You will certainly notice the Von Bock House (1780) at Ülikooli 16 in the centre of Tartu, which used to belong to Oberst MJ von Bock. The University of Tartu bought the building in 1839. The house was renovated and reopened in 2007. There is a mural that depicts the main building of the University of Tartu on the building’s wall that faces the Town Hall and an exhibition of Alar Madisson’s photos of current lecturers and legendary professors of the University of Tartu is up on the wall next to Jakobi Street.Interesting facts: - the Von Bock has been the home of the University of Tartu Clinic, a veterinary school and the library of the Learned Estonian Society in different times. The building currently belongs to the University of Tartu.
Although West Estonia is known to most of people as a place to observe migratory birds in the spring, then Southeast Estonia is almost as fascinating. At Lämmijärv and its surrounding region it is possible to encounter various migratory waterfowls and local eagles. In addition, we also have virgin forests with rivers and wetlands, where one can observe different species of owls, woodpeckers, hazel grouses and forest birds such as crossbills, northern goshawks, river kingfishers, etc. You can encounter a moose or hear the howling of a wolf. I offer tours for both beginners (binoculars and a fieldscope are included in the price) and experienced observers - from 3 hours to several days, including accommodation. More information can be found from website.
The Estonian Aviation Museum near Tartu is an exciting destination for aviation enthusiasts and families! Here you can see rare planes and helicopters from various countries, including the USA, England, and France. The indoor and outdoor areas display anti-aircraft weapons and an aviation collection consisting of over 500 models, which provides a valuable overview of the history of aviation. It is also possible to peek inside the planes. In addition to the exhibition, the museum offers plenty of experiences, including a 20-meter catapult, various flight simulators, and trampolines. The Aviation Museum can host lectures and company and family events.
Otepää Apartments offers accommodation with all comforts in the heart of Otepää, facing the Otepää Town Hall on the Flag Square (Lipuväljak). We welcome families, enthusiasts of both active vacations and nature, and business tourists. All apartments have a separate entrance from the hallway, and the rooms have a WC/shower, a kitchenette, a TV, and Wi-Fi. There are eight guest apartments, seven of which have one room with two beds, and one apartment has two rooms with two beds, and the possibility to bring in two extra beds. Free parking in a parking lot next to the building. On the ground floor of the building, there is a hair salon and a pizza bar. It is also possible to rent a sauna with a fireplace room and a kitchen.
In Alatskivi, make sure you also visit Alatskivi Church (1636) in addition to the castle. The unique church on Kirikumägi Hill was built by manor owner Stackelberg in 1777–1782. It was later altered and its layout was given the shape of a cross. W. Nolcken’s painting "Last Supper" adorns the altar of the church. The organ was made by Müllerstaedt in 1868.Alatskivi Church has been recognised as a cultural monument. Church services take place at 12.30 p.m. on Sundays; during that time, you can also view the interior of the church.Interesting to know: the graves of important contributors to local culture at Alatskivi cemetery are under national protection.
Art Hotel Pallas offers comfortable and affordable accommodation in the heart of Tartu, where the Old Town and modern buildings meet. The interior design of the hotel's rooms, which received the Annual Award of the Estonian Association of Architects, is inspired by the works of artists of the Pallas school of the 1920s. The colorful rooms located on the three upper floors of the building offer views of the city or the quiet courtyard. For these reasons, Art Hotel Pallas has become a favorite hotel in Tartu for scientists and creative people, culture and sports enthusiasts, families, lovers and thrill seekers!
The Saatse Museum's main building was originally a residential building, then a school building, and now it's a museum. What makes Saatse Museum special are the texts painted on the wall and the opportunity to watch old film clips about the history and religion of Setomaa. The former classroom on the upper floor is set up in the style of the Soviet era. The museum has a spacious outdoor area and a small stage, so it's a nice place to have a picnic. A small hiking trail runs along the border and starts and ends at the museum — it can be walked even when the museum is closed.
The 2 km long hiking trail of Lõunalaager is established on the former grounds of the Estonian Defence Forces' Lõunalaager. In 1920, an impressive military complex was built here, where infantrymen practiced during the summer. Although nothing remains of the buildings, the shimmering reservoir among the trees, the old bridge, several foundation stones, and trenches speak of the realities of that time. Information boards provide additional reading about the past. It's an experience to perceive how quickly nature hides everything once made by humans. The Lõunalaager hiking trail offers a unique opportunity to combine a light nature walk with the heritage of Estonia's military history. The natural course of the trail around the reservoir and over the old bridge creates a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere. The RMK campfire site allows for a rest break and, if necessary, camping. The trail is marked, and information boards help understand the area's significance in the history of the Estonian Defence Forces. Crossing with the shooting range cycling trail offers an additional opportunity for longer movement – thus, a more sporty day loop can be initiated from Lõunalaager.