Lääne-Viru County

Lääne-Viru County is extraordinarily diverse and the perfect county for relaxing, enjoying nature and taking part in traditional events. Visiting its different museums, you get a good overview of the history of its people and a sense of where we come from. Rich selection of manors highlights the county’s association with a number of big names in history. Its beautiful nature and the long coastline provide plenty of opportunities for hiking and strolling the countryside, engaging in different sports and admiring exquisite scenery.
The coastal villages of Lahemaa are truly beautiful. One of these villages, called Käsmu, is also known as the ‘Village of Captains’, because many captains who sailed the great oceans grew up here. Not far from Käsmu, there is the “Devil’s Island”, which according to the legend is the product of a fight between devils.
Lääne-Virumaa has a good share of the Kalevipoeg (Estonian national epic) legends. According to a folktale the lakes of Äntu came into being from the urine of Kalevipoeg’s horse (Kalevipoeg was an epic giant hero). Each of the crystal-clear lakes has a different colour and the names of the lakes have been derived from the colours. The largest natural hill in North Estonia is Emumägi and apparently was created by the horse of Kalevipoeg. The hill rises 166 meters above the sea level and the viewing tower on the top offers superb views of the surrounding countryside.
The main tourist attractions also include military bases from the Soviet era and the industrial heritage in Tamsalu and Kunda.
Lääne-Viru County is slightly larger than 3600 square kilometres and around 68 thousand inhabitants live here. County centre Rakvere is a home to an impressive medieval castle which has become one of the most attractive museums in Estonia. The visitors are welcomed to enjoy a feel of medieval life - take part in a sword fight, shoot with a bow, taste medieval dishes and observe thematic plays.
In addition to the many places of interest you are also welcomed to visit the traditional events of the county, including a woman-carrying competition in Väike-Maarja, barrel riding at Porkuni Lake, Võsu Music Days, Lahemaa Bagpipe Days, Rock Festival Green Christmas etc.