There are many different ways to experience Ilmaveere
Experiences
“Setomaa is a special place in so many ways, with far more to experience than words can truly capture. This land enchanted us and touched something deep within. Ilmaveere is our way of sharing that beauty with you. “ – LENNA
Discover something new
Plenty to experience at Ilmaveere and beyond
Give yourself a moment to pause, Ilmaveere style. A pause that may carry you closer to the life and balance you dream of. Simply allow it to happen.
Here, you can immerse yourself in silence and birdsong, wander into the forest or find your way to the water’s edge. Discover what inspires you, slow down and let the moment carry you.
FATBIKE
Alongside good food, a restful night’s sleep and our nature-inspired spa experience, Ilmaveere also offers plenty of opportunities to get outside, explore the surrounding area and stay active.
And you do not need to be staying or dining with us to enjoy them.
Hop on an electric fat bike and make the most of the beautiful landscapes surrounding Ilmaveere.
25€/ 2h
35€/ 3h
Child bike seat 7€
CANOE & SUP BOARD
We believe that what makes a place truly special are its stories – whether they are rooted in real events or born from folklore and imagination. There is something captivating about them.
Today, Lake Obinitsa is a popular place for swimming and fishing, but its left shore hides a spring-fed sandstone outcrop and a cave called Juudatarõ, which is surrounded by many local legends. One of them is connected to the construction of the Obinitsa church.
According to the legend, evil spirits lived in Juudatarõ and tried to prevent the church from being built.
During the day, people worked on the church, but by morning everything they had built had been destroyed. Local men decided to keep watch at night and caught the devils of Juudatarõ in the act. The following day, the priest blessed the foundations of the church, made the sign of the cross and sprinkled them with holy water – and from that day on, the devils caused no more trouble.
Ilmaveere overlooks beautiful Lake Obinitsa, which you can explore by canoe or SUP board.
Every visitor has the chance to create their own story here. Perhaps you will catch a glimpse of the spirits hiding near the cave. Perhaps you will discover something new while quietly drifting across the shimmering water. Or perhaps your laughter will echo across the valley simply because life feels so good.
Anything is possible.
SUP board 15€/ h
Canoe 20€/ h
GUIDED SAUNA RITUAL
Visiting Setomaa without experiencing a traditional smoke sauna would almost be a sin. Experiencing one without a knowledgeable sauna guide might be an even greater one.
In the old days, the sauna was much more than a place for washing. It was a place where children were born, illnesses were treated, advice was shared and rituals were performed. It even played a role in preparing people for their final journey.
Our sauna guide carries this traditional knowledge forward and knows how to shape the experience according to the group and the moment.
Sometimes the ritual calls for the invigorating power of a traditional sauna whisk. At other times, soothing herbal compresses are used, or perhaps salt, honey or an old sauna song.
No two rituals are exactly alike.
The guided sauna ritual must be booked in advance.
EXPERIENCE SETO CULTURE
Setomaa is a truly special place with a unique cultural heritage. Here, traditions are not simply remembered – they are still very much alive.
People sing Seto leelo, speak the Seto language, wear traditional Seto clothing, visit smoke saunas, play the garmoshka, make sõir cheese and create intricate handicrafts.
Why do people eat at gravesides? What should you say when entering a sauna? When does a Seto girl receive her first silver coins to wear around her neck?
Tell us what you have in mind, and we will bring Seto culture to your event.
MUSHROOM FORAGING
Estonian writer Valdur Mikita has written about how the Setos can listen for chanterelles. Locals know exactly which direction to walk and how many steps to take.
With a local mushroom guide, you can find your way to the same hidden places – and return with a basket full of the forest’s golden treasures.
A mushroom guide must be booked in advance.
Gift Card
Give the gift of time, experiences and memorable moments at the edge of the world. The Ilmaveere gift card can be used towards stays at our hotel, dining at our restaurant and a variety of experiences.
Choose between two options: a digital gift card, sent by email, or our beautiful printed gift card, which can be delivered to a parcel locker or collected in person from Ilmaveere.
You can choose the value of the gift card yourself.
