Pühajärv, with its picturesque winding shoreline and four islands, is the largest lake in Otepää Nature Park. At the northern tip of Pühajärv, there is a beach area with a beach house, ball courts, a children's playground, recreation areas, a café, and a boat harbor. At the southern tip is the Kooliranna recreation area, and from there begins the Väike Emajõgi, which meanders through Valgamaa. Pühajärve Park is the starting point for the Murrumetsa hiking trail, and around the lake runs the 12 km long Pühajärve hiking trail, which passes by the lake's most famous spring, the Armuallikas. In winter, when weather conditions are suitable, an ice trail is created on the lake for hiking, and a winter swimming area is open at Pühajärve Beach.Pühajärv has provided plenty of inspiration for writers and artists. For example, Fridebert Tuglas and Eino Leino have vacationed here. Information about Konrad Mägi's Pühajärv paintings can be found on an info board by the lakeshore near the GMP Pühajärve restaurant. In 1991, the Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, visited Otepää and blessed the lake, an event commemorated by a wooden sculpture on the shore of Pühajärve Park.
On this Babelhouse day trip guided tour, you have the opportunity to experience the beauty of Otepää and Pühajärve, accompanied by stories and legends that lend the place a special touch. We will walk along the Pühajärve promenade and park, visit the Pühajärve War Oak, and take in the views of the lake. The guide will also take you to the heart of Otepää, where we can understand why the Estonian national flag originated here and how Estonia's "winter capital" has developed into a symbol of Estonian sport and culture. Transport from Tartu and back is included in the tour price. Babelhouse guided tours are flexible and tailored according to the group's wishes and time constraints. During the tour, you can purchase local souvenirs. The Pühajärve and Otepää tour is perfect for cultural enthusiasts, foreign guests, pre- and post-conference programs, as well as groups of friends who want to enjoy the wonderful nature of South Estonia together. Book the trip and spend a wonderful day exploring Otepää and Pühajärve!
Located in the heart of Tartu, Antonius captivates visitors with its enchanting rose motif ceiling painting, a glass atrium to reflect the evening light and modern design elements combined with a historic interior. The chef uses his skills and creativity to create the best taste experiences for guests, using high-quality seasonal ingredients while focusing on the harmony of even the smallest components on the plate. A first-class wine selection complements the food selection. The restaurant is well-suited for a cozy dinner or organizing birthdays, company parties, and weddings. In the summer, the terrace is also open.
More than 30 friendly sled dogs live at the Sled Dog Training Center, and they are eager for your visit! The Sled Dog Training Center in Tartu County offers a unique opportunity to learn about the lives and daily activities of sled dogs. During the visit, you can get to know the dogs better by petting them, exploring their personalities, and observing them in their enclosures. You will also learn about dogsledding equipment necessary and hear about how they are trained and cared for. The guide will answer your questions and tell you fascinating stories about the world of dogsledding. It is an educational and immersive experience that is interesting for families, groups of friends, and solo travelers alike. We also organize various programs and study days to provide a more comprehensive overview of dogsledding and the dogs' deep connection with nature.
The Baltic Forest Trail is a hiking trail over 2,000 km long running through the Baltic States, of which 720 km are available for hiking in Estonia. The trail is divided into 50 one-day sections, each approximately 20 km long and marked with signposts. The trail sections have different difficulty levels so everyone can choose the most suitable one for themselves! The hiking trail passes through forested areas and two national parks, Lahemaa and Alustaguse National Parks. Along the way, you can observe trees of different species and places connected to historical events or legends. The trail is well-suited for bird and animal watching. The Baltic Forest Trail is part of the international European long-distance trail E11.
In the summer of 2020, the Otepää Central Square and Flag Square dedicated to the Estonian tricolour got a new look. The Central Square is illustrated by Bruno Kadak's bronze sculpture – the fountain 'Fun Ott'.There is a well-known belief around the world that throwing a coin in a fountain brings happiness, but when coming to the Otepää fountain, you have to scratch the bear's rear paw.The Flag Square has one of the highest flagpoles in Estonia. Next to the Estonian flagstaff are pavilions and information stands telling the story of the flag. The community garden with a children's playground offers leisure opportunities for both adults and children.Come to Otepää!
Stepping up to Andsu smoke sauna, you discover something genuine — a timeless smoke sauna tradition that carries warmth and healing well-being.This sauna was originally located in Põlvamaa and would have been dismantled during road construction, but found a new home in Võrumaa. The craftsmen thoroughly restored the sauna to give it a new breath of life. The smoke sauna experience is not just a sauna visit; it is a ritual of its own. The session is private, intended only for you, your friends, or family. Comfortably accommodating up to 4 people, the sauna creates an intimate and peaceful space where you can let the pleasant steam carry you. If you wish to experience true Southern Estonian sauna culture, this is the place to come. Andsu smoke sauna awaits you — come and experience how the steam can open deeper senses and well-being. The smoke sauna tradition of Vana-Võrumaa is part of UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Good to know: Please bring non-alcoholic beverages (e.g., drinking water) and towels. Heating the sauna is a long process and is only done by pre-order.
Waide Motal offers a quick and delicious lunch buffet.We also offer catering for groups upon reservation.Welcome!