For our third outing, we decided to head toward the heart of Estonia, the shores of Võrtsjärv. There were actually two reasons for this choice. First, we wanted to explore new trails and landscapes. Second, a cozy destination awaited us at the end of the hike: Oiu Harbour. That’s where the Iglusauna is located. The perfect place to gather after a hike and wind down the day.

Could One Hike Around Võrtsjärv One Day?

Võrtsjärv is one of the largest lakes in Estonia. While planning the hike, however, we discovered that there aren’t actually many longer hiking trails that run along the lake’s shoreline. That sparked an idea: how wonderful it would be to one day hike around the entire lake. Along the shore, through oak groves and grain fields. A small idea for RMK to consider for the future.

Until then, we had to get a bit creative and piece together our own little route.

Fog, Melting Snow, and a Small Adventure

Our original plan was to walk partly on the lake ice and partly along the shore. But when we arrived, it quickly became clear that this wasn’t the smartest idea. The weather had warmed up, and the ice was wet and unstable. So we decided to change our route.

The starting point of our hike became St. Martin’s Church in Rannu village. Unfortunately, we didn’t manage to peek inside, but even the exterior of the church was impressive enough to make us stop, admire it for a moment, and take a group photo. On that foggy and damp morning, many of us were grateful for a warm hat. Merino hat keeps your head comfortably warm while you’re on the move.

From there we continued along a road running between grain fields. In reality, it was more like a stretch of open land filled with fog, mud, and melting snow. Yet that’s exactly what made the landscape feel especially mysterious.

Halfway along the forest edge we stopped for a moment, because somewhere in the distance we heard birds chirping. It was one of those small moments when you simply pause, listen, and take in your surroundings. While recording the bird sounds and trying to identify the species, we learned they might have been Eurasian siskins.

The Tamme Outcrop Trail

Our goal was to reach the Tamme Outcrop Trail. The trail is clearly marked on Google Maps and forms a loop of about 5–6 km.

We only managed to complete part of it. The lower section, where the trail runs through reeds and along a boardwalk right by the lake, was completely flooded. The upper part has a small picnic area with a view of the lake. In summer it must be a beautiful spot.

This time, though, we had to settle for mud, watery snow, and a few small detours. Eventually we followed another field road back toward Rannu village, passing the Estover dairy factory along the way.

All in all, it turned into a loop of about 6.5 km, just the right distance to get a little muddy, laugh a lot, and enjoy the fresh air.

Sauna, Soup, and a Little Bit of Madness

After the hike, we drove to Oiu Harbour, greeted by warm pumpkin soup and grilled sausages. After a long walk, simple things like that always taste especially good. Conversations naturally turned to whose boots stayed dry and how many pairs of socks were had put on that morning. We all agreed that at this time of year, a pair of high-quality merino socks are a hiker’s best friend, to keep your feet warm and comfortably dry even during longer walks.

Then we headed to the Iglusauna, where we could end the day on a perfect note, stretching our legs and chatting away.

We even tried chopping an ice hole in the river with an axe, but that turned out to be a bit too ambitious for us. At least we managed to roll around in the snow and briefly dip our feet into the icy water.

In the sauna we also tested different masks and serums from the Lumene brand, brought by Andbeauty. A little spa moment in the middle of nature.

Join Us on the Trail

Woolish Trails Club is our small community of people who love moving in nature, discovering new trails, and spending time in good company.

Our next hike will take place on May 3rd in Viljandi.

If you’d like to stay updated about upcoming hiking days, trails, and spontaneous adventures, join our community chat. That’s where we share news about new events first.

JOIN THE CHAT and come hike with us next time.

Woolish Knitwear for the Trail

If you’re planning to head out into nature yourself, it’s worth taking a look at Woolish merino wool knitwear:

/// Como Merino Socks – comfortable socks for hiking and everyday wear
/// Merino Hats – lightweight and warm for every season
/// Merino Wool Sweaters – breathable mid-layer that regulate temperature