Soontaga hiking trail

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!

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.

Elistvere study trail is located in Elistvere village, Tartu County. The trail is 2 km long back and forth and starts at the Elistvere Animal Park. At the end of the study trail you will find the magical Lake Elistvere with an observation tower offering a great view to the flora surrounding the lake and animals running in the bushy greenery. The information boards at the road help the visitors and there are several observation platforms. The trail can be completed in a wheelchair and with a children's stroller as well.The study trail can be accessed only during the opening hours of the animal park. The animal park has an entrance fee.

The two Taevaskoda outcrops on the banks of the ancient valley of the Ahja River are one of the most frequently visited sites in southern Estonia. The sandstone outcrops and the ancient river form the most beautiful part of the Ahja River Landscape Reserve. Legends speak of caves, secret passageways and of demons and a mermaid with a golden comb. A walk from the Saesaare dam to the Small Taevaskoda outcrop, the Emaläte spring, the Neitsikoobas cave and the Large Taevaskoda outcrop, which rises 22.5 metres above the river, is worth undertaking in every season. The beautiful and exciting natural setting attracts hikers – it is a place that every Estonian visits at least once in their life!

there are three different hiking trails with a length of 3.8 km, 4.3 km and 4.7 km in the Paganamaa , just off the Latvian border in plus, there's a gazebo in . All trails begin at the Paganamaa bonfire site, where a beautiful view of Paganamaa nature can be enjoyed from the tower. on the trails, you'll see a mixed forest with a primeval forest appearance and an old Kazik, with Kikkajärv and greater Mudajärv on the road. at the beginning of the hiking trails, there's also a resting place, which is a good place for bonfire making, camping, camping.

The 3-kilometre-long Sangaste forest park trail is located in Kiidjärve-Kooraste Recreation Area and starts from the forest park behind the Sangaste Castle.The trail introduces the forest park, founded by Count Friedrich Magnus Berg, where nearly a few hundred different species of trees and shrubs are represented. The trail has signs, stairs, bridges, and information boards that introduce the forest park and the various species of trees. There's also a campfire site on the trail with a fire pit, benches, a toilet, and a wood shed, which can also be used as a shelter.Interesting fact: Estonia's tallest, a 42-metre-tall Douglas tree grows in the park. It's possible to visit the Sangaste Castle during opening hours.

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.

Climbing to the top of Munamägi Hill is worth the effort – the view covers more than 50 km. The absolute height of Väike or Otepää Munamägi Hill is 207.5 m (relative height exceeds 80 m). There is a spring on the north-eastern slope of Väike Munamägi (in the direction of Otepää) that has been considered the start of the Väike Emajõgi River for a long time. The boulder on the edge of the first plain is the biggest in the area – 250,000 kg. Take a look at the aerial panorama (picture by Joel Tammet).