The beautiful pine forest town of Elva
Elva is a small town in Tartu County known for its beautiful nature and peaceful living environment. This charming pine forest town has been a popular summer resort since its inception, attracting visitors from near and far. It is located just a 20-minute drive from Tartu and a two-and-a-half-hour train ride from Tallinn. The surroundings of Elva are rich in pine forests, lakes, and hiking trails, offering excellent opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Active holiday
In Elva, recognized as the best sports city in Europe, there are many opportunities for engaging in sports activities. For a more active holiday, the new Elva Sports Hall has been established, offering excellent facilities for practicing various sports across three different floors. On-site amenities include a gym and a sauna. A favorite among visitors at the Elva Adventure Park is the 400-meter zipline over Lake Verevi and back. Additionally, the Tartumaa Health Sports Center awaits you with health trails, hiking and orienteering paths, shooting ranges, and archery tracks.
Lake Verevi is Elva’s most popular swimming spot, known for its clean water and sandy beach. It has convenient beach facilities and a children’s playground, making it an ideal place for a family vacation.
Another popular lake, Lake Arbi, is quieter and less visited, offering an ideal spot for those seeking peace and tranquility. The area around the lake is picturesque and well-suited for picnics and enjoying hiking trails.
For those who prefer cooler water, the Elva River flows through the town and offers several natural swimming spots. The riverbanks are also popular for picnicking, providing beautiful views.
About 10 km from Elva, the Ulila Reservoir is perfect for those looking for a more serene swimming spot in nature. The reservoir area has grilling facilities and picnic tables, making it a pleasant place for summer relaxation.
Amazing hiking trails
The Small Power Trail
The Small Power Trail (Väike Väerada) is a 3 km hiking trail starting near the Elva train station and is popular among locals. The trail is distinguished by wooden sculptures inspired by Estonian fairy tales and designed by local artists. The Small Power Trail offers beneficial effects for both mental and physical health. It is suitable for hikers of all ages and is accessible year-round. The wooden sculptures also serve as trail markers, helping hikers find their way. The forest path includes several resting spots and children’s attractions. The trail is largely stroller-friendly, making it suitable for families. The Small Power Trail is an ideal choice for a healthy and enjoyable nature experience.
Primeval valley hiking trail
The Elva primeval valley hiking trail ( Ürgoru matkarada) is located in the Elva Landscape Protection Area, is a 15.5 km trail that is also excellent for multi-day hiking trips. The trail offers a variety of natural landscapes, including diverse forest areas, sandstone cliffs, beautiful forest lakes, the Viti observation tower, glacial boulders, floodplains, trenches, beaver habitats, and ant colonies. Additionally, the trail features interesting attractions such as the Witch’s House and Adventure Trail. The Elva Gorge Trail begins and ends at the Tartumaa Health Sports Center. A map of the trail, including camping and fire pit locations, such as the Illi camping area, can be found here.
Vitipalu Adventure Trail
On the Adventure Trail, you’ll be accompanied by the mysterious gazes of fairies and exciting wooden sculptures, while the riverbank is home to glacial boulders. As a surprise, you’ll find yourself on a witch’s island, which you reach by crossing the “Witch’s Neck” bridge, leading you to the true “Little Witch” house. This 1.5 km trail starts and ends at the picnic area of the Witch’s House. Nearby the Adventure Trail, there is a low ropes course suitable for both children and adults with various activities. You can relax at the picnic area by the Witch’s House, known as the Jõehaaru Picnic Area.
Museums
Elva Parish is home to some unique museums in Estonia. Musical Instruments Museum in Rõngu boasts over 3,000 exhibits, including various musical instruments and other intriguing items from different fields. In addition to instruments, you can explore historical speakers, microphones, amplifiers, and effect units.
At the Hellenurme Watermill Museum, you can step back in time and experience the life of Estonia’s last water-powered mill.
Nature enthusiasts will find excitement at the Lake museum Akva:rium, located by Lake Võrtsjärv. Its main exhibit features Estonian freshwater fish, along with various fishing gear, lake research tools, and more. A new and exciting attraction at the museum is the virtual reality experience, which allows visitors to explore the underwater world of Lake Võrtsjärv.
Dining and accomodation
When hunger strikes after an adventure, Elva municipality has several exciting dining options. Elva Keegel and Resto is a meeting place for both adults and children. There you will find good food, a cozy atmosphere, and, if you wish, the option to play a game of bowling. In the heart of Puhja, there is a charming family-friendly café-restaurant called Käsu Hansu. The interior design is inspired by the writer Käsu Hansu—simple, elegant, yet sufficiently minimalist.
For a private and peaceful family vacation, the beautiful shores of Lake Võrtsjärv offer excellent options. Kiviranna Holiday House is a great spot for a lakeside getaway directly on the shores of Lake Võrtsjärv. Kiviranna offers accommodation in three holiday houses and a luxurious lakeside apartment. Another relaxing stop is Vehendi Motel, which features a newly built sauna complex with a covered terrace, a hot tub, a traditional sauna, and a barbecue area. Located in the picturesque pine forest of Southern Estonia, Verevi Motel provides friendly service and cozy accommodation. Additionally, the Verevi Motel offers several options for an active holiday. Waide Motel resembles a small village, consisting of various little houses surrounded by greenery and trees.