Get to know Tõrva through its diverse places: a former church building with a cultural program, Kino Koit, Central Square, and lakes and outdoor activities. These destinations offer a variety of experiences: architectural history and events, film and architecture, urban space and outdoor activities.

Culture and History

Tõrva Kirik-Kammersaal is housed in a former Orthodox church. It was built in 1903–1905 and rebuilt after war damage, with the work completed by December 1990. Kirik-Kammersaal hosts an average of 15–20 exhibitions and 35–40 concerts each year. The program also includes lectures, memorial events, church services, receptions and conferences.

Tõrva Kino Koit offers a different cultural focus. It first opened on September 1, 1953; the building is Stalinist and is protected as a heritage site. New films have been shown there weekly since 2019. The opening date and weekly film program mark different points in the cinema’s history. It is best to check which films are showing and the exact schedule before visiting.

Central Square and Lakes

Tõrva Central Square leads from the historic inn building to Tõrva Town Hall and from there onward to Lake Veskijärv. The square covers about 13,000 square meters; most of the area is devoted to walking paths and activity areas. The landscaping covers 5,000 square meters and includes the planting of nearly 2,000 trees and shrubs. The total area and the landscaping describe different aspects of the square’s scale.

Natural Lake Vanamõisa lies on the northern edge of Tõrva. Lake Riiska lies on the southeastern edge; its beach has changing cabins, toilets, volleyball courts, a swimming pier and swings. The two lakes are therefore located on different sides of the urban area. Facilities at Lake Riiska may change over time; check the details before your visit.

Trails and Activities

The Tõrva Health Trails run through nature and the town, around lakes and through parks. The trails are suitable for running, walking and cycling; there is also a strength-training area. In winter, cross-country ski trails of varying lengths are available too. The options mentioned differ both by activity and season: the ski trails are the seasonal winter option.

Around Tõrva Veemõnula, well-maintained disc golf, skiing, walking and cycling trails wind through a beautiful pine forest. Disc golf is listed here in addition to the trails for skiing, walking and cycling.

Tõrva Lion Tower serves as a viewpoint overlooking the lake and its surroundings. It has four levels with diving platforms. The highest platform is 11 meters above the water’s surface; including the light masts, the tower reaches a height of 14 meters. These two measurements refer to different things: 11 meters is the platform’s height above the water, while 14 meters is the total height including the light masts. Tõrva Lion Tower is also considered the tallest diving tower in the Baltics.

Discover more destinations: Valga, Sangaste, Meegaste, Kääriku, Taagepera.

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