Laulasmaa is a village in Lääne-Harju parish, Harju county in
northwestern Estonia. It is located about 29 km west of the capital
Tallinn, west of Keila-Joa, north of Kloogaranna, at Lahepere Bay
(part of the Gulf of Finland). The population of Laulasmaa was 309
(January 1, 2004).
The village was first mentioned under
Swedish rule (Laulasmaa). Borders of Laulasmaa with Lohusalu,
Keila-Joa and Kloogarand.
People started spending their
summer in Laulasmaa in the 1930s, but the first summer cottages were
built at the beginning of the 20th century.
Laulasmaa is the
home of the composer Arvo Pärt and the location of the Arvo Pärt
center.
Laulasmaa boasts a range of attractions emphasizing nature, wellness, and culture, making it a favored spot for relaxation and outdoor pursuits. The centerpiece is Laulasmaa Beach, a year-round accessible stretch of white sand backed by pine forests, where visitors can swim, sunbathe, play on ball courts, or rent equipment from the nearby LaSpa Hotel. Water sports thrive here, with a surf school offering lessons in windsurfing, kitesurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), alongside a beach bar for shade and snacks. Activities extend to running, cycling, Nordic walking on nature trails, and even winter swimming in the Baltic Sea. The Arvo Pärt Centre, nestled in the forests, is a cultural highlight dedicated to the renowned Estonian composer Arvo Pärt, who resides in the village; it features exhibitions, a short biographical film, and events, earning a 4.8 out of 5 rating from visitors for its blend of art and nature. The LaSpa Hotel provides extensive wellness options, including a 20-meter swimming pool, outdoor pools, jacuzzis, six types of saunas (e.g., aroma, salt-steam, wood-heated), and the Michelin-recognized Restaurant Wicca, which emphasizes Nordic cuisine with organic, local ingredients. Nearby, the Niitvälja Golf Club offers championship-level play amid scenic landscapes. For families, kid-friendly options include sandcastle building, adventure parks, and exploring historical sites like the Keila-Joa Manor Chapel or the Estonian Open-Air Museum. Hiking trails through lush hills and forests allow for birdwatching and immersion in Estonia's natural heritage, with ancient sites like the "Aidakivi" sacrificial stone adding a touch of folklore. Accessibility is straightforward via bus (e.g., line 134 from Tallinn) or train to Keila followed by a short bus ride, making day trips feasible.
Laulasmaa's recorded history dates back to the period of Swedish rule over Estonia, when it was first mentioned under the name "Laulasmeh," reflecting its early ties to the region's colonial past. Its German name, "Laulasma," also hints at historical influences from German-speaking communities in the Baltic area. Until 1890, Laulasmaa functioned as its own parish before being incorporated into the larger Keila parish, a structure that persisted through various administrative changes, including Soviet-era reorganizations and post-independence reforms up to 2017. The village began to emerge as a leisure destination in the early 20th century, with the construction of the first summer cottages around that time. By the 1930s, it had gained popularity as a summer retreat for Estonians seeking respite from urban life, drawing visitors to its beaches and forests. During the Soviet occupation in the 1950s, a trade union rest house was built, which later evolved into a learning and recreation center. This facility was renovated and reopened as the Laulasmaa Spa on August 7, 2003, marking a shift toward modern tourism infrastructure. The area around Lohusalu Bay developed into Heliküla ("sound village"), a cluster of cottages for composers and cultural figures, built in the 1950s and 1960s without fences or gardens to emphasize communal harmony with nature. Population growth has been notable, rising from 280 residents in 2000 to 309 in 2005, 627 in 2011, and 789 by the end of 2021, driven largely by its appeal as a residential and vacation spot.
As of the latest available data from December 31, 2021, Laulasmaa has a population of 789, a significant increase from earlier figures like 309 in January 2005 and 627 in the 2011 census. This growth reflects the village's rising popularity as a suburban retreat near Tallinn, attracting families and retirees. Demographically, the population is predominantly Estonian, with about 92.8% identifying as such in the 2011 census, underscoring a homogeneous cultural makeup typical of rural Estonian communities. The influx of residents has been fueled by improved infrastructure and tourism, though the village remains small and close-knit, with no major urban sprawl.
Laulasmaa's economy is primarily centered on tourism and leisure services, leveraging its natural assets like beaches and forests to attract visitors year-round. The LaSpa Hotel (formerly Laulasmaa Spa) serves as a key economic driver, offering wellness facilities, accommodations, and employment opportunities in hospitality. Opened in 2003 after renovations to a 1950s-era rest house, it features high-end amenities and has contributed to the village's reputation as a spa destination. Nearby, the Niitvälja Golf Club, the first 18-hole course in the Baltic States, draws golf enthusiasts and supports related services. Seasonal activities such as beach rentals, surf schools, and outdoor adventures further bolster local income, with small businesses like cafes, bars (e.g., Tonu's Pub), and a beach bar providing refreshments. Cultural elements, including cottages for artists, add a niche appeal, but there are no major industries like manufacturing or agriculture dominating the economy. Instead, proximity to Tallinn allows residents to commute for work, blending rural tranquility with economic ties to the capital. Overall, the focus on eco-tourism and wellness promotes sustainable growth, though the village's small size limits diversification.
Culturally, Laulasmaa embodies Estonia's deep connection to nature and the arts, serving as a haven for creative figures. It is the longtime home of world-famous composer Arvo Pärt, whose minimalist style has global acclaim, and the Arvo Pärt Centre preserves his legacy while hosting concerts and educational programs in a setting that inspires reflection. The Heliküla area, with its unfenced cottages for musicians and writers (including notable residents like Jaan Rääts, Tõnu Kaljuste, and others), fosters a bohemian atmosphere rooted in mid-20th-century Soviet cultural policies but adapted for modern use. Local culture revolves around seasonal traditions, such as summer beach gatherings and winter saunas, reflecting broader Estonian values of wellness and environmental harmony. Cuisine highlights fresh, organic Nordic flavors, as seen in Restaurant Wicca's menu, which combines traditional tastes with innovative gastronomy. The village's serene vibe attracts those seeking escape from city life, with no-smoking zones in some areas and a focus on responsible recreation, like following swimming safety rules. Notable features include its budget-friendly appeal for fall visits (September-November), family-oriented amenities, and integration of cultural heritage with eco-activities, positioning Laulasmaa as a microcosm of Estonia's coastal charm—peaceful, artistic, and naturally invigorating.