Alatskivi Castle was completed in 1885 and modelled on Balmoral Castle. Its visitor centre on the first floor presents the building as a family residence while also covering the history of the manor and the castle’s restoration. Here, you can explore three perspectives on the same complex: life in the house, the history of the manor and the work involved in preserving the castle.

Castle history and landscapes in Alatskivi

The manor’s former use is also reflected in its buildings: the former stable for carriage horses now serves as an exhibition stable. Outside, the Alatskivi Landscape Protection Area was established in 1964 to protect the park, the ancient valley and the surrounding landscapes shaped by cultural history. The Alatskivi Nature Centre is housed in a manor barn dating from the late 19th century, within the protected area. Its interactive exhibitions focus on nature around Alatskivi; visitors are allowed and encouraged to touch the exhibits.

For a specific hike, the 4.5-kilometre Alatskivi Hiking Trail offers a clear option: it runs around Alatskivi Lossijärv. The nature centre also offers nature-themed workshops for school classes or groups, available by prior booking. The trail and workshops cater to different interests, so there is no need to treat them as one combined tour.

Museums of music, literature and Old Believers

The Eduard Tubin Museum introduces the composer’s life and work. Manuscripts, audio recordings and books are on display and available to listen to. The permanent exhibitions at the Juhan Liiv Museum trace the writer’s life and creative world. A small exhibition also offers an introduction to Kodavere’s cultural heritage.

The Old Believers’ Museum in Kolkja explores the history of Russian Old Believers on Lake Peipus and shares it with visitors. In Varnja, the Living History Museum focuses on the Old Believers’ way of life from the late 19th century to the first half of the 20th century. By prior booking, the museum offers samovar tea and pies baked in a Russian oven.

Another way to experience regional culture is through the Peipsimaa Pärimuskeskus. The centre is housed in an Old Believer home dating from the late 19th century. It includes a textile workshop, Lubokiõu, a chicory museum and seasonal gallery exhibitions that change over time. The chicory museum was established in 2016 around a preserved old chicory-drying oven in the cellar and introduces chicory cultivation in Peipsimaa. In craft workshops, visitors can, for example, design a tote bag using block printing or make a pendant using a gilding technique. Check the availability and dates of bookable workshops before travelling.

Routes and activities to suit your interests

The three connected Kodavere routes can be travelled on foot, by bicycle or by car. Interactive points highlight important places and stories from the region. By comparison, the Alatskivi Hiking Trail is a single route with a stated length. These differences can help you plan: you can follow a specific hiking route or explore the Kodavere routes using one of the available modes of transport.

On Lake Peipus, Mesi Tare offers summer experience trips aboard the Mesiroos for up to ten people. Day trips to Piirissaar can also be booked. Fishing trips are intended for group events. Trips are seasonal and must be booked in advance; check available dates before your journey.

Tea, food and stories

At the Varnja Samovar House, visitors can try samovar tea, Ivan tea and traditional sugar candies served with tea. This offering may be seasonal, so it is advisable to check before visiting. The house also contains a private collection of more than 200 different samovars, built up over several decades. As the size of the collection may change, check the current number if it is important for your plans.

The Kolkja Fish and Onion Restaurant serves smoked fish, fish soup, onion soup, fish patties and traditional Old Believer pies; the menu may change. For groups, the restaurant can also arrange stories from the hostess about local life and Old Believer customs, as well as readings from old books. This may require prior arrangements.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Varnja, Kolkja, Väljaküla, Tähtvere, Nõo, Tartu, Rannu, Puhja.

For the broader travel overview: Tartu.