Matsalu National Park

Visitor Centre of Matsalu National Park

Pärnu County, Matsalu National Park
The permanent exhibition of the Matsalu Visitor Centre on the second floor of the Penijõe Manor house offers visitors a good chance to learn about the unique character of Matsalu National Park. Here you can find the largest natural floodplain meadows in Estonia, reed beds, the evolving of lower Kasari River through decades, unique coastal meadows, wooded meadows and forest stands, rich cultural heritage. The 20-minute multi-media program “A Year at Matsalu: Life from Ice till Ice”, compiled in 2009, offers a fascinating overview of the inhabitants of the National Park and their activities. The author of the programme is Arne Ader, music by Sven Grünberg, text and voiceover by Fred Jüssi.
PhoneHelle Veltman, communication manager, +372 5138 783
E-mail info.matsalu@rmk.ee
Opening hours15 April to 30 September Mon to Fri 9.00–17.00, Sat to Sun 10.00–18.00,
01 October to 14 April Mon to Fri 9.00–17.00,
except on public holidays.
Type of objectVisitor Centre
Parking facilitiesSolid-surface parking area on the bank of the Penijõgi River for 14 cars or 3 tour buses. In the parking area next to the Penijõe Manor for 14 cars or 3 buses. The parking area in front of the rear entrance of the Manor is reserved for the staff.
Amenities
  • Discount educational campaign programs for general education schools and kindergartens in the winter, spring and autumn
  • paid educational nature programs
  • information and promotional materials about Lääne and Pärnu County and other RMK recreation areas
  • thorough permanent exposition about Matsalu National Park and the multi-media programme “A Year at Matsalu: Life from Ice till Ice” in Estonian, English and German
  • access to the databases, exhibitions and documentaries of the visitor centre
  • forest and nature-related events
  • Ennu Põldma's photo exhibition "Nature through the Lens"
  • card payment possibility
Camping facilities Penijõe campfire site
Outdoor fireplace Penijõe campfire site
Wheelchair accessibility Entrance to the house is equipped with a 3,5 m long and 15% incline ramp (without handrail).
Toilet suitable for disabled on the first floor, access to second floor by platform lift "Vimec".
Paved parking area.
Water Tap water
Hiking options
Recycling point yes
SightsThe visitor centre is situated in Matsalu National Park, features a permanent exhibition and a classroom for educational activities in nature and wildlife.
Additional information Before going on a nature walk please read the Environmental code of conduct (freedom to roam), rules of conduct and waste-sorting policy
RestrictionsMatsalu National Park, limited management zone. Before your visit, please get acquainted with valid nature conservation rules of Matsalu National Park. Information about restrictions can be obtained from the Environmental Board (+372 662 5999, info@keskkonnaamet.ee).
LocationPenijõe village, Lääneranna municipality, 90305 Pärnu County
Object no 11 on the national park map
Driving directionsDrive 43 km on Risti–Virtsu road (road no 10), turn right towards Penijõe (at the sign to Matsalu National Park Visitor Centre, "Matsalu rahvuspargi külastuskeskus 2", road no 16193). Drive 2 km to the designated parking area at Penijõe Manor. Matsalu Visitor Centre is situated on the second floor of the main building.
Geographic coordinatesLong-Lat WGS 84
latitude: 58.714566
longitude: 23.815901
L-EST 97 x: 6508337 y: 489332