Located in the manor park of the same name, the Helme caves, are an unrivalled sight in Estonia. Situated to the north of castle ruins, the caves have a white Burtniek layer of sandstone walls standing 3 m high. Unfortunately for cave lovers though, some of the better known caves have already collapsed. Once comprised of seven interlinked chambers, the biggest of which was known as the Church of Moses. Peppered with springs, the caves have a long history; and over the years they have been dug out and used as shelters when needed. Did you know...?: In ancient times the Helme caves were also known locally as the gateway to Hell.Kivialune (under the rocks) was a shelter for Old Estonians during the wars.
Discover the city of Tartu on the Emajõgi River on a peaceful boat trip with a beautiful city panorama! The cozy motor ship M/L Maar'a will take you to the Emajõgi River, where you will have a unique view of the green banks, bridges, and the skyline of the Old Town of Tartu. On board, you will find a café, a pleasant sun deck, and an air-conditioned inner deck, which creates a pleasant opportunity to relax and enjoy Tartu from a new angle. Departures take place from the pier next to the Tartu Market Hall according to a schedule. If desired, the ship can also be booked for a private charter trip for your group, accompanied by a guide or musician. Relax on the Emajõgi River!
The ruins of Rõngu Vassal Castle are located in Rõngu, Elva Parish, Tartu County, and are among the most fascinating medieval monuments in South Estonia. The castle was likely established in the 14th century as a vassal castle of the Bishop of Tartu and was part of the bishopric's defense system, guarding important roads and the surrounding area. During medieval times, it was a complex of fortified buildings with an inner courtyard enclosed by walls. The castle also housed a chapel, which is mentioned in sources from the early 15th century. The castle lost its significance in the 16th century during the Livonian War when it was destroyed and fell into ruins. Today, the remnants of Rõngu Vassal Castle consist of wall remains located in the picturesque Lossimäe Park. The area is freely accessible and is suitable for walks, exploring history, and photography. The ruins offer an interesting time-travel experience for history enthusiasts and families looking to combine nature outings with cultural heritage exploration.
This church, dedicated to the archangel Michael, was completed in 1785. It stands on the shores of a man-made lake in Räpina and enjoys beautiful views over Sillapää castle and park. The walls of the church, which was constructed in Late Baroque style, are made from rendered natural stone. The front of the church is adorned with sculptures dating from the time of its construction, which symbolise Hope and Love.One of the church's most valuable assets, the two-part altar painting entitled 'The Appearance of the Risen Jesus to Mary Magdalene' and 'The Burial of Jesus', was painted by Carl Antropoff in 1871.
Järvselja Primeval Forest or Nature Reserve is the first and, therefore, the oldest forest protection area in Estonia. It was placed under protection in 1924. In 2006, Järvselja Nature Reserve was established, which includes the primeval forest, the surrounding quarters, and the Riiupalu pine forest, a total of 184.4 hectares of land. 2014 marked the year that the nature conservation quarter had not been included in forestry activities for 90 years.Järvselja Primeval Forest is a truly ancient and special, naturally beautiful and untouched place, where, in addition to primeval trees, many unique bird species can be seen.
There is a remarkable historicist Orthodox church with quarrystone and brick walls and five onion-cupolas in Nõo small borough.The Nõo Congregation was founded in 1852 for Estonian Orthodox Christians who previously belonged to the Tartu Georgi congregation. The architecturally remarkable church is made of quarrystone and red bricks and has a bell-tower in the western side. It was completed in 1873. The interior architecture of the church is simple and the iconostasis dates back to the late 19th century.Services are held in the Holy Trinity Church in Nõo on the second Saturday of each month.
This breathtaking journey lets you experience the legends of the past through an evening canoe on the river Ahja. As your canoe passes the great sandstone cliffs at Taevaskoja (Hall of the Heavens), the river might keep flowing, but time seems to stand still during the long, lush Nordic twilight.This expedition offers flexible availability based on your schedule, that allows you to discover untouched, pure Estonian nature with a friend, or your entire family.
Paju Holiday Village is the ideal place for people who like to enjoy the nature during their holidays as it is just 300 m from Lake Pühajärv. The holiday village has a private holiday house with a sauna and a separate area with washing and utility rooms where people can pitch up their tents. It is suitable for family holidays. There are spaces for tents and camping opportunities and summer and there is also a roofed picnic area.