Elva: Discover Lakes, Nature Trails and Culture

Elva combines lakeshores, forest paths, culture and distinctive historic sites to create a diverse destination. Those looking for a holiday apartment or holiday house as a base for varied days away will find inspiration here for walks, cycling tours, family activities and cultural discoveries.

Exploring the Area Around Lake Arbi

Lake Arbi lies in the heart of Elva. Lush vegetation, pine forest and illuminated nature trails characterise its surroundings. The circular nature trail around the lake is 1.2 km long and surfaced with gravel. It is suitable for walking, running and cycling. Ten information boards and stands explain the lakeshore, the lake’s ecology and the relationship between the lake and the people.

Another special feature is the promenade completed in 2020, which extends from the square in front of the cultural centre into Lake Arbi. Those who like to spend their days actively can also use the paths in Elva Spordipark: it has nature trails measuring 500 m, 1,000 m and 2,000 m for health jogging and Nordic walking.

Hiking, Cycling and Activities for Different Age Groups

Near Elva, the hiking trails of the Elva-Vitipalu Landscape Conservation Area begin in front of Tartumaa Tervisespordikeskus. The 3 km Väike Väerada hiking trail starts at Elva railway station. This makes it possible to combine short and longer ideas for physical activity without every tour having to be the same.

Elva Spordihoone’s park has a low ropes course suitable for children and adults. There is also a small cycling practice track nearby. In summer, Elav Elva Keskus offers bicycle rental. These facilities give families and active travellers several ways to plan a day out. When choosing accommodation, it can therefore be decisive whether you would rather focus on paths by the lake, culture in the town centre or activities with children.

Culture and History in the Townscape

Various fairs and concerts are regularly held in Elva’s central square. There is also an open-air gallery. Elva Kultuurikeskus offers free exhibitions; its building was completed in 1985 as the “Heli” cinema. In summer, concerts and folk festivals take place at Elva lauluväljak. The town is also associated with Estonian rock history: the first Estonian rock festival was held at Elva lauluväljak in 1972.

Another prominent site is Elva’s historic railway station building. The preserved wooden building from the 19th century is protected as a heritage monument and is still used daily. The waiting area has a reading corner with comfortable armchairs and a hot drinks station. The building is therefore both a historic landmark and a practical place at the railway station.

Elva as an Easily Accessible Holiday Destination

Elva can be reached by car, bus, train, bicycle or motorhome. The train journey from Tartu railway station to Elva’s historic railway station building takes about half an hour. Elav Elva Keskus provides tourist information about Elva and the surrounding region. Those choosing a holiday apartment in Elva can therefore plan their trip around nature trails, lakeside experiences, cultural events or family-friendly activities and select the right combination for their own holiday.

Distinctive Areas by the Water

The “Professorite linnaosa” neighbourhood lies along Järve Street on the southern shore of Lake Verevi. Several professors of the University of Tartu at the time built representative summer houses there for recreation and rental. The history of this neighbourhood adds insight into the area’s former use to the landscape experience. The Jüriööjooks is also held annually around Lake Arbi.

For the overarching travel overview: Elva city.