Varbola: Hillfort, Bog Hikes and Unique Experiences

Varbola combines impressive history with bog hikes and signposted trails through a distinctive landscape. At its centre is Varbola Jaanilinn hillfort: its nearly 2-hectare stronghold is surrounded by a 580-metre-long rampart. The rampart reaches a height of 7–10 m on the outside and 2–7 m on the inside. The first written record of the site dates from 1212. Those planning a trip to Varbola can combine historical discoveries with nature-based experiences here.

Discover Varbola Jaanilinn Hillfort

The size and visible ramparts give the hillfort a distinct character of its own. The landscape around Varbola Jaanilinn also tells of earlier earth movements: at the western and northern foot lies a terrain step from an earlier phase of the Baltic Ice Lake, which continues southwards from there. For visitors interested in history, landforms and ancient fortifications, this creates a varied focus for planning their trip.

The annual Varbola puupäevad play a special cultural role. This popular event takes place at Varbola Jaanilinn hillfort. Wooden sculptures made on site subsequently decorate the hillfort. As a result, a visit is not limited to the historic site alone, but also includes a living craft tradition and visible works made of wood.

Bog Experiences and Hiking Trails

For active days, Preeriakoda offers the 3–4-hour “Kuula maad” bog hike year-round. The up-to-three-hour “Tuuluta skalpi” snowshoe hike into the bog is also offered year-round. From spring to summer, the “Marjakorv ja korilased ehk Murueide tütred” package complements the nature experiences with a workshop on making birch-bark or spruce-root baskets and a blueberry hike in the bog. This gives you a choice between a classic bog hike, a snowshoe tour and a seasonal combination of crafts and nature.

Those who prefer a signposted hiking route can consider the RMK Penijõe–Varbola hiking trail. It is marked on trees with white-yellow-white paint markings and leads over ancient coastal formations to Varbola Jaanilinn hillfort. The markings make it easier to find your way along this specific trail; the historical and landscape impressions take centre stage in different sections of the journey.

Varbola as a Starting Point for Planning Your Trip

When searching for a holiday apartment in Varbola, you can make your preferred travel style the starting point. If you primarily want to experience the hillfort and wooden art, cultural history is at the centre. For nature-focused days, the bog hikes near Preeriakoda or the RMK Penijõe–Varbola hiking trail are important themes to include in your plans. Another experience is the two-day nomadic hike “Hiking on snowshoes in the tranquil bogs of Rapla County”, which begins at the Preeriakoda campsite in Varbola.

At Preeriakoda, the “An ancient night at Preeriakoda” experience includes an overnight stay in a tipi beside a crackling fire. This offer complements the hikes with a special overnight experience. It is located at Vardi metskond 12, Varbola küla, Märjamaa vald, Rapla maakond.

Other Places to Include in Your Travel Plans

If you would like to extend your trip beyond Varbola, you can also explore Haimre and Mõraste. This keeps Varbola a clear focus for history, bog landscapes and hiking experiences, while other places can complement your travel plans.

For the overarching travel overview: Märjamaa.