristic Estonian bog landscape. Springs at Sopa and Norra emerge from limestone with considerable flow. Cranes, black grouse and waders breed in the reserve, and access is restricted in some areas during breeding.

What you actually see

• Mannikjarve bog - the boardwalk out over the open mire.
• The observation tower - the platform above the bog surface.
• Bog pools - the water bodies between the sphagnum hummocks.
• Karst springs - the strong-flowing sources at the reserve edge.

When to go

May to October for the boardwalks; late summer for cranberries and cloudberries on the bog. Spring brings breeding birds and access restrictions in parts. Winter allows walking on the frozen bog with care.

Honest expectations

Boardwalks are slippery when wet or frosty. Access to parts of the reserve is restricted during the bird breeding season. Mosquitoes are severe in summer. Facilities are a car park and information board.

Nearby

Poltsamaa lies south; Jogeva is east.