Route 8 – the mosts of South Estonia in one infinite loop

Journey filled with records – the world’s tallest Scots pine, Estonia’s most inspiring lake and a house that leans more than the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Visit South Estonia

Forget the ordinary nature walk

South Estonia is like a miniature world of its own – hills and lakes, forests and flavours, towns and legends.

Here, the landscapes rise higher and dip deeper than anywhere else in Estonia; café that bakes biggest cinnamon buns in Estonia; and locals that still take the time to share their stories.

Route 8 takes you on a road trip through it all – through nature and villages, along slow roads and inspiring views.

Shaped like the number eight and inspired by infinity itself, this journey weaves together South Estonia’s most extraordinary places and countless moments that stay with you long after you’ve returned.

What to expect on the route

Main attractions : This journey takes you through South Estonia’s most extreme contrasts – the highest peak, the deepest lake, one of Europe’s most tilted buildings, the largest cinnamon roll and the oldest oak tree. Between these record-holders, you’ll discover countless hidden spots that make the journey diverse and full of surprises.
Distance: approx. 720 km
Duration: around 4 days – but take it slow and travel at your own pace
Season: year-round (except summer-specific activities like cycling tours and boat trips on the Emajõgi River)
How to get here : the easiest way is by car – either your own or a rental
Valikuline: Green travel tips : the route is lined with small local producers and farm shops where you can support the community and taste the region

Photo author: Priidu Saart

Day 1 – Pedals, Bog and the Smell of Cinnamon Buns

‘The journey begins and ends in the lively centre of Tartu, but most of the route will be peaceful and close to nature.

Step aboard “Suur Sume,” one of the most historic sailing barges on the Emajõgi River. Since World War II, no larger wooden sailing vessel has been built anywhere in the Baltics. Settle onto soft sheepskins and let the boat drift quietly along the river until the city sounds fade and only the gentle rhythm of the water remains.

Then pick up the pace and grab a bike to explore Tartu on two wheels with a guide. It’s a city that doesn’t try to be big – it’s simply the best in its own way. There’s plenty to see, though some of the “most-of-the-most” sights we’ll save for the final day.

Heading south, there is a mandatory stop at Café Tillu – one of the cosiest cafés in Estonia and home to the country’s biggest cinnamon buns. Get a takeaway coffee and bun; the best way to enjoy them is sitting on moss in the bog ahead.

Next on the list is the Ootsipalu Giant Pine, the world’s tallest Scots pine – taller even than the Statue of Liberty in New York, yet surrounded only by forest hush and the scent of pine needles.

Finally, arrive at the Meenikunno Bog – Estonia’s southernmost and one of its most mystical bogs. Legend says travellers once heard forest spirits whisper here. It’s a place where even the wind moves carefully and each step slows down a week’s worth of hurry. Meenikunno lets you remember what silence really sounds like – unless, of course, you hear a whisper.

Day 2 – Goats, Legends and Heights

Today mixes delicious flavours with high perspectives.

At Andri-Peedo Goat Farm, you’ll find some of Estonia’s most-awarded goat cheeses – and a chance to meet the friendly animals behind them. In the right season you will see playful baby coats bounce around the barn. Plus it is a must to taste that award-worthy cheese. What more could one want from life?

Then it’s time to climb higher.

The Pesapuu Tower is Estonia’s most sculptural tower – shaped like a bird’s nest suspended in the sky. From its top you can see, in a single breathtaking view, both the highest peak in the Baltics and Estonia’s deepest lake. The tower stands in the Rõuge Primeval Valley, home to the deep, dark Rõuge Suurjärv.

For a truly extreme contrast, continue from the deepest lake to the highest point in the Baltics – the Suur Munamägi Tower – where sweeping hill views reveal the full character of South Estonia.

Near Võru lives one of Estonia’s oldest legends – and its oldest tree. The Tamme-Lauri Oak has stood here for more than 700 years, being older than Estonia itself. It’s been a sacred tree, a forest spirit’s home and a symbol of endurance. Rooted in the same spot for centuries, it’s a living time machine, still standing as the world changes around it.

Naeratav neljaliikmeline pere Andri-Peedo kitsefarmi laudas

Photo author: Sven Zacek

Day 3 – Muse, Wildlife and Steps on Moss

Start your third day with fresh air and some movement.

On the rolling hills of Otepää, glide along on a kick-scooter in summer or a kick-sledge in winter. The route passes a lake that has inspired more artists, musicians and poets than any other in Estonia.

In the afternoon, slow down and listen to the quiet of nature – perhaps while meeting wild animals at Elistvere Animal Park or taking a calm forest break on the Männikjärve Nature Trail.

Elistvere is a family favourite wildlife park, where you can meet Estonian forest animals up close, in surroundings that respect their natural habitat.

If the morning’s fresh air wasn’t enough and you’re craving more soft moss under your feet, head to the Männikjärve Nature Trail – one of Estonia’s most species-rich bogs.

While in Jõgeva County, remember that this is the land of Kalevipoeg, Estonia’s epic folk hero. Nowhere else is his legend so alive – the hills, boulders and springs all echo stories and myths from the nation’s oldest tales.

Vaade droonilt üle Männikjärve raba laudtee ja vaatetorni

Photo author: Long-Nong Huang

Day 4 – Wood, Wisdom and the Scent of Onions

The final day of Route 8 takes a more cultural turn.

Begin in Avinurme, where woodworking tells stories and the scent of freshly planed timber fills the air. Try your hand at basket-weaving, shaving wood, or painting traditional wooden clogs – the perfect handmade souvenir to take home.

Next, head to the shores of Lake Peipus – either along the village roads of Peipsiveere or the flavour-packed Onion Route (Sibulatee).

Travel at your own pace or join a guided tour where onion-domed chapels, pickled fish and Old Believer traditions blend into a single, richly layered cultural and culinary trail.

The journey – and the whole route – ends in Estonia’s smartest city: Tartu.

We continue in greenery and the path leads to the University of Tartu Botanic Garden, the oldest in the Baltics and home to the country’s oldest palm tree.

From there, stroll back to the Town Hall Square. Did you know there’s a building here that leans more than the Tower of Pisa? The Tartu Leaning House, affectionately nicknamed “Tartu’s Pisa,” is definitely photo-worthy.

Nearby you’ll also find one of Tartu’s most-photographed stones – the base of the Kissing Students Fountain – possibly Estonia’s most Instagrammed rock. You just have to join the phenomen.