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.
In the heart of the town of Elva, located in Tartu County, lies the scenic Arbi Lake, offering visual beauty with its rich vegetation, illuminated nature trails, and surrounding pine forest, as well as plenty of activities for every visitor. The 1.2 km-long circular gravel path by the lake starts at the beach and is ideal for walking, running, and cycling. The promenade offers various leisure opportunities – here you can relax, enjoy the quiet and beautiful views, or taste currants picked directly from the bush. Near the lake is the Elva Cultural Center, where you can visit free exhibitions and learn about local life. Hansen Avenue, which intersects with the nature trail and offers excellent views of the lake, is a popular spot for walkers and has served as a romantic setting for several weddings. Along the nature trail, there are 10 information boards and stands that offer a comprehensive overview of life around Arbi Lake and its shores, revealing the long-term connection between humans and the lake.
Lake Kiidjärv is the perfect place to enjoy the beach or summer evenings: there is a sandy beach, two swimming bridges, and a small playground for children. Swim at the beach at your own risk! Kiidjärve Manor Park is located near the swimming area.Nearby are Kiidjärve Water Mill, RMK Kiidjärve Visitor Centre, Roiupalu study trail (800 m), Valgesoo bog study trail and watchtower (3.5 km), and Large Taevaskoda sandstone outcrop (3.5 km).The buildings of Kiidjärve Manor were built in the second half of the 18th century and the park was probably built at the same time. The manor house was destroyed in a fire in 1950, but some smaller buildings have been preserved, such as a granary-drier.
The Tamula lake beach is located in the city of Võru. The beach is interestingly designed, modernly landscaped and maintained, equipped with changing cabins and attractions offering various activities. You can play football and volleyball, climb on the net, build sandcastles, sunbathe on the grass or sandy beach. The beach promenade, 800 meters long, starts at the Tamula hotel and extends to the Roosisaare bridge. During the swimming season, lifeguards ensure safety. On the beach playground, children are welcomed in summer by climbing nets, ball courts, and various swings. In addition, it is pleasant to walk or simply enjoy the moment by Tamula lake — the mirror-like surface of the lake and birdsong create a peaceful atmosphere in every season. In the evenings, the beach offers views of picturesque sunsets, making this place a favorite for photographers and romantics. Nearby parks, cafes, and terraces offer the opportunity to enjoy coffee or ice cream with a view of the lake. Concerts and events are also organized along the promenade during the summer months, bringing life and buzz to the Tamula area.
Families with children are particularly welcome in the Lake Pühajärv Park as there are many opportunities to feed ducks and other birds when walking on the lakeshore. There is an exercise track by the northern part of the park. This is also the place where you will find the beach with a beach house, cafés, arbours and boat hire.The park used to be a part of the Pühajärv Manor Park and it was designed as a walking forest with paths already in the 19th century. The park is mainly a naturally grown forest.
The recreation area by Lake Pangodi is a popular holiday destination, offering a variety of opportunities to enjoy nature. In the holiday complex, you can swim, camp, and make a campfire. The large lawn by the sandy beach has a children's playground with active holiday elements and a volleyball court. At the beginning of the recreation area, there is a parking lot that can accommodate up to 30 cars. The Pangodi camping area is by the lake, where you can find three campfire sites with canopies and benches. Along the Pikksaare hiking trail (1 km) starting from the car park, you will reach the Pangodi campfire site, which is about 500 m from the crowded camping area in the Pangodi park forest. Be respectful to nature!
Erastvere is one of the oldest settlements near Põlva. There is an old manor park with the tallest lime-tree in Estonia, with the height of 35 m. A chapel of the noble German family von Ungern-Sternberg which is built on the foundation of the former Church of Mary and called after the last family member born in Estonia – Gerhard – is located in the middle of the park. The park also includes the fascinating Lake Erastvere which offers good opportunities to bathe, camp and spend a good time. The Ahja River starts from the north-eastern part of Lake Erastvere.
Lake Kamari recreation area has become an extremely popular destination among holiday-makers for its beautiful views and forests. There are two jetties, areas for beach volleyball and football, a shower and toilets, benches and a playground for small children with swings and a slide. The swimming area is marked by buoys and there is also a children's pool.