Hey, I’m Kätlin – your local friend in Estonia.

I was born and raised in Estonia, a country I now have the joy of sharing with others. Through Hey Estonia, I want to show visitors the real Estonia — not just the famous sights but the authentic local experiences seen through local eyes.

My passion for travelling was the inspiration behind Hey Estonia. I’ve always preferred to plan my own trips and seek out local experiences rather than typical tourist attractions. During my travels, I’ve often felt that what’s missing are genuine local insights — the kind that help you truly connect with a place. After all, how “hidden” can something really be if it’s already all over the internet? You can search for hidden gems online, but real authenticity is something you only find through local people and personal experiences.

I grew up in Tallinn, but my roots go deep into the countryside — from the rolling hills of Viljandimaa to the shores of Lake Peipus in Eastern Estonia. I love travelling around Estonia, discovering hidden gems and beautiful places that even many locals haven’t seen. I especially love exploring Estonia’s islands — one of my favourite summer traditions is to visit at least one new island every year, which has already taken me to many of Estonia’s most charming islands.

Beyond travel, my hobbies include hiking, cooking, and photography. I’m also a certified junior sommelier, with a love for good food and wine. When cooking, I enjoy using ingredients I’ve foraged myself — mushrooms and berries from the forest, a mustard-flavoured plant from the seaside or fresh green shoots in spring full of natural vitamins. And of course, I believe that food tastes best outdoors — there’s something truly special about enjoying a simple meal surrounded by nature’s calm.

I enjoy both bog-shoe hikes in Estonia’s magical wetlands and long-distance hikes on foot throughout the country. My first long-distance hike was an 11-day solo adventure across Hiiumaa Island — 234 km of pure peace and nature. My hiking style is calm and mindful - I love to move at a pace that allows me to truly notice the surroundings. It’s never about the distance I cover, but about fully immersing myself in the journey. I’ve spent countless hours exploring bogs, learning about their unique ecosystems and “inhabitants,” and now I love sharing this magical experience with others.

I’ve realized that what locals see as ordinary — our green forests and peaceful bogs — can be something truly special for visitors. I love meeting people from different cultures, sharing stories, and learning from one another.

So come along — let’s explore Estonia together and experience its wild beauty, quiet charm, and local soul.