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.
Anne Canal is located in the city of Tartu, where you can enjoy summer beach fun. The beach has a golden sandy beach that awaits sunbathers and sandcastle builders. There is also a playground with swings, climbing ladders, and a slide. There are fitness trails, an outdoor gym, and a volleyball court along the Canal. There are changing cabins and toilets on the beach. During the swimming season, the beach café Lennuk is open, where you can buy refreshing drinks and street food. In winter, you can go winter swimming in Anne Canal and go ice skating with your own skates. Good to know: During the summer months, the beach is patrolled by lifeguards.
The Meremäe Viewing Tower is located between Meremäe village and Vastseliina Castle on Meremäe Hill (204 m). Based on its name, one might think that the sea might be visible from the tower. However, the sea, as we know it today, is about 250 km from here, though Lake Pskov – which is not visible on the opposite side, and which was probably also called a sea in the old days – is just 40 km away. In fine weather, the domes of the churches of the Pskov-Caves Monastery in Pechory can be seen from the tower. The wide view of Setomaa's fields and forests is amazingly beautiful in every season, regardless of the weather. Fifteen people can climb the viewing tower at a time.
The lovely Lake Mooste is a great stopping place for holiday-makers and those wanting to discover Põlvamaa. In Mooste, there is a stunning manor complex that is worth a visit!The swimming area of Lake Mooste has a sandy beach, a swimming platform, changing cabins, a volleyball court and a hiking trail for going on a walk around the lake.Mooste Distillery Guesthouse is a 5 minute walk from the swimming area right on the shore of the lake – here, you can rent a boat for a trip on the lake.
Lake Kamari recreation area has become an extremely popular destination among holiday-makers for its beautiful views and forests. There are two jetties, areas for beach volleyball and football, a shower and toilets, benches and a playground for small children with swings and a slide. The swimming area is marked by buoys and there is also a children's pool.
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.
The Palumägede hiking trail is situated near Lake Pangodi, within the picturesque Pangodi Landscape Reserve, and is an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking an active holiday experience. The hiking trail offers diverse landscapes with pleasantly alternating ups and downs, adding a little excitement to the hike. The starting point of the hiking trail is conveniently located at the second parking lot of Palumägede, where you will also find an information board that gives a good overview of the surrounding nature. Clear signposts and benches along the trail make the walk particularly comfortable. The Palumägede campfire site offers a space for grilling, swimming, and camping.
The Tamula lake beach is located in the city of Võru. The beach is interestingly designed, modernly landscaped and maintained, equipped with changing cabins and attractions offering various activities. You can play football and volleyball, climb on the net, build sandcastles, sunbathe on the grass or sandy beach. The beach promenade, 800 meters long, starts at the Tamula hotel and extends to the Roosisaare bridge. During the swimming season, lifeguards ensure safety. On the beach playground, children are welcomed in summer by climbing nets, ball courts, and various swings. In addition, it is pleasant to walk or simply enjoy the moment by Tamula lake — the mirror-like surface of the lake and birdsong create a peaceful atmosphere in every season. In the evenings, the beach offers views of picturesque sunsets, making this place a favorite for photographers and romantics. Nearby parks, cafes, and terraces offer the opportunity to enjoy coffee or ice cream with a view of the lake. Concerts and events are also organized along the promenade during the summer months, bringing life and buzz to the Tamula area.