Rakvere Oak Grove

Rakvere Oak Grove Landscape Reserve (area 24,5 ha) was founded in 1999, but the nature in that area has been under state protection already since 1939. This deciduous broad-leaved forest is uncommon sight in Nordic (boreal) townscapes but very appreciated by the locals who love to take daily walks in the park and enjoy the beautiful unimpaired nature. Rakvere Oak Grove Landscape Reserve preserves natural resources and values for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations.

The Landscape Reserve is located on and around a long, winding ridge which formed on glaciated region. There are only few coniferous trees and birches around. Most of the esker is covered with oak trees and on the slopes and in the valleys with abundant lime-trees. The Oak Grove has been repetitively cleared and there are no trees older than 220-240 years. Most of the oaks here have regenerated vegetatively from stub shoots.

The broad-leaved forest is important to preserve nature and different species in the Rakvere Oak Grove. Oaks and other trees and shrubs are a habitat for insects, birds, fungi, mosses and lichens. Many of them are protected, rare and endangered species. Another significant value is the diverse bird population. Since 1960s we have used man-made nest-boxes, which may have helped. In 2002 there were around 39 different bird species nesting here. 

In the center of the Oak Grove is a German Military Cemetery, where several Estonian soldiers, who fought in the World War II, are buried. The cemetery was reconditioned in the 1990s by the German Government.

In the Northern part of the Oak Grove is a memorial "Okaskroon" commemorating the people who were deported from Rakvere to Siberia Russia during Soviet Occupation.