Harimägi and Harimäe Observation Tower

Tellingumäe's 25-meter-high observation tower offers a beautiful view of the winding Mustjõgi gorges and the hilly landscape typical of South Estonia. Latvia can be seen in the distance, as nearby the Mustjõe River joins the Koiva (Gauja) River on the Estonian-Latvian border. Tellingumäe observation tower is a great place to observe nature and birds. Several rare bird species can be found here. The tower has an RMK campfire site and marked cycling and hiking trails of different lengths, like the Estonian-Latvian joint cultural heritage trail and the Koiva Cycling Trail.

The viewing platform at Tehvandi's ski jumping hill is a unique attraction. From a height of 34 meters, watch ski jumpers training or competing or just enjoy the view. There is an entrance fee, and the platform is accessible by stairs or elevator. The viewing platform, which is part of the Tehvandi K90 ski jump complex, is 218 meters above sea level and offers a view of the city of Otepää and the surrounding landscape. The tower is the second tallest observation tower in South Estonia after the Suur Munamägi observation tower. Come and enjoy the views of the Otepää highlands in any weather!

Räpina polder on the banks of Lake Lämmijärv is a bird-nesting area of international importance. It is a place of nesting and migrating through for many protected bird species. Of the species that nest here, the prominent ones from the perspective of bird protection are corn crake, black tern and little gull, to whom the Räpina polder is one of the best areas in Estonia. Of the migratory birds, the most important species are crane and white-fronted goose. The polder is an important place of nesting and stopping also for waterfowls and Charadriiformers. Up to 1.5 million birds pass through this area during the migration period. The area is the most important assembling area of migratory birds in Eastern Estonia. There are watchtowers for bird watching.

Pühajärv, with its picturesque winding shoreline and four islands, is the largest lake in Otepää Nature Park. At the northern tip of Pühajärv, there is a beach area with a beach house, ball courts, a children's playground, recreation areas, a café, and a boat harbor. At the southern tip is the Kooliranna recreation area, and from there begins the Väike Emajõgi, which meanders through Valgamaa. Pühajärve Park is the starting point for the Murrumetsa hiking trail, and around the lake runs the 12 km long Pühajärve hiking trail, which passes by the lake's most famous spring, the Armuallikas. In winter, when weather conditions are suitable, an ice trail is created on the lake for hiking, and a winter swimming area is open at Pühajärve Beach.Pühajärv has provided plenty of inspiration for writers and artists. For example, Fridebert Tuglas and Eino Leino have vacationed here. Information about Konrad Mägi's Pühajärv paintings can be found on an info board by the lakeshore near the GMP Pühajärve restaurant. In 1991, the Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, visited Otepää and blessed the lake, an event commemorated by a wooden sculpture on the shore of Pühajärve Park.

Toomemäe Park, a natural hill with a rich history, is one of the favorite places for Tartu residents to enjoy greenery without leaving the city. In the cathedral located here, you can visit the University of Tartu Museum, which provides an overview of the university's history and scientific research, and enjoy the views from the towers' observation platforms. While walking in the romantic English-style park, don't miss the beautiful Angel Bridge with its twin Devil's Bridge, statues, outdoor exhibitions, and university buildings, such as the observatory and the old anatomical museum. The park is accessible with a stroller, there is a playground for toddlers and a sports park for more active visitors.

The 2.2 km hiking trail in Kavadi runs along the banks of Lake Kavadi. The hiking trail begins and ends in New-Salus Park, which has a resting place, campfires with barbecue grilles and a campsite. The trail with the direction of travel winds both along the shore lane and under the forest. Lake Kavadi is considered the most articulated shore-lined lake in Estonia. The surface area of the lake is 27.4 ha. The current size and look have been acquired by the lake some 140 years ago when Baron C. FR. von Maydell, who bought the New-Salus mansion, swelled up three small swamp lakes.

The Elva primeval valley hiking trail is a 15.5 km long trail located in the Elva landscape protection area with alternating terrain for those who want to hike for several days. On the trail, you will find various forest landscapes, sandstone outcrops, wonderful forest lakes, Viti observation tower, floodplain meadows, trenches, beavers, and the kingdom of ants. There is also a Witch's House and Adventure Trail on the trail.The primeval valley trail starts and ends at the Tartu County Recreational Sports Centre. The scheme of the hiking trail with camping and campfire sites (including the Illi camping area) can be found HERE. The black or yellow numbers on the track indicate the kilometers travelled.Please respect the nature while you're here!

In Tartu County, near the Elva railway station, the Väike Väerada trail is one of the area's most popular hiking paths. It is special because of the wooden sculptures inspired by Estonian fairy tales and created by local artists. Small but mighty, Väerada has a healing effect on both the mind and body. The nature trail offers experiences for hikers of all ages and is suitable for exploration year-round. The attractive sculptures not only adorn the trail but also guide the correct path. The forest trail includes several resting spots and exciting attractions for children, making the journey even more enjoyable. The hiking trail ends at the Tartumaa Health Sports Center, where you can continue adventuring on other forest trails, play disc golf, or enjoy playground fun with children under the beautiful pines. Come take a walk in nature, discover fairy-tale sculptures, and let Elva Väerada offer you peace and experience in every season.