The Paraspõllu Nature Reserve covers 476 hectares. Fen is the predominant habitat type there, and the reserve lies on the boundary between the municipalities of Rae and Raasiku. Its size, predominant habitat, and location on the boundary shape the character of the nature reserve. Those interested in wetlands will find the predominant habitat type a useful indication of the reserve’s character.
Wetlands, parks, and protected nature
Smaller designated areas also give the natural landscape its distinct character. Kurna Manor Park is a protected park in the village of Kurna and covers 10.9 hectares. In Jüri is the protected Lehmja Oak Grove, a 12-hectare forest area. The areas are similar in size but have different names: a park here, a protected oak grove there. Compared with Paraspõllu’s 476 hectares, this also highlights the difference in scale between these natural areas.
Individual natural monuments complement these larger protected areas. The Vaskjala Oak is designated as an individually protected natural monument. This takes the focus from a vast nature reserve to a park and forest area, and on to a single protected tree. These different forms of protection give nature enthusiasts several specific themes to guide their exploration of Rae.
River landscape and history in Lagedi
Külma Talu Park is in Lagedi, at the confluence of the Pirita and Leivajõgi rivers. Its history also leads to Ott Kangilaski: the artist laid out the park on the former estate of Voldemar Päts, the younger brother of Konstantin Päts. This place brings together a clearly defined landscape setting and a cultural history, without requiring any other stops.
The Museum of the Estonian Struggle for Liberty in Lagedi offers a different chapter of history. It provides an overview of 20th-century military history, from the land and sea battles of the Estonian War of Independence to the Cold War era. This span of time makes the museum a distinct way to explore history. The museum also offers a T-34/85 tank driving experience with a professional team. If you plan to take part, confirm its availability before your trip.
The route connections in Lagedi are also clearly described: a lit pedestrian and cycling link runs between the centre and the railway stops, and includes a pedestrian and cycling bridge over the Pirita River. Both the connection to rail services and the river crossing are part of the same infrastructure. When exploring Lagedi, you can take this into account alongside the area’s nature and history.
Jüri: church and early industrial history
In Jüri there is a monument erected in 1978 to mark the site where Estonia’s first known iron-smelting furnace was found. The monument points to a specific historical find site; 1978 is the year it was erected, not the date the furnace was discovered.
Jüri Church brings together two other aspects of the area’s history. It stands on a medieval foundation and is a Neo-Gothic church. The medieval foundation and Neo-Gothic style refer to different historical periods. The churchyard also contains unique stone crosses. Together, the church, churchyard, and monument offer different points of interest for anyone interested in architectural history and Jüri’s heritage.
Routes and other experiences
The Vaida recreation and centre area has a low ropes course and a village swing. These two specific leisure features complement the natural and cultural heritage with another kind of day-trip destination.
Lilleoru is also accessible by public transport: bus 105 travels there from Tallinn. Alternatively, buses 130 and 138 go to the Ellaku stop, from where it is about a 20-minute walk. Timetables can change, so check departure times before travelling.
The municipal trails website provides information on hiking, health, and ski trails in Rae municipality. It also gives information on ski trail conditions and snow depth on Jüri’s health trails. Nearby, the 6.6-kilometre Suuresta hiking trail starts at the Suuresta Golf clubhouse and runs through the area around Mädajärv. These details answer different planning questions: the Suuresta trail’s length, starting point, and setting are given, while information on the ski trails and Jüri’s health trails also covers conditions and snow depth. Check the trails website when planning your route.
Discover more destinations: Aruvalla, Peetri, Loksa Linn, Saue, Kõue Vald, Viimsi, Padise, Pala.
For the broader travel overview: Harju.
