Elistvere study trail

The 7-kilometre-long Rebäse landscape trail is located in the Karula National Park. The trail runs through old farm landscapes, passing the oldest farmstead in the area and the Linnamägi hill with traces of settlement from the Early Iron Age. Hikers can climb up the local "Mount Ararat", see Lake Raudjärv with its ice-cold water, and admire one of the largest gullies of Karula upland.You may need sturdy boots to pass the trail because in rainy weather the trail might be muddy and the boardwalk slippery. The trail also passes pastures, so you might encounter curious but generally friendly cows. Be careful around farm fences, they may be electric!

The Valgesoo watchtower is located in the Valgesoo bog, which represents one of the 21 places worth discovering in South Estonia and is recommended for all nature enthusiasts.With its eye-catching design, the watchtower overlooks the Valgesoo bog, the pristine-looking primeval forest, and the Baron's pine forest (Parunimännik) and the study trail that runs through it. The 29.7 m high metal watchtower has three intermediate platforms, the last of which is 23.8 m high, with a wind screen and seat benches in the centre. The State Forest Management Centre's campfire site and camping area for up to five tents are nearby.

An exciting hiking trail runs along the banks of the Koiva River, which borders Estonia and Latvia. You can discover points important to both countries' cultural heritage along the trail! The trail is 22 kilometers long, so there and back comes to 44 kilometers. The trail introduces old Estonians' way of life and offers the opportunity to get acquainted with historical heritage in the middle of nature. The trail includes, for example, Taheva Manor, a windmill, the ruins of a hay barn, and ancient trees. There are several campfire sites and camping sites. The trail is signposted and equipped with information boards in Estonian, Latvian, and English, and it can also be completed by bike.

The 100-km-long downriver marathon runs on the Võhandu River in Võru and Põlva counties and is open all year round on ice-free days.The marathon starts from Võru town, on Lake Tamula and ends in Võõpsu village, Põlva County. The Võhandu River is surrounded by steep forest banks and numerous upright sandstone outcrops. There are several springs and spring caves in the rock walls and valleys. The Võhandu River provides a great rowing experience.Every year, on the third weekend of April, the world’s largest paddle marathon, the Võhandu Marathon, takes place on the Võhandu River, with 1,200 boats and more than 2,500 participants.

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!

The study trail is well-suited for getting acquainted with the development and vegetation of bogs and for observing pine cultures. A 1.8 km long circular study trail revolves around the Valgesoo bog. On the she study trail you can explore the bog vegetation, old pine plantation ("Baron's pine forest"), and a forest edge rich of Scottish wood ants. The whole trail is accessible by a wheelchair or stroller. To facilitate movement on the track, there is a track map and colour markings on the trees. There is an observation tower and a campfire site at the start of the study trail.Valgesoo bog is one of the 21 places worth discovering in Southern Estonia, which is suggested to be visited for those who are interested in nature.

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.

Karula National Park is Estonia's smallest national park, characterized by a hilly landscape rich in lakes, with 60 lakes on the highland. The national park is open to everyone: families, backpackers, and nature enthusiasts, offering various opportunities for relaxation and hiking. At the visitor center located by Lake Ähijärv, you can get information about the opportunities available in the national park, and the permanent exhibition there introduces the history, nature, folk culture of the Karula region, as well as the modern lifestyle. The heart of the national park is Lake Ähijärv, which is ideal for boating, swimming, and enjoying nature. Hiking enthusiasts are awaited by well-maintained trails that lead through forests, wooded meadows, and hilly landscapes, offering views unique to Karula. Popular destinations include the Rebäse hiking trail, Lüllemäe observation tower, and Kaika hillocks, which offer a great view of the rolling landscape. The national park has plenty of camping and bonfire sites, as well as natural swimming spots, making it suitable for both day trips and longer vacations.