On the Baltic Sea, across from Sweden and Finland, Estonia is the birthplace of Skype, and is said to have the most tech startups per capita in the world. It’s also a green dream: Close to 48 percent of the country is made up of forests—some primeval—lush with pine, aspen, birch and spruce trees.
It’s easy to explore these wild spots on a day hike from capital city Tallinn, or with a stay on one of the popular vacation islands that ring the coast. (In keeping with the tech theme, many national parks even boast free WiFi.) Estonia’s forests have influenced traditional healing treatments. Locals head to Saaremaa Island to enjoy juniper baths, while body wraps with native peat are popular for their detoxifying effects.
Considered the top hotel in town, the Swissotel Tallinn’s recently redone Pürovel Spa’s namesake products contain alpine ingredients grown and harvested by Swiss farmers. Most massages feature the rich, herb-infused house oil, while body treatments incorporate milk, honey, coconut powder, flaxseed oil and organic sugar. Sundari facials are customized with rose or sandalwood oils and the signature Lotus Luxury Facial leaves skin glowing. Among the many Scandinavian influences in Estonia is the dedication to Finnish saunas, and the beautiful sauna at the Swissotel features floor-to-ceiling windows so you can look out over the sea while you sweat. swissotel.com