On the western shore of Lake Peipus lies the Onion Route.
This region is where Russian and Estonian cultures intertwine, offering an opportunity to explore Baltic German manor culture, Estonian peasant traditions, and Russian Old Believer heritage.
The “capital” of the Onion Route (Sibulatee) is Alatskivi, a small settlement known for its fairy-tale castle. Alatskivi Castle welcomes visitors both in winter and summer, offering not only exhibitions of the gentry and servants but also hands-on experiences in craft workshops and disc golf in the manor park.
The culture of the Russian Old Believers is represented by the villages of Kolkja, Kasepää, and Varnja. Here, you can explore Old Believer history, traditions, and contemporary life through museums, chapels, and strolling through village streets.
The Liivi Museum recounts the life and culture of Estonian peasants in recent centuries. Estonia’s most famous poet, Juhan Liiv, and renowned composer, Eduard Tubin, are associated with the Onion Route area, and their legacies are showcased in museums dedicated to their names.
The Onion Route offers experiences both in summer and winter. Winter on Lake Peipus is a popular destination for anglers, with favorable weather conditions often bringing around ten thousand fishermen to quietly fish. Onion Route entrepreneurs provide various opportunities for those interested in fishing, including ice fishing trips, equipment rentals, and later preparing fish dishes together.
The area offers a variety of accommodations, providing space for nearly 120 visitors in total. There are rooms with views of the rolling waves of Lake Peipus and guesthouses overlooking bike trails leading into the forest. The most unique option is a small accommodation provider right on the shores of Peipus, which utilizes wind and solar energy and offers stays in straw bale houses.