Section 25. Kavastu‒Varnja. Peipsimaa Region.

3 km long and 1.2 m wide study trail.

The museum introduces the lifestyle of the Old Believers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

More info: +372 524 0410

Old Believers' Shrine with rich iconography.

The gallery is adapted to a typical Old Believers' dwelling boathouse.

More info: +372 55647963

During this workshop exploring the tea culture of the Lake Peipsi region, we will learn about the tea drinking customs of the Old Believers and learn about Ivan Chai (fireweed tea), how it is made, and the role it has played in Peipsiveere villages.

The workshop takes place at the Varnja Samovar House, which is located in a traditional Old Believer dwelling. There, you can take a closer look at the use of samovars in households around Lake Peipsi, learn about their history, and enjoy tea with the Old Believers' traditional boiled sugar.

Depending on the season, participants can also try making Ivan Chai themselves. In the summer, this is done together with the hostess of Mesi Tare, who guides you through the entire process from picking the plant to drying it. During the autumn-winter period, the focus is on Ivan Chai's history and use, discussing its medicinal properties, traditional tea culture, and tasting a variety of tea flavors.

Visit us with a group or team for the Peipsiveere tea culture workshop!

In the historic basement of Alatskivi Castle, a workshop led by a master potter awaits you, where you can sculpt cups, bowls, or other clay objects yourself. This experience combines creativity, craftsmanship, and the unique atmosphere of the manor.

Book a workshop in advance! However, if you visit the castle with children and master Tanel is working at the same time, you can leave the children to sculpt in the pottery room—it's often the children's favorite activity at the manor! Tanel glazes the finished objects himself and sends them to your home by mail. Beautiful, one-of-a-kind objects sculpted by Tanel himself can be purchased as souvenirs.

Take a refreshing, creative break in a pottery workshop at Alatskivi Castle!