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  • Nature and Activities
  • Nature
  • Hiking Trails

Helme caves

Valgamaa Kutseõppekeskuse, Tõrva vald, Valga maakond, 68608

Located in the manor park of the same name, the Helme caves, are an unrivalled sight in Estonia. Situated to the north of castle ruins, the caves have a white Burtniek layer of sandstone walls standing 3 m high. Unfortunately for cave lovers though, some of the better known caves have already collapsed. Once comprised of seven interlinked chambers, the biggest of which was known as the Church of Moses. Peppered with springs, the caves have a long history; and over the years they have been dug out and used as shelters when needed. Did you know…?: In ancient times the Helme caves were also known locally as the gateway to Hell.Kivialune (under the rocks) was a shelter for Old Estonians during the wars.

Amenities

  • Information boards
  • WC
  • Drop Toilet
  • Free parking

Open times

Throughout the Year

Around the Clock

Contact

  • +372 7665310
  • torva@torva.ee

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  • Hiking Trails

Emajõe river shore path

The 4-km Emajõe river shore path starts from the Turu bridge between River Emajõgi and Anne channel, and it runs on the Natura 2000 protection area and offers spacious views of the Anne channel, River Emajõgi, ship and boat traffic, and Karlova harbour.The hiking trail features information boards, riverside picnic areas, and several bridges, you can also meet hobby fishermen there. During spring, the path may be flooded and provides an opportunity to enjoy the views of the flooded meadow. When the trail ends, you can walk the same way back. Another option is to turn left to the gravel road, which leads to the Ihaste cycling and walking road.

  • Hiking Trails

Hiking trail in the Rõuge Primeval Valley

The Rõuge Primeval Valley hiking trail is as straight as a line, 10 km long, it begins at Hinni Canyon or in the Ööbikuoru Centre parking lot. Beginning at the Ööbikuorg start point, the trail runs along the shores of seven lakes towards Hinni Canyon and offers hikers an opportunity to observe the workings of the area's water rams, see the deepest Estonian lake – Rõuge Suurjärv and visit Rõuge Park.Further on, on the shores of Lakes Ratasjärve, Tõugjärve and Kahrila, hikers can see the local forest communities, rest in meadows or enjoy the village landscape and proceed along the short path towards Hinni Canyon.

  • Hiking Trails

Kaljupealse campfire site

The Kaljupealse campfire site is located on the banks of the Võhandu River, in a beautiful pine forest. The riverside and high banks offer a beautiful view of the Võhandu River and sand outcrops. The campfire site has a roofed table and benches, a roofed grill, and firewood. The place is ideal for campers, fishing enthusiasts, and as a resting point for guests coming here with boats.Along the high sandy shores, through a beautiful pine forest, there is an unmarked hiking trail where you can enjoy beautiful views of nature or pick berries and mushrooms.

  • Hiking Trails

Alatskivi Hiking Trail

The 4.5 km long trail around Lake Lossijärv with its varied terrain and beautiful views offers visitors plenty of excitement and sights at any time of year.The trail starts at Alatskivi or by the Bed of Kalevipoeg. Alatskivi Castle and Castle Park, Hirveaed Garden, Sheep Bridge, Bed of Kalevipoeg, Lake Veskijärv, and Lake Lossijärv are all along the trail. There are two large information boards on the trail, log stairs in the Bed of Kalevipoeg, two bridges, signs, and small information boards that introduce the objects found in the protected area.

  • Hiking Trails

Hiking trail Green Railways Valga / Valka–Ape

The Valga/Valka–Ape narrow gauge railway was opened to traffic in 1900 and the last trains ran here in 1970.Today, most of the old railway embankment is used as a hiking trail that runs through forests and fields on gravel and dirt roads.On the Valka–Žuldin and Koikküla–Hargla section, the trail is redirected to larger roads, because the former railway dam is mostly impassable there.Many old railway photographs and historical stories related to the railway have been attached to the old sleepers on the railway dam.There is a resting place in Hargla.

  • Hiking Trails

Luhasoo nature trail

The hiking trail on the Luhasoo landscape protection area is a 5 km long loop, partially covered with a boardwalk. In the center of the trail, there is a small forest hut on a bog island for overnight stays. Hiking in the flat terrain of Luhasoo offers a contrast to the otherwise hilly nature of Võrumaa. The peace and quiet of the bog help nerves to relax from city noise and daily activities. The boardwalk-covered part is easy to traverse even with children. It is possible to take breaks along the way. Luhasoo bog is known for its dark-water pools and moss fields shimmering between them. As you move along the trail, picturesque views of the bog lake and surrounding transition bog landscape unfold — it's an ideal place to breathe in clean air, take a break, and recharge naturally. The hike offers both visual diversity and an opportunity to truly escape the noise of everyday life. Good to know: firewood needed for the forest hut should be taken from the shelter at the start of the boardwalk. The forest hut is available for free use.

  • Hiking Trails

Apteekrimäe forest trail

Apteekrimäe forest track starts and ends by Otepää Sports Hall on Mäe Street. The 4 km track runs through the forest to Nüpli Sports Track and then back to the Apteekri forest, where it meets the forest path between Lake Marguse and Otepää Garden Town before returning to its starting point after crossing the Sulaoja bridge. The track can be used all year round.

  • Hiking Trails
  • Beaches

Lake Vaikne

Between the forests of Elva is a mysterious body of water – Lake Vaikne. The beautiful forest lake is a sight in itself and enchants visitors with its charming nature and silence at any time of the year. The lake has also won the attention of the poet J. Kärner, who at one time often came here to gather inspiration.The place is suitable for a responsible holidaymaker who prefers less populated places and wants to have a breath-taking experience. The lake is suitable for swimming – the water is clean and very warm.Use the wooden bridge to dive into the lake!Swimming is at your own risk!The area is illustrated by the wooden sculptures of the Nature Energy Trail.

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