In Tori Parish, forests, green spaces and rivers shape the surroundings. The town of Tori lies on the edge of Soomaa National Park. There are opportunities for hiking in forests and bogs, as well as activities on rivers. Nature, horse breeding, museums and archaeological history each add a different dimension. When planning your stay, it helps to first decide which of these aspects interests you most.
Landscapes, Trails and Natural Sites
The 2.8-kilometre Meiekose Nature Trail runs along the Raudna and Tõramaa rivers through part of the cultural landscape of Soomaa National Park. Described sights along the way include an old village with huts and saunas, old farmsteads and gnarled oaks. The route thus combines a river landscape with traces of rural life. If you would like to experience another seasonal aspect of the national park, during the flood period known as the “fifth season,” conditions may allow canoe trips across flooded meadows and through floodplain forests.
Protected natural monuments are also part of the landscape of Tori Parish, including Tori paljand and its caves. Tori Põrgu is a Devonian sandstone riverbank escarpment on the Pärnu River. From the bridge area, you can reach it by paddling 100 metres upstream. The interior of Tori Põrgu is no longer accessible; however, steps from the cemetery gate lead to the site. These access options should be distinguished: the approach from the river described here is by canoe, while access via the steps does not mean that the interior is accessible.
Bridges and Experiences on the Water
The Jõesuu suspension bridge crosses the Pärnu River and is 67.5 metres long. At the Sindi Rapids, you can watch the churning water from the riverbank. The rapids also serve as the starting and ending point for organised kayak and canoe tours. This means that watching from the riverbank and taking part in guided activities on the water are two different options.
Authentic dugout canoes can be rented at Haabjakoda for leisurely, one-hour trips on the Pärnu River. For canoe trips, Haabjakoda provides life jackets, paddles and basic instructions. An exhibition about the dugout canoe tradition in Estonia and Latvia is also on display there. The offering therefore combines a trip on the river with an insight into the regional boating tradition, though these are distinct experiences.
Horses, Museums and History
The Tori Hobusekasvandus horse-breeding farm was founded in 1856 and continues to breed Estonian and Tori horses. Horseback rides and horse-drawn carriage trips are available by prior booking. If these activities are part of your plans, be sure to book in advance. The Tori Museum also has a historical focus: it was Estonia’s first parish museum and was founded in 1934. Its exhibitions are housed in a former manor granary dating from 1814; the museum organises guided tours.
The history of Pulli goes back a long way: the first settlers reached the settlement 10,000 to 11,000 years ago. A dog tooth found there is the oldest evidence of the presence of domesticated dogs discovered in Estonia. Two church-related facts add to the history of buildings and commemoration: Tori Memorial Church was completed in 1854. Tori St George’s Lutheran Church was consecrated in 2001 in memory of all the victims of the Second World War and is used as a concert venue.
At the Sindi Museum, visitors can get a free introduction to the history of Sindi. For a different way to experience local culture, guests can learn about cider and wine production and sample the farm’s products during a visit to Tori Siidritalu. The alpaca farm is also home to dwarf goats, miniature sheep, Angora rabbits and chickens. These experiences range from history and craft to animals and tastings; choose according to what appeals most to you on your trip.
Find Hotels in Tori
Advance booking is required for horseback rides and carriage trips at Tori Hobusekasvandus.
Discover more destinations: Tori, Kõrsa, Lavassaare, Sauga, Varbla Vald, Audru, Vändra, Tahkuranna.
For the overview of the wider destination: Pärnu.
