Lemmikuga Lõuna-Eestis
Vau, hau, woof – South Estonia speaks your dog's language
In South Estonia, dogs speak one universal language – joy. Whether your furry companion barks “woof woof” in English, “vau-vau” in Latvian or “hau-hau” in Finnish, they’ll all soon be saying “auh-auh”– Estonian style.
Our scenic trails, pet-friendly accommodations, welcoming cafes, and spacious parks are waiting to make you and your dog’s visit unforgettable. Here, every bark is a happy bark, echoing across forests, lakes, and charming towns.
So pack your bags (and a few treats), and let your four-legged friend discover why South Estonia is the ultimate canine-approved destination.
Pet-Friendly Hotels
Hotel Pesa
Põlva | 🐶 free
“I got to join my human for breakfast – I even had my own spot on the terrace. Later we went sniffing around the Intsikurmu trails. 10/10, would recommend!” – Reks
Kubija Nature Spa
Võru | 🐶 Thu-Sun free, Fri-Sat 20 €
“The pine forest at Kubija smelled amazing and swimming in the lake was top-notch. Felt like a summer holiday made for dogs.” – Emma
GMP Clubhotel
Otepää | 🐶 30 €
“The hotel restaurant had a special menu just for me! Later we walked around Lake Pühajärv — my new favorite lake.” – Bella
Mesi Tare Guesthouse
Varnja | 🐶 free
“There was so much space to run and swim by Lake Peipus, I think I even forgot to bark! The hosts were super friendly, and it felt just like home.” – Muri
Alatskivi Castle
Alatskivi | 🐶 free
“I’ve always known I’m royalty. The staff couldn’t stop petting me and telling me how beautiful I am. Plus, there was an awesome hiking trail right by the castle!” – Kiki
Kiviranna Holiday Home
Suure-Rakke | 🐶 10 €
“I spent the whole day running through the forest and swimming in Lake Võrtsjärv — slept like a puppy afterwards! The hosts totally understood why we’re never left at home.” – Pätu
Hotel SOHO
Tartu | 🐶 20 €
“I got a delicious welcome snack and my own water bowl! Toomemägi and the Emajõgi River were just a stroll away. City breaks are totally my thing.” – Hugo
Anzelika Organic Farm
Setomaa | 🐶 free
“An organic paradise. Hills, ponds, hay-spa, and my new career mentor Robi – a sheepdog who knows every sheep by name. I’m ready to go back already.” – Käbi
Pühajärve Spa
Otepää | 🐶 20 €
“I got a treat, my own water bowl, and even a paw towel. Swimming in Lake Pühajärv and exploring the trails — pure luxury!” – Luna
Tehvandi Sports Center
Otepää | 🐶 7 €
“We stayed in a cabin — simple, wild, and just my kind of adventure. Plenty of room to run and trails in every direction. Best sporty getaway!” – Nublu
Verevi Motel
Elva | 🐶 20 €
“Lots of space, pine forests, and lakes nearby — my kind of place! We grabbed a bite at Arbi Cafe where people counld’nt stop smiling at me.” – Max
Pet-Friendly Restaurants
GMP Pühajärve
This restaurant even has a special menu for four-legged guests. Plus, gorgeous views of Lake Pühajärv, friendly service, and plenty of places to walk.
Murimäe Wine Cellar
Broth ice cream, fortune cookies, new dog buddies — and plenty of space to walk and swim. Murimäe Winery (named after their dog Muri) is a real pup paradise.
Uue-Saaluse Winery
A welcome treat, fresh water, and fun trails leading to Lake Kavadi. Guna the dog and Täpi the cat greet every guest with a warm welcome.
Elva Keegel ja Resto
There’s always fresh water waiting — and sometimes a tasty treat from the kitchen too. Loads of space to roam, and pets are always welcome.
Aljonushka Puhvet
Peaceful vibes, forests, fields, and even a private lake — the perfect spot for any nature-loving dog to relax while their humans dine.
Kolm Tilli
Every self-respecting hipster pup has to visit Aparaaditehas at least once. Bonus: you might even score some pizza crust under the table.
Pet-Friendly Adventures
Pühajärve Boat Harbor
Boat rides with your dog, swimming spots, and beautiful views of Lake Pühajärv. The true captain of the harbor is Bruno, a 14-year-old retriever.
Vudila Playland
While the humans have fun at the playground, dogs can kick back and relax at the accommodation. A super fun summer experience for the whole family.
Ice Age Center
Pups can meet mammoths, ancient deer, and cave lions — a trip through history that’s sure to get tails wagging. Ice Age Center offers plenty of pet-friendly entertainment.
A. Le Coq Beer Museum
Fresh water, a cool place to rest, and plenty of belly rubs — everything a dog could wish for. Plus, Tähtvere dog park is just around the corner.
Lake Museum
Pups can check out the fish and cool off with a swim in Lake Võrtsjärv after the museum visit — an adventure-packed day for both dogs and fish.
Estonian Road Museum
Open-air spaces and fascinating history for pups and humans. Nearby, you’ll find the pet-friendly Tilleoru hiking trail, Lake Palojärv, and Ihamaru Pizza.
Laptop Museum
Old phones, a cozy vibe, and an overall dog-friendly museum experience. Finish the day with a swim in Lake Palujüri.
Paw Capital 2025: Elva
Elva, just a short hop from Tartu, is all about pine forests and fresh air. But most importantly — it’s a town made for paws. Gorgeous trails like Väike Väerada, lakes Vaikne, Arbi, and Verevi, and the Tartu County Recreational Sports Centre are all waiting to be explored by furry and feathered friends.
In the lively Elav Elva town center, you’ll find fresh water and healthy snacks for pups, while humans can sip coffee — and dogs soak up cuddles — at Arbi Café. Restaurant Elva Keegel & Resto welcomes everyone with wagging tails. This town was made to be shared with your best four-legged friends.
Top 5 Pet-Friendly Hiking Trails
Männikjärv Bog Trail
The Männikjärv bog trail, nestled in the scenic Endla landscape protection area, offers a peaceful 7.3 km walk through pristine nature. With your pet by your side, enjoy the fresh air, wooden boardwalks, and a high observation tower that rewards you with stunning views over the entire bog.
Meenikunno Hiking Trail
Meenikunno bog is a beautiful recreation area that draws nature lovers with its hiker cabins, observation tower, and scenic boardwalk. The 5.8 km circular trail (2.4 km boardwalk + 3.4 km forest path) offers a peaceful walk where you and your pet can enjoy the sights and scents of bog plants.
Taevaskoda Hiking Trail
The Taevaskoda hiking trail in the Ahja River Valley Landscape Reserve is a family-friendly circular route starting from the Taevaskodade parking lot. As you walk along both banks of the river with your pet, you’ll pass the striking spring-formed sand caves and gorgeous river views.
Lake Pühajärv Trail
The hiking trail that encircles Lake Pühajärv starts near the centre of Otepää Nature Park. The 14 km trail takes you on a voyage of discovery around one of the most unique and beautiful lakes in Estonia. Covering the whole track takes from 3–6 hours with several rest areas along the way.
Paganamaa Hiking Trails
Paganamaa, right by the Latvian border, offers three scenic hiking trails (3.8 km, 4.3 km, and 4.7 km), all starting at a bonfire site with a tower view over the wild landscape. With your pet, explore lush mixed forests, primeval vibes, the old Kazik, and lakes like Kikkajärv and Mudajärv.
Onion Route with Your Dog: A Summer Adventure Along Peipus
Onions might not be for your dog, but the Onion Route certainly is. This is the perfect adventure for any dog owner who can’t bear to leave their furry friend at home. Throughout the summer, you’ll find outdoor events, fairs, and concerts where dogs are not just welcome—they’re expected!
On the Onion Route, you’ll discover plenty of pet-friendly accommodations and restaurants ready to welcome both you and your four-legged travel buddy. Enjoy scenic walks through Old Believers’ villages, the tranquil beauty of Lake Peipus, and unforgettable local flavors—this adventure is just as much for your pup as it is for you!
Kupland: the Perfect Workation for Extra Good Boys
Some good boys just can’t switch off – they’re always on alert, giving impromptu stand-up performances on the couch, and trying to speak at every meeting. 💼🐶
Kupland welcomes these hard-working pups with open paws. Here, they can co-work alongside their owners, take breaks for walks, or even test out the office chairs. It’s the perfect balance of productivity and relaxation in the stunning rolling hills of South-East Estonia.
