Suur Munamägi

At 318 metres, this is the highest peak in Estonia and the entire Baltic states, crowned by an observation tower. From the top visitors get sweeping panoramic views over the forested Haanja Uplands and beyond into Latvia and Russia.

Things to do

• Climb the observation tower — Ascend the 29-metre tower atop the summit for 360-degree panoramas stretching into Latvia and Russia on clear days.
• Take the tower elevator — A glass elevator carries less mobile visitors and families up the tower, so everyone can enjoy the view.
• Walk the Haanja nature trails — Follow forest paths through the rolling Haanja Uplands that surround the peak, rich in pine and spruce.
• Visit the summit café — Stop at the small café at the tower base for coffee and a rest before or after the climb.
• Explore Rõuge and the Ööbikuorg valley — Drive a short distance to the scenic Nightingale Valley and lakes of nearby Rõuge village.
• Cycle the Haanja hills — Rent a bike to tackle the hilly terrain that makes this region a training ground for Estonian skiers and cyclists.
• Cross-country ski in winter — When snow falls, the Haanja Uplands become a popular network of groomed cross-country skiing tracks.

Food to try

• Suitsukala (smoked fish) — Locally smoked trout or other fish from the region's many lakes is a Southern Estonian staple.
• Sõir (Seto curd cheese) — A traditional caraway-flecked farmer's cheese made in the nearby Setomaa cultural region.
• Mulgipuder — A hearty barley-and-potato mash often served with fried pork and onions, typical of the south.
• Kama — A roasted grain flour mixed with kefir or yogurt, a distinctly Estonian cold treat or dessert.
• Black bread (leib) — Dense dark rye bread that Estonians treasure and serve with nearly every meal.
• Forest berry and mushroom dishes — Seasonal bilberries, lingonberries and chanterelles gathered in the Haanja forests appear on local menus.

Local customs & good to know

• Bring cash for the tower fee — There is a modest entrance charge for the observation tower, so carry euros as card options can be limited.
• Respect Seto heritage nearby — The surrounding Setomaa region has its own language, polyphonic singing (leelo) and Orthodox traditions worth learning about.
• Check tower opening hours — The tower's access times vary by season, so verify before arriving to avoid a wasted trip.
• Dress for the weather — The exposed summit can be windy and cool even in summer, so bring a jacket for the viewing platform.

Nearby

• Haanja Nature Park — 1 km
• Rõuge — 10 km
• Vastseliina Episcopal Castle — 11 km
• Võru — 14 km