Description of the attraction
Karula National Park is the smallest nature reserve in Estonia. The area of the reserve, located in southern Estonia, is 123 sq. Km. The reserve received its status in 1993. This area is sparsely populated, as 70% of it consists of forests and lakes.
There are many hills here, the highest point of the Karula Upland is Mount Tornimägi, which is 137.8 m above sea level. It is located near the village of Lüllemäe. There is an observation tower on Tornimägi, which offers an excellent view not only of the picturesque landscapes of the reserve, but also of the highest points of the Otepää Upland.
On the territory of the reserve there are 38 lakes, which were formed at the foot of the Karula hills during the retreat of continental ice. The largest lake in the reserve is Lake Ehijärv, with an area of 176 hectares, and the deepest is Savijärv, with a depth of 18 m.
The fauna is mostly represented by birds, of which there are about 157 species. Among mammals, the wild bear, moose, lynx, and western roe live here. Of the smaller ones - squirrels, foxes, ferrets, beavers, raccoons.
In the visitor center, located in the village of Jahijärve, you can find all the information about the structure, structure and nature of the park. In the same center, there is a permanent and seasonal exhibition, where you can learn in detail about the inhabitants of the reserve.
Karula National Park has everything you need for active tourism and passive recreation. There are well-equipped cycling trails of various lengths, as well as hiking, educational and walking trails.
The long walking trail is worth noting, the length of which is 36 km. This is a well-equipped circular trail with information boards. Also interesting will be the educational landscape trail 7 km long. Parking is provided at the beginning of the trail. The trail is equipped with 16 information boards, in addition, there is an observation deck and an observation tower of Rebazemyiza, which is 30 meters high. In addition, the Karula Nature Reserve has a nature trail specially designed for children. The length of the trail, which starts near the Karula National Park Center, is only 500 meters - a distance that even the smallest child can master. On the children's trail there are 10 information boards, 7 attractions, as well as 9 thematic objects that provide an opportunity for active activities and games.
