Sustainable product development trip in South

Visit Estonia and South-Estonian Tourism Cluster are delighted to greet You in Estonia and call out to culture scouts, natural nomads and flavour seekers! A country where the social influencers are centuries old, where attitudes merge a Nordic mindset with medieval mystery, where the fast food comes as fast as it grows and where fewer crowds lead you to deeper conversations.

This time we set out to introduce our 'deep south' and the cultural angle - our European Capital of Culture, Tartu and a part of its diverse surrounding known in Estonia for the hilly landscapes, lakes and regional pride. We hope that you will enjoy the discovery of our university town's laid back atmosphere, the taste of local produce and the cherished traditions. Below you will find your programme, details will be added along the way.

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DAY 2: Monday, September 30th

Breakfast at the hotel.
* 09-11.00: The day begins with a smart-bike tour in Tartu, part of the city's green initiative to promote sustainable transportation. Tartu aims to reduce private car use to just 20% of all travels by 2024. Enjoy the ride with a local guide Mrs Sigrid Parts as you explore some of the most significant sights and landmarks in this historic university town.
* After your bike tour, prepare for a short trip (45 min from Tartu) to the discover Peipsi Lake region. The tour at the Onion Route is accompanied by Mrs. Herling Mesi from Mesi Accommodation and Samovar House.
* 11.45-12.45: A visit to the Kolkja Museum of Old Believers, which delves into the rich history and heritage of the Old Believers, a religious group that settled by Lake Peipsi centuries ago after fleeing persecution in Russia.
* 13-13.45:  Post-lunch at the Kolkja Fish and Onion restaurant. 
* 14.00-14.45: A visit to Peipsi County Heritage Center
* 16.00 - A visit to Samovar House in Varnja
* 17.00 - Experience the warmth and hospitality of Mesi Tare accommodation 
* 19.30- Dinner and accommodation at the Mooste distillery guesthouse. Mooste is a picturesque village located in southern Estonia, known for its serene landscapes and rich cultural history. The village is centered around the Mooste Manor, one of the finest and best-preserved manor complexes in Estonia. The main house is today home for a local school. One of the most unique and fascinating aspects of the Mooste Manor complex is the Mooste Distillery, which has been transformed into a charming guesthouse and cultural venue.

DAY 4: Wednesday, October 2nd

Today we explore Setomaa. 
Setomaa, located in southeastern Estonia, is a region celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and unique traditions. This area is home to the Setos, an ethnic group renowned for their distinct language, customs, and folklore. Setomaa's cultural significance is recognized internationally, with Seto Leelo, the traditional polyphonic singing of the Setos, listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. This designation highlights the global importance of their vibrant oral traditions and music.

* Experience Seto culture by dressing up as a Seto woman at the Obinitsa Museum
* 13.00: Lunch at the Värska Farm Museum's Tsäimaja, a traditional Estonian venue with Seto kitchen
* 15.30-17.00: Enjoy a kick bike tour in Otepää. Discover the scenic trails around Lake Pühajärv
* 19..00: dinner and accommodation at Kivi Talu Country Hotel, offering a charming countryside experience. The representative of the incoming travel agency, E-Turist (focusing on South Estonia), will accompany us at the dinner.