On September 13, a group of Swiss journalists took part in an inspiration trip to this year’s Food Region – Tartu and Tartu County.
The morning began in the mushroom forests of Emajõe-Suursoo, where the adventurous guides of Nature Tours Estonia, Heinrich Lukk and Kristina Traks, introduced the guests to Estonians’ love for foraging. For the Swiss visitors, mushroom picking was an entirely new and exciting experience. Alongside the joy of walking through our calm woodland landscapes, they had the chance to try picking and cleaning mushrooms themselves. Together, they prepared a traditional Estonian autumn lunch and enjoyed it right there in nature.
The meal brought out simple yet rich local flavors: mushrooms and onions frying on the camping stove, served with fresh potatoes and dill picked that same morning from the garden. Homemade cranberry juice, pickled mushrooms and cucumbers, and colorful homemade lecho completed the table. For dessert, the guests discovered kirju koer – a nostalgic Estonian sweet.
Upon arriving in Tartu, the group strolled through the old town, taking in the lively buzz of the university city and the festive mood of the Maarjalaat fair. A highlight of the day was the visit to the Estonian National Museum, where centuries of cultural heritage meet modern interactive displays. In true Food Region spirit, the evening continued with a dinner of local flavors at the art and wine restaurant Vilde and Vine, enjoyed in its warm and cozy setting.
The Swiss press trip, organized in cooperation with Visit Estonia and local destinations, took place from September 11–15 and offered a cultural journey across South, North, and East Estonia. In Tartu and South Estonia, the guests also tasted local cuisine at Pompei and Humal restaurants. They were charmed by the uniqueness of the Onion Route and Setomaa, while comfortable stays at Hotel Lydia and V Spa offered relaxation along the way.
More information: Maigi Lokko, Visit Tartu, B2B & MICE Specialist, maigi.lokko@visittartu.com, www.visittartu.com