Weightlifter Alfred Neuland (1895-1966) who was born in Valga is the first Estonian Olympic Champion. He returned with a gold medal from the Antwerp Olympic Games in 1920. He was also successful at the Paris Olympic Games where he won the silver medal.Interesting facts: * sculptor Mati Karmin is the author of the bronze bust; * Hermann Lerchenbaum, the first Estonian known to have taken part in Olympic Games as a member of the US Navy's rowing team at the 1896 Olympic Games in Athens, was also born in Valga.
Humala Kalabaas is a home business offering services related to fishing and operating on the banks of the Emajõgi River. In addition to the fishing spot with an accommodation on the banks of the Emajõgi River and boat rental with the possibility of overnight stay, we offer the opportunity to rent a motorboat Amur with a driver, so that you can see with your own eyes the largest swamp of Emajõe Suursoo in all its glory. It is wild, beautiful, rich in species, isolated, and majestic. We will sail 25km to Praaga swamp village and, if the weather permits, also a little on Lake Peipsi. Sunrise, daytime and sunset tours are all possible. 1 trip max 4 people and about 2.5 hours. We offer rain clothes for 4 people.
Karula National Park is Estonia's smallest national park, characterized by a hilly landscape rich in lakes, with 60 lakes on the highland. The national park is open to everyone: families, backpackers, and nature enthusiasts, offering various opportunities for relaxation and hiking. At the visitor center located by Lake Ähijärv, you can get information about the opportunities available in the national park, and the permanent exhibition there introduces the history, nature, folk culture of the Karula region, as well as the modern lifestyle. The heart of the national park is Lake Ähijärv, which is ideal for boating, swimming, and enjoying nature. Hiking enthusiasts are awaited by well-maintained trails that lead through forests, wooded meadows, and hilly landscapes, offering views unique to Karula. Popular destinations include the Rebäse hiking trail, Lüllemäe observation tower, and Kaika hillocks, which offer a great view of the rolling landscape. The national park has plenty of camping and bonfire sites, as well as natural swimming spots, making it suitable for both day trips and longer vacations.
Cabins for hikers, an observation tower and a boardwalk attract many nature lovers to the Meenikunno bog. It is a beautiful recreation area. While walking down the boardwalk, you can see the most common bog plants: leather leaf, bog rosemary, crowberry, Marsh Labrador tea, and tussock cottongrass; at the edge of the bog, dwarf birches can also be found. There are also a number of different species of peat moss of various colours. The bravest hikers can try drinking bog water (it has an interesting taste!) from the overgrown ditch near the edge of the bog.Good to know: The boardwalk is pram and wheelchair accessible.
An exciting hiking trail runs along the banks of the Koiva River, which borders Estonia and Latvia. You can discover points important to both countries' cultural heritage along the trail! The trail is 22 kilometers long, so there and back comes to 44 kilometers. The trail introduces old Estonians' way of life and offers the opportunity to get acquainted with historical heritage in the middle of nature. The trail includes, for example, Taheva Manor, a windmill, the ruins of a hay barn, and ancient trees. There are several campfire sites and camping sites. The trail is signposted and equipped with information boards in Estonian, Latvian, and English, and it can also be completed by bike.
Vacation in Kalda Villa is pure pleasure! Swim in the heated outdoor pool or Lake Kitseküla, enjoy sauna pleasures and a morning coffee on the balcony or terrace! The villa is located on a relief landscape, which adds a special feature to the house. We are open all year round, offering accommodation for up to eight people.On the entrance floor, there are 2 bedrooms and a master bedroom with a spacious walk-in wardrobe, with floor-to-ceiling windows adding openness; living-room with access to the balcony; open kitchen with modern kitchen appliances; shower room-toilet, and a hall.On the lower floor there are: sauna and shower room, toilet, utility room, and recreational area with access to the terrace.
The hike takes us through the beautiful Emajõe-Suursoo bog, where we spend the night in the wilderness on a secluded bog island. In the evening, we will prepare dinner on a camp stove, using as many seasonal forest products as possible. We will spend the night in hanging beds with a magnificent view of the sunrise! In the morning, we will have a light meal, take down camp, and hike across the bog to the end point. A local guide leads the hike, which includes the guide's service, equipment (bog shoes, hanging bed, camp stove), and meals (breakfast and dinner). Bring your pet along! Come and experience an unforgettable Estonian bog hike!
Peipsi Ranna Holiday House is located on the shore of Lake Peipsi. A wonderful sandy beach, sunrises, flocks of birds flying over the lake, peace and quiet — this is a real holiday! In the sauna house on the first floor, there is a kitchenette, a living room, and a sauna with a view of the lake. You can cook your own food or order catering services from the hostess. On the second floor, there is a large room with four beds for eight guests. You can go to a hot sauna, sit with friends on the terrace in a jacuzzi or cool off in the lake. The conversations will continue for days! We offer tours of the Onion Route and forest hikes, as well as sites for camping and caravans and spa treatments! Come with friends, family, and pets!