The central square of Võru, dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Estonia, is unique for its urban furniture. The word furniture originates from the Latin word mobilis – movable. Today, the square is in constant transformation, reflecting the character of different events – sometimes it's a market square, at other times a concert hall, and in winter, a magical Christmas land. The central square is the historical heart of Võru, surrounded by the Government House (1938), the Lutheran St. Catherine’s Church (1793), the grammar school building (the oldest house in the city, 18th century), the fire station (1900), the Apostolic St. Catherine’s Church (1804), and the bank building (1938). The renewed central square was opened in 2019, designed by architect Villem Tomiste. Taking a step onto the square brings you into a space where past and present blend seamlessly. There’s room here for both reflection and liveliness – for meeting old friends, spending time with family, or simply being in the moment. Võru’s central square is more than just a plaza – it’s a living meeting place that invites everyone to pause, enjoy, and experience. Come to the heart of Võru – to where the city lives and breathes.
At the Liiv Museum, visitors can experience the environment that 19th-century Estonian peasants lived in. The guided tour gives an overview of the three cultures characteristic of the region. Two main elements are combined - the life of an Estonian peasant and the life and work of Juhan Liiv in the context of Estonian culture.The main farm buildings, objects, and their functions are all introduced.In seeing the life of the peasants, it becomes clear under what conditions Juhan Liiv grew up. Studying the life of the writer and poet gives the visitors ideas about very different parts of his life.It is possible to vary the topics based on the interests of the group visiting.
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.
A hike about a kilometre long with a guide and lanterns on the territory of Kalevipoeg's Home. We will visit the local history exhibition in ancient buildings and the playground, pass through a pine forest and the adventure park. We will drink tea that has been boiled on a campfire.Suitable for groups of different ages - kindergarten children, school groups, groups of coworkers, families, friend groups, etc. Catering can also be arranged and rooms can be rented in the community centre or museum. The lantern tour can be a part of your visit or a special occasion for a visit.Addditionally, you can visit the Kalevipoeg Museum and go sledding, ice skating and tubing in winter when there's snow.
The glass walls of the Pühajärve Spa & Holiday Resort Swimming Pool offer magnificent views of Lake Pühajärv and the manor park that surrounds the hotel. You can enjoy underwater music and the pleasant sensations created by massage streams when swimming in the large, 25 m and four-lane pool.shallow end of the pool is 1.05 m deep and the depth of the deep end is 1.85 m, the water temperature is 27 °C. There is a large, relaxing Jacuzzi next to the swimming pool and a there is also a safe children’s pool. You can also use a vapour sauna and a steam sauna.
In the embrace of the Emajõgi River and chestnut trees, Herb Spa offers a sense of peace and privacy. Our carefully selected rituals help guests relax and find balance. You can enjoy massages and a variety of facial and body treatments, including pedicures and manicures. You can enjoy a dual massage with your loved one or come for a pedicure with a friend. We also cater to children, offering treatments for both girls and boys. If you book multiple treatments in a row, you can enjoy your visit even longer. The most popular services at the spa are the Herb® classic massage, manicure with gel polish, pedicure with gel polish, facial, neck and head massage, eyebrow coloring and shaping, Herb® massage retreat, and physiotherapeutic muscle care. Our professional staff is always ready to offer you the best service. We await you in the heart of Tartu, on the first floor of the Dorpat Hotel.
Did you know that historically, there were nine manor houses in Tartu? The city of Tartu has expanded in all directions to the areas of former manors, and several districts have been named after these manors. Seven of them still exist and are waiting for you to visit.As part of the guided tour 'Tartu City Manors', we will visit five manors: Tähtvere, Maarjamõisa, Tamme, Ropka, and Karlova. We can take the tour by bike, car, or bus and you can order it in Estonian, English, German, French, Russian, Lithuanian, or Spanish.Contact us and let's explore the historic manors!
Sailing along the Emajõgi River, over the Peipus, Võrtsjärv, and Saadjärv lakes, as well as out at sea, the Viking ship "Turm" is an open vessel which sets out on voyages between May and September each year. Able to accommodate up to 12 passengers: larger groups can take turns enjoying the Viking fun at sea or on shore. In addition to voyaging on water, you can take part in exciting Viking games, and show that you've got the strength required for the journey. Sailing on the "Turm" is best suited to older children, teenagers, young adults, and those who enjoy physical exercise.