Vällamäe 3,3 km long hiking trail offers a unique elevation change in Estonia. Vällamägi is Estonia's second highest hill, covered with ancient forest and steep slopes, with an elevation of 303.9 m above sea level. However, considering the 84 meters measured from the base to the peak, Vällamägi is the highest in relative height in Estonia. The slopes of the hill are very steep in places (incline of 35-40 degrees). Since 1992, Vällamäe forests have been designated as a spruce gene pool reserve. As you move along the trail, steep ascents and descents alternate, offering both a physical challenge and breathtaking views of the ancient forest shelters. The climb to the peak may momentarily make you feel like you've arrived in the mountains, not Haanja. The charm of Vällamäe lies in its primordial silence and touch of nature – you won't find crowded hiking trails here. Each season adds its own character to the trail: in spring, the air is filled with birdsong, in summer you may find berries in the forest, in autumn colorful leaves and an abundance of mushrooms delight the eyes, and in winter the slopes are covered with a dense layer of snow in silence.
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.
The total length of Taagepera hiking trail is 5.4 km. The trail begins and ends at the Taagepera campfire site and partly runs along the shores of the Õhne River. The trail can also be completed in smaller circles – 1.6 km and 4.0 km long. There are wooden signposts and information boards at the hiking trail, capfire site is suitable also for camping.The main sights of the hiking trail include the Taagepera Castle with the Castle Park, Taagepera Church and the Cemetery, the graveyard of barons, the Musukivi rock, the sacrificial stone, the underground cemetery, and the Õhne River.A truly inspiring hike full of history, architecture, and ancient nature!
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.
Among the approximately 1 km study trail introducing the life of wood ants, the hiker can feel like a giant in the minuscule world of ants. In an area of 20 hectares there are 200 ant hills, the biggest of which is 1.7 m high; you can also admire the record-high spruce (42 m). The trail has signs, information boards, and bridges crossing ant highways.The trail is for walking only. While hiking on the trail near ant hills, use only the bridges installed there. The Laari forest study trail starts on the other side of the railway.The civilisation of ants offers an experience for both children and adults.
The Fairy Trail, also known as the Vitipalu Adventure Trail, offers a fairytale experience for both children and adults. The trail takes you through the mushroom and berry forests of Elva, where Witch Island awaits, featuring the lovely "Little Witch" house, cool tree sculptures, and a low-adventure trail built in the middle of the forest, perfect for children and families to have a great time in nature. The 1.4 km long trail, part of which is accessible with a stroller, intersects with the Elva River's primeval valley hiking trail and introduces the diverse landscape of Elva. The trail starts and ends at the RMK Jõeharu picnic area and camping site, where several shelters with grills and campfire sites are available.
Kirikumäe's 3.2-km-long hiking trail winds around the lake of the same name, which is known as the best swimming area in the region. There is a bog on the southern shore of the lake and the hiking trail also runs across the bog. For this purpose, a boardwalk has been built there. In any case, however, you must be prepared to get your feet wet here and there. There are information boards, campfires, and forest trails on the track.
Karula National Park is Estonia's smallest national park, characterized by a hilly landscape rich in lakes, with 60 lakes on the highland. The national park is open to everyone: families, backpackers, and nature enthusiasts, offering various opportunities for relaxation and hiking. At the visitor center located by Lake Ähijärv, you can get information about the opportunities available in the national park, and the permanent exhibition there introduces the history, nature, folk culture of the Karula region, as well as the modern lifestyle. The heart of the national park is Lake Ähijärv, which is ideal for boating, swimming, and enjoying nature. Hiking enthusiasts are awaited by well-maintained trails that lead through forests, wooded meadows, and hilly landscapes, offering views unique to Karula. Popular destinations include the Rebäse hiking trail, Lüllemäe observation tower, and Kaika hillocks, which offer a great view of the rolling landscape. The national park has plenty of camping and bonfire sites, as well as natural swimming spots, making it suitable for both day trips and longer vacations.