Estonians are lucky to live in one of the world’s least populated countries. This tiny tech-savvy nation has some of the cleanest air in the world, and lush green forests cloak around half of the land. Maidla Nature Resort has taken it upon themselves to seek out the most pure corner of nature and tranquility and they invite you to take time off and experience comfort and peace at the same time.
Maidla Nature Villa
Inspired by wild nature, placed on the edge of a bog, this building is nothing like your regular hotel room. It is located among birch trees, with bogland flooding knee-deep during high water – making it possible to start a canoe trip straight from the terrace. A boardwalk leads to the terrace in front of the elevated house. The entire house is covered with terraces – a lower morning terrace, gigantic steps leading to the roof and the night terrace at the height of the treetops, for enjoying the sunset, stargazing and birdwatching. The house is intended for 1-2 visitors at a time, offering maximum comfort and privacy – it isn’t visible from anywhere apart from the boardwalk. The sharp angles of the building’s triangular shapes blend into the surrounding bogland forest, due to its dark brown ash walls.
This modern glasshouse is specially made to merge into the wetlands and help you admire the surroundings in the best way possible. "We were set from the start to build a destination, a place that would be irresistible for people who search for a unique nature experience - and heighten that experience with architecture. It is designed by talented Estonian architect Mari Hunt from b210 architecture firm. "Getting Mari to work with us in Maidla was the best choice - she’s been designing and tutoring projects that magnify Estonian nature for years.... She’s the best at getting architecture to have a conversation with the nature around it. The passion and attention to detail she took to the location was awe inspiring," Sass explained.
The house is built around birch trees, with the goal to not cause them any harm, elevated 1m above the ground, and driven into the soft soil with 7m long screws. To fit the delicate plot best, the shape of the house is irregular, divided into several triangles, circling around the bed area. An unusual floor plan allows for a convenient entrance with a storm porch. The triangular bedroom, facing wild nature, provides panoramic views of the scenic bogscape. The fireplace forms the focal point and the space can be divided by drapes into several functions – a bedroom and a separate work or rest area with small sofas. A small bathroom includes floor-to-ceiling mirrors and an incineration toilet. The area under the steps leading to the roof accommodates unheated maintenance space for equipment.
The minuscule Maidla hotel is situated on the site of an old manor, allowing guests to explore historical buildings and a picturesque landscape. You will experience stunning views in a cozy yet luxurious atmosphere like nowhere else. They have also created a range of activities for you to enjoy during your stay in Maidla Nature Resort.
In the next few months they will also be opening two more exclusive Nature Villas. The new villas have their own unique concepts, are inspired by nature, and are architecturally very distinctive. They are also more spacious and one of them includes a sauna and the other one a terrace with a built-in Jacuzzi.
Check back soon for additional updates!
Photos by Priidu Saart Visuals, Tõnu Tunnel and Feliks Volož.