Palumägede hiking trail and campfire site

Lake Verijärv nature studies trail is around 1 km long and has 9 information boards showcasing plants, trees, bushes, birds and animals. The trail runs through the Lake Verijärv ancient valley and wood. There are signs along the trail as well as three barbecue areas with benches.There are various legends about Lake Verijärv. It is said that the lake got its name centuries ago when slaves were punished in the old cellar that stood on the shore and their blood turned the water red. Another legend speaks of the nasty lord of Kasaritsa Manor, who was drowned by his coachman with his carriage and horses while driving home one night.

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.

The two Taevaskoda outcrops on the banks of the ancient valley of the Ahja River are one of the most frequently visited sites in southern Estonia. The sandstone outcrops and the ancient river form the most beautiful part of the Ahja River Landscape Reserve. Legends speak of caves, secret passageways and of demons and a mermaid with a golden comb. A walk from the Saesaare dam to the Small Taevaskoda outcrop, the Emaläte spring, the Neitsikoobas cave and the Large Taevaskoda outcrop, which rises 22.5 metres above the river, is worth undertaking in every season. The beautiful and exciting natural setting attracts hikers – it is a place that every Estonian visits at least once in their life!

The 2 km long hiking trail of Lõunalaager is established on the former grounds of the Estonian Defence Forces' Lõunalaager. In 1920, an impressive military complex was built here, where infantrymen practiced during the summer. Although nothing remains of the buildings, the shimmering reservoir among the trees, the old bridge, several foundation stones, and trenches speak of the realities of that time. Information boards provide additional reading about the past. It's an experience to perceive how quickly nature hides everything once made by humans. The Lõunalaager hiking trail offers a unique opportunity to combine a light nature walk with the heritage of Estonia's military history. The natural course of the trail around the reservoir and over the old bridge creates a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere. The RMK campfire site allows for a rest break and, if necessary, camping. The trail is marked, and information boards help understand the area's significance in the history of the Estonian Defence Forces. Crossing with the shooting range cycling trail offers an additional opportunity for longer movement – thus, a more sporty day loop can be initiated from Lõunalaager.

Jõesuu Tourist Farm campsites are located in a beautiful natural setting right on the shore of Lake Võrtsjärv and are ideal for families, small groups of up to six people, and pets. The cozy cabins offer simple yet comfortable accommodation in the heart of nature, where you can enjoy peace, lake views, and a pleasant holiday. Guests have access to a separate shared kitchen equipped with necessary supplies and laundry facilities, located just a short walk from the camping cabins. Jõesuu Tourist Farm offers a variety of activities for all ages. You are welcome at Jõesuu Tourist Farm!

Kiviranna Holiday Village, on the shores of Lake Võrtsjärv, is ideal for families, friends, and nature lovers. Kiviranna offers accommodation in a holiday house and a guest apartment. We also offer camping and special caravan sites for hikers. The holiday village also offers sauna lovers the opportunity to use an igloo sauna or a hot tub. From March to June, the café offers delicious smoked fish. Catering for groups can also be ordered. As an additional service, ordering a guided bog hike or a sailing trip on the lake is possible. We are waiting for you in Kiviranna for a real holiday experience!

Pikasilla recreation area, located in Põdrala rural municipality by the southern tip of Lake Võrtsjärv, is easily accessible and has a strategically good location by a waterway (at the mouth of the River Emajõgi). The place has become well-known as a venue of sports competitions and various public events. The area has different sports facilities, a children's playground, cabins and a campfire site; it also has washing and cooking facilities.The services of the recreation area include:- renting the recreation area- renting canoes, kayaks and boats- boat harbour and mooring spots- renting a stadium building and a building with washing and cooking facilities- caravan parking- camping ground for about 100 people- cabins for rent

The 3-km-long circular forestry study trail, starting at Laari campfire site, is suitable for a peaceful walk for holidaymakers at the campfire site, nature lovers, and hikers with pets.The trail is very diverse - it runs along the paths and trails of the bright pine forest, the mysterious pine forest, and the eye-catching birch forest, over the Lambiniidu and a ditch, over which wooden bridges have been built.The trail is marked with signs and red dots on trees, the information boards on the trail introduce the surrounding nature and the different ways of forest management.