Pillapalu: Hiking Trails, Lakes and Moor Landscapes

Pillapalu is a destination for days when moorland, lakes and forest paths reveal themselves in ever-changing landscapes. The Linajärve bog trail leads to the Linajärve rabalaugas bog pool and offers views of the moorland and its bog pools.

Moorland, Lakes and Changing Forests

An important starting point for hikers is the Jussi Nature Trail. The trail offers views of six lakes and is 8 km long. It runs through the Põhja-Kõrvemaa Nature Reserve near Pillapalu küla in Anija Parish, Harju County. For planning a day out, it is also useful to know that the Jussi Nature Trail begins and ends at the Koersilla car park. This keeps the starting and finishing point of the hike clearly defined, without implying a specific walking time or level of difficulty.

The landscape also includes Jussi Heath. It was formed after repeated fires caused by the activities of the Soviet army. Those who want to experience not only the landscape but also its past while hiking will find an unusual historical background here. The Uuejärve loodusrada offers another insight into the changing nature, running along the Vargamäe vallseljak ridge. It also passes a former Soviet military camp site.

Circular Trails and Active Excursions

The Paukjärve nature trail can be explored on foot or by bicycle. It is designed as a circular trail and runs along Lake Paukjärv and the nearby hills and valleys. Along the route, damp, dark deciduous forests alternate with bright pine forests. This allows you to plan the excursion according to your preferred mode of transport, while the lake, landforms and forest landscapes combine different impressions along a single route.

The Small Lapland Husky Park in Uuejärve, Pillapalu küla, Anija Parish, Harju County, offers a special activity. A 2 km dog-sled ride begins there on a forest path. If the snow conditions are unsuitable, four-wheeled carts are used instead of sleds. The Small Lapland dog-sled experience also includes tea and a small snack, served by the campfire or in a warm room. This is a specific way to add a dog-related experience and a shared break to a day in nature.

The Soodla Water Landscape

The Soodla tour also offers a different perspective on the surrounding area. Its hiking section includes a refuge for waterfowl. Those who want to experience the landscape from the water can find a 3.5 km SUP route among the reed beds of the Soodla River in Kõrvemaa. The two activities represent different ways of experiencing nature: on foot along the hiking section or on the water along the designated SUP route.

Choose the Right Accommodation for Your Travel Plans

When looking for accommodation in Pillapalu, it is worth deciding first what you want to focus on. For a trip featuring moorland and lake landscapes, the trails at Linajärve and the Jussi Nature Trail are good additions to your plans. Those who prefer exploring a circular route by bicycle or on foot can consider the Paukjärve nature trail. Travellers interested in history can also include Jussi Heath or the Uuejärve loodusrada. For a stay with a special activity, add the dog-sled ride or the Soodla tour with its SUP route. This way, your choice of holiday apartment or holiday house is guided by the experiences you want to shape your stay.

If you would like to compare other places as well, you can also look at Vetla and Voose.

For the higher-level travel overview: Anija.