For those interested in active holidays and in exploring the nature

39. Kütiorg PrimevalValleyKoloreino village,Võru rural municipality,Võru County57°47'12''N 27°7'47''E

40. Kavadi Lake andParkUue-Saaluse village,Haanja rural municipality,Võru County57°44'45''N 27°6'18''E

41. Suur MunamägiObservation TowerHaanja village,Haanja rural municipality,Võru Countywww.suurmunamagi.ee+372 787 884757°42'50''N 27°3'36''E

42. Ööbikuorg(Nightingale Valley)Holiday CentreTindi village,Rõuge rural municipality,Võru County+372 785 924557°43'42''N 26°56'15''E

43. Hinni CanyonNursi village,Rõuge rural municipality,Võru County57°45'54''N 26°52'44''E

44. Sänna Sky TrailSänna village,Rõuge rural municipality,Võru Countywww.kultuurimois.kultuuritehas.ee/taevarada+372 5558 892957°44'32''N 26°47'1''E

45. Pähni Nature CentrePähni village,Varstu rural municipality,Võru County+372 5300 218157°38'2''N 26°46'9''E

46. *Forest Brethren FarmVastse-Roosa village,Mõniste rural municipality,Võru Countywww.metsavennatalu.ee+372 523 085057°34'15''N 26°39'46''E

53. Kääriku Leisure andSports CentreKääriku village, Otepää ruralmunicipality, Valga Countywww.kaariku.com+372 766 560058°0'12''N 26°23'21''E

54. Kuutsemäe Holiday CentreArula village, Otepää ruralmunicipality, Valga Countywww.kuutsemae.ee+372 766 900758°1'32''N 26°19'14''E

55. Otepää Golf CentreMäha village, Otepää ruralmunicipality, Valga Countywww.otepaagolf.ee+372 5620 011558°2'50''N 26°24'20''E

56. *Otepää Nature ParkKolga tee 28, Otepää,Valga Countywww.keskkonnaamet.ee/otep/loodus/+372 766 929058°2'38''N 26°28'39''E

57. Väike-Munamäe Ski ResortNüpli village,Otepää rural municipality,Valga Countywww.munakas.ee+372 733 370158°2'23''N 26°30'32''E

58. Tehvandi K90 Ski JumpComplex and Viewing PlatformNüpli village, Otepää ruralmunicipality, Valga Countywww.seikluspark.ee/vaatetorn+372 5302 111558°2'56''N 26°30'56''E

59. Otepää Winter SportsMuseumNüpli village, Otepää ruralmunicipality, Valga Countywww.spordimuuseum.ee+372 766 367058°3'13''N 26°30'10''E

60. Tehvandi Sport CentreNüpli village, Otepää ruralmunicipality, Valga Countywww.tehvandi.ee+372 766 950058°3'11''N 26°30'23''E

61. Otepää Adventure ParkTehvandi 3, Otepää, Otepää ruralmunicipality, Valga Countywww.seikluspark.ee+372 504 978358°3'12'’N 26°30'33''E

62. Cantervilla Castle Park andTheme ParkPikajärve village, Valgjärve ruralmunicipality, Põlva Countywww.cantervilla.ee+372 5340 352358°4'12''N 26°35'50''E

Valgesoo MireThe most primal and untouched beauty of Estonian naturelies in our mire landscapes, which are quite rare elsewherein Europe. The mires are reservoirs of clean water andperform an essential role in groundwater circulation.Swamps, dark bog lakes, and bitter-smelling and stuntedvegetation that bursts into colour in autumn will thrill naturefriends in the 9,836 mires of Estonia, most of which areunder national protection. Valgesoo Nature Reserve wasestablished in 1981. Valgesoo is covered in trees, with onlytwo treeless areas where different species of heathers grow.In Kiidjärve (near Valgesoo) there is the Formica Kingdomwhere, within a 20 ha forest area, there are 200 anthills, thehighest of which is 1.7 m tall.

Visitors should take a hike through the Ahja River ValleyLandscape Reserve. On the banks of the Ahja River there areapproximately 40 unique Devonian sandstone outcropswhich are approximately 400 million years old. Theoutcrops are called “the heaven's homes.” The best-knownof them is a 24m-high natural bandstand, considered to be asacred place by our ancestors, known as Suur Taevaskoda.

Tartu ObservatoryThe construction of Tõravere Observatory started in Tuulemäein 1958. In the early years strong winds blew across theterritory of the observatory, making the roads impassable inwinter. To solve the problem, the workers of the observatoryplanted trees around the observatory – and the trees are stillthere today. The large rocks in the model of the Solar System,between Mars and Jupiter, were placed there at the request ofthe astronomers (the rocks were dug out during the waterutility lines repair process) and symbolise the asteroid belt inthe real Solar System. When standing at the main building ofthe observatory, three smaller towers and the telescopedomes are in the background. To the west, however, thevisitors can see the largest telescope tower and dome in theNordic countries. The telescope's mirror measures 1.5 m indiameter.

The densest hiking trail network in Tartu County lies just nearTõravere. In Elva-Vitipalu Nature Reserve, visitors can see theElva River with very clean water, �ooded meadows and forestsfull of berries. In the pine grove of the beautiful town of Elva, aSmall Power Trail has been established, with woodensculptures along the sides of the trail, and every sculpture hasits own legend and genesis.

Lake Saadjärv AreaLake Saadjärv is one of the most peculiar and interesting lakes inEstonia. It is 6 km long and up to 1.8 km wide, with a surface area of707.6 ha. Around the lake there are large drumlins and together withthe valleys between them they form one of the most prominentareas of drumlins on the Eastern European �atland –Vooremaa. Forus, this complex of uniquely powerful landforms expressivelyillustrates the movement of ice thousands of years ago, and hasalso caught the attention of many scientists.

Saadjärv is also very popular in folklore. For instance, toKalevipoeg, the hero from our national epic, the lake only reached tothe laces of his leather shoes. Folktales also tell about how LakeSaadjärv moves around, and the church at the bottom of the lake.

On one very windy and stormy Sunday morning the lake rose up inthe air. Something fell down when the lake moved on and the lakecalled out: "The leg got loose!" The people found a large rock on thelands of Polli farm, which had supposedly fallen down from the lake.The rock is still there and people go to see it. In the morning,Saadjärv had moved directly above the church, which was at thecurrent location of Lake Saadjärv. It was the time of the morningservice, and the church was full of people. Even now, in case ofclear weather and still water, one can see the tower of the churchfrom the bottom of the lake.

Alatskivi Castle and the area of the Onion RouteThis is a region where the pristine environment, rustic way of life,and sense of community are valued, and all guests are heartilywelcome. The region is closely connected with folktales andstories about the hero of our national epic, Kalevipoeg. Theactions of our hero can be seen in the bed of Kalevipoeg inPeatskivi, an un�nished bridge to Russia in Nina village, as well asin the lakes, mires and large rocks.

Lake Peipus has fed the locals for centuries, offering work foronion growers as well as �shermen. The region is enriched bydifferent cultures, being the home of Russian Old Believers andEstonian peasants. Visitors can even become acquainted with theBaltic German manor culture, the best example of which is thebeautiful Alatskivi Castle, built on the example of a British royalresidence, Balmoral Castle in Scotland. For those keen on activeholidays, the Onion Route offers nature hikes and cultural heritagetrips, a bow shooting adventure, canoe treks, �shingopportunities, and a variety of workshops.

28. Mammaste Sporting CentreOrajõe village, Põlva rural municipality,Põlva Countywww.tervisespordikeskus.ee+372 515 987058°4'39''N 27°3'57''E

29. Big and Small Taevaskoda OutcropTaevaskoja village, Põlva ruralmunicipality, Põlva County58°6'46''N 27°3'1''E

30. Cruises along the Ahja River onthe riverboat Lonny (open in summer)Kiidjärve village, Vastse-Kuuste ruralmunicipality, Põlva Countywww.lonny.ee+372 5343 985758°6'54''N 27°3'5''E

31. Kingdom of formica aquiloniain Kiidjärve58°7'52''N 26°59'32''E

32. Kiidjärve Nature CentreKiidjärve village, Vastse-Kuuste ruralmunicipality, Põlva County+372 516 888758°8'22''N 27°1'10''E

47. Karula National ParkVisitor CentreÄhijärve village,Antsla rural municipality,Võru Countywww.karularahvuspark.ee+372 782 835057°42'47''N 26°30'13''E

48. Woods Crone Family Park /NPO Tervise Kodu KoolMähkli village,Antsla rural municipality,Võru Countywww.metsamoor.eewww.tervisekodu.ee+372 5345 422257°44'3''N 26°28'25''E

63. Gardener's House of Luke Manorand Manor ParkNõo rural municipality, Tartu Countywww.lukemois.ee+372 508 835958°14'35''N 26°34'29''E

64. *Tartu ObservatoryTõravere, Tartu Countywww.aai.ee+372 696 251058°15'55''N 26°27'58''E

65. Vapramäe Nature HouseVissi village, Tartu Countywww.vapramaja.ee+372 525 417258°15'10''N 26°27'42''E

66. Elva Hiking CentrePargi 2, Elva, Tartu Countywww.matkakeskus.elva.ee+372 733 013258°13'28''N 26°25'18''E

67. Hellenurme Watermill &Mill Museum*Palupera rural municipality,Valga Countywww.veskimuuseum.ee58°8'13''N 26°23'12''E

Süvahavva VillageThe tiny Süvahavva village, with fewer than �ftyresidents, is situated on both sides of Võhandu River.Over thousands of years, the river has carved a deepriverbed into the sandstone. Viia watermill was locatedhere from 1900 to 1915. The old mill house has beenrenovated and converted into a village communitycentre.

The white stone building houses a wool factory with theoldest equipment in Estonia. Visitors can see theprocess of making yarn out of wool. Villakalli Puut sellswoollen garments and other local handicraft.

In the local area is also the Süvahavva Nature Farmwhere over 40 species of tea plants and herbs aregrown. On the nature farm, the visitors can becomeacquainted with ecological construction methods andcan also learn how to do farm work. It is a peaceful andbeautiful place, with the most striking outcrops andcaves of the Võhandu River only a few hundred metresaway, the most intriguing of which are near Kalmate-mäe, Sõjatare and Viira watermills. It is the perfect placefor relaxed hikes and nature watching.

26. Ilumetsa Meteorite CratersRebasmäe village,Orava rural municipality, Põlva County+372 676 753257°57'32''N 27°24'31''E

27. Süvahavva Nature Farm,Süvahavva Wool Factory and Museum*

Süvahavva village,Veriora rural municipality, Põlva Countywww.syvahavva.ee+372 506 132357°59'36''N 27°12'52''E

28. Metsa-Lukatsi HolidayHouseIhamaru village, Kõllesterural municipality, PõlvaCountywww.puhketalud.ee+372 5666 439858°2'35''N 26°54'4''E

29. Oru FarmVarbuse village, Kanepi ruralmunicipality, Põlva Countywww.maamees.ee+372 526 163058°1'20''N 26°54'52''E

30. Elmar's CottageA. Weizenbergi 38, Kanepi,Põlva Countywww.elmaritalu.ee+372 507 753357°59'26''N 26°44'49''E

31. Ala-Mäni GuesthouseMustajõe village, Lahedarural municipality, PõlvaCountywww.ala-mani.eu+372 5690 389057°59'5''N 26°58'44''E

32. Võhandu Holiday VillageKääpa village, Lasva ruralmunicipality, Võru Countywww.vohandukamping.ee+372 5330 545257°52'6''N 27°7'46''E

33. Kalijärv Holiday HouseVoki-Tamme village, Lasvarural municipality, VõruCountywww.kalijarve.ee+372 511 669857°51'19''N 27°7'55''E

34. Kubija Hotel & Nature SpaMänniku 43A, Võru, VõruCountywww.kubija.ee+372 504 574557°48'53''N 27°0'29''E

35. Haanjamehe FarmVakari village, Haanja ruralmunicipality, Võru Countywww.haanjamehetalu.ee+372 502 310357°44'19''N 27°4'59''E

36. SaunamaaPächter Farm, Nogu village,Rõuge rural municipality,Võru Countywww.saunamaa.ee+372 507 024457°44'4''N 26°58'3''E

37. Tourist Farm TindioruTindi village, Rõuge ruralmunicipality, Võru Countywww.tindiorutalu.ee+372 5373 924257°43'32''N 26°56'18''E

38. Villa NightingaleRõuge, Rõuge ruralmunicipality, Võru Countywww.oruvilla.ee+372 509 966657°43'43''N 26°55'6''E

39. Lätte Tourism FarmNursi village, Rõuge ruralmunicipality, Võru Countywww.hot.ee/lattetalu+372 501 583457°45'51''N 26°52'32''E

40. Kaldavere HostelKorkuna village, Taheva ruralmunicipality, Valga Countywww.kaldaverehostel.ee+372 530 3015057°38'37''N 26°19'34''E

41. Nakatu Tourist FarmRingiste village, Taheva ruralmunicipality, Valga Countywww.nakatu.ee+372 513 402457°44'23''N 26°17'27''E

42. Hostel of Karula-Lüllemäe Health CentreLüllemäe village, Karula ruralmunicipality, Valga Countywww.karulatsk.ee+372 534 5600657°44'50''N 26°22'38''E

43. Kalda Tourist FarmHoliday HouseIigaste village, Tõlliste ruralmunicipality, Valga Countywww.kaldatalu.ee+372 555 9447657°49'49''N 26°16'43''E

44. Veski Guesthouse & PubVeski 10, Antsla, VõruCountywww.euroveski.ee+372 521 529057°49'52''N 26°31'41''E

45. Witch's Country inUhtjärve Primeval ValleyUhtjärve village, Urvaste ruralmunicipality, Võru Countywww.noiariik.ee+372 5333 225357°53'24''N 26°35'6''E

46. Pühajärve Spa & HolidayResortPühajärve, Otepää ruralmunicipality, Valga Countywww.pyhajarve.com+372 766 550058°2'50''N 26°27'47''E

47. Hotel Cantervilla CastlePikajärve village, Valgjärverural municipality, PõlvaCountywww.cantervilla.ee+372 534 0352358°4'12''N 26°35'33''E

13. Peramaa Holiday HouseRõka village, Meeksi ruralmunicipality, Tartu Countywww.peramaa.eu+372 5568 702658 55'32''N 27 15'56''E

14. Jaaniussi Holiday CentreMeeksi village,Meeksi rural municipality,Tartu Countywww.jaaniussi.ee+372 520 420158°15'11''N 27°27'31''E

15. Haava Holiday HouseMehikoorma, Meeksi ruralmunicipality, Tartu Countywww.haava.ee+372 504 241758°14'25''N 27°28'19''E

16. Beneport Peipsi HolidayHomeJärve 4, Mehikoorma,Meeksi rural municipality,Tartu Countywww.beneport.ee+372 523 724058°14'5''N 27°27'45''E

17. Haudamäe Resort HouseMeelva village,Räpina rural municipality,Põlva Countywww.haudamae.ee+372 514 543558°7'30''N 27°22'31''E

18. Hotel RäpinaTartu mnt 2, Räpina,Põlva Countywww.rapinahotell.ee+372 730 046058°6'14''N 27°27'10''E

19. Värska Spa Hotel &Water ParkVäike-Rõsna village,Värska rural municipality,Põlva Countywww.spavarska.ee+372 799 309157°59'8''N 27°37'21''E

20. Hirvemäe RecreationalCentreSilla 6, Värska, Värska ruralmunicipality, Põlva Countywww.hirvemae.ee+372 797 610557°57'21''N 27°37'47''E

21. Sunny Beach HolidayHouseKõvera village, Orava ruralmunicipality, Põlva Countywww.hot.ee/paikseranna+372 506 114157°54'13''N 27°30'58''E

22. Piusa Ürgoru HolidayCentreVäiko-Härma village,Meremäe rural municipality,Võru Countywww.puhkemaja.ee+372 528 913457°46'30''N 27°22'05''E

23. Mooste DistilleryGuesthouseMooste, Mooste ruralmunicipality, Põlva Countywww.fototurism.ee+372 5851 400758°9'42''N 27°11'23''E

24. Kassioru Holiday HouseKiidjärve village, Vastse-Kuuste rural municipality,Põlva Countywww.kassioru.ee+372 503 149558°8'31''N 27°0'49''E

25. Taevaskoja Salamaa(Secret Land of Taevaskoja)Taevaskoja village,Põlva rural municipality,Põlva Countywww.salamaa.eu+372 5345 648058°6'19''N 27°2'18''E

26. Tammekännu LeisureCentreMammaste village,Põlva rural municipality,Põlva Countywww.tammekanuu.ee+372 515 521458°4'16''N 27°2'51''E

27. Hotel PesaUus 5, Põlva, Põlva Countywww.kagureis.ee+372 562 2288158°3'12''N 27°2'50''E

10. Ice Age CentreSaadjärve 20, Äksi,Tartu rural municipality,Tartu Countywww.jaaaeg.ee+372 5911 331858°31'33''N 26°40'34''E

11. Saadjärve Yacht ClubTuule 6, Äksi,Tartu Countywww.saadjarvejahtklubi.ee+372 5613 452558°31'29''N 26°40'9''E

12. Elistvere Animal ParkElistvere,Tabivere rural municipality,Jõgeva Countywww.loodusegakoos.ee/elistvere-loomapark+372 5346 503058°34'35''N 26°41'17''E

13. Vudila PlaylandKaiavere village,Tabivere rural municipality,Jõgeva Countywww.vudila.ee+372 5822 422458°35'26''N 26°41'18''E

14. Kalevipoeg's Theme ParkKääpa village,Saare rural municipality,Jõgeva Countywww.kalevipojakoda.ee+372 5740 050058°41'47''N 26°50'51''E

15. Lake Peipus RoomSõpruse 84,Kasepää rural municipality,Jõgeva County+372 602 010558°47'46''N 26°57'32''E

16. Kallaste OutcropKallaste, Tartu Countywww.kallaste.ee58°39'17''N 27°09'58''E

17. *Alatskivi Nature Centre(open in summer)Alatskivi, Tartu Countywww.alatskiviloss.ee+372 745 387458°36'8,87''N 27°8'2,72''E

18. *Kostja's Onion FarmKolkja,Peipsiääre rural municipality,Tartu Countywww.sibulatee.ee/kostja-sibulatalu+372 522 405658°32'56,48''N 27°13'1,57''E

Rõuge River ValleyMany smaller additional valleys join the Rõugeriver valley, the depth of which is up to 70 m.Ööbikuorg (the Valley of Nightingales) is the mostfamous of them. In spring, at the time when thebird cherries bloom, the valley is �lled with thesinging of the nightingales that have given thevalley its name.Along the hiking trail that goes from Ööbikuorg toTindiorg along the shore of Lake Liinijärve, wecan see two water pumps, the so-called waterwethers, which work permanently using energygenerated by the hydraulic strike. The oldestpump, built in 1939, provides water for two farmslocated on the edge of the valley, 30m above thevalley.

Rõuge Suurjärv, one of the seven lakes in the lakechain of the Rõuge old river valley, is the deepestlake in Estonia, at 38 metres. According tolegend, Rõuge Suurjärv came through themountain from the border of Viitina. At the time ofwar, a church with silver bells sank to the bottomof Suurjärv and since that time, a beautiful bridgeemerges from the water just before MichaelmasDay, accompanied by the �gure of a monk thatgoes over the bridge and cries: "The time willcome, the time will come when the church and itsbells will rise again!”

1. Fishermen's HouseNarva 9c, Mustvee,Jõgeva Countywww.peipsirent.eu+372 504 106758°51'15''N 26°57'2''E

2. Mustvee GuesthouseTartu 58, Mustvee,Jõgeva Countywww.kylalistemaja.ee+372 522 796558°50'54''N 26°55'46''E

3. Guesthouse Aarde VillaSääritsa village,Pala rural municipality,Jõgeva Countywww.aardevilla.ee+372 518 361758°45'12''N 27°4'22''E

4. RannamõisaHoliday VillageRaja village,Pala rural municipality,Jõgeva Countywww.rannamoisapuhkekyla.blogspot.com+372 5559 297558°44'5''N 27°5'38''E

5. Guesthouse"Kadrina mõis"Kadrina,Pala rural municipality,Jõgeva Countywww.pootsman.ee+372 528 648158°41'58''N 27°4'13''E

6. Willipu GuesthousePusi village,Alatskivi rural municipality,Tartu Countywww.willipu.ee+372 5635 211758°38'40''N 27°9'57''E

7. Guesthouse Nina KordonNina village,Alatskivi rural municipality,Tartu Countywww.ninakordon.ee+372 506 760558°36'33,31''N 27°12'10,63''E

8. Vaino Tourism FarmNina village,Alatskivi rural municipality,Tartu Countywww.peipsile.ee+372 507 316758°36'18,29''N 27°12'35,30''E

9. Nina Straw Bale CabinsNina village,Alatskivi rural municipality,Tartu Countywww.ninamajad.ee+372 527 434858°35'55,39''N 27°12'37,74''E

10. Restaurant and Suitesof Alatskivi CastleAlatskivi,Alatskivi rural municipality,Tartu Countywww.lossirestoran.ee+372 5303 248558°36'13,56''N 27°7'44,12''E

11. Sepikoja GuesthouseHirveaia 2, Alatskivi,Tartu Countywww.sepamaja.ee+372 520 053258°36'8,87''N 27°8'2,72''E

12. Loodus BiospaTilga tee, Muri village,Luunja rural municipality,Tartu Countywww.loodus.net+372 509 358158°24'26''N 26°49'30''E

Lüllemäe and Karula National Park

Karula National Park was established to preserve the hillcountries, land forms, nature and cultural heritage which arecharacteristic to Southern Estonia. The local inhabitants stillhave a very strong connection with the land and the nature.Between the hills covered with forests, �elds and pastures,there are the small mires and around 40 lakes. On the shore ofthe largest lake in the area, Lake Ähijärve, is the national parkvisitors' centre. This is the beginning of hiking, learning andbiking trails, and visitors may also view an exhibitionintroducing the local nature and cultural heritage.

Karula National Park is home to two animals that are quite rare inEurope — the European otter ( ) and the pond batLutra lutra( ). Additionally, hikers may also comeMyotis dasycnemeacross the common spadefoot (Pelobates fuscus) and the largewhite-faced darter ( ). 19 species of orchids haveLeucorrhiniabeen found in the region, which is also home to an especiallyendangered plant species, the chamomile grape-fern( ).Botrychium matricariifolium

Otepää Church and Town HillVisitors to Otepää can see Estonia'slargest nature conservation area, which ischaracterised by hills, varied �ora, andrare bird and animal species. An eaglecircling above a �eld, the cries ofcommon cranes from the nearby mire,the piercing calls of the corn crake in thesummer night, roe deer running acrossthe road, and white storks walking rightbeside you – these and more can beexperienced by visitors to the region.

In addition to the picturesque landscape,Otepää offers year-round possibilities foract ive hol idays and adventurousactivities. Above all, Otepää is known as acentre for professional spor ts, withfacilities that will satisfy the requirementsof even the most demanding athletes.Visitors interested in active outdoorholidays can use the hiking, biking andskiing trails, as well as the adventure park,go horseback riding, play tennis and golfand go and see the 100 lakes and 100 hillsof the region. It is a proven fact thatmoving around in fresh air for 20 minutesst imulates the release hormonesassociated with happiness.

49. Adrenalin Arenain Sõmerpalu*Kooli Str., Sõmerpalu,Sõmerpalu ruralmunicipality, Võru Countywww.adrenalinarena.com+372 509 881657°51'17''N 26°50'21''E

50. Traf�c CityUue-Antsla village, Urvasterural municipality, VõruCountywww.liikluslinn.ee+372 5333 225357°52'39''N 26°33'7''E

51. Tamme-Lauri OakUrvaste village, Urvasterural municipality,Võru County57°55'4''N 26°34'35''E

52. PokulandTheme ParkUrvaste village, Urvasterural municipality,Võru Countywww.pokumaa.ee+372 5342 505457°56'32''N 26°35'9''E

Postal Road andEstonian Road Museum

The curve of the old postal road, with itschanging pro�le and beautiful landscape, islike a living natural history museum. The roadhas a notable and exciting history: it is a part ofan old trade and war route and has seen thehorses of Swedish, Russian, and Polishrulers. Currently, the old postal road is aboveall a quiet and peaceful living environment.

There are 7 nature reserves in the area of thepostal road, fascinating sandstone outcrops onthe banks of Ahja River, 2 historically signi�canthills, 4 rivers and 3 lakes – and all along a 25-kilometre stretch of road. The most beautifulareas in the region are Voorepalu kame mounds,which are accessibly through hiking trails; thePalojärve swimming lakes; the Varbuse ManorPark; and the 35m-deep picturesque TilleorgValley, together with the Ahja River and Merioonespring.

The Põlvamaa Peasant Museum, locatedalongside the postal road, tells the story of howpeople and nature have lived together hand inhand. The Estonian Road Museum, however,displays the possibilities of movement on roadsthroughout history.

www.visitsouthestonia.com

Järvselja Primeval ForestIn Europe, primeval forests have been preserved in only a fewplaces, and one such forest is located in Järvselja NatureReserve in Estonia. The 19.3 ha Järvselja primeval forest is theoldest forest reserve in Estonia. The forest has been underprotection since 1924, and it has grown without human inter-ference and thus attained the appearance of a true primevalforest. Within the primeval forest, visitors get a good perceptionof the ancient primeval forests, which is the forest's circle of lifewhen humans do not interfere with its development.

The forests in Järvselja have a very different composition andare more than 200 years old. They include the 370-year-oldKing Pine as well as the eight tallest trees in Estonia. The tallestspruces in the Järvselja forests are over 40 m tall and arerecord-holders among Estonian trees. Throughout history,many foreign tree species have been planted in Järvseljaforests. Local birds include those that typically value rarehabitats, such as the grey-headed woodpecker, Eurasianpygmy owl, Ural owl, black grouse and capercaillie.

When moving around on the pathway between the fallen oldtree-trunks, one can get a glimpse of the exciting world offorests.

Podmotsa VillagePodmotsa village is situated on the border of Estonia (and theEuropean Union), with Russia just 100 m away across the water.Podmotsa village is on a mire island: it is surrounded by LakeLämmijärv on one side and large peat bogs on the other. Betweenthe mires there is a gravel road which serves as the only connectionbetween Podmotsa and the outside world, including Värska town.Not long ago, this area was under water. When the water levelreceded, the areas between the small islands turned �rstly intomires and then into solid ground. Lake Lämmijärv still affects themires even now, though. When the water level in the lake is high, themires are �lled with water as well.

The Setos have lived here between two religions and two countries,Estonia and Russia, since ancient times. When the border was stillopen, the priest came with a boat from Kulje church from theRussian side to have the Whitsunday service in Podmotsa Tsässon.Some ten metres to the west of Podmotsa Tsässon, there is a largestone cross from the 16th century. It was believed that thePodmotsa stone cross had miraculous healing abilities. Theaf�icted body part was treated with the moss scraped off from thecross, or was put directly against the cross. The folk belief also tellsthat there was once an ancient forest near the current cemetery,where the ancient inhabitants went to pray and make theirsacri�ces.

19. Agali ArboretumJärvselja,Meeksi rural municipality,Tartu County58°17'4,5''N 27°17'17''E

20. Räpina PolderConservation Areawww.rapinapolder.envir.ee58°7'37''N 27°31'44''E

21. Sillapää Castle and ParkPargi 28, Räpina,Põlva County58°5'50''N 27°27'3''E

22. Seto Farm MuseumVärska,Värska rural municipality,Põlva Countywww.setomuuseum.ee+372 505 467357°56'33''N 27°39'6''E"

23. Saatse MuseumSaatse village,Värska rural municipality,Põlva Countywww.setomuuseum.ee+372 5342 142857°53'09''N 27°48'14''E

24. Piusa CavesVisitor CentrePiusa village,Orava rural municipality,Põlva Countywww.piusa.ee+372 5304 412057°50'26''N 27°28'8''E

25. Jaaniraotu Farm(open in summer)Madala village, Lasva ruralmunicipality, Võru Countywww.jaaniraotu.ee+372 5342 343357°54'33''N 27°18'34''E

Tartu – Järvselja – Podmotsa –Süvahavva – Valgesoo – Tartu

Length and duration of the trip:Tartu – Järvselja (50 km; 54 min)Järvselja – Podmotsa (59,2 km; 1h, 26 min)Podmotsa – Süvahavva (38,3 km; 55 min)Süvahavva – Valgesoo (32,5 km; 54 min)Valgesoo – Tartu (46,3 km; 50 min)Total length of the trip 2: 26,3 km

2

Tartu – Tartu Observatory – Lake Võrtsjärv –Viljandi – Tartu Observatory – Tartu

Length and duration of the trip:Tartu – Tartu Observatory (21,8 km; 22 min)Tartu Observatory – Lake Võrtsjärv Visitor Centre (38,8 km; 36 min)Lake Võrtsjärv Visitor Centre – Viljandi (36,2 km; 32 min)Viljandi – Tartu Observatory (88,6 km; 1h, 19 min)Tartu Observatory – Tartu (21,8 km; 22 min)Total length of the trip: 207,2 km

4

Lake Võrtsjärv Region andViljandiLake Võrtsjärv is the largest inland lakein Estonia. Via the Suur-Emajõgi River,Võrtsjärv is connected to Lake Peipus,which ensures that the lake is rich in�sh. The Emajõgi River, whichbreaches its banks in spring after thesnow melts, is an important �yway forbirds. The number of bean geese andgreater white-fronted geese stayingnear Lake Võrtsjärv is especially large.

Throughout history, �shermen haveplied their trade on Lake Võrtsjärv in avery peculiar way – they trawl the lakewith specially built trawling boatspowered by sails. The visitors can gosightseeing on the lake aboard a trawlboat constructed in accordance withthe old traditions.

The beautiful and culturally rich city ofViljandi is only a 30-minute drive awayfrom Lake Võr tsjärv. The annualViljandi Folk Music Festival bringsmusic lovers to the city from near andfar. To the west of Viljandi lies SoomaaNational Park, which attracts naturelovers with its large bogs, primevalforests and wooded meadows.

68. Kalala Lake MuseumLimnoloogia tee 1, Vehendi village,Rannu rural municipality, TartuCountykalala.emu.ee/kalala+372 522 957058°12'42"N, 26°6'36" E

69. Lake Võrtsjärv Visitor CentreVaibla village, Kolga-Jaani ruralmunicipality, Viljandi Countywww.vortsjarv.ee+372 5695 295058°23'7''N 26°7'59''E

70. Valma Holiday CampAdventure ParkValma village, Viljandi ruralmunicipality, Viljandi Countywww.valma.ee+372 503 690658°21'52''N 25°57'45''E

71. Viljandi Castle Ruins and ParkViljandi, Viljandi County58°21'37''N 25°35'45''E

72. *Energy FarmVihi village, Suure-Jaani ruralmunicipality, Viljandi Countywww.energiatalu.ee+372 510 619358°34'57''N 25°22'41''E

73. Soomaa Nature CentreTipu village, Kõpu rural municipality,Viljandi Countyhttp://www.keskkonnaamet.ee/soom+372 435 716458°25'53''N 25°1'51''E

74. Kõpu Visitor CentreKõpu,Kõpu rural municipality,Viljandi County+372 433 010058°19'34''N 25°18'20''E

75. Loodi Nature Park andSand DenudationLoodi village, Viljandi ruralmunicipality, Viljandi County58°16'21''N 25°35'58''E

76. Holstre-Polli Sportsand Recreation CentreViisuküla village,Viljandi rural municipality,Viljandi Countywww.holstrepolli.ee+372 530 478 2958°17'6''N 25°40'37''E

77. Tarvastu HandicraftWorkshop & MuseumPosti 52b, Mustla,Tarvastu rural municipality,Viljandi Countykasitookoda.tarvastu.ee+372 5380 773358°14'6"N, 25°51'58" E

78. Torupillitalu(Bagpipe Farm)*Riidaja village,Põdrala rural municipality,Valga Countywww.torupillitalu.ee+372 527 814958°5'7''N 25°54'31''E

48. Verevi MotelH. Raudsepa 2, Elva,Tartu Countywww.verevi.ee+372 745 708458°13'40''N 26°24'8''E

49. Tartu CountyRecreational Sports CentreLasketiiru tee, Uderna village,Rõngu rural municipality,Tartu Countywww.tervisesport.ee+372 5551 249258°12'22''N 26°25'24''E

50. Kiviranna Holiday HomeSuure-Rakke village,Rannu rural municipality,Tartu Countywww.kiviranna.ee+372 529 856158°21'55''N 26°9'9''E

51. Veldemani Holiday HouseVaibla, Kolga-Jaani ruralmunicipality, Viljandi Countywww.veldemani.ee+372 5657 760958°24'34''N 26°2'21''E

52. Oiu Port Holiday HomeOiu village, Kolga-Jaani ruralmunicipality, Viljandi Countywww.oiusadam.ee+372 506 642658°23'54˝ N 25°58' ˝E33

53. Järveveere HolidayCentreValma village,Viljandi rural municipality,Viljandi Countywww.jpk.ee+372 527 774258°21'48''N 25°57'53''E

54. Valma Holiday CampValma village,Viljandi rural municipality,Viljandi Countywww.valma.ee+372 503 690658°21'52''N 25°57'45''E

55. KõrgemäeGuesthouse/HostelTusti, Viljandi ruralmunicipality, Viljandi Countywww.korgemaeturismitalu.ee+372 529 347858°24'27''N 25°48'4''E

56. Vanaõue Holiday CentreVihi village, Suure-Jaani ruralmunicipality, Viljandi Countywww.vanaoue.ee+372 521 214858°34'53''N 25°20'54''E

57. Junsi Holiday CentreLaane village, Kõpu ruralmunicipality, Viljandi Countywww.junsi.ee+372 529 527058°20'50''N 25°15'58''E

58. Sammuli Holiday VillageVardja village,Viljandi rural municipality,Viljandi Countywww.sammuli.ee+372 504 429858°20'16''N 25°35'21''E

59. Männiku Forest CottageIntsu village, Viljandi ruralmunicipality, Viljandi Countywww.metsatalu.ee+372 5343 288458°18'21''N 25°36'1''E

60. Torupillitalu(Bagpipe Farm)Riidaja village, Põdrala ruralmunicipality, Valga Countywww.torupillitalu.ee+372 527 814958°5'7''N 25°54'31''E

City of TartuTartu is the second largest city in Estonia and theoldest city in the Baltic States. Due to itsimportant role as a Hanseatic town, Tartu wasfrom an early time a gateway to southernEstonia. Throughout the centuries, Tartu hasbeen the intellectual capital of Estonia, the so-called “city of good thoughts.” Tartu is home tothe University of Tar tu, one of the oldestuniversities in Northern Europe, where severalinternationally acknowledged scientists andscholars have become famous.

Tartu lies on the banks of the Emajõgi River,which has historically been an important traderoute. Today the Emajõgi is used for sight-seeing, on board a historic Hanseatic barge, aswell as other smaller and larger ships. There aremany green areas within the centre of Tartu andelsewhere in the city. When walking around theold town, one cannot but notice Dome Hill, auniversity park laid out in the English style. Oneof the oldest botanical gardens in the wholeEurope (established in 1803) is also located inTartu, the palm house of which is the largest andthe most species-rich in the Baltic States. Thoseinterested in nature should visit the Tar tuUniversity Natural History Museum, AHHAAScience Centre and the observatory.

33. Estonian Aviation Museum (open in summer)Lange village, Haaslava rural municipality,Tartu Countywww.lennundusmuuseum.ee+372 502 671258°17'20''N 26°45'55''E

34. Põlva Peasant MuseumKarilatsi village, Kõlleste rural municipality,Põlva Countywww.polvatalurahvamuuseum.ee+372 5210 67158°7'19''N 26°55'27''E

35. *Viia-Jaani Labyrinth Farm

Ihamaru village, Kõlleste rural municipality,Põlva Countywww.tuletee.ee+372 513 647058°3'33''N 26°54'10''E

36. Estonian Road MuseumVarbuse village, Kanepi rural municipality,Põlva Countymuuseum.mnt.ee+372 5745 021858°1'25''N 26°55'2''E

37. Erastvere ParkErastvere village, Kanepi rural municipality,Põlva County57°58'59''N 26°47'45''E

38 *. Ridali Gliding ClubRidali, Laheda rural municipality, Põlva Countywww.purilend.ee+372 506 557357°56'12''N 26°58'30''E’'N 26°58'30''E

Tartu – Estonian Road Museum – Rõuge –Lüllemäe – Urvaste – Otepää – Tartu

Length and duration of the trip:Tartu – Estonian Road Museum (48,7 km; 46 min)Estonian Road Museum – Rõuge (42,3 km; 43 min)Rõuge – Lüllemäe (54,1 km; 1h, 19 min)Lüllemäe – Urvaste (22,2 km; 28 min)Urvaste – Otepää (42,6 km; 53 min)Otepää –Tartu (43,7 km; 42 min)Total length of the trip 2: 53,6 km

3

For those interested in

active holidays

and in exploring the nature

Tartu Visitors CentreRaekoja plats 1A (Town Hall Square),Tartu+372 744 2111tartu@visitestonia.comwww.visittartu.com

Jõgevamaa Tourist Information CentreSuur St. 3, Jõgeva+372 776 8520jogeva@visitestonia.comwww.visitjogeva.com

Võrumaa Tourist Information CentreJüri St. 12, Võru+372 782 1881voru@visitestonia.comwww.visitvoru.ee

Põlvamaa Tourist Information CentreKooli St. 1, Räpina, Räpina ruralmunicipality, Põlva County+372 799 5001polvamaa@visitestonia.comwww.visitpolva.eewww.visitsetomaa.ee

Otepää Tourist Information CentreTartu mnt 1, Otepää,Otepää rural municipality, Valga County+372 766 1200otepaa@visitestonia.comwww.otepaa.eu

Valga Tourist Information CentreKesk St. 11, Valga+372 766 1699valga@visitestonia.comwww.valgamaa.ee

Viljandi Tourist Information CentreVabaduse plats 6, Viljandi+372 433 0442viljandi@visitestonia.comwww.viljandimaa.ee

Setomaa Tourist Information CentrePikk St. 12, Värska, Põlva County+372 5682 1268turism@setomaa.eewww.visitsetomaa.ee

Peipsimaa Visitors CentreSuur tee 25, Peipsiääre rural municipality,Tartu County+372 5662 9329+372 5563 9398info@peipsimaa.eewww.visitpeipsi.com www.peipsimaa.ee;

Lake Võrtsjärv Visitors CentreVaibla village, Kolga-Jaani ruralmunicipality, Viljandi County+372 5695 2950info@vortsjarv.eewww.vortsjarv.ee

www.visitsouthestonia.com

PÕLVACOUNTY

VÕRU COUNTY

VALGA COUNTY

TARTUCOUNTY

VILJANDI

JÄRVA

LÄÄNE-VIRU IDA-VIRU

COUNTY

COUNTY

COUNTY COUNTY

JÕGEVA COUNTY

Information on accommodation in Tartu is available at the local touristinformation centre (see the back cover of the booklet for more details)or at the following address: www.visitestonia.com

Information about accommodation in Otepää and Valga is availableat local tourist information centres (see the back cover of the bookletfor more details) or at the following address: www.visitestonia.com

Distances and times are givenas estimated by Google Maps

* - Reservation is expected

Urvaste Church and Lake UhtjärvUrvaste belongs to one of the three parishes of VõruCounty, which are believed to date from ancientEstonian times. Urvaste church, which is located inUrvaste rural municipality, is the only three-aislecountry church in Estonia, and looks similar to abasilica. Urvaste village is home to the widest tree inEstonia, the Tamme-Lauri oak. One of the mainattractions of the region is the Pokuland Theme Parkand the best-known folklore object is Lake Uhtjärv.According to legend, Lake Uhtjärv is one of the manytravelling lakes in Estonia. Uhtjärv had been on its wayto Urvaste, when a child saw the lake coming andyelled: "A lake is coming!" The lake heard the child'sshouting, fell down and landed in its current location.

There is a large rock at the shore of Lake Uhtjärvwhich people have tried to dig out many times, but, sofar, unsuccessfully. The legend says that the Old Devilwanted to throw the rock to crush the church towerbut missed, and the rock fell over Lake Uhtjärv. Thehandprint of the Old Devil is still visible on the rock.The rock is also called the Devil's Rock.

1. Barge YardUjula 98, Tartuwww.lodi.ee+372 555 9910058°23'26''N 26°42'51''E

2. Botanical Garden of theUniversity of TartuLai 38, Tartuwww.ut.ee/botaed+372 737 618058°23'3''N 26°43'20''E

3. Dome HillTartu58°22'47''N 26°43'0''E

4. Cruises on the RiverEmajõgi and to LakePeipusNarva mnt 2, Tartu(departures from the quaiby Atlantis Nightclub)www.setoline.ee58°22'48''N 26°43'39''E

5. Estonian SportsMuseumRüütli 15, Tartuwww.spordimuuseum.ee+372 730 075058°22'57''N 26°43'17''E

6. Science CentreAHHAASadama 1, Tartuwww.ahhaa.ee+372 502 671258°22'36''N 26°44'3''E

7. Aura Water CentreTuru 10, Tartuwww.aurakeskus.ee+372 730 028058°22'32''N 26°44'3''E

8. University of TartuNatural History Museum(opens in autumn 2014)Vanemuise 46, Tartuwww.natmuseum.ut.ee+372 737 607658°22'24''N 26°42'58''E

9. Tartu Nature HouseLille 10, Tartuwww.teec.ee+372 736 6120

Tartu – Saadjärve – Mustvee –Alatskivi – Tartu

Length and duration of the trip:Tartu – Saadjärve (17,8 km; 20 min)Saadjärve – Mustvee (51,3 km; 42 min)Mustvee – Alatskivi ( )35,3 km; 27 minAlatskivi – Varnja (16,3 km; 18 min)Varnja – 40,5 8Tartu ( km; 3 min)Total length of the trip 1: 61,2 km

1

Lake Peipus beach in MustveeLake Peipus is the fourth largest lake in Europeand the largest border lake. The northerncoast of Lake Peipus has a sandy beach andlovely landscape, and is therefore also a highlyvalued holiday area with pine forest growingon ancient sand dunes. The picturesquesandy beach is almost 40 km long.

On the western coast of the lake, sandstoneoutcrops start right on the waterline andtraditional coastal villages. Lake Peipus isconsidered to be one of the best �shing lakesin the whole of Europe. Thanks to its richstocks, �shing has remained an importantpart of the lives of the coastal residents. The�shing places of the �shermen of severalvillages were located at the current location ofMustvee, until it �nally became a permanentsettlement. Today, Mustvee is considered tobe the capital of the Lake Peipus area. TheRussian Old Believers have lived on the shoresof Lake Peipus for over three hundred yearsand have maintained their unique culture andidentity through their language, culture andreligion.

Haanjamatkad.ee+372 511 4179www.haanjamatkad.ee

Kassioru Holiday House+372 503 1495www.kassioru.ee

Matkajuht+372 5667 8113www.matkajuht.ee

Mooska Adventure Trips+372 503 2341www.mooska.eu

Loodusturism.ee+372 527 2701www.loodusturism.ee

Soomaa.com+372 506 1896www.soomaa.com

Secret Land of Taevaskoja+372 5345 6480www.salamaa.eu

Toonus Plus+372 505 5702www.toonuspluss.ee

Veematkad OÜ+372 511 0253www.veematkad.ee

VeeTee+372 506 0987www.veetee.ee

Outdoor activity service providers

At least 3 different types of services are available for those interested inexploring South Estonia. English and Russian are also spoken. For moredetails on services offered, visit the websites below:

Welcome to

South Estonia!Welcome to

South Estonia!

Locations of yellow windows

TARTU COUNTYTartu58°22 49.79''N 26°43'29.29''E'Alatskivi Castle58°36'13.48''N 27°8'2.38''EJärvselja Primeval Forest58°16'42.11''N 27°19'29.63''ELake Saadjärv58°31'43.94''N 26°41'46.75''ETartu Observatory58°15'54.49''N 26°27'45.42''E

VÕRU COUNTYObinitsa58°48'36.4''N 27°26'21.6''EVastseliina Episcopal Castle57°43'44.46''N 27°21'42.86''EUrvaste57°54'18.56''N 26°32'9.2''ERõuge River Valley57°43'47.06''N 26°55'5.38''E

PÕLVA COUNTYRäpina58°5'49,3''N 27°27'14,2''EPodmotsa58°0'25,7''N 27°39'42,4''ESüvahavva57°59'19.58''N 27°13'6.9''EValgesoo bog58°9'4.19''N 27°3'50.5''EEstonian Road Museum58°0'56.37''N 26°54'45.4''E

VILJANDI COUNTYLake Võrtsjärv Visitor Centre58°23'5.29''N 26°8'0.63''E

JÕGEVA COUNTYMustvee58°50'55.04''N 26°56'58.8''E

VALGA COUNTYOtepää58°3'20.93''N 26°29'57.68''ES Castleangaste57°54'6.93''N 26°16'54.37''ELüllemäe57°45'8.25''N 26°22'45,86''EBarclay de Tolly mausoleum57°59'56.71''N 26°2'5.73''EValga57°46'43.34''N 26°1'38.54''E

Six counties in South Estonia have openedthe route “Living on the Edge” for visitors,inviting local people as well as guests to learnabout the rich cultural heritage, wonderfulnature and innovative organisations of theregion. In cooperation with local commu-nities, 21 sights worth discovering werechosen and designated bright yellowNational Geographic windows.

Looking through the yellow window you canexperience living in an extraordinary place,near both the Russian and Latvian borders,and on the border of the European Union. Lifein the context of different languages,cultures, ideas and worldviews is full ofsurprises and discoveries.

The collaborative project introducing SouthEstonia is one of the events celebrating the125th anniversary of National Geographic.

For those who are interested in activeholidays and in exploring the nature, we haveprepared a list of exciting sites worth visitingin South Estonia. Descriptions of these sitescan be found on the reverse side of the lea�et.Just pick the date and route, and enjoy yourtime!

See you in South Estonia!

Compiled by: Tartu Rural Development Association, 2014Translation: Saag & Semevsky Keelestuudio

oPhotos: Sven Za ek, Liis Pärtelpoeg, Jaak Nilson, Setomaa T urism,čCounty ,Põlva Partnership Rando Kall, Aivar Ruukel, Meelis Lokk, Ahto Sooaru,

Liina Laurikainen, Reeli Kork, Külli Kivioja, Aivar OrasPaar, ,Printed by: Design by: Triinu Sarv Map: AS EOMAP

Published by: Tartu Rural Development Association