A family-friendly trip through Mulgimaa
The area between Viljandi and Latvia is fun for all ages. Try mulgi puder, explore nature, and learn about one of Estonia's unique regional cultures.
Mulgimaa is considered the homeland of many enterprising Estonians.
They knew how to persevere through difficult times. Even today, residents of Mulgimaa take pride in being from the region.
The area offers plenty to explore for families interested in food, culture, and nature.
What makes Mulgimaa a good destination for families?
Historically, Mulgimaa is the area covering Tõrva to Abja-Paluoja, nearly reaching the city of Viljandi.
There are many ways to explore this area, but here are the top three that are popular with visitors of all ages:
- Hunt for wooden sculptures in Halliste, Karksi, Helme, Paistu, and Tarvastu.
- Try regional specialities, like the UNESCO-listed barley and potato stew known as mulgipuder, and sweets like mulgikorp, a pastry made with kohupiim.
- Hike through typical Estonian landscapes, including sandstone outcrops and bogs, and cool down with a swim in a lake.
Source: Ilze Salnaja-Värv
Family-friendly attractions in Mulgimaa
Explore Taagepera Castle (Wagenküll Hotel & Spa)
Parents will love the exquisite Art Nouveau architecture of this castle and a high-class feast in the restaurant. Like so many attractions in Estonia, though, children are included in the fun!
The restaurant has local dishes like wild boar stew and pike perch for grown-up palates, while kids can tuck into favorites like creamy pasta or mashed potatoes and meatballs. The spa has a family ticket to use the pools and saunas, as well as special treatments for children.
Since 2024, the castle park has become a seasonal attraction. During summer, the grounds transform into Alice's Wonderland, and during the colder months of the year, it becomes Wagenküll’s Winter Wonderland. Purchase a garden ticket and do a family photo shoot to take home an extra special memory of your trip.
If the weather doesn't cooperate, the castle tower has small photo corners for family photos or Instagram-worthy shots.
Source: Ilze Salnāja-Värv
Rene Türk
Wagenküll Hotell
Wagenküll Hotell OÜ
Wagenküll HotellDiscover ancient Mulgimaa through interactive exhibits
If you want to understand how history intertwines with modern life, the interactive Mulgimaa Experience Centre is the place to go. Here, family members of all ages will find something interesting to explore. There's a playground and a large outdoor area to explore, traditional costumes to try on, typical foods to taste, and interactive exhibitions about the history and culture of the Mulks.
The center opened in 2023 and will continue to expand, develop and improve. There are limited hours during the winter, so please be sure to call ahead if you plan to visit in the off-season.
Source: Sven Zacek
Sven Zacek
Sven ZacekMulgimaa Experience Centre
Outdoor adventures in South Estonia
Mulgimaa has various nature trails that wind through picturesque valleys, past historic manors, and over ancient bogs. You can contact a professional guide if you need help planning an excursion or want to try canoeing or bog shoeing.
One of the most popular trails is the Õisu hiking trail, which starts from the grounds of Õisu Manor. It's 2.5 km long and winds through a valley with picturesque sandstone outcrops. In the spring, you can forage for wild sorrel; in autumn, you can pick mushrooms. The trail has been recently renovated and leads over several bridges.
Kids also love scrambling over the ruins of Helme Castle and through the nearby caves. The valley below the castle has a spring known for its healing powers — it might be worth a preventative visit before school starts in the autumn!
Source: Sven Zacek
Spend a day outdoors in and around Tõrva
Mulgimaa's natural attractions
Source: Georg Svidlov
Experience local life in Tõrva
Everyone is welcome in Tõrva, but it is especially nice for families. Even though only 2,500 people call Tõrva home, it is the largest town in Mulgimaa.
Tõrva Veemõnula Water and Sauna Centre has a spacious kids' pool, several saunas, and a cafe; the attached hotel has family rooms, making it a cozy home base for exploring the area.
Tõrva has a great beach (Lake Vanamõisa has the tallest diving tower in the Baltics), a disc golf park, and health trails that are fun for the whole family both in summer and winter. There is even a movie theater here in case the weather makes it challenging to spend time outdoors.
At the end of July, the Tõrva Fire Days festival attracts locals and visitors alike. The family-friendly program features diverse events, such as light shows, a bonfire, concerts by Estonian bands and DJs, and a nighttime bike ride.
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Last updated
26.12.2024