Winters can be very cold in the country. The temperature could drop to -22 degrees celsius! Often, ones are excited to see the sunshine as it is a rare phenomenon for several months. However, ones have to stay motivated, and there are plenty of amazing outdoor activities to keep you engaged. Spending time outdoors is a pleasure in Estonia. Estonian nature is picturesque and vibrant. Hiking trips and camping are very popular in summer, and skiing and other winter sports are enjoyed by many in winter. Beautiful cross-country skiing trails can be found in Otepää, Kääriku, Vooremäe, Haanja, Mõedaku or Kõrvemaa, but also within city limits — in Pirita in Tallinn and in Tähtvere park in Tartu.
So, what can you do in the winter semester break? Be in your room and stay depressed or have fun doing ice-skating and skiing! The choice is yours 🙂
Where to go?
1. Skiing in Kõrvemaa (https://www.visitestonia.com/en/skiing-in-korvemaa)
Skiing is really fun, and yes this is the first time I did it in my life. So, don’t be scared to try something new 🙂
How I reached Kõrvemaa:
I went from Tartu to Tallinn by buses such as Simple Express or LuxExpress (https://www.tpilet.ee/). Then, from Tallinn Bus Station to Uuejärve by bus or taxi and finally, just a 6-minute walk will lead you to the Skiing place!
Skiing seemed like real trouble to me but as you get used to it. It becomes an enjoyable activity. I would certainly recommend everyone to try it. XD
2. Skating at Kõrveküla Holiday Centre!(https://www.visitestonia.com/en/skating-at-korvekula-holiday-centre)
Well, you must be wondering that I already know skating but not really! This is the first time I have done it and it was so much fun! 🙂
I was scared to even try it. I knew I would fall and never learn but eventually I started to like it and I learned it in my first attempt! Here is the video from the place:
How I reached Kõrveküla:
From anywhere in Tartu, you can take a public bus and usually from University of Tartu, Ülikooli 18, it takes around 30 minutes to reach.
Important tips before ice skating or skiing:
Always wear warm gloves and warm jackets as the event takes place outdoors. You can rent the skates and helpers all at the location. Wondering if it comes at an expensive cost? Well no, the cost varies between 20 – 30 Euros and even less. It depends on the place you go. You don’t have to pre-book. You just go there and have an amazing day. The skiing and skating costs are usually in an hourly basis.
Do check out an amazing link for winter fun: https://www.visitestonia.com/en/what-to-see-do/activities-adventure/winter-fun
Winters in Estonia and Tartu can get very cold, but, you always have something to keep yourself engaged. There is also Sauna after the skiing to let you relax. 🙂
