Multicultural Lake Peipus area or the Onion Route
One region, three cultures - Russian Orthodox Old Believers, traces of the German barons era, and Estonian cultural history. Lake Peipus area is a somewhat mystical place where on one hand Russian Old Believers who in the 17th century became separated from the official Russian Orthodox Church and emigrated to Estonia, live in their unique one-street village trying to preserve their religion, history and traditions. On the other hand, the region is also known for a magnificent manor house – the Alatskivi Castle, which offers a glimpse into the life of German barons in the 1870s. The third side of the region shows the life of Estonian peasants in Lake Peipus area in the 19th century and introduces the literary heritage of Juhan and Jakob Liiv. Old Believers were well-known as onion growers and even today there are large fields of onions in the villages near the lake. The local cuisine has been influenced by that, as well as by the proximity of the lake, relying heavily on onions and fish. A day-trip includes: transport, museums, churches, castle, local people and their stories, tasty local food, unique atmosphere, waterreed workshops.
The Old Postal Route and Setomaa (Seto land)
The historic Tartu-Võru-Pihkva postal road leads a different life today than hundreds of years ago when it was used for delivering post to Pskov, Russia. However, traces of the historical atmosphere can still be found in renovated postal taverns and museums. One old postal inn is now a handicraft workshop, where everyone is welcome to try their hand in making various interesting items. There are several museums along the route that give an overview of the history and the different periods. The farthest destination on the route is Setomaa – a unique ethnic and linguistic region. The unique culture of the Seto people has emerged under the influence of two cultures - from the East and from the West. The Seto language, customs, cuisine, folklore and traditional costumes have been maintained by the small local community. A day trip includes: transport, museums, handicraft workshop, local food, traditional dance- or song performances.
