RMK Peraküla-Aegviidu-Ähijärve hiking route / Kiidjärve-Piusa (124 km)

Fire protection strips have been maintained in Värska and Piusa, which is why it is sometimes difficult to move with bikes on the sandy paths.
The longest section of Peraküla-Aegviidu-Ähijärve hiking route takes the hiker through the varied landscapes of Estonia. From Kiidjärve Visitor Centre, the trail goes along the amazing bank of the Ahja river towards the Taevaskoja outcrops, where one should step off the trail to study them. From Taevaskoja, the route proceeds over the field to Otteni rental hut and campfire site. Next, it passes the places where the film "The Last Relic" was shot and goes along forest roads towards Põlva. After leaving the lands of Mammaste Health and Sports Centre and the forest, the trail takes the hiker to the town of Põlva, where it is possible to replenish your supplies. Next, continuing along a cycling and pedestrian track, the trail arrives at the Rosma hill fort and the forest hiking trail. After Peri campfire site, the route continues on an asphalt road through the Peri village. Thereafter the trail follows a gravel road towards Saarjärve Holiday Centre. From Saarjärve, the trail continues along wonderful forest tracks to Koolma village, where the Võhandu river is crossed. After passing Leevi and Paidra campfire sites and through Lihtenstein village, it takes hikers to Meenikunno Landscape Protection Area. Walkers and cyclists go through the landscape protection area along different routes. From Meenikunno, the hikers go towards Värska, where it is possible to restock supplies and visit the Seto Farm Museum and the Tsäimaja cafe. Next, the route goes along the Laskevälja cycling trail through the varied Mustoja Landscape Protection Area. In Kolossova village we recommend visiting Vana Jüri Seebikoda – the artisan soap shop. From Matsuri hikers should go on the old railroad bed, which takes them towards the Piusa Caves.
Phone+372 676 7122
E-mail info.kiidjarve@rmk.ee
Type of objectHiking trail
Parking facilitiesFor long-term parking it is convenient to use the parking area at Kiidjärve Visitor Centre. In addition, parking is available in most campfire sites on this section of the hiking route.
Amenities
Camping facilities Tent camping is possible at all the rest stops on this section, except for Liipsaare forest hut.
Outdoor fireplace yes
Campfire site yes
Water In his section of the hiking route, non-potable water is not available near Liipsaare forest hut, and Lõunalaagri and Piusa campfire sites. Near Peri campfire site there is a small stream, which can be waterless in summer.
Hiking options There are several shorter signposted hiking trails on this section, which can be completed in addition to the main route.
SightsVäike and Suur Taevaskoda (outcrops), Ahja river, scenes of the film "The Last Relic", Võhandu river, Meenikunno bog, Mustoja Landscape Protection Area, Piusa caves.
Additional information
RestrictionsThis section of the hiking route is in the territory of several protected areas, so visitors should have general knowledge of their protection rules. On the hiking route one should not forget that camping and making a fire is allowed only at places designated for those purposes.
LocationThe hiking trail is in Põlva, Räpina, Setomaa municipalities in Põlva County and in Võru municipality in Võru County.
Driving directionsTo get to Kiidjärve Visitor Centre, drive from Tartu towards Põlva along Põlva-Reola Road. 10 km before Põlva turn left towards Kiidjärve at Koorvere intersection. Drive 4 km along Akste-Häätaru Road (road no. 18138). 1 km after Kiidjärve park bus stop there is a large parking area on the left. This is the parking area of RMK Kiidjärve Visitor Centre.