Ancient & Modern

Slow down. Feel South Estonia.

South Estonia: The Cultural Heart of a Digital Nation

Estonia is digital. South Estonia is soulful. Here, modern life hums alongside a remarkable heritage in one of Europe’s most sparsely populated regions. Forests, lakes, and centuries-old traditions endure, yet fast internet and modern infrastructure reach almost everywhere.

In a surprisingly compact region, Estonians, Setos, Võros and Old Believers live side by side, each with their own songs and sacred rituals. These are not museum pieces. They are living, breathing ways of life.

South Estonia is easy to reach. Tallinn and Riga airports are just under three hours away, while Tartu Airport offers direct connections with Helsinki.

Jõgeva County

The traces of the ancient Kalevipoja and the enchanting landscapes of Vooremaa await you in Jõgevamaa. Enjoy unforgettable nature experiences in Endla Nature Reserve, where every hill and lake hides a fascinating story.

Visit Jõgeva

Võru County

An astonishingly diverse and unspoilt wilderness. Hiking trails, where you are more likely to meet a friendly fox on a midday walk than another person.

Visit Võru

Põlva County

In Põlva County, you will find yourself surrounded by enchanting forests and green landscapes, where peace and pure natural beauty offer unforgettable experiences.

Visit Põlva

Valga County

Valgamaa – Estonia’s southern gateway – offers a wide range of experiences, from the special character of the twin towns and beautiful lakes to exciting hiking trails and local cultural heritage. It’s all waiting to be discovered!

Visit Valga

Tartu County

Tartu, the largest city in South Estonia and the surrounding region, will delight you every year with its colourful culture, enchanting nature and diverse recreational opportunities.

Visit Tartu

Where every sense is touched

Hot campfire in the smoke sauna, dark fir-trees, folk tales, swamp mats wet from the rain, wreaths woven from field flowers, Seto dances, fishing on mirror-like lakes, the smell of fresh carp, the smell of sauna meat, summer thunderstorms, the walls of a log cabin that has seen generations, the pine forest, the clear starry nights, the fresh dew of summer mornings, peace and happiness… Come and get to know us!

 

How would Southern Estonia teas taste like?

Roots

A warm root tea whose opening notes unfold with the primeval oak and juniper aroma of the Mooska smoke sauna, awakening a sense of wild peace in Old Võromaa’s forests. Soon the delicate herbal nuances of a samovar tea ceremony rise, harmonizing with onion-pie sweetness to balance the mystery of tradition. In the finishing layer, Tartu’s cultural and natural elegance meet—the historic aura of the Estonian National Museum and the cozy charm of cafés along the Emajõgi promenade—leaving a lasting warmth in the soul.

Singing Heritage Route

It´s a melodic trail where every drop carries the echo of choral singing, the energy of Seto leelo, and the warmth of folk tunes—spiced with the invigorating rhythms of instrumental music. This route leads you past historic song stages, churches, and village schools clad in traditional farmhouse architecture, where local choir harmonies meld with the sounds of the surrounding nature. At every step, the Song Route offers travelers an unforgettable musical experience that lingers in the heart long after the journey home begins.

Made for remote work

The only country specifically designed for remote working

Those in our furthest corners of the country are now very well brought together: the parties offering teleworking opportunities in Põlva, Võru and Valgamaa are brought together by Kupland. Whether it’s a shared office, a cosy café or a farmhouse in the countryside, you’re sure to find the right place for you or your team to focus on what matters.

Kupland