
Activities

South Estonia is the kind of place that rewards people who don’t mind getting their boots muddy. The rivers are long and unhurried. The hills are modest but the trails through them are good. In winter the snow settles properly and stays. In summer the days are long enough to do more than you planned.
The region has a landscape that works in every season and for almost every pace, multi-day canoe trips on rivers that move slowly enough to stop wherever you want, cross-country ski tracks that open through the forests as soon as the snow arrives, bog trails that take you somewhere genuinely strange, and hills that are modest by any mountain standard but better than they sound on paper.
It’s as suitable for beginners as it is for serious athletes.

On the water
The Võhandu is the longest river entirely within Estonia and one of the best canoeing rivers in the Baltics, slow enough to stop wherever the bank looks interesting, long enough to make a proper multi-day trip out of it. The Ahja, the Emajõgi, the Väike Emajõgi each offer something different.
Canoe the rivers here and you’ll see a version of South Estonia that most visitors never find.
- Canoeing

Canoe trips on the River Ahja in Taevaskoda
Over 40 magnificent sandstone outcrops and untouched nature of the landscape protection area in the Ahja river valley are sure to leave an unforgettable impression!We are a local company, so we can arrange a suitable route for your canoe trip, the best catering options, the most beautiful places for camping, or cosy accommodation. Our selection includes canoe trips lasting from 2 hours to 2 days for groups of 2 to 50 people.Before each trip, an instructor provides thorough instructions in order to make your canoe trip a safe and positive experience that you will remember for a long time.
- Watercraft rentals

Boat and canoe rental at Jõesuu Home Accommodation
Jõesuu Home Accommodation offers boat and canoe rentals on the Purtsi River for exhilarating water adventures. You can fish, watch birds, take pictures of nature, or enjoy being on the water. We offer a four-person rowboat for rent (with a motor if desired), two canoes for three people, a pedal boat, and four SUP boards. All watercraft can be rented on an hourly basis. For safety, we always provide life jackets. When the day's adventure ends, we will be waiting for you at our cozy holiday farm. Bring your family or friends and begin your vacation in Jõesuu.
- Boat trips

Wakeboarding, water skiing and tubing with a speedboat in Emajõe-Suursoo
Enjoy the beautiful nature of Estonia while receiving a rush of adrenaline on wakeboard, water skiis or tubing. Swim in pristine places and dive amongst huge fish. The speedboat will take you to the Emajõe-Suursoo delta in the Peipsiveere nature reserve, which hides several different rivers and lakes, where there is room for everyone and it is safe to enjoy water sports.The speedboat, which we will always rent out with a captain, fits seven persons in addition to him. The trips are suitable for children from the age of 7. The speed can be adjusted and the boat can take it slower.Wakeboarding, water skiing or tubing in Emajõe-Suursoo will take around 1.5 hours.
- Watercraft rentals

Boat and water bike rental at Rõsna Holiday House
Rõsma Holiday Resort, located in Setomaa, directly on the shore of Lake Lämmijärv, fishermen can rent boats and families can rent water bikes. Good to know: in the winter, we offer accommodation for up to 14 people. In the summer, we can accommodate 39 people and we have an unlimited number of camping sites. There are smoke and Finnish saunas, as well as an outdoor kitchen.The resort is perfect for summer days, training sessions, and camps.
- Canoeing

Canoeing on River Ahja with a pancake picnic
River Ahja is well-known for it picturesque and primeval nature. Sandstone outcrops border the river, you can see beavers, otters and the favourite of nature photographers — kingfisher. Some parts of the river have a stronger current, while others are calmer.The hike begins from Koorvere or Kiidjärve and summer hikes include a pancake picnic. All hikers will be given thorough instructions before the hike and guides will keep an eye on you during the canoeing trip.
- Watercraft rentals

Humala Kalabaas tent boat rental
The stable Latrex 450 with a trimaran base has been transformed into a floating motorised tent with the help of a canopy tent, a platform between the seats and seat covers. It is nice to sail with the boat just for fun, catch fish, and spend the night on the water as if you were in a tent.The nearby Emajõe Suursoo is a large network of waterways that fascinates with its wildness, size, picturesque views, swamp inhabitants, abundance of fish, and isolation.With the "Tent boat" it is possible to comfortably camp on water at Suursoo without the need to access RMK campsites. A large mosquito net surrounds the bed of the boat and the tent protects against natural phenomena. Suitable for couples to be alone in nature.
- Guided tours
- Kayaking

Kayaking on Lake Pühajärv
During the kayaking trip we will be introducing to you Lake Pühajärv and its islands, enjoy the beautiful lake views and Estonian summer.The picnic place will be RMK Kooliranna campfire site.For the kayaking trips, we use stable, comfortable, safe and easily steered two-person kayaks. The price of the trip includes a place in the kayak with equipment, guiding service, substantial trip peal (soup, pastry, tea or juice, sweet pastry or fruit) and bottled water to quench your thirst.Come and enjoy the nature with your friends or colleagues!
- Boat trips
- Canoeing
- Rafting

VeeTee rafting and canoe trips
The VeeTee canoe trip expeditions guarantee a fun experience for any sightseer. Whether visiting with friends or colleagues, traveling by canoe over the beautiful Estonian water bodies – the rivers of Ahja, Võhandu, Elva, Piusa and the lakes of Kooraste; provides a traveler with the chance to see nature from a completely different angle than most.This expedition includes the rental and transportation of boats, as well as instructors and lunch. Those interested are encouraged to contact the expedition company for an unforgettable experience!
- Watercraft rentals

Sunwell Farm kayak rental
Our inflatable kayaks are perfect for an unforgettable adventure. They seem like ordinary plastic kayaks and are just as easy to control.They can comfortably accommodate 2 adults and one child as well as equipment. They are perfect for overnight water trips or longer day trips on water bodies. It is easy to roll them up and place them in your car. The oars can also be taken to pieces.We will give you an electronic pump, life jackets, and waterproof bags.You can also rent a sauna and accommodation from us.
- Guided tours
- Boat trips

Motorboat tour on Lake Peipsi
A boat tour of the western shore of Lämmijärve and around the island of Piirissaar on Lake Peipsi will leave you with an unforgettable experience. Your skipper will share his considerable knowledge of nature and fishing. In addition, we will stop for a swim or take a look around the shore. Take along your fishing rod to fish at the best spots on the lake.The tour lasts from an hour to a day.
- Guided tours
- Canoeing

Nature Tours Estonia overnight canoe trip in Emajõe-Suursoo
Come on an overnight canoe trip around Emajõe-Suursoo, which is known for its rich biodiversity. Traveling by canoe along the rivers and lakes of the bog offers a unique natural experience in places that can only be discovered by water. We start the canoe trip in the silence of the early morning, and it ends the next day at lunchtime. You will get to experience what it's like to sleep in a hanging bed (rental available from the organizer) amidst the sounds of nature at night. The trip includes equipment, tour guide service, trip organization, and meals. The trip is suitable for children aged 13 and above.
- Guided tours
- Boat trips

Boat trip on the historic barge “Jõmmu”
The barge Jõmmu is a traditional wooden merchant sailing ship, the only one of its kind to have been restored. Step aboard and sail on a historic ship and enjoy the beauty of Emajõe-Peipsi's nature and views of the city of Tartu! Barge trips can be booked for larger groups for seminars, birthdays, or other special events. Smaller groups are welcome on scheduled trips. Coffee and tea are served on the ship, and it is possible to order catering, guide service, a bagpiper, workshops, and an overnight stay on the barge. Set sail on the historic Jõmmu!
Võhandu marathon
Every year in April, the world’s largest paddle marathon takes place on the Võhandu River. Over 1,300 boats from 30 countries set off from Lake Tamula in Võru and paddle 100 kilometres. Some finish in under eight hours. Most take considerably longer. The time limit is 24 hours.
What started as a small local initiative has grown into one of the world’s most remarkable paddling events. The river earns it. After leaving Võru the banks rise gradually, the valley deepens, sandstone cliffs appear above the water and the forest closes in on both sides.
You don’t have to race. Most people don’t. The Võhandu Marathon is as much about the river and the people on it as it is about the uniquely designed medal waiting at the end.

On the trails
We have hundreds of kilometres of marked trails through forests, bogs, river valleys and hills. They are free, most are well-maintained and almost none of them are busy.
The terrain varies more than you’d expect from a region without mountains. The Haanja and Otepää uplands have proper hills with proper descents. The river valleys are steep-sided and shaded. The bog trails are flat, open and completely unlike anything else.
- Hiking Trails
- Beaches

Lake Vaikne
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.
- Lookout towers
- Hiking Trails

Harimägi and Harimäe Observation Tower
Harimägi is one of the largest mesas in the Otepää Uplands (211 m above sea level). It is worth coming to Harimäe whenever you are near Otepää. The Harimäe Observation Tower is located 3 km from Kääriku in the direction of Sangaste. The height of the tower is 28 m, and the highest viewing platform is 24 m high. The tower offers views of the Otepää mountains and across the Väike Emajõgi valley to the Karula upland. Camping is also allowed at the tower. Good to know: Harimägi is also called 'Leenard and Leonhard's hill.' From 1816 to 1819, geodetic surveys were carried out here by the internationally recognised astronomer and surveyor Friedrich Georg Wilhelm Struwe (1793–1864).
- Camping sites

Lake Tündre campfire site and nature reserve
Lake Tündre campfire site and nature reserve are located in Valga County, Sakala Recreation Area.The shore of the beautiful Tündre Lake is perfect for a longer holiday. There is a shelter with a roof, a dry toilet, an information board, a campfire site with a roof and a barbeque grill, a woodshed, and a swimming site. There are a lot of fish in the lake and it is a perfect place for a swim in the summer. To launch a boat, go to the adjacent Tündre campfire site. The forests around the lake are full of berries and mushrooms.
- Hiking Trails

Hiking trails at Lake Kirikumäe
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.
- Hiking Trails

Hinni canyon
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!
- Camping sites
- Beaches

RMK Palojärve camping area
Palojärve camping area is a great place for a forest and beach holiday in a beautiful berry and mushroom pine forest on the shore of Lake Palojärv.There are seven covered campfire sites with benches and tree sheds, a roofed table-bench, a toilet for eight people and a toilet for one person, two wood sheds (it is possible to sleep in one of them), two changing cabins, and a swimming pier in Lake Palojärv.In summer, it is often crowded, but the large parking lot can accommodate 30 cars and the two smaller parking lots can accommodate five cars.
- Hiking Trails

Wood Ants’ Trail of Kiidjärve
Among the approximately 1 km study trail introducing the life of wood ants, the hiker can feel like a giant in the minuscule world of ants. In an area of 20 hectares there are 200 ant hills, the biggest of which is 1.7 m high; you can also admire the record-high spruce (42 m). The trail has signs, information boards, and bridges crossing ant highways.The trail is for walking only. While hiking on the trail near ant hills, use only the bridges installed there. The Laari forest study trail starts on the other side of the railway.The civilisation of ants offers an experience for both children and adults.
- Hiking Trails

Vapramäe nature study and hiking trail
On the Vapramäe nature study trail (3.5 km), which is part of the Vapramäe–Vellavere–Vitipalu network, you can enjoy the eskers, read legends about Kalev's Son, and explore Põlismänd pine, the King's linden, Kerikmägi citadel, and much more.The nature study trail, marked with white-red-white, starts at the Vapramäe stop. There is also a picnic area with a campfire site on the hiking trail by the Elva River. You can go even further from the Vapramäe Nature House and visit the Tartu Observatory. It is easy to get there, because the domes of the observatory can be seen from afar.
- Hiking Trails

Taevaskoja–Otteni–Taevaskoja hiking trail
The hiking trail, which starts from Suur Taevaskoda, runs on the high banks of the Ahja River and on the tracks of the menu film The Last Relic. Suur Taevaskoda, the partially preserved Otten or Valgesoo watermill complex, the two-vaulted Otten mill bridge, and the miniature canyon, which became famous thanks to the film The Last Relic, picturesque views of the Ahja River, and a pit of a forest brothers' bunker can be seen on the hiking trail. The trail is marked with green colour on the trees and signs and there are several information boards on the trail. It is possible to camp and make a campfire at the Otten campfire site. When coming by car, the hike starts from Saesaare car park and therefore, the trail is about 2 km longer.
- Camping sites

Lake Vaskna in Haanja
Lake Vaskna is 244 meters above sea level, which is why it can also be called a 'mountain lake'. According to legend, the gold of the Swedes from the times of the Northern War has been buried in Vaskna. It is said that a marked stone indicates the location of the gold.There is a campfire site next to the lake, offering a wonderful view of the local dome landscape. There is also a camping site and a swimming spot. Up to ten four-person tents can be put up at the camping site. There are benches, a table, a shelter, a cabin for changing clothes, and a barbeque spot.
- Family friendly
- Hiking Trails
- Beaches

Pühajärve Beach
During the summer season, beautiful Pühajärve Beach awaits you in Otepää with its clean sand, swimming pier, and full-sized outdoor swimming pool. In the summer, the beach has lifeguards, several catering companies, SUP board rentals, and boat rentals offering row boats, canoes, and pedal boats. A special pier and changing room have been built for visitors in wheelchairs. During the winter, a winter swimming pool is open on the beach. Pühajärve Park, which surrounds the beach, invites both young and old to walk along its shady paths. Come to Pühajärve and enjoy a day at the beach!
- Hiking Trails

Selli-Sillaotsa study trail
If you want a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to the beautiful, untouched nature of the Selli-Sillaotsa educational trail. Trail is located in the Alam-Pedja nature reserve, 30 minutes by car from Tartu. The well-marked trail, winding over a bog, through the forest, and on a gravel road, with plenty of information boards, is flat and easy to navigate. From the 12 m high Suuretüki observation tower built of massive logs, you can enjoy beautiful views of the bog in any season! If you find yourself on the trail at the right time of year, you can treat yourself to edible berries, such as blueberries, blackberries, and cranberries.
In the snow
Most of Western Europe no longer gets a proper winter. South Estonia does – snow that stays, lakes that freeze, forests that go white and silent for weeks.
Ski the Otepää and Haanja hills, skate on a frozen lake, then cut a hole in the ice after a smoke sauna. That last part sounds unreasonable until you’ve done it once.
- Sleighing Tours

Neumann Husky dog-sled rides
Experience the picturesque winter of Southern Estonia. We will go on a hike with sled dogs across the domes and frozen lakes of Haanjamaa, through snowy forests and spacious fields.We organise both day trips and shorter trips. Our guests can also try to steer the sled themselves. Children and adults, as well as larger and smaller groups are welcome.Come enjoy moments of peace!
- Skiing
- Sports centres

Haanja Recreation and Sports Centre
The skiing slopes and cross-country skiing tracks in Haanja are suitable for beginners and experienced skiers alike. The skiing tracks are 1 km, 2 km, 3 km and 5 km long. By the stadium there is also a sledding slope which kids and adults will love. Lit skiing tracks run for 2 km and 3.2 km and are open until 21:00. Next to the recreation centre is a shooting range for biathlon lovers. The centre also rents skis, has changing facilities and a sauna, and a cafe for those looking to recharge their batteries. Outside of the skiing season the tracks in Haanja are ideal for cycling and hiking.
- Skiing
- Sports centres

Tehvandi Ski Training Track
The 5 km ski track of Tehvandi Sports Centre is covered with artificial snow and invites you to ski classic style or freestyle. The relief of the track is difficult with some dangerous downhill parts and it is therefore more suitable for professionals. The track is lit until 10:00 pm every evening. The 10 km Tehvandi hiking track is more suitable for amateurs.
- Skiing

Kuningamäe ski trails
The best ski trails in Central Estonia are waiting for you in Kuningamäe, Põltsamaa! There is a 1.5 km illuminated trail, which has become very popular among skiers. The track is illuminated until 9 p.m.There is a choice of trails of different lengths: 1.5, 2.6, and 5.7 km. If the weather is good, there are both classic and skate skiing trails. The trails have both natural and artificial snow. We provide high-quality and consistent trail maintenance.During the snow-free season, the Kuningamäe Health Trail is a favourite among runners, walkers, and cyclists. The Kuningamäe Disc Golf Park is also located here!
- Snowshoeing

Nature Tours Estonia winter snowshoe hike on Emajõe-Suursoo winter trails
On this snowshoe hike, we travel along the historic winter roads of Emajõe-Suursoo with a local guide. These roads were used over 100 years ago and served as direct routes across marshes and bogs. The winter roads connected isolated communities, and people traveled along them by horse to church, the city, neighboring homes, or weddings. Today, these forgotten roads are only used by wild animals. Emajõe-Suursoo is a charmingly wild natural landscape just 45 km from Tartu. On the hike, we will admire several beautiful primeval forest islands in Emajõe-Suursoo, enjoy the winter silence of the bogs, the wild beauty of nature, and the expansive landscapes. We will surely see traces of activity from the local four-legged and winged inhabitants, as the area is rich in wildlife. We make several stops and definitely taste juicy red cranberries straight from the frozen bog. The hike also includes a small snack break of pastries and hot tea! Come on an adventure with snowshoes on ancient winter roads!
- Family friendly
- Tobogganing
- Tubing

Otepää Winterplace
Otepää Winterplace – four months of winter fun for the entire family!Otepää Winterplace is a winter fun park for the entire family that offers various leisure activities in the Linnamäe Valley in the centre of Otepää. Here, you will find snowtubing tracks and tube rental, sledging and skiing slopes, Zipfy sledges for hire, a skating rink and igloo cinema. Children of various ages, teenagers and adults alike can find something exiting to do here.
- Sleighing Tours

Mustamõisa carriage and sleigh rides
The picturesque carriage or sleigh ride takes you to the sacred Taevaskoda outcrops, the exciting Mõtsküla forest or the enchanting Ants' Kingdom in Akste.In the sound of the jingle bells we will ride in a comfortable carriage or sleigh, led by a blue-eyed white Estonian native horse and drink local herbal tea for a refreshment. If you wish, we can stop and make a campfire at one of the beautiful RMK campfire sites.We will visit the Swedish war graves in the beautiful Mõtsküla forests. Shorter excursions will take you to the picturesque Ants' Kingdom in Akste.There will be no rides if the outside temperature is over +23°C or below -15°C!
- Skiing

Kubija health trails and training area
The Kubija health trails and training area, which are 4.5 km from the centre of Võru, offer a range of sporting opportunities to all sports lovers in beautiful natural surroundings. The ca 2 km long rollerblading track and forest trails start from the Võru Sports Centre Kubija ski base. Right at the very start of the tracks is a training area in which you can give all of your muscle groups a good workout. There are also treadmills next to the rollerblading track.Did you know...?* In winter there are ski trails in Kubija
- Skiing
- Sports centres

Tehvandi Ski Track
The relief of the 10 km ski track of Tehvandi Sports Centre is easy and invites you to ski classic style or freestyle. The tracks starts from the Tehvandi Stadium and initially runs along the Tartu Marathon track, then turn left near Ansomäe and gets back to the start through Savimäe, Kasemetsa, Tehvandi fen and Linnamäe.The track at Tehvandi is suitable for amateur skiers even though it is also used by professionals for training and competitions.
- Ice Skating

Tartu City Centre Skating Rink
This winter, a skating rink of almost 1,000 square metres will be erected around the Kissing Students fountain on the Town Hall Square, where the most romantic and fun winter entertainment – skating – can be enjoyed under the starry sky.The skating rink can be used free of charge, and both young and old guests can rent skates from the pavilion in the immediate vicinity of the rink on the basis of a price list. You can buy a hot drink and snacks from the cafe .Grab a friend and come and have a good time in the fresh air right in the heart of Tartu!
- Family friendly
- Ice Skating

Lake Verevi Beach
One of the most famous and beloved places in the town of Elva, Tartu County, is the beach of Lake Verevi, whose warm water and soft sand have been a favorite of locals and visitors for decades. This lake is a scenic spot in the heart of Elva, where summer vibes, active leisure, and the pleasure of a day at the beach meet. The beach has a diving tower, children's pool, and volleyball courts, where various competitions are often held. The beach has all the necessary amenities, including changing cabins, lifeguards, toilets, and a summer beach café. At Verevi Beach Café, you can enjoy authentic Italian gelato and rent SUP boards. Near Verevi Beach is Elva Sports Park, which features a tennis court, outdoor gym, Elva City Stadium, Seeneriigi playground, and a running track under the pines. In winter, it is possible to sled down the lake slope and skate on the lake ice rink when ice conditions are favorable. Skates can be rented during the winter from Verevi Motel.
- Skiing
- Sports centres
- Bike Tours
- Walking tours

Kääriku recreational trails
In summer you can hike on the Kääriku recreational trails and in winter you can ski along the hills and valleys of the Otepää Upland. All the skiing, running, cycling and hiking trails are signposted, so you will always find your way safely back to the starting point. There are three hiking trails - the Running Track (5 km), the Lakeside Circuit (2.3 km) and the Seinamägi Hill Circuit (4.6 km). The latter is of particular interest to extreme sports enthusiasts. The Kekkonen hiking trail is perfect for cycling, and you can also cycle along the quiet bicycle and pedestrian track between Kääriku and Lake Pühajärv. The maps of the trails can be found on the homepage of Kääriku Sports Center.
Winter events
South Estonia’s winter has a calendar worth planning around.
The Tartu Ski Marathon is known as the Estonian Song Festival of Winter, one of the oldest and largest ski marathons in the world, part of the Worldloppet calendar, drawing thousands of participants from across the globe every February. The 63 km classic track runs from Otepää to Elva. The 31 km option exists for everyone else.
The European Sauna Marathon in Otepää is exactly what it sounds like and considerably more enjoyable than it has any right to be. The Haanja Skiing Marathon in March takes you through the highest terrain in the Baltics when the snow is still good and the days are getting longer.
Otepää is Estonia’s winter capital and regularly hosts international biathlon competitions, including the BMW IBU World Championships in February 2027.

In the bog
South Estonia’s bogs are ancient, open and vast. Walk into one and the treeline drops away, the sky gets bigger and the silence becomes something you can actually feel.
Räätsamatkad, bog hiking on wide wooden frames, gets you to the parts no ordinary trail reaches. The surface gives slightly underfoot. The bog pools reflect the sky. It’s one of those experiences that sounds marginal until you’re in the middle of it.
- Guided tours
- Skiing
- Walking tours
- Snowshoeing
- UNESCO

Mooska Adventure Trips
Mooska Adventure Trips offer a great opportunity to learn about Võru County's smoke sauna traditions and heritages. From smoking meat in the sauna during winter-time, to the smoking hole lined with stones method used in the summer. A hiking trip to Vällamägi in also available. According to the folk belief, Vällamägi is an especially sacred site and it fumes because it has an underground connection with the Baltic Sea. This expedition will help you explore the nature-based way of life led by Southern Estonians; while letting you take part in trips to breath-in fresh air, play orienteering games; or give you the chance to simply enjoy a Nordic walking or snowshoeing trip.Mooska Adventure Trips are best suited for groups of up to 12 people, though larger groups are encouraged to inquire! Each group is introduced to a suitable trail by a company representative, who will also provide additional information on the difficulty and duration of the trip.
- Snowshoeing

Snowshoe hike in Männikjärve bog
Come and enjoy nature and fresh air in Männikjärve bog.Our guide will take you to the bog landscape with snowshoes which is inaccessible by boardwalk.We will explore the bog and nature depending on the season while telling stories and legends, listening to the sounds of birds, and watching the animals.A bog trip is a great way to spend quality time with your family, group of friends, or colleagues.
- Snowshoeing

Bogshoe hikes in Valgesoo bog
Valgesoo is the smallest but the most fascinating bog in Põlva County; it conceals tiny bog islands, colonies of ants and hiding places of animals. The hike takes place in a nature reserve. In order to protect the surface of the bog, we are going to use bogshoes for hiking. The hike is led by an experienced guide. The route is exciting – it begins in a sandy pine grove, trails across a watery swamp to a raised bog and to the gigantic ant hills of a wood ant colony in an old fir grove. We are going to come back through a low pine forest growing in the bog and cross animal trails on the way. Your guide will talk about the mysterious nature of swamps, folk tales and the fascinating life of bog plants and bugs. If we're lucky, we'll be able to snack on cranberries. You can also have a picnic. Minimum size of the group - 4 people.
- Guided tours
- Snowshoeing

Snowshoe hike in Meenikunno Bog
Meenikunno Bog is one of the most exciting and unique bog landscapes in Southern Estonia, where nature is constantly changing. This young bog has not formed through the overgrowth of a lake, but through the swampification of land — the bog seems to "hang in the air," offering a rare opportunity to feel the ground sway beneath your feet during a bog hike. A 2-3 hour bog hike (up to 5 km) is suitable for beginners, nature enthusiasts, and families with older children. The length of the hike is adjusted to the group's wishes, and an experienced guide introduces the bog's formation, folklore, and the area's biodiversity. Along the way, you may encounter cranes, swans, or even capercaillies. It is an ideal destination for those seeking peace, adventure, and authentic Estonian nature. Guided bog hikes take place year-round; in winter, Meenikunno offers white expanses, enjoyable views, and easy movement; in early summer, a sea of blooming plants; and in autumn, a bubbling play of colors. Bog hikes can also be ordered as a lantern hike. End the hike with a catered meal by the campfire!
- Snowshoeing

Nature Tours Estonia winter snowshoe hike on Emajõe-Suursoo winter trails
On this snowshoe hike, we travel along the historic winter roads of Emajõe-Suursoo with a local guide. These roads were used over 100 years ago and served as direct routes across marshes and bogs. The winter roads connected isolated communities, and people traveled along them by horse to church, the city, neighboring homes, or weddings. Today, these forgotten roads are only used by wild animals. Emajõe-Suursoo is a charmingly wild natural landscape just 45 km from Tartu. On the hike, we will admire several beautiful primeval forest islands in Emajõe-Suursoo, enjoy the winter silence of the bogs, the wild beauty of nature, and the expansive landscapes. We will surely see traces of activity from the local four-legged and winged inhabitants, as the area is rich in wildlife. We make several stops and definitely taste juicy red cranberries straight from the frozen bog. The hike also includes a small snack break of pastries and hot tea! Come on an adventure with snowshoes on ancient winter roads!
- Guided tours
- Snowshoeing

Bogshoe hike in Meenikunno Bog
Meenikunno Bog is one of the most beautiful bogs in South Estonia. It has a diverse fauna and birdlife, picturesque open lakes and numerous bog islands! Guided bogshoe hikes offer a wealth of new and exciting knowledge about the formation of bogs, their unique nature, flora, and fauna. The hike includes the service of a guide, snowshoes, walking sticks, and hot tea in cold weather. At the end of the hike, you can order a luxurious forest restaurant meal or a simple, refreshing picnic lunch. Register for a public hike, either alone or with a smaller group, via the hiking calendar. A bogshoe hike is a journey of discovery!
- Snowshoeing

Bog shoeing on the edge of Europe
A bog shoeing (snowshoeing) trip that stimulates your fancy will take you to the frontier where European and Slavonic cultures meet in a swamp area on the border between Estonia and Russia. We can hike through diverse landscapes and habitats in the diverse Lämmijärve wetland. We will pass through thick reeds, jump over ditches, wakj over bog islands and pass swamp lakes and rivers. We will also take a look at a beaver habitat, places where roes sleep, catch a glimpse of Russia, visit the giant burial mounds of the ancient inhabitants and talk about the local culture and its primeval origins. If we are lucky, we can also see grey herons, predatory birds and water fowls, beavers and foxes.Accommodation and sauna: in Mäe Nature House or Värska Spa and Hotel.
- Pet friendly
- Guided tours
- Snowshoeing

Nature Tours Estonia bogshoe hike in Emajõe-Suursoo
Emajõe-Suursoo, located in Tartu County, is home to dozens of bog islands and pristine nature, where a local guide can take you on an adventure. Since humans rarely set foot here, the area is home to a diverse range of species. Using bogshoes, we will walk across the bog islands and explore their primeval forests. We will definitely see traces of animal and bird activity and maybe even meet the local inhabitants themselves. If you are lucky, you may find a proud eagle owl or moose antlers during the hike. The trip also includes a light snack. The hike is suitable for children aged 12 and above. Friendly pets are welcome too!
- Pet friendly
- Guided tours
- Walking tours
- Snowshoeing

Nature Tours Estonia overnight bog hike
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!
- Guided tours
- Walking tours
- Snowshoeing

Hike on the paths and in the footsteps of Sangaste’s Rye Count
We start by meeting in the car park of the Sangaste castle by the yellow window of NG, and will continue from there by bus.The first part of the hike takes us through the Valli quaking swamp on bogshoes. From there, we are going to move closer to the forest park, take a look at the rare species of trees in the dendrological park and enjoy the views across the Juudaoru valley.There will be a picnic at a mystical campfire site.The hike ends in the castle park where you will learn about the history of the manor and rye up to the formation of the cooperation network of Rukkiküla. We will also test the famous echo effect of the castle.
- Guided tours
- Snowshoeing

Bogshoe hike in Laukasoo mire in Tartu County
During the four-hour hike, we will walk a few long and a couple of short kilometres in Laukasoo mire. We will visit Pähklisaar, which is a military heritage and a primeval nature site. Pähklisaar is a swamp island in Laukasoo, surrounded by picturesque swamp lakes, additionally, a century-old aspen grows there. It is said that a Swedish king's gold and silver treasure is buried on Pähklisaare and has not yet been found, which adds to the excitement. Pähklisaar, as many other swamp islands, was used by the Forest Brothers as a location for their bunker. We will also take a look at a milled peat production area.Everyone that can walk in snow, can also walk with bogshoes in a swamp.
Rally Estonia
Rally Estonia joined the World Rally Championship in 2020 and quickly gained a reputation as a fan favourite, thanks to its slick organisation, massive crowds and full-send stage designs. The stages run across wide, high-speed forest roads and narrower technical sections through South Estonia’s rolling landscape, with flat-out crests and high-speed compression zones keeping drivers on edge from start to finish. Estonia regularly sees some of the fastest average stage speeds in the entire WRC.
The rally is based in Tartu, with stages running through Otepää, Elva, Kanepi and the Lake Peipsi area. The opening ceremony takes place on Tartu Town Hall Square. The rest happens on the gravel roads outside the city, which turn out to be some of the best rally roads in the world.
WRC Delfi Rally Estonia 2026 takes place from July 16 to 19.


Birdwatching
Over a million migratory birds use Lake Peipsi as a resting place each year. In autumn, nearly the entire population of Bewick’s swans stops here on their way to Western Europe.The Emajõgi floodplains, Meenikunno bog and Räpina polder add to the picture – each a different ecosystem, each with its own species list.
Serious birdwatchers plan trips around this. Casual visitors are usually surprised by what they see on a morning walk.
Golf
South Estonia is not the first place most golfers think of. It should be. The courses here sit in some of the best natural settings in Northern Europe, ancient forests, lakes between the fairways, rolling hills that make the terrain interesting rather than just difficult. The season runs from May to November and the fairways are almost never crowded.
Otepää Golf & Country Club is the flagship, a Championship PAR73 course laid out through ancient forest between two lakes in Otepää Nature Park. The terrain rolls, the scenery does half the work, and the PAR6 10th hole is one of the few of its kind in the Nordic countries. After the round, the same hills that challenged your approach shots become ski trails in winter.

Disc golf
Estonia has the highest density of disc golf courses per square kilometre of any country and South Estonia has some of the best of them. Forested courses, rolling terrain, almost no queues. Kristin Tattar’s back-to-back World Championship wins in 2022 and 2023 sparked a disc golf boom here and the courses are the legacy.
- Disc golf

Alatskivi disc golf park
Disc golf is a sport that can simultaneously be a fun hobby, a pleasant pastime with friends, a health-promoting form of exercise, or even a serious top-level sport. In the beautiful, historical surroundings of Alatskivi Castle's park in Tartu County, a disc golf course with 10 baskets awaits you, with a total par of 30 and a course length of 1077 meters. The course offers challenges for both beginner players and more experienced enthusiasts, as it is designed to suit players of all ages and skill levels. The park's naturally inspiring atmosphere makes the experience even more special. The disc golf course is open to players around the clock, allowing you to come and play whenever it suits you. Discs can be borrowed free of charge from Alatskivi Castle's reception desk during the castle's opening hours, provided an identity document is presented. Grab the discs, invite your friends, and head to Alatskivi Castle Park. Enjoy a game, nature, and the unique atmosphere of the castle's garden!
- Disc golf

Sportland Prodigy Elva Disc Golf Park
The 18-course Sportland Prodigy Disc Golf Park, which is located in Mahlamäe, Elva, welcomes all disc golf enthusiasts and those who have never played it.The courses are situated on a diverse 2.7 km trail in the forest and are the perfect place to spend some lovely time in the wild. We do not rent discs here. Discs can be rented from the Nõo Sports Centre (according to the price list) or from the Discgolfar.ee Training Centre in Tartu (12 Pikk Street). The training centre is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Monday to Friday and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. Phone: +372 53340313.We also organise trainings!
- Disc golf

Tehvandi Disc Golf Park
Tehvandi Disc Golf Park is located in Otepää, on the hilly grounds of the Tehvandi Sports Center. It consists of a driving range and 18 baskets of different lengths. The disc golf park's winter, half-length 9-basket course starts and ends at the Tehvandi Hotel and runs around the historic Otepää Hill Fort. Discs can be rented from the Tehvandi Hotel front desk, which also has a map of the course that you can take with you. Fresh air and nature await — disc golf is a good way to spend time with family and friends. Come and see for yourself!
- Disc golf

Terminal Oil Annikoru Disc Golf Park powered by DiscSport
Terminal Oil Annikoru Disc Golf Park has 18 courses of different lengths, which are suitable for both skilled players as well as beginners. The 2.0 km long winding course is located in a picturesque pine forest.Disc rental is not available on site. Discs can be rented from Nõo Sports Hall on the basis of the price list or from the Tartu Festival Arena information desk based on the price list by presenting an identity document. Discs can be rented at the Tartu Festival Arena from Monday to Sunday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. The discs must be returned to the information desk no later than 8 p.m. on the same day.Terminal Oil Annikoru disc golf park powered by DiscSport is CLOSED during the winter period.
- Disc golf

Tõrva disc golf park
Tõrva disc golf park has 18 baskets. The course runs mainly on forest trails, but there are also baskets on clearings.
- Disc golf

Tartu County Recreational Sports Centre disc golf park
Tartu County Recreational Sports Centre disc golf park offers enjoyable active recreation in a beautiful forested park in South Estonia. The 9-basket course is suitable for both first-time players and more experienced disc golfers, offering varied terrain, exciting throws, and a nature-friendly playing experience. For the convenience of visitors, the course starts and ends in the immediate vicinity of the Tartu County Recreational Sports Centre's main building. Disc golf discs can be rented on-site during the center's opening hours, so no prior preparation or personal equipment is required to play. The disc golf park is well-suited for both a short stopover and a longer active day, which can easily be combined with other leisure activities offered by Tartu County Recreational Sports Centre. At Tartu County Recreational Sports Centre, visitors are also welcomed by archery ranges, sports fields, and shooting ranges, as well as accommodation options in the caravan park, hostel, and camping and tent area, offering several opportunities for a longer holiday.
- Disc golf

Kubija Discgolf Park
There is an 18-hole discgolf park near the Kubija Lake in Võru. It is mainly meant for beginners. The tracks are marked with maps and there are directions to the next track at the bottom of the baskets. Players must bring their own discs. The first track begins in front of Kubija Song Festival Grounds.
- Disc golf

Tartu Tähtvere Dendro Disc Golf Park
The disc golf course at the arboretum of Tähtvere Leisure Park has 18 holes with a wide range of hole lengths. The total length of the course is almost 2 kilometres. Discs can be rented from the Information Desk of Tartu Festival Arena based on a price list. The rental package includes a returnable game guide and a scorecard for players to use.Completing the entire track takes up to two hours.NB! Discs are not rented during major events at the arena. You can find the schedule of events here.In the disc golf course at the arboretum of Tähtvere Leisure Park, you can enjoy the greenery of Tartu without leaving the city.
When you seek more
- Walking tours
- Disc golf

Hummuli health trail
- Guided tours
- Boat trips

Cruises on Lake Peipsi with the Mesi Tare pleasure boat
- Skiing
- Sports centres
- Bike Tours
- Walking tours
- Disc golf

Tehvandi health trails
- Guided tours
- Boat trips

Guided tour by Mesi Tare “Discovering the Onion Route by boat from Lake Peipsi”

Sports fields at Tartu County Recreational Sports Centre
- Guided tours
- Bike Tours

Urban Space Bike Tours in Tartu
- Guided tours
- Canoeing

Suur Seiklus canoe trips on Estonian rivers
- Skiing
- Snowboarding
- Sports centres
- Tubing

Lüllemäe Ski Land
- Adventure games
