Elva: Nature Trails, Lakes and Culture

• The Väike Väerada hiking trail begins at Elva railway station and is 3 km long.
• Elva Spordipark has natural-surface trails measuring 500 m, 1,000 m and 2,000 m for health jogging and Nordic walking.
• Elva can be reached by car, bus, train, bicycle or caravan.

Arbi järv is located in the heart of Elva and is surrounded by lush vegetation, illuminated nature trails and pine forest. The nature trail around the lake provides information on the shores, the lake’s ecology and the relationship between the lake and people through 10 information boards and stations. The walk therefore combines physical activity with an accessible introduction to this specific landscape.

The hiking trails of the Elva-Vitipalu Landscape Protection Area begin near Elva, in front of the Tartumaa Tervisespordikeskus. Another landmark is the promenade extending into Arbi järv from the square in front of the cultural centre, completed in 2020.

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

Elva’s historic railway station building is a preserved wooden building from the 19th century and is protected as a heritage site. It is used daily. The waiting area has a cosy reading corner with comfortable armchairs and a hot-drinks station. The railway station is therefore not only an arrival point but also a preserved part of the town’s history.

The “Professorite linnaosa” district lies along Järve Street on the southern shore of Lake Verevi. The annual Jüriööjooks takes place around Arbi järv and adds a sporting event to the recurring programme of activities.

The low ropes course is located in the park of Elva Spordihoone and is suitable for children and adults. A small bicycle practice track is located nearby. These two activities form a separate focus for travellers seeking an active pastime for different age groups in addition to walks and culture. They are clearly distinct from the longer trails in Elva Spordipark and the nature trails around Arbi järv.

In summer, Elav Elva Keskus also offers bicycle rental. This can be helpful when planning a visit if you do not want to explore the town only by car. At the same time, the railway station remains a clear reference point for travelling from the direction of Tartu, while Arbi järv, Lake Verevi, the cultural centre and the sports facilities provide different thematic focuses for planning your trip.

When choosing a hotel in Elva, it is therefore worthwhile to first identify the most important daily destinations: nature at Arbi järv, hikes in the surrounding landscape protection area, historic sites and exhibitions, or activities for children and adults. The specific features of individual accommodations should be checked separately.

How long is the circular trail around Arbi järv?

The ring-shaped nature trail around Arbi järv is 1.2 km long and has a gravel surface. It is suitable for walking, running and cycling.

How long does the train journey from Tartu to Elva take?

The train journey from Tartu railway station to the historic railway station building in Elva takes about half an hour. This time indication is expressly an approximation.

What is the “Professorite linnaosa” district?

“Professorite linnaosa” 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.

Where can you get information about Elva?

Elav Elva Keskus provides tourist information about Elva and the surrounding region. In summer, bicycle rental is also available there.

To the main travel overview: Elva town.