On Lake Peipsi, massive fog can sometimes rise in winter. The shore edge disappears with the fog and when it gets dark, the light beam of the lighthouse does not pass through it. It is said that years ago, locals rang church bells to help the fishermen find their way to the shore.The reinforced concrete beacon was built in 1938. A beacon is a lighthouse with a visibility of less than 10 nautical miles. The height of the beacon is 11 metres and the height of the light is 14 metres.In spring, the famous icebergs of Lake Peipus can be seen here. This is because of the stone bridge created by the hero of the Estonian national epic, Kalevipoeg.
In the heart of Tartu’s Old Town, right next to Town Hall Square, stands the Leaning House, often affectionately called “The Leaning Tower of Tartu” by locals. The house was built in 1793 along the edge of the medieval city wall. The side facing the river rests on the old wall’s stone foundation, while the other side sits on softer ground. This unique construction has caused the building to slowly but noticeably lean, making it one of Tartu’s most visually distinctive landmarks today. From 1879, the building housed a pharmacy for many years, where, in the early 20th century, a young Oskar Luts worked. He went on to become a famous Estonian writer. Today, the Leaning House is home to the Tartu Art Museum, where visitors can explore works by both Estonian and international artists, participate in educational programs, and enjoy inspiring art experiences. Tartu's Leaning House is listed in the national register of cultural monuments, making it both a historical and cultural gem that combines the rich history of Tartu’s Old Town with vibrant contemporary art.
At our small but authentic Kolkja Fish and Onion Restaurant, we offer genuine Old Believer dishes from the Peipsi region, prepared with freshly caught lake fish and locally grown, world-famous Peipsi onions. The dishes are based on traditional recipes passed down through generations, reflecting the unique culinary culture of the Peipsi lakeshore area. The menu features smoked fish, richly flavored fish soup, hearty onion soup, juicy fish patties, and a variety of desserts, including traditional Old Believer pies. The culinary experience is crowned with a traditional samovar tea, which is best enjoyed slowly in good company. The restaurant is located on the Onion Route (Sibulatee), and our cozy setting is perfect for families, friends, and travel groups alike. For groups, we offer the opportunity to arrange storytelling by the restaurant’s hostess about local life and Old Believer customs, as well as readings from old books, making the visit unique and memorable.
At the Ice Age Center, you'll find a family-friendly café with enchanting views of Lake Saadjärv through the windows! The café offers buffets and menus for adults and a children's menu for the little ones. The selection also includes vegetarian and vegan food. The café is perfect for both spending time at the Ice Age Center and daily lunch specials for locals and visitors. If you wish, you can also book catering for groups and rent rooms for different events, such as a seminar, birthday, or other celebration. A cozy atmosphere, delicious food, and a wonderful view of Lake Saadjärv create a special experience any time of year.
The largest museum in Estonia with nearly 6,000 m² of exhibition space invites you to discover the everyday life of Estonians throughout history at the permanent exhibition ‘Encounters’ and to learn about the life of the Finno-Ugric peoples in the permanent exhibition ‘Echo of the Urals’. The museum experience is complemented by temporary exhibitions. There is a restaurant and a museum shop. The outdoor areas of the museum are perfect to have a rest and a picnic. There is also a romantic rotunda and a glass-roofed distillery on the shores of Lake Raadi.The Estonian National Museum offers workshops, educational programmes, and guided tours in 11 languages. The museum has a modern conference centre and venue for international events.
Elva Song Festival Grounds, like every other one, has a symbolic and sacred meaning in preserving the Estonian national culture and song festival tradition. While singing together with others, one feels unity and the joy of Estonian freedom. Elva Song Festival Grounds is located in the centre of Elva, near Lake Arbi in a pine forest. It is not only for song festivals but also a beautiful place for concerts and parties. The Song Festival Grounds was built in 1951. On 8 August 2015, a memorial to the Estonian choir conductor and teacher Ants Sööt (8 August 1935 – 17 October 2013) from Elva, who is buried in Elva Cemetery, was erected at the Song Festival Grounds.
Come and have fun with your group at the Gerda Retter Design Studio in Aparaaditehas in Tartu! We offer a creative, inspiring workshop where everyone can craft their own unique leather jewelry, such as earrings, necklaces, bracelets, brooches, or cufflinks. The workshop is conducted under the guidance of a designer who teaches various techniques, including decorating cut-out shapes with foil. It's a perfect opportunity to create a personalized gift for yourself or a friend. Each crafted piece of jewelry comes in a stylish jewelry box. Come to us for your next company event, birthday, or bachelorette party. We also organize public workshops. The workshop is suitable for everyone – no prior craft experience is required. If desired, the table can be set with tasty snacks and drinks to make the experience even more memorable.
Plan a holiday to South Estonia, in the embrace of Valgamaa's forests at Salu Hunting House! If you are seeking peace, quiet, and quality time in good company, then Salu Hunting House awaits you right on the edge of the Soontaga nature reserve. It is an ideal place for smaller corporate events, birthdays, or simply a pleasant vacation with family and friends. The cozy hunting lodge accommodates up to 12 people. On the first floor, there is a spacious kitchen-dining room equipped with all necessary appliances, a fireplace, a TV, and a comfortable corner sofa. There is also a sauna, a toilet, and a vestibule with a washing machine. The second floor has 6 bedrooms and a large terrace. The rooms offer all comforts, from bed linens to mirrors. Outside, you can grill, smoke fish, or make a fire in the fire pit. For an additional fee, you can enjoy a smoke sauna, hot tub, or the raft sauna "Britannia." Active visitors can go canoeing on the Väike-Emajõgi River, and the surrounding forests invite you to pick mushrooms and berries. Come for a weekend or relax on a weekday – Salu Hunting House is always ready to welcome you!