Rahtla: Koorunõmme and the Abula-Kalasma Hiking Trail

The Koorunõmme Nature Reserve extends into the village of Rahtla. It is part of the Koorunõmme Natura 2000 site (EE0040428) and has been protected since 3 April 1965.

The protected landscape includes the Koorunõmme LKA, Maapere rauna sub-area. In Rahtla, it protects lakes, bogs, semi-natural and forest communities, as well as protected species and their habitats. The nature here cannot be reduced to a single type of landscape. A special connection to the coast emerges along the Abula-Kalasma Hiking Trail. In the coastal areas, lime-loving plants bloom in abundance in spring. The Leesikaloo pine forest is also one of the natural attractions along the trail. Wet landscapes, forest and coastal vegetation are thus all found in the surroundings of the same hiking destination.

The Abula-Kalasma Hiking Trail runs through the Koorunõmme Nature Reserve. It is marked with pictograms and colored markings on the trees. There are eleven information boards along the trail, with content in Estonian and English. At a leisurely pace, the entire Abula-Kalasma Hiking Trail takes approximately four to five hours. About half of the trail runs along the eastern coast of Tagalaht Bay. The trail lies within the Koorunõmme Nature Reserve; about half of the route runs along the eastern coast of Tagalaht Bay.

Tagalaht is an important wintering area for waterbirds. The coast of Abula is called Skull Coast by locals because fossils are frequently found there. The landscape features and trail markings serve different purposes: the landscape reflects the character of the surroundings, while the visible markings indicate the route of the hiking trail. The information boards supplement this orientation with content in Estonian and English and provide context for the surroundings along the route. For further comparisons of locations, you can also open the pages for Küdema, Ninase and Tagaranna.

Since when has the Koorunõmme Nature Reserve been protected?

The Koorunõmme Nature Reserve has been protected since 3 April 1965.

Is visiting the Koorunõmme LKA, Maapere rauna sub-area permitted?

Yes. Visiting and moving around in the Koorunõmme LKA, Maapere rauna sub-area are permitted.

Why is the coast of Abula also called Skull Coast?

The coast of Abula is called Skull Coast by locals because fossils are frequently found there. The name is therefore a local designation for the coast.

What significance does Tagalaht have for nature?

Tagalaht is an important wintering area for waterbirds. The name also refers to the bay along whose eastern coast about half of the Abula-Kalasma Hiking Trail runs.

To the main travel overview: Mustjala.