Vara: Churches, Skatepark and Routes

Vara combines historic churches with practical opportunities for sports and travel around the region. You can choose different focuses for your stay: a visit to a church, roller sports, or a route with several stops. If you are planning for different interests, you do not have to fit them all into a single day’s itinerary. When looking for a holiday apartment in Vara, it helps to consider whether you mainly want to spend time in the town or include Vara in a longer tour.

Churches and history

The present-day Vara kirik was built in 1855. Vara Brigitta kirik was first mentioned in writing in 1669. These dates represent different historical reference points: for Vara kirik, the date is the year the present-day church was built; for Vara Brigitta kirik, it is the year of its first written mention. The Lutheran congregation uses Vara kirik. If you are planning a visit connected with the church or congregation, check the local arrangements in advance.

Skatepark and cycling routes

The paved skatepark at Vara multifunktsionaalne spordiväljak is intended for BMX freestyle, skateboarding and other wheeled sports. As of March 3, 2026, the facility was being used for sports; the ramps need to be renewed. If BMX or skateboarding is a deciding factor in your plans, check the condition of the ramps before visiting.

A preferred route for travellers from Tartu goes via Vara, Koosa, Varnja, Kasepää, Kolkja, Alatskivi, Kallaste and Ranna. The sequence of places provides a clear framework for a trip with several stops. A new cycling route is being created on the Onion Route in spring. Check which seasonal route is currently in use before setting off.

Getting there and practical planning

From June 1, 2026, regional bus line 730 runs from Tartu via Kõrveküla, Vara, Välgi and Kärgandi tee, then back to Tartu via Vara. Check the current timetable before departure so you can include the specific connection in your plans.

For travel planning, the sequence of places and the bus connection serve different purposes: the preferred route lists several stops, while line 730 describes a connection from Tartu via Vara and back. If your plans involve both, first compare your preferred sequence of places with the bus connection, then plan your stay accordingly.

As of March 3, 2026, changing and washing facilities were available at Vara kogukonnakeskus by prior arrangement; the centre is about 400 m from the sports field.

Find the right base

When looking for a holiday apartment in Vara, the first thing to consider is the role the town plays in your travel plans: Will Vara be your main focus, or will you include your stay in a tour with several stops? This turns the individual location and transport details into a practical question about planning your base.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Kauda, Mustametsa.

Return to the main travel overview: Vara.