Valgamaa lies along the line of the Estonian-Latvian border. In the old times, during the Livonian rule most of the county belonged to Latvia, thus the central town of the then province is now divided between the two countries – one half belongs to Estonia and the other to Latvia.
Tõrva-Helme-Taagepera area opens the gate to Mulgimaa, which was once well-known for its wealthy farmsteads. People in this part of Valga county still hold in high respect the folk culture and amateur activities, national instruments, songs and dances.

The pride of Valgamaa – Taagepera Castle – was completed in 1912 and represents the archaic-romantic trend of Art Nouveau, with hints of Finnish influence. The free-plan park surrounding the castle is one of the largest and most species-rich in South-Estonia. By now, the castle has been rebuilt into a hotel.

Our Practical Workshop includes an introduction to Taagepera – we will visit Kivimäe tourist farm and Taagepera Handicraft Workshop. Our community work will take place at the Handicraft Workshop, together with the substitute home and care home of Taheva Sanatorium. Lunch will be served at Taagepera Castle.
The route back will run through Otepää – the winter capital of Estonia. We will visit the Tehvandi viewing tower and ski museum, draw energy from the Otepää energy pillar and listen to Pühajärve legends.

The bus route is approximately 200 km long.
Fee 60€ per participant.
The trip is organised by Valgamaa Partnership.
See video about Valga county: