Most of this section of the Forest Trail passes through an uninhabited forest area to the west of the Emajõe-Suursoo wetland, which is protected by the Peipsiveere nature reserve. At the village of Kastre, the Forest Trail returns to civilisation, and hikers have to cross the Emajõgi River by the local cable ferry to get to the Kavastu village. The Peipsiveere visitor centre and nature trails are located at a 3.5 km distance from Kavastu.
Practical information
Length: 20 km
Duration: 7-9 h
Starting point: Lääniste village by the bridge over Ahja River
End point: Kavastu village centre
The course of the route: Lääniste‒Aruaia‒Kastre‒Kavastu
Road surface: Mainly gravel roads and forest roads, paved road for ~4 km
Difficulty: Easy
Obstacles: The Emajõgi River is crossed by the Kavastu Ferry. It operates all year round, except when the river is frozen over. Opening hours: Monday-Friday 06:30-09:30; 13:30-15:00; 16:00-19:00; Saturday-Sunday 09:00-10:00; 14:00-15:00; 18:00-19:00. Fee: EUR 1 (in cash). Contacts: +372 53302611.
Keep in mind! There are no shops or caterers between Mehikoorma and Kavastu (two-day walk)!
Alternative options: You can stay in Kavastu for a day to explore the visitor centre and the nature trail.
