When I first came to Estonia, one question kept crossing my mind: where should I travel first? There were numerous names and recommendations. Tallinn, Pärnu, Saaremaa. But nothing felt quite right. I’ve always been someone who loves nature and history, the kind of places that evoke a deep sense of emotion within me. So when I got the chance to join UniTartu Summer School’s trip to South Estonia, I knew I had to go. And honestly, it turned out to be one of the most peaceful and heart-touching experiences I’ve had here.
We left Tartu early in the morning, full of excitement and snacks. Our first stop was Taevaskoja, about a 40-minute drive from Tartu. The place looked like it was taken out of a postcard: tall pine trees, golden sunlight, and a quiet river flowing through the forest. We started with a boat ride that felt completely different to any other I’ve been on. The water was calm, the reflections were clear, and our guide told us that kingfishers are often seen here. We kept looking for one the entire time, but sadly, didn’t spot any (I hope you will). Still, the peaceful silence of that ride was its own kind of magic.
After the boat ride, we went on a short hike through the forest. The trail followed a small stream. The sound of water, the smell of pine trees, and the soft ground under our feet was the kind of nature that makes you forget your phone exists. Eventually, the trail brought us back to our bus, and we set out for our next destination.
Our next stop was Suur Munamägi, known as the highest peak in Estonia. Climbing up to the viewing tower was fun. I honestly felt like I was touching the sky (well, it’s not that high, but it definitely feels like it!). From up there, all we could see were endless green forests stretching across the horizon. It truly was the kind of view that makes you go quiet for a moment.
By the time we reached Võru, hunger had fully taken over. We stopped for lunch, and right next to the restaurant was a sauna and swimming spot. If I could, I would have stayed there the entire day, lying on the soft, green grass near the river, feeling the cool breeze and the sun playing between the leaves. Even as I write this, I can recall the calmness, the colours of a blue sky, green trees, and silver water. It was pure peace.
Our next destination took us deep into history, the Vastseliina Castle. Imagine old stone walls surrounded by forests, like something out of a fairytale painting. Inside, our guide showed us how people lived centuries ago, what they wore, how they fought, how they ate, even how they punished criminals. Everything was preserved so beautifully that, for a moment, I felt as though I had actually stepped back in time. Nearby, a small river flowed past the ruins, and sitting by it felt like a scene from an old film.
Finally, we reached our last stop, the Valgesoo Bog Trail. If you’ve never seen an Estonian bog before, it’s like walking on another planet. One with a soft ground, small wooden paths, and water reflecting the sky. We walked the trail and took some time to breathe in the fresh air. It was the perfect way to end the day.
As we headed back to Tartu, tired but smiling, I realised how special this trip had been. South Estonia isn’t just about places, it’s about feelings. It’s where you find silence that speaks, air that heals, and views that stay in your memory long after you have returned. If you love history, nature, and the peaceful kind of beauty that touches your soul, pack your bag, plan your route, and head south. I promise, your trip will be unforgettable, and you will carry a piece of this calm with you long after you have left.
All images are author’s own unless specified otherwise.
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