Plaksi is a dispersed settlement at the foot of Tsälbamägi; Tuuljärv, Estonia’s highest-elevation lake, is also located there. Its elevation of 257 metres above sea level gives the place a clear connection to the surrounding landscape. Preserved farm buildings are also part of Plaksi’s cultural character. The area can therefore be understood through two distinct themes: its elevation in Haanja Nature Park and its traditional rural architecture.

Tuuljärv and the Dispersed Settlement

Tuuljärv is 257 metres above sea level, making it Estonia’s highest-elevation lake. Both the lake and the dispersed settlement of Plaksi lie at the foot of Tsälbamägi. A dispersed settlement is a settlement pattern with buildings spread out, rather than grouped together in continuous development. This describes a different settlement structure from that of a compact centre. The elevation places Tuuljärv within Estonia’s landscape, while the term “dispersed settlement” describes the form of the village. Together, the lake and the settlement pattern provide two concrete points of reference for finding your way around Plaksi.

Preserved Farm Buildings

The village of Plaksi is very well preserved. At the Keldre XI farmstead complex, a dwelling house, a threshing barn or former threshing dwelling, a smoke sauna and a passage barn have been preserved. At Nogo, a well-preserved threshing dwelling, a passage barn and a barn dryer have been preserved. The passage barn is the shared feature of the two examples. Keldre XI also includes a dwelling house and smoke sauna, while at Nogo the barn dryer is part of the preserved group of buildings. The term “threshing dwelling” combines living and agricultural work in its name. Together, these buildings illustrate the domestic and working practices of Plaksi’s rural architectural heritage.

A Protected Plant Species in the Nature Park

The protected plant species võsu-liivsibul occurs in the area of the village of Plaksi in Haanja Nature Park. Historical records from 1981, 1991 and 2006 include hundreds of plants. During a survey in 2006, an estimated 100 plants were found at one location in the Plaksi area; the condition of this site was assessed as good at the time. The number and assessment refer to this single site and the 2006 survey. For nature enthusiasts, this protected species offers a specific insight into the area’s plant life.

Rules for Visiting Haanja Nature Park

Access and stays are permitted throughout Haanja Nature Park. The gathering of berries, mushrooms and other non-timber forest products is also permitted throughout the park. Watercraft without combustion engines may be used on the bodies of water. Camping and lighting fires are subject to an additional condition: both are permitted with the consent of the landowner or possessor and are subject to the exceptions established for protected areas. Vehicles may be driven on roads in the nature park. If you wish to camp or light a fire, take the required consent and applicable exceptions into account.

Finding Your Way Around Plaksi

At the main turn-off in Plaksi, turn left; a wooden sign points to Vaskna Turismitalu, 700 metres away. Vaskna Turismitalu lies between Suur Munamägi and Lake Vaskna. This connects a specific direction in the village with a geographical description of Turismitalu using two named landmarks.

Discover more destinations: Kallaste, Plaani.

Return to the main travel overview: Haanja.