Southern Estonia – enchantingly wonderful virgin nature

Estonians have a habit of humorously saying: "Before heading to Paris, visit Nuustaku". And Southern Estonia is precisely where this Nuustaku is located. Once you are there, you might not want to go to Paris anytime soon. There are high towers here from which to gaze upon the surroundings, artwork of women smiling and also beautiful architecture celebrating the glory and fame of historical people who once lived here. Architecturally, Southern Estonia’s churches, manors and ancient fortresses are worth highlighting.
Once you are in Southern Estonia, you are as if in another world. The landscape becomes full of unexpectedly rolling hills –beautiful views of hills, valleys and lakes can await you behind every curve in the road. True nature lovers have various hiking trails at their disposal, which allow you to test yourself by placing you face-to-face with wild nature. The diverse landscape and virgin nature will amaze you with its enchantingly beautiful rolling hills, national parks rich in species, nature reserves, numerous rivers and lakes. If you are lucky, you can catch a glimpse of forest fairies in ancient woods or hear the altercations of warlocks in mysterious valleys and sandstone caves if you listen carefully. The place is like a fairy tale.
Although the famous rolling hills can be considered to be the symbol of Southern Estonia, there are also primeval river valleys crossing the landscape, the most famous of which are the primeval valleys of the Ahja and Võhandu Rivers. The Piusa River valley and the surrounding landscape protection area are also well known. Landmarks on the southern border of the landscape protection area include the Vasteliina Order Castle, built in 1342 and destroyed in the Great Northern War, as well as the Piiri tavern dating from the 19th century.
A phenomenon of Southern Estonia all in its own is Setumaa and the Setus who inhabit it. The Setus are one of the most distinctive small ethnic groups among the Balto-Finnic people who were able to preserve their ancient language and customs despite having lived in the Czarist Russian Empire. Setumaa is worth visiting when there is a Setu celebration taking place.
The greatest resource of Southern Estonia are its sincere and hospitable people who have preserved their identity, their historical cultural and linguistic traditions despite all hardships through the centuries. Southern Estonia and its greatest resource – hospitable people – are expecting you.