Project

The charm of Haanja Uplands in South Estonia lies in its lovely hilly landscape, winding roads and numerous lakes. Most of its ancient villages, special dialect, handicraft, and customs have been preserved until today. The whole area, called Vorumaa, is an area of outstanding beauty. It is famous for its diverse and very well preserved nature. Untouched forests with wildlife, deep valleys, hills, 170 small lakes with extremely clean water, rivers with caves in the steep banks - you can find everything there.

With the support of the state and local authorities the eco- and farm sustainable tourism has been developed in this area. Besides promoting the environmental tourism, this initiative supports rural development which is an important issue for Estonia. Estonian Association of Farm Tourism has launched several projects and Kiidi Farm, where the camp takes place, is one of them. This is one of the oldest EstYES local partners which has been hosting more than 10 camps with EstYES in the previous years.

Work

Various works in the forest: cutting unwanted trees and bushes, burning old tree brunches and brushwood, preparing firewood for heating the farm, laying paths for skiing and hikes and all kind of odd jobs in the farm buildings. Most of the work will be outdoors. There can be also some building/ maintaining works inside when the weather is too rainy.

Accommodation

In the farmhouse in 2-3-bedded rooms. Sleeping bag is not needed. There is also a common room with fireplace. WC, shower, hot water, & sauna are available. Hosts will prepare meals themselves, however, volunteers may be asked to help the kitchen.

Location

Kiidi Farm is situated 20 km south of Voru, capital of the County. It has a population of 15 000 people and lies about 250 km south-east of Tallinn, very close to the Latvian and Russian borders. The closest village to Kiidi Farm is Rouge (3km) with a population of about 1000 people. More information about Estonia www.visitestonia.com, South-Estonia www.werro.ee, www.southestonia.info and Kiidi Farm www.kiidi.ee

Terminal

Airport, harbour, bus or train station in Tallinn; bus to Voru.

Leisure time

There are many possibilities for leisure time, especially for those who love nature: acquaintance with nature sights in the area, hiking, canoeing, etc. Excursions to the historical sites of the County of Voru are planned as well. It might be possible to go to Latvia, which is just 30 km away, for a short trip. Volunteers will have a very good chance to get in close contact with the local people, to experience local traditions and learn some customs like enjoying hot Estonian sauna! The dates of the camp coincide with important National Day called Juripaev celebrated on 23.04. On this day in 1343 the ancestors of Estonians began mighty uprising against the landlords. The volunteers will have a possibility to take part in the festivities celebrating this remarkable for Estonia day.