Kärde Peace House

Järvere Manor was built on the shore of Lake Vagula in 1766 as a support manor of Sõmerpalu Manor. The manor was built by the owner of Sõmerpalu manor, Friedrich Alexander von Möller, Doctor of Philosophy. He had the Järvere Manor made for his mother and it was thus called the Old Lady's House.A park, established in 1830, separated Sõmerpalu and Järvere Manors and there were about 200 different tree and bush species already at that time.The Võru Forest Management Centre operated at the manor during Soviet time. Outbuildings were put in order and rebuilt in 1993.The manor is protected as a cultural monument and is private property today.

You will find this historicist red-brick church (architect Arved Eichorn), which is the first new church built in the Republic of Estonia, in the peaceful little town Elva. Tartu St John’s Congregation used to operate in Elva for some time. This is why some details of the Elva Church remind of Tartu St John’s Church – the rarely used plaster and brick imitation of a rose window on the western wall of the church refers to the medieval rose window that can be found in Tartu St John’s Church.

Discover the gems of South Estonia: Taevaskoja and Põlva! If you wish to spend a day filled with the beauty of nature, local flavors, and inspiring encounters, try the Babelhouse day trip starting from Tartu to Southern Estonia. One of the highlights of the tour is a walk on the famous Taevaskoja hiking trail, where mighty sandstone cliffs, mysterious caves, and the flowing Ahja River create a stunning landscape. After exploring nature, the small town of Põlva awaits, surprising you with its charm. There, you'll have the opportunity to meet local small business owners and hear their stories. Transportation from Tartu and back is included in the tour price. Babelhouse tours are flexible and tailored to meet the group's wishes and time constraints. During the tour, you can purchase local souvenirs. The Taevaskoja and Põlva tour is ideal for culture enthusiasts, foreign guests, and groups of friends who wish to experience the beauty of nature together, as well as for pre- and post-conference programs. Book the trip and spend a wonderful day in Southern Estonia!

Räpina Paper Factory (originally a paper mill) was completed in 1734, making it the oldest Estonian industrial company to still be in operation. It is also one of the most unique examples of industrial architecture in Europe. The first paper machine arrived in Räpina from Germany in 1873, which was when the mill became a factory. It produced a variety of paper for writing and printing. Three more machines were later introduced to the factory, one of which is still in use - if a little rejigged - today.As a company that cares about the environment, the factory aims to combine contemporary and environmentally friendly production technology with 300 years of production experience.

Alatskivi Ceramics is a unique space where history and Estonian craftsmanship converge – it is situated in the vaulted basement of Alatskivi Castle, where the manor's servants once resided. Now a talented ceramics master works there, creating unique, high-quality handmade clay products on-site – bowls, cups, jugs, and other beautiful everyday ceramics that make lovely gifts! Visitors can purchase and admire these unique items in the shop and also try their hand at working with clay – the workshops are suitable for adults and are especially popular with children. You can also visit the castle, the Eduard Tubina Museum, the Alatskivi Castle Horse Stable Exhibition, and the restaurant!

On the grounds of Taagepera Castle, a unique "Alice in Wonderland" theme park is open in the summer. You can enjoy thousands of flowers, a colorful magic forest, themed sculptures, and giant installations inspired by the world-famous fairytale. The park offers lots to discover for both children and adults. The 40-meter tower of the castle will be a favorite place for visitors, as each floor of the tower tells its own story. Cafe "Alice" also awaits visitors with a delicious summer menu. Come with the whole family to enjoy a fairytale experience in Taagepera Castle's garden!

Peipsi Teemaja Arts and Crafts Shop offers a wide selection of local handicrafts. There is a large selection of baskets, sauna buckets, thermometers, etc. for sale from the Avinurme Woodworking Centre. You will also find a selection of knitted mittens from local grandmothers, which will keep your hands warm even in the cold Estonian weather.In addition, you simply have to try Ivan Chai when near Lake Peipus. You can also buy it as a gift.We also offer delicious local food and sweets.

The central square of Võru, dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Estonia, is unique for its urban furniture. The word furniture originates from the Latin word mobilis – movable. Today, the square is in constant transformation, reflecting the character of different events – sometimes it's a market square, at other times a concert hall, and in winter, a magical Christmas land. The central square is the historical heart of Võru, surrounded by the Government House (1938), the Lutheran St. Catherine’s Church (1793), the grammar school building (the oldest house in the city, 18th century), the fire station (1900), the Apostolic St. Catherine’s Church (1804), and the bank building (1938). The renewed central square was opened in 2019, designed by architect Villem Tomiste. Taking a step onto the square brings you into a space where past and present blend seamlessly. There’s room here for both reflection and liveliness – for meeting old friends, spending time with family, or simply being in the moment. Võru’s central square is more than just a plaza – it’s a living meeting place that invites everyone to pause, enjoy, and experience. Come to the heart of Võru – to where the city lives and breathes.