Fairy Trail

Harimägi is one of the largest mesas in the Otepää Uplands (211 m above sea level). It is worth coming to Harimäe whenever you are near Otepää. The Harimäe Observation Tower is located 3 km from Kääriku in the direction of Sangaste. The height of the tower is 28 m, and the highest viewing platform is 24 m high. The tower offers views of the Otepää mountains and across the Väike Emajõgi valley to the Karula upland. Camping is also allowed at the tower. Good to know: Harimägi is also called 'Leenard and Leonhard's hill.' From 1816 to 1819, geodetic surveys were carried out here by the internationally recognised astronomer and surveyor Friedrich Georg Wilhelm Struwe (1793–1864).

Looking for a family-friendly zoo in South Estonia? Kaasiku Farm Zoo is the perfect place for both small and large animal lovers. Here, you can meet both domestic and exotic animals, including a desert fox, a python, and a parrot. The zoo is home to more than 200 animals from more than 60 species, each with its own unique name and story, which the hosts will gladly share with interested visitors. The zoo offers a cozy environment where you can look at animals, feed them, and pet them. It's the perfect place for a memorable day in the wild with family or friends. Come and discover a new animal species for yourself!

Kirna’s 6.8 km study trail provides a good opportunity to explore the Pedja River meadows and forest. To gain a better view of the meadows and river, the Altmetsa Farm has an observation tower. A suspension bridge helps to cross the river. On the right bank of the Pedja River, you will find the magnificent oak tree Musutamm. The trails of wild boars and beavers can also be seen on the study trail.While on the trail, you might hear gunfire as the Kirna Training Centre of the Defence League is close by. The access roads to the meadows intersect the study trail in several places, please carefully follow the trail marking!

There is a lovely recreation area on Aruküla hill in Kaarepere which is perfect for families, friends, and larger groups.There is a playground with swings and a slide, especially loved by younger children.You can rest under the shelter or on benches or your own picnic blanket. Barbecue facilities are also available on site.Visitors can also play disc golf (there is a rental point).The Struve Geodetic Arc is also located in the recreation area.The view of Vooremaa from the hill is magnificent and there is plenty of room for camping.

Discover Saadjärv and take a break on a raft trip starting from the Ice Age Centre. This slow nature experience is perfect for families, couples, and groups who want to enjoy Estonian nature without rushing. Raft trips on Saadjärv proceed at a leisurely pace and offer the opportunity to enjoy expansive views, the lake's tranquility, and the surrounding nature. An attentive visitor might also spot the rare lake ball, a unique algae found in only a few places worldwide and in a few lakes in Estonia. To enrich your experience, you can book a guided rafting trip. The guide shares stories and legends related to Saadjärv, including folklore about Kalevipoeg and legends of the sunken church and a mint. A private raft trip is also suitable for smaller events and can be combined with catering services upon request. The raft trip is an ideal addition to a visit to the Ice Age Centre, offering a comprehensive experience that brings together nature, science, and folklore!

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 city centre of Tartu, around the new Tartu Environmental Education Centre, there is a large park covering 10,000 m² and containing a large number of species. Old and ancient trees meet newly designed park trails offering learning and recreational possibilities in the hilly park. The park is home to over 80 species of trees and shrubs and over 200 species of herbaceous plants.A visitor can find peat, butterfly, and vegetable beds in the park; there is also a man-made beaver nest, a sun dial, a fountain, an observation tower, and a study trail about rocks. The old orchard has also been preserved. Children can have fun at the otter slide, a three-sand sandbox, and a carousel. Park facilities and plants are introduced by several information boards.

The Kekkonen hiking track can be used all year round – in summer for hiking, jogging and cycling and in winter for skiing. The track was named after former Finnish president Urho Kaleva Kekkonen, who visited Kääriku. The 15 km track starts from Kääriku stadium and passes through several spots of natural beauty, including Harimägi Hill – one of the highest points in the Otepää Highlands (211.3 m above sea level). Its viewing tower, which stands 26 metres high, is right next to the hiking track. Those with more energy can follow the additional 5 km loop on Harimägi Hill.