A striking contrast in nature can be found along the Ahja River in Põlva: sandstone outcrops meet a river valley shaped by natural forces. In Taevaskoda, the sandstone outcrops and the ancient river form the most beautiful part of the Ahja River Landscape Protection Area. The Great Taevaskoda sandstone outcrop rises 22.5 metres above the river.
Sandstone and trails in Taevaskoda
The marked Taevaskodade circular hiking trail is 3 km long. It leads to picturesque outcrops and unspoilt landscapes shaped by natural forces—and into a world of legends, folklore and films. Only walking is permitted on this trail.
From the Ant Trail to the raised bog
The trails vary in both length and theme. The Kiidjärve Ant Nature Trail is an approximately 1 km circular route that introduces visitors to the way ants live. A record-high 42-metre spruce also stands there. The Valgesoo Nature Trail is a 1.8 km circular route around the Valgesoo raised bog. Those who want to explore the river and sandstone will find both on the 3.2 km Roiupalu Nature Trail: it offers views of the Ahja River and sandstone outcrops and runs through the Ahja River Valley Landscape Protection Area. The options therefore range from ants and bogs to river landscapes and rock formations.
Access also varies from trail to trail. The Kiidjärve Ant Nature Trail can be reached by bus or train; the bus stop is about 10 metres away and the railway station about 50 metres away. There is a viewing tower and a campfire site at the start of the Valgesoo Nature Trail. The entire trail is accessible by wheelchair or stroller. You can reach the Roiupalu Nature Trail by bus via the Kiidjärve stop by the RMK Visitor Centre, or by train via Kiidjärve station, which is 2.9 km away.
Experiences along the Ahja River
Fatbike tours are organised in Taevaskoda year-round. From spring to autumn, they follow forest trails along the banks of the ancient Ahja River Valley; in winter, the tour also stops at the ice of Lake Taevaskoda. A seasonal sleigh ride on the trails of Taevaskoja passes through the ancient valley of the Ahja River, by sandstone outcrops and through snow-covered forests. Both experiences take in the landscape, but differ considerably in how you get around and in the time of year.
The canoe trip on the Ahja River starts in Koorvere or Kiidjärve. Summer hikes as part of the trip include a pancake picnic. For walks and leisure time by the water, Lake Põlva and its beach offer more options: there are playgrounds, an area for skateboarding and roller skating, a beach volleyball court and pleasant walking trails.
Culture and a break along the way
The region’s offerings include events as well as nature and outdoor activities. Mooste Folgikoda hosts a variety of events and concerts throughout the year. Tillu Cafe serves freshly baked pastries, sweet rolls and cakes, as well as light meals, salads, soups and a daily special. Along with trails and activities, visitors can therefore include a cultural programme and a choice of food in their travel plans.
Discover more destinations: Taevaskoja, Holvandi, Eoste, Valgjärve, Laheda Parish, Pechorsky District, Värska, Ahja.
Go to the main travel overview: Põlva.
