Once you’ve walked the trails and admired the views of Taevaskoja, don’t leave just yet – the surrounding area still holds much to discover. While Taevaskoja is the region’s natural centerpiece, the wider area is full of experiences that can surprise even the most seasoned nature lover. If you’re ready to continue your journey deeper into Southern Estonia’s nature and culture, here are the next must-see stops along the way.

Võhandu River – Where Adrenaline Meets Nature

While the Ahja River offers a peaceful and meditative experience, the Võhandu River is its more adventurous sibling. Here, too, you'll find sandstone cliffs – but with an added adrenaline rush. Võhandu is Estonia’s longest river and is famous for its annual spring canoe marathon – the Võhandu Marathon is an international event where hundreds of participants paddle 100 kilometers in just one day. But don’t worry – if a marathon isn’t your thing, you can enjoy the beauty of the Võhandu River on a calm boat ride or a shorter adventure. The river flows through diverse landscapes featuring cliffs and rapids, and it’s a fantastic setting for nature photography.

Kooraste Lake District – 11 Lakes, One Flowing Journey

Embark on a truly unique water journey through the Kooraste lakes. This natural wonder consists of 11 lakes, connected to form a flowing lake system. Whether by canoe or SUP board, you’ll glide through narrow water corridorsbordered by alternating fields and forests, and lakes. An average trip takes about 2.5 to 3 hours and covers approximately 9 km. It’s a perfect experience for those who appreciate silence, movement, and nature in balance. Kooraste is also ideal for families and first-time paddlers – there’s no rush, only flow.

Põlva Wakepark – Estonia’s Longest and Most Thrilling Watersport Attraction

If you’re looking for a true adrenaline rush in the area, Põlva Wakepark offers a one-of-a-kind watersport experience. It features Estonia’s longest full-length cable wakeboarding system – a 519-meter loop where up to six people can ride at once. The park includes seven different obstacles – including jumps, slides, and a large funbox – offering excitement for beginners and experienced wakeboarders alike. Visitors will also find SUP boards, canoes, a barrel sauna, and a cozy snack area for relaxing between rides. If you want to add speed and thrill to your Taevaskoja nature experience, this is the place to go.

Meenikunno Bog – Silence That Stays With You

If your soul longs to escape the noise of daily life, Meenikunno Bog is the place to be. Vast, deeply peaceful, and strikingly beautiful, this bog is crisscrossed by boardwalks that guide you through wetlands and pine groves. Nearby lakes Mustjärv and Valgjärv offer contrasting experiences – one is deep and dark, the other crystal clear and mirror-like. Both are perfect for quiet relaxation, swimming, or simply being still. The varied landscape is suitable for both short walks and long hikes. In autumn, Meenikunno is ideal for mushroom or berry picking; in winter, for snowshoe adventures.

Taevaskoja Is Just the Beginning

These places aren’t just scenic spots – they form a rich, interconnected whole with Taevaskoja at the heart. To truly understand why this region holds a special place for Estonians, you need to go beyond the usual paths. Every river, lake, and trail carries its own story.

Expand your Taevaskoja experience – the entire region is waiting to be discovered.