Matsalu, Soomaa and Lahemaa National Parks are recognized in Europe as sustainable tourism destinations. The five-year certificate (called The European Charter for Sustainable Tourism in Protected Areas) awarded by the EUROPARC Federation is a quality mark that proves that the destination's tourism is of high quality and takes into account the principles of preserving nature.
Embedded in Charter are these important concepts:
- protection of the natural and cultural heritage,
- participation by all stakeholders,
- effective partnership working,
- planning to prepare and implement a sustainable tourism strategy,
- to realise the environmental, social and economic benefits of everyone working more sustainably.
The certificate has three parts:
- certificate for a protected area,
- certificate for an entrepreneur operating in a certified protected area
- certificate for a tour operator
For more information, visit EUROPARC Federation website.