Places to visit in Viljandi

City walks

Viljandi Suspension Bridge

The red suspension bridge in the Castle Hills is one of the most recognizable views of Viljandi. The pedestrian bridge, about 50 meters long, spans a deep valley and connects the Order Castle ruins area with the former manor park. The structure was manufactured in Riga in 1879 and originally served in another location, later becoming an important part of the walking route through Lossimäed. The gentle sway underfoot, green slopes, and proximity of medieval ruins create a romantic atmosphere characteristic of Viljandi. The bridge is especially appreciated as part of a general walk through the Castle Park and viewpoint areas over the lake.

Indicative price: Walking across the bridge is free.

Lossimäed, Viljandi

Museums & science

Kondas Centre

Kondas Centre is an art centre in Viljandi named after the Estonian naive artist Paul Kondas. The permanent collection is based on his works, while temporary exhibitions introduce naive and outsider art, contemporary art, and artists from Estonia and other countries. Located in the historical part of the city near the Castle Hills, the centre is a great addition to a route between architectural and historical sights. One of Viljandi's most recognizable visual symbols is also connected to Kondas — decorative strawberries that appeared in the urban space inspired by his painting 'The Strawberry Eaters'. It is a small-scale museum, yet characteristic of Viljandi's cultural identity.

Indicative price: Adult €7; concession €5; family €14.

Pikk 8, 71003 Viljandi

City walks

Ruins of the Viljandi Order Castle

The ruins of the Order Castle are the main historical symbol of Viljandi and one of the most atmospheric places in the city. The construction of the stone fortress began in 1224 on the site of an earlier Estonian fortification, and by the beginning of the 16th century it had developed into one of the most significant strongholds in Old Livonia. Wars left only fragments of massive walls from the complex, but it is precisely the openness of the ruins today that makes this place particularly expressive. The castle hills have long since become a city park: they offer panoramic views of Lake Viljandi, walking paths run through them, and the historical walls serve as a backdrop for concerts and cultural events. The location is convenient to explore together with the nearby suspension bridge.

Indicative price: Walking on the Castle Hills and among the ruins is free.

Lossimäed, Viljandi

Museums & science

Viljandi Museum

Viljandi Museum introduces the history of the town and the whole of Viljandimaa from ancient times to the 20th century. The museum is located in the historic old pharmacy building near the Castle Hills, making it convenient to visit before a walk to the fortress ruins. The permanent exhibition spans two floors and brings together archaeological finds, historical objects, and materials on the traditional lifestyle of the region. A special place is held by a detailed model of the medieval order castle: it helps visualize the scale of the fortress before its destruction and better understand the ruins preserved today. In addition to the permanent exhibition, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions dedicated to local history, art, and cultural heritage.

Indicative price: Adult €9; pupil/student/senior €5; family €20. Guided tour up to 45 min: €35 in Estonian / €45 in a foreign language + tickets.

Johan Laidoneri plats 10, 71020 Viljandi

City walks

Viljandi Old Water Tower

The old water tower of Viljandi is a compact historical landmark and one of the best viewpoints in the city. The red-brick tower, about 30 meters high, was built in 1911 when Viljandi became one of the first Estonian towns with a modern water supply and sewage system. After decades of operation, the structure lost its original function and was restored as an observation tower in 2001. Three floors feature historical materials and exhibitions, while at the top visitors can enjoy views of the Old Town, Lake Viljandi, and the surrounding landscape. Due to the seasonal opening hours, visiting the tower is best planned in advance.

Indicative price: Adult €4; student/pupil/pensioner €3; family €9; preschoolers free.

J. Laidoneri plats 5c, Viljandi

Nature & parks

Lake Viljandi Beach

Viljandi Lake City Beach is one of the main summer recreation areas near the historic centre. It features a sandy shore, areas for swimming and sunbathing, ball game courts, and a children's activity area with climbing elements and slides. Visitors can rent a boat to view Viljandi from the water, and a 13.5-kilometre trail around the lake, suitable for walking and cycling, runs nearby. Thanks to the combination of water, greenery, and sports infrastructure, the beach is appealing not only on a hot day: it is a convenient starting point for the trail around the lake or for heading back up to the Old Town via Trepimägi.

Indicative price: Beach access is free.

Supeluse, Viljandi

History & architecture

St. John’s Church in Viljandi

St. John's Church is one of the oldest and most significant churches in Southern Estonia. Its history dates back to the second half of the 15th century: despite wars, fires, and subsequent reconstructions, the building has retained its medieval walls, tower, and historical window openings. The modern interior is complemented by works of art and stained glass, and the good acoustics have made the church a prominent concert venue in Viljandi. A special feature is the carillon of 25 bronze bells in the tower, which sounds over the city daily at 12:00 and 18:00. Thanks to its location near the Castle Hills, the church is easy to include in a walk through the historic center along with the ruins of the Order castle and the suspension bridge.

Pikk tn 6, Viljandi

City walks

Viljandi Trepimägi

Trepimägi is one of Viljandi's characteristic urban routes, connecting the Old Town with the lake. The stairs were built in the late 19th century to make the descent to the water more convenient; today its five flights and 158 steps have become an independent attraction. Along the way, views of the lake and the green slopes of the ancient valley open up, and beautiful historical villas that once belonged to wealthy citizens and merchants are preserved around. Trepimägi is especially interesting not as a separate monument, but as a short walk where urban architecture gradually gives way to the natural landscape. At the bottom, the route can be continued to the beach and the Viljandi lake trail.

Indicative price: Walking the stairway is free.

Trepimägi, Viljandi

Nature & parks

Lake Viljandi

Lake Viljandi lies in a deep ancient valley right next to the town and forms one of the most recognizable natural landscapes in the region. The body of water stretches for about 4.6 kilometers, and its shores are connected by a popular walking and cycling route. On the opposite side of the lake, there is a viewpoint from which the silhouette of Viljandi on the slope is particularly clear. The lake is also closely connected with local culture — its image is well known in Estonia thanks to the song about the boatman of Viljandi. This is a great option for those who want to trade medieval ruins and museum exhibitions for a peaceful walk by the water, nature watching, and panoramic views of the town.

Indicative price: Walking around the lake is free.

Järve tänav, Viljandi

City walks

Kassisaba Street

Kassisaba is a small hidden walking trail in Old Viljandi that is easy to miss if you do not know about its existence. The historical path was restored on the initiative of local residents in 2016, returning its role as a connecting path between Trepimägi and Pikk street. The route runs among greenery and quiet old buildings, allowing you to see a more intimate side of the city away from the main squares. From the Pikk side, a large oak tree with a swing serves as a landmark, and from the Trepimägi side, the path starts near the historical Villa Nemwaltz. Kassisaba is well suited as a short continuation of a walk between the Old Town, the Trepimägi stairs, and Lake Viljandi.

Indicative price: A self-guided walk is free.

Oru tn 14, Viljandi

City walks

Viljandi Strawberries

The Viljandi Strawberries are large, colourful concrete sculptures placed around the town, inspired by the artist Paul Kondas's painting "The Strawberry Eaters". Eight strawberries form an unusual public art trail that invites walkers to notice the smaller details of the townscape. The sculptures link Viljandi's streets to the story of local naive art and have become a recognisable visual symbol of the town. Hunting for the strawberries is a way to discover different streets and photo spots. You can start the walk at the Kondas Centre, but the sculptures themselves stand in public space and make for an experience separate from the museum.

Pikk tn 8, Viljandi

Nature & parks

Viljandi Oak and Swing

The Viljandi oak and swing stand beside Pikk Street, at a spot overlooking Lake Viljandi and the green landscape of the castle hills. The swing hung from the branches of a large oak has become one of the town's distinctive places for a walk and a photo. Old-town streets, tall trees and wide views over the lake valley meet here. The stop suits especially those who want to explore Viljandi on foot and notice smaller but memorable places between the well-known sights. It is a natural and urban setting in open public space; when visiting, keep the weather in mind and use the swing safely.

Pikk tn 29, Viljandi

History & architecture

Johann Köler Monument

The Johann Köler monument stands in Viljandi's Johann Köler Park and is dedicated to one of the founders of Estonian national painting. Born in Viljandi County, Köler studied and worked in several European art centres and was also active at the Russian imperial court. The memorial's sculptor is Edgar Viies and its architect Rein Luup. The monument offers a chance to learn about an important figure in Estonian art history outside a museum hall. The surrounding park suits a quiet stop while walking around town. The memorial is a standalone work of public art where you can take a closer look at the sculpture's form and its link to local cultural heritage.

Johann Köleri park, Viljandi

History & architecture

St. John's Church in Viljandi

St. John's Church in Viljandi is a place of worship of medieval origin on Pikk Street in Viljandi's old town. The church's history goes back to the second half of the 15th century, and its walls have survived wars, fires and rebuilding. Medieval structural parts have been preserved, and inside you can see artworks and stained-glass windows. The church tower holds a carillon of 25 bronze bells whose sound is part of the characteristic soundscape of central Viljandi. St. John's Church also serves as a concert venue and lies close to the castle hills and the old town's footpaths. When visiting the interior, keep services and events in mind.

Pikk tn 6, Viljandi

Nature & parks

Viljandi Rotary Disc Golf Park

The Viljandi Rotary disc golf park is in the Männimäe district on Huntaugu Hill, near Lake Viljandi. The eighteen-basket course runs through varied terrain and combines exercise, play and enjoying lakeside nature. The park suits both local enthusiasts and visitors who want to spend active time in town. To play you need disc golf discs, which can be rented from a separate service provider if needed. The course is outdoors and accessible outside normal opening hours too. When visiting, be considerate of other players, walkers and the terrain.

Indicative price: Use of the course is free; disc rental is charged separately according to the price list.

Toome tn 25, Viljandi

History & architecture

Leelotaja Sculpture

The Leelotaja sculpture stands in front of the small building of Viljandi Kesklinna School on C. R. Jakobsoni Street. The memorial site marks where the first song festival of Viljandi County was held and the history of the founding of local societies. Designer Aate-Heli Õun combined a memorial stone with a copy of Lydia Laas's bronze figure of a woman singer. The original sculpture was made in the 1950s, and its model is thought to have been folk culture promoter Laine Mesikäpp. The outdoor work tells of the development of local choral singing and society life. It can be viewed as part of a walk around the town.

C. R. Jakobsoni tn 42a, Viljandi

Nature & parks

Viljandi Castle Park Sandstone Outcrop

The Viljandi Castle Park Sandstone Outcrop lies in the heart of the town, on the southern edge of the Castle Hills. Sandstone from the Middle Devonian period is exposed at the surface here, revealing the area's geological history. The outcrop is up to about six metres high and roughly eighteen metres long. Nearby is a spring with a protective shelter built over it. It is a natural attraction in its own right within the historic park, not part of the castle walls. The outcrop can be viewed on a walk, but to protect the fragile rock surface and the surrounding nature it is best to keep to the designated paths.

Lossimäed, Viljandi

Arts & culture

Viljandi Song Festival Grounds

Viljandi Song Festival Grounds on Talli Street are an important venue in the town for outdoor events and song festivals. Concerts, song and dance festivals and other community events take place here. The grounds are also linked to the history of Estonia's restoration of independence: next to them stands a memorial stone dedicated to a Popular Front demonstration. Viljandi has a special bond with the song festival tradition, as the song “Koit”, written for the local Koit society, has become part of Estonia's nationwide song festival culture. The grounds can be visited outside events as well, but separate entry and ticket rules may apply during events.

Talli tn 2, Viljandi

Arts & culture

Rüki Gallery

Rüki Gallery is a contemporary art exhibition and sales gallery on Tartu Street in Viljandi's Old Town. In a historic granary building visitors can see paintings, photographs, prints, sculptures and installations by Estonian artists. The gallery's name comes from an old inscription, “Rüki jahu” (rye flour), discovered during renovation, which referred to a former flour store. Exhibitions change, so every visit may offer a different art experience. The gallery is also a meeting place for art lovers and creators. Check that an exhibition is on before you come, as the rooms are closed between exhibitions and on public holidays.

Indicative price: Free admission

Tartu tn 7c, Viljandi

History & architecture

General Johan Laidoner Equestrian Monument

The General Johan Laidoner Equestrian Monument stands on the Castle Hills of Viljandi and commemorates the commander-in-chief of the Estonian forces in the War of Independence. The equestrian statue by sculptor Terje Ojaver is a rare kind of memorial in Estonian public space, centred on a statesman on horseback. Laidoner, who came from Viljandi County, was also the town's first honorary citizen. The monument introduces the history of the defence of Estonian independence and Viljandi's links with that period. The statue stands outdoors and can be viewed on a walk around the Castle Hills. It is a separate memorial, not another name for the Order castle ruins or the suspension bridge.

Lossimäed, Viljandi

Nature & parks

Loodi Hell Valley Hiking Trail

The Loodi Hell Valley Hiking Trail starts in Loodi village, Viljandi County, near the manor's mill pond. The trail, about two kilometres long, runs through a valley with sandstone outcrops towards Paistu. The best-known stop is the Loodi Hell outcrop, at the foot of which is a cave with a spring. At the start of the trail there is a rest area with campfire and camping facilities; the outcrop can also be reached from Paistu centre. Take an unhurried pace to see the valley's natural formations, and bear in mind that sections of the trail can be slippery in damp weather.

Pöögi, Loodi küla, Viljandi vald, Viljandi maakond

History & architecture

Suure-Jaani St. John's Church

St. John's Church in the town of Suure-Jaani, Viljandi County, is one of the oldest churches in the region. Inside the medieval church you can see furnishings from different eras, including a neo-Gothic altarpiece, a historic ring cross and the Kriisa brothers' organ completed in 1937. The old parsonage ensemble stands beside the church. The building is used as the congregation's church, so being able to view it from outside does not mean free entry at all times. According to local tourist information, interior visits must be arranged in advance.

Järve tn 4, Suure-Jaani linn, Põhja-Sakala vald, Viljandi maakond

Nature & parks

Olustvere Manor Park

Olustvere Manor Park is in the small town of Olustvere, Viljandi County, and surrounds a historic manor complex. In the park you can stroll among ponds, bridges and old trees and take time for a picnic. The manor also has an animal park where you can see horses, goats and alpacas. Several craft workshops operate nearby, but their workshops require a separate arrangement and are not simply part of a park visit. The park itself is open around the clock; opportunities to see the animals and visit the buildings may depend on local arrangements.

Talli tn 5, Olustvere alevik, Põhja-Sakala vald, Viljandi maakond

Museums & science

ERM Heimtali Museum

The Heimtali Museum of the Estonian National Museum (ERM) is in Heimtali village, Viljandi County, in a 19th-century village schoolhouse built of fieldstone. The permanent exhibition presents school life of the past, tools collected from the surrounding area and local craft traditions. A special part is the national textile collection; changing exhibitions focus on handicrafts, history and art. The children's playroom has animals inspired by mitten patterns. The museum also offers workshops and guided visits by advance booking, with conditions that differ from the standard exhibition ticket.

Indicative price: Adult ticket €7; reduced €5; family ticket €10

Kääriku/1, Heimtali küla, Viljandi vald, Viljandi maakond

Nature & parks

Sinialliku Hiking Trail

The Sinialliku Hiking Trail is in Sinialliku village, Viljandi County, and runs from the lakeshore to springs with bluish water. The colour of the water comes from sediments on the spring bed. Along the trail, about 1.3 kilometres long, you can see both the springs and a nearby hillfort, the site of a fortified settlement of the ancient Estonians. There is a campfire site along the way, and the route can be started from the old railway station or near the Viljandi–Karksi-Nuia road. Visits depend on the weather and trail conditions; take care of nature around the springs.

Sinialliku, Sinialliku küla, Viljandi vald, Viljandi maakond

History & architecture

Karksi Primeval Valley and Order Castle Ruins

The Karksi Primeval Valley and Order Castle Ruins are in Karksi-Nuia, Viljandi County, combining historic architectural heritage with a steep-sided valley. The castle hill overlooks the Linnaveski mill pond; the remains of the walls of the medieval Order castle recall the site's former defensive role. St. Peter's Church was later built next to the ruins, and the Lieven burial chapel stands nearby. You can explore the area at your own pace, looking at buildings from different eras and noticing the valley's relief. A trip from Viljandi suits anyone who wants to see both the Mulgimaa landscape and traces of architecture on a single walk.

Lossi tn 4, Karksi-Nuia linn, Mulgi vald, Viljandi maakond

Arts & culture

Viljandi Traditional Music Barn

The Viljandi Traditional Music Barn is a concert house and cultural centre on Tasuja Boulevard at the edge of the Castle Hills. The Barn has a large and a small concert hall, a shop with folk instruments, records and books, and a traditional music information collection. Rehearsals and workshops take place in the cellar with its brick vaults. The house is a permanent home for Viljandi's traditional music scene, where alongside concerts you can learn about what is happening in the field. Tickets and times for individual events depend on the programme; if you plan to drop in without a concert, check the building's general opening hours separately.

Tasuja pst 6, Viljandi linn, Viljandi maakond

Museums & science

Soomaa National Park Visitor Centre

Soomaa National Park Visitor Centre is in Tipu village, Viljandi County, in the Kõrtsi-Tõramaa area, and introduces the national park's landscapes. The permanent exhibition “Through Soomaa by Dugout Canoe” takes visitors on an imaginary journey along rivers, floodplain meadows, flood areas and forests. Before heading into nature, you can get information at the centre about hiking trails and campfire sites. The exhibition helps explain why the traditional dugout canoe (haabjas) is an important way of getting around in Soomaa and how the spring floods change the look of the area. The visitor centre has a seasonal schedule; before a longer drive from Viljandi, check holidays and opening hours.

Kõrtsi-Tõramaa, Tipu küla, Põhja-Sakala vald, Viljandi maakond

Nature & parks

Parika Small Lake Nature Trail

The Parika Small Lake Nature Trail starts in Aimla village, Viljandi County, and leads through bog pine forest to a small heart-shaped lake. The out-and-back route of about three kilometres includes a wider section covered with wood chips, rest spots and information boards. By the lake there is a shelter and a jetty; a short boardwalk also leads to a complex of bog pools. The trail shows how drier forest gradually turns into bog landscape. The nature trail lies in a nature reserve, so keep to the marked path and bear in mind the condition of the water and the ground.

Aimla metskond 3, Aimla küla, Põhja-Sakala vald, Viljandi maakond

Nature & parks

Õisu Hiking Trail

The Õisu Hiking Trail is a nature trail of about 2.5 kilometres near the small town of Õisu, Viljandi County. It leads into the valley of the Vidva stream, where sandstone outcrops rise beside the water and the slopes give the trail different heights. One section runs along the edge of the valley, another lower down in the forest, and at one point you need to use a rope on the climb. For that reason the trail is better suited to an unhurried but attentive hike than to a walk on level ground. An information board shows the way from the car park to the trail; in wet weather, expect slippery sections and take care of the protected landscape.

Õisu maastikukaitseala 5, Õisu alevik, Mulgi vald, Viljandi maakond

History & architecture

Lõhavere Lembitu hill fort

Lõhavere Lembitu hill fort is located in Viljandimaa, in Lõhavere village, on a hill surrounded by forest. The ancient stronghold site is associated with Lembitu, the elder of Sakala, and Estonian history of the 12th and 13th centuries. Today, steep slopes and the landforms of the former fortification are visible, and visitors can walk between them. At the foot of the hill, there is a monument to ancient freedom fighters, and information boards introduce the history of the site. The visit takes place outdoors and requires taking natural terrain into account. This is not another name for the ruins of the Order Castle in Viljandi.

Aimla metskond 313, Lõhavere küla, Põhja-Sakala vald, Viljandimaa

History & architecture

Halliste St. Anne's Church

Halliste St. Anne's Church is located in Pornuse village in Viljandi County and is a historic Lutheran sanctuary. The oldest stone parts of the church date back to the Middle Ages, but the building has repeatedly suffered from wars and fires. After the 1959 fire, the church stood in ruins for decades until it was restored in 1991. The interior features a remarkable black ceiling and an altarpiece created by Jüri Arrak. It is an active congregation church, and interior visits must be arranged in advance. This is a separate site from the churches in Suure-Jaani and Viljandi town.

Halliste kirik, Pornuse küla, Mulgi vald, Viljandimaa

Museums & science

Helilooja Mart Saare majamuuseum

Composer Mart Saar's House Museum is located in Viljandi County, in Karjasoo village at Hüpassaare farm, near the forests and bogs of Soomaa. The museum introduces the composer's life, his work, and his connection to the surrounding nature. In the Saar family home, visitors can see historical living quarters and objects that help understand his working and everyday life. The years spent here were important in the composer's work, and the natural environment provided him with inspiration. The house museum is a cultural-historical site in its own right, distinct from the nearby bog hiking trail. When planning a visit, the museum's seasonal working arrangements must be taken into account.

Indicative price: Full ticket 5 €; student 3 €; family ticket 10 €; group ticket up to 20 people 50 €. Cash only on site.

Mart Saare majamuuseum, Karjasoo küla, Põhja-Sakala vald, Viljandimaa

History & architecture

Heimtali Manor and Park

Heimtali Manor and Park are located in Heimtali village in Viljandi County, forming a historic manor ensemble. Next to the classicist main building stand the manager's house, a distinctive circular stable, and a distillery with four chimney towers. The heart of the manor is surrounded by a forest park with various tree species and springs. The exterior of the buildings and the park landscape can be explored on a walk, but the main building houses a school and the interiors are not a regular tourist attraction. The manor is a separate historical complex from the nearby Heimtali Museum, which is already in the MOST catalogue.

Pargi ring 1, Heimtali küla, Viljandi vald, Viljandimaa

Museums & science

Kapp Composers Museum House

The Kapp Composers Museum House is located in Suure-Jaani, Viljandi County, on Tallinna Street in a historic wooden house. It was built by Hans Kapp and bequeathed to his son Villem, who created a large part of his music here. The exhibition introduces the life and work of composers Joosep, Hans, Artur, Eugen, and Villem Kapp. In the historic rooms, you can see family items, photographs, and music-related displays. The museum offers an opportunity to discover the rich musical heritage of a small town. Visiting hours may vary by month, so it is advisable to check the latest schedule of Põhja-Sakala Parish before visiting.

Tallinna tn 30, Suure-Jaani linn, Põhja-Sakala vald, Viljandimaa

History & architecture

Ruins of Tarvastu Order Castle

The ruins of Tarvastu Order Castle are located in the village of Sooviku in Viljandi County and are a historical site with roots dating back to the 14th century. It is believed that the order castle was built on the site of an earlier Estonian hill fort. The ruins are situated by a beautiful river, offering visitors picturesque views. In the northern part of the castle, there was a mill that played a strategic role in defending the fortress. The fortress was also protected by a nearby tower. During the Livonian Wars, the order castle changed owners multiple times, and several attacks and explosions left only the walls of the original structure. Nearby, there is also a 19th-century classical-style chapel, which adds historical value to the area. Visitors can explore information boards and enjoy free parking.

Ordulinnuse, Sooviku küla, Viljandi vald, Viljandi maakond

History & architecture

Suure-Kõpu Manor

Suure-Kõpu Manor is located in Viljandi County, in the municipality of Põhja-Sakala. It is a unique manor complex that also houses Kõpu Primary School. The main building of the manor is known for its Pompeii-style frescoes in the dining hall and the art marble ballroom. Suure-Kõpu Manor is surrounded by a beautiful park, which hosts approximately 38 species of trees and shrubs, providing visitors with a peaceful natural environment. The manor offers various services, including tours, receptions, weddings, and seminars, but visits are only by appointment. It is a great place to enjoy historical architecture and scenic nature walks.

Kõpu mõis/1, Kõpu alevik, Põhja-Sakala vald, Viljandi maakond

History & architecture

Tarvastu Peetri Church

Tarvastu Peetri Church is located in Porsa village, Viljandi parish, Viljandi County. The exact date of the church's construction is unknown, but it is believed to have been established in the 13th century along with Tarvastu Castle. Throughout history, the church has suffered repeatedly due to wars but has been restored later. In the 19th century, after being struck by lightning, the church was restored in the neo-Gothic style under the guidance of Pastor Michael Jürmann, who also added a marble altar. On the altar wall of the church, two life-sized angels greet visitors, creating a warm atmosphere. The church tower is adorned with a gilded cross, and there is a powerful organ made by organ master August Terkman.

Tarvastu kirik, Porsa küla, Viljandi vald, Viljandi maakond

Museums & science

Tarvastu Museum

Tarvastu Museum is located in the village of Mustla, in the Viljandi municipality, and it preserves, studies, and exhibits items of culture and history from the Tarvastu parish and the former Tarvastu congregation. The museum's exhibition focuses on aspects of local peasant life, including farm work, tools, folk costumes, and local language and cultural traditions. Visitors can learn about the development of Mustla, the history of Tarvastu Castle, the local nobility (the Mensenkampff family), and the development of education in the region. The museum also provides an overview of the lives and activities of cultural figures from the Tarvastu area.

Posti 52b, Mustla alevik, Viljandi vald, Viljandi maakond

Museums & science

Mõisaküla Museum

Mõisaküla Museum is located in Viljandi County, Mulgi Parish, and showcases the history of the village since its inception. The museum features several railway-themed exhibits, including bronze railway vehicle and factory signs, as well as models of a steam locomotive, passenger cars, and a traction engine. Also remarkable is the display of Olympic weightlifter Arnold Luhaääre's medals. Museum visitors can also enjoy a draisine ride, which is available for an additional fee, but payment is only accepted in cash. The museum is open from Tuesday to Thursday, and on Fridays and Saturdays, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the cultural heritage of Mõisaküla.

Kesk 4, Mõisaküla linn, Mulgi vald, Viljandi maakond

Museums & science

Abja Museum

Abja Museum is a local museum in Abja-Paluoja presenting the history of the Abja area and Mulgimaa. Its exhibitions cover the development of local life, the history of education and culture, old work and household objects, and heritage connected with the people of the area. Through a small town, the museum offers a glimpse into the wider Mulgi cultural space and complements visits to the area’s manors and natural sites with a local history perspective. It is above all a community history museum, where objects and photographs help trace how the Abja area changed over different eras.

Posti tn 3, Abja-Paluoja linn, Mulgi vald, Viljandi maakond

Museums & science

Writer August Kitzberg Room Museum

The Writer August Kitzberg Room Museum is in Leeli village, Mulgi parish, in the former Pöögle parish house where August Kitzberg and his brother Jaan once worked and lived. The private museum presents the life of one of the most important literary classics associated with Mulgimaa, the Kitzberg family, the writer’s work and the world of a parish clerk. The Karksi area provided Kitzberg with material for several works, and the museum links literary history directly with this local setting. Visits are by prior arrangement; if you wish, you can continue along trails connected with Kitzberg’s work in the area.

Leeli, Leeli küla, Mulgi vald, Viljandi maakond

Nature & parks

Green Rails Trail Viljandi–Mõisaküla

The Green Rails Trail Viljandi–Mõisaküla is a hiking and cycling route that follows the corridor of a historic narrow-gauge railway. The railway between Viljandi and Mõisaküla opened in 1897, and the last trains ran here in 1973. Today’s roughly 46-kilometre trail passes through the forests, fields and villages of Mulgimaa, mostly on gravel and dirt roads. Between Õisu and Abja-Paluoja you partly have to use asphalt roads, as the old railway embankment is not passable along its entire length. The route can be done in full or you can choose a shorter section. The trail combines exercise with discovering the area’s railway history.

Teeristi, Viljandi linn, Viljandi maakond

History & architecture

St Paul’s Church in Viljandi

St Paul’s Church in Viljandi is a 19th-century historicist country church on Kiriku Street near the centre of Viljandi and one of the town’s notable sacred buildings. It was completed in 1866 to a design by the architect Matthias von Holst, and its architecture shows neo-Gothic influences. The church interior has a notable altar, organ and historical furnishings that link the building to Viljandi’s parish and music history. St Paul’s still serves as a church of the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church congregation, so tourist visits need to take services and other parish events into account.

Kiriku tn 3, Viljandi

Nature & parks

Oiu Harbour Trail

The Oiu Harbour Trail is a short walking trail in Viljandi parish on the shore of Lake Võrtsjärv, centred on a raised wooden walkway built over a floodplain meadow. The roughly half-kilometre structure starts at the boat jetty and rises in a gentle arc towards the lake. At its highest point the ground is about four metres below the walker’s feet. Twelve double-sided information boards along the way tell about the area’s nature, local life and history. Thanks to its short length, the trail also works as a stop on a longer trip along Võrtsjärv. The trail offers views over the floodplain landscape and towards the lake.

Laine, Oiu küla, Viljandi vald, Viljandi maakond