Pikalombi nature trails

Hinni Canyon is located in the special protection zone of Haanja Nature Park and is a unique canyon valley in all of Estonia. Hinni Canyon has cut into Devonian era sandstone. It is a 15-20 m deep and 300 m long ravine with steep slopes, at the bottom of which flows the fast-flowing Enni stream. When visiting Hinni Canyon, it is worth considering that here you can experience the true power of nature: the sandstone cuts through the landscape, deep in a transverse direction, the slopes rise around – this is a rare and visually impactful place in Estonia. The trail at the bottom of the valley runs alongside the stream. Enni stream flows quickly and adds the sound of water and fresh air to the adventure. Moreover, in the outcrops, you can notice indentations, smaller caves, and more secluded inner cuts, creating a mystical feeling. From a nature conservation standpoint, it is important that this place is located in the special protection zone.Good to know: there is no additional lighting at the site, so it is best visited during the day. Since Hinni Canyon is partially located on private land, walking with dogs is not allowed!

Lake Verijärv nature studies trail is around 1 km long and has 9 information boards showcasing plants, trees, bushes, birds and animals. The trail runs through the Lake Verijärv ancient valley and wood. There are signs along the trail as well as three barbecue areas with benches.There are various legends about Lake Verijärv. It is said that the lake got its name centuries ago when slaves were punished in the old cellar that stood on the shore and their blood turned the water red. Another legend speaks of the nasty lord of Kasaritsa Manor, who was drowned by his coachman with his carriage and horses while driving home one night.

The 3 km Tõrvandu forest study trail starts at a crossroads about 400 metres from Pähni Nature Centre. This marked and explained hiking trail is meant for everyone interested in the forest. There are campfire grounds, camping area and shelters on the trail. The 25 observation points of the trail are also permeable by car.

Elistvere study trail is located in Elistvere village, Tartu County. The trail is 2 km long back and forth and starts at the Elistvere Animal Park. At the end of the study trail you will find the magical Lake Elistvere with an observation tower offering a great view to the flora surrounding the lake and animals running in the bushy greenery. The information boards at the road help the visitors and there are several observation platforms. The trail can be completed in a wheelchair and with a children's stroller as well.The study trail can be accessed only during the opening hours of the animal park. The animal park has an entrance fee.

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.

Kirikumäe's 3.2-km-long hiking trail winds around the lake of the same name, which is known as the best swimming area in the region. There is a bog on the southern shore of the lake and the hiking trail also runs across the bog. For this purpose, a boardwalk has been built there. In any case, however, you must be prepared to get your feet wet here and there. There are information boards, campfires, and forest trails on the track.

The two Taevaskoda outcrops on the banks of the ancient valley of the Ahja River are one of the most frequently visited sites in southern Estonia. The sandstone outcrops and the ancient river form the most beautiful part of the Ahja River Landscape Reserve. Legends speak of caves, secret passageways and of demons and a mermaid with a golden comb. A walk from the Saesaare dam to the Small Taevaskoda outcrop, the Emaläte spring, the Neitsikoobas cave and the Large Taevaskoda outcrop, which rises 22.5 metres above the river, is worth undertaking in every season. The beautiful and exciting natural setting attracts hikers – it is a place that every Estonian visits at least once in their life!

Pühajärv, with its picturesque winding shoreline and four islands, is the largest lake in Otepää Nature Park. At the northern tip of Pühajärv, there is a beach area with a beach house, ball courts, a children's playground, recreation areas, a café, and a boat harbor. At the southern tip is the Kooliranna recreation area, and from there begins the Väike Emajõgi, which meanders through Valgamaa. Pühajärve Park is the starting point for the Murrumetsa hiking trail, and around the lake runs the 12 km long Pühajärve hiking trail, which passes by the lake's most famous spring, the Armuallikas. In winter, when weather conditions are suitable, an ice trail is created on the lake for hiking, and a winter swimming area is open at Pühajärve Beach.Pühajärv has provided plenty of inspiration for writers and artists. For example, Fridebert Tuglas and Eino Leino have vacationed here. Information about Konrad Mägi's Pühajärv paintings can be found on an info board by the lakeshore near the GMP Pühajärve restaurant. In 1991, the Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, visited Otepää and blessed the lake, an event commemorated by a wooden sculpture on the shore of Pühajärve Park.