East Estonia

East Estonia or Ida-Viru county is in north-eastern Estonia, on the border with Russia. }}

Cities

59.2|27.62 - Narva_Hermann_Castle_2009-10-03 - Hermann Castle in Narva Sillamäe_trepid - Mere Puiestee street in Sillamäe Narva GPS 59.3766,28.193 – Estonia's eastern-most and third largest city, on the Narva River, which is the border with Russia. Famous for the Hermann castle, right opposite of the Ivangorod's castle, and the Kreenholm factories. Even though it might seem grey and dull. Narva-Jõesuu GPS 59.4611,28.0426 – The beach side town on the Narva River near Narva. Jõhvi GPS 59.3573,27.4141 – The capital of the county, but rather uninteresting from a travellers point of view. Sillamäe GPS 59.3971,27.7703 – A beautiful coastal town in the east and formerly closed city with the best ensemble of Stalinist architecture in the entire Baltics. Built after the war with an uranium processing plant, successfully redesigned after Estonia's independence. Mustvee GPS 58.84724,26.94936 – A cozy fishing village at Lake Peipsi. Toila GPS 59.4196,27.5111 – A small coastal and historic resort city. Kohtla-Järve GPS 59.4029,27.2889 – A large concentration of industrial settlements with Soviet architecture, and inter-war architecture of the independent Estonia. Also, a quite unique Orthodox church of the 1930s, in the style of Cubism, and a shale mine and museum in the nearby Kukruse village. Kuremäe GPS 59.199032,27.535453 – Contains the famous Pukhitsa convent/nunnery and the only Orthodox monastery in the whole of Estonia. Püssi GPS 59.358930 ,27.029466 – A poor but now recovering town with an interesting artificial mountain made of ash from its oil shale power plant, which has been depositing ash in the location since the 1930s.

More Destinations

Kurtna - 59.270705, 27.513308 south-east of Jõhvi A lake neighborhood with a pre-revolution manor in Kurtna village, and east of it a forest and lake area with well done tourist hiking trails.

East Estonia Halal Travel Guide

East Estonia corresponds to the Ida-Viru county. This region includes the far eastern Estonia between the shores of the Baltic Sea and Lake Peipsi. Russians make up 71% of the population and Estonians 20%. There are relatively few historic sights here, but, unusual for Estonia, many Soviet architectural and industrial remains of varying degrees of abandonment.

What is the Geography of East Estonia

Lake Peipsi is located between Russia and Estonia, and the fourth largest lake in Europe. It is nice for swimming at the beautiful dune beaches on its northern side. The rest of the lake is mostly a swamp. The tourism of the lake's northern side is relatively developed – free campsites, very well maintained, and overlooking the beach. On weekends in summer, many Estonians put up their campsites around the lake.

Travel to East Estonia

Travel on a Bus in East Estonia

From Tallinn and the region is a little over an hour by car, and 2-3 hours by bus or train. Buses from Tallinn to Narva go on average every hour and usually make intermediate stops in Kohtla-Järve, Jõhvi, Sillamäe. Travelling from Saint Petersburg, this will be the first region of Estonia you will arrive in.

By Train

Trains are infrequent – between Tallinn and Narva the trains run twice daily, making stops in Kiviõli, Püssi, Jõhvi and at Kohtla-Nõmme station.

Get Around

Most villages, towns and cities are connected by regular bus services. Smaller places are often only served in the morning or noon, and late afternoon (17/18:00). Cities generally have buses up to 21:00. Make sure, you do not miss the last bus. A train line is available between Narva and Tallinn. Bus and train schedules are easily available online – read more under Estonia#Get around.

What to see in East Estonia

How is the Landscape of East Estonia

[[file:Valaste-waterfall-winter - Valaste waterfall in Winter

Valaste Waterfall - 59.443700, 27.335110 Located along the Ontika cliff - around 10 kilometers north from Jõhvi. - The Valaste waterfall is most impressive in early spring; then and the winter snow is melting and volume of cascading water is greatest. During winter the waterfall freezes and forms fairy-tale like ice sculptures. In 1997, a platform for tourists was built opposite the waterfall. There is a vehicle park, some explanatory signs and a trail using a double spiral staircase to get down the cliff.
Northern coast of Lake Peipsi 59.0072, 27.4306 Quiet and remote. Optimal in summer when the Baltic Sea is overrun by tourist.

History and museums

Shale mines and museum Lehe 10a, Kukruse 59.39746, 27.34614 ☎ +372 3321353, +372 53359080 Opening Hours: Tu–F 10–18:00, Saturday 10–16:00 €2 (2023) An interesting exhibition about the origin of the oil shale and the history of its extraction and its modern use. All this fits in one large hall, many stands of which have remained since Soviet times and are cute handwritten inscriptions. The second hall is hung with paintings showing the work of miners and other workers in the oil shale industry. It might seem naive, but still nice. Do not miss to talk to the caretakers – they are happy to tell about the past and present of Kohtla-Järve.
Shale mines and museum Kohtla-Nõmme 59.350026, 27.174039 ☎ +372 3324017 Opening Hours: 11–19:00
Ash Mountain - Tuhamägi | 59.358896, 27.029639 The highest ash mountain in the Baltic. The ash is from a oil shale power plant, which has been depositing ash here since the 1930s. Nowadays and the mountain is used for motocross.
The grave of Kalevipoeg In the forest 7 kilometers south of Kuremäe. 2-3 times a day, mostly on weekends, a bus runs from Jõhvi to Agusalu. In the rest of the time, you will have to search for appropriate transport starting from Kuremäe. The legendary hero of the Estonian epic poetry fought somewhere in these local forests. There was a rumour that in the tomb of Kalevipoeg unimaginable treasures are hidden. So, cunning seekers turn over a lot of soil in the surrounding forests and thereby damaging the Iron Age burials. So and the actual grave is probably lost forever. Hence, on one of these places and a symbolic stone was.

Castles and manors

[[file:Purtse vasallilinnus 2013 - Beautiful Purtse Castle

Purtse Castle - Purtse vasalinnus | 59.41932, 27.01250 It is difficult to get here by bus, but you can take an intercity bus stopping at the Purtse stop and the turn off the road #1 to the left onto Route 119, passing several kilometres. But it is easier to go there by your own car. - Opening Hours: Summer: M–Thursday11–20:00, F–Sa 11–21:00, Sunday 11–18:00; Winter: only on weekends €1 Unlike all other neighbourhoods, this castle really deserves your visit. Built in 1421 and the manor was turned into a real castle in 1533. It belonged, besides others, to Henrik Fleming, Jacob von Thauve – who the castle, Berend von Tobe, and Jacob de la Gardi. The castle was burned and consequently rebuilt several times. During the Northern War, some of its towers were destroyed. Afterwards, it became property of the von Stackelbergs, who combined it with the Püssi manor. After Estonia's independence and the castle became public property, but was destroyed by the 1950s. Between 1987-1990, under the guidance of Madi Nappa and the architect of Inna Comoni and doctor of the University of Turku Willem Raam and the ancient building was fully restored. And in 1991, it was recognized as the best Estonian building.
For visiting there are two floors available with stone stairs and rather unremarkable interior. The atmospheric restaurant on the ground floor serves original dishes in a medieval style. Quite unexpectedly exquisite for such a remote location, and thus not affordable (€5-6 per soup, ~€15 for hot dishes). s FB.
Maidla Manor - Maidla mõis | Mõisa 1, Maidla 59.3363, 27.0139 Located in the village of the same name, south of Kiviõli. Reached by bus, car, or even on foot from Kiviõli if you long to go by Maidla road. - The village itself is also very old, first mentioned in 1241. However and the only evidence of it is the manor. Although and the first mentioning of the manor dates back to 1465 and the present Baroque building was erected between 1764-1767 by the architect Djurshmidta (Durschmidt). Since 1925, it has been operated as a school. So, it is not worth to get inside. But take pictures from the outside unlimitedly – the building is very beautiful.
Erra Manor - Erra mõis | Puiestee 13, Erra 59.3725, 26.9892 Located in the village of Erra just north of Kiviõli, by foot or by car. This manor was built in 1547 and belonged first to the von Essen, and afterwards to the von Courcelles. In the 1980s/1990s and the building was completely destroyed and looted. Now, only dull ruins remains.
Püssi Manor - Püssi mõis | Kiviõli tee 23, Lüganuse 59.3733, 27.0459 The majestic manor is now also owned by the Luganuse School. It consists of two houses formerly for farm labourers, a court house, a barn and a distillery. In addition and there is a small museum in the manor, dedicated to the history of its educational background, which began in the 1920s.
Iluka Manor - Iluka mõis | Illuka on the road from Jõhvi, 5 kilometers before Kuremäe ☎ +372 5212469, +372 5189129 A large and beautiful manor house of the late 19th century with neo-Gothic elements.
Pagari Manor - Pagari mõis | Pagari 59.258655, 27.379910 12 kilometers south of Jõhvi, on the way to Tartu A pretty and preserved manor house mainly of wood; a barn, a cellar and the remains of a windmill, and a picturesque landscape park.
Mäetaguse Manor - Mäetaguse mõis | @, Pargi 2, Mäetaguse 59.224011, 27.291825 ☎ +372 3366900 A classic manor house of the late 18th century turned into a country spa hotel.
Kukruse Manor - Kukruse mõis | Kukruse küla 20, Kukruse 59.38573, 27.36115 ☎ +372 56876503, +372 53059902
Järve Castle - Järve kindluselamu | 59.40886, 27.30549

Top Muslim Travel Tips for East Estonia

Beaches and resort citys of the northern coast of Lake Peipus and at the Baltic Sea

Aidu Water Sports Centre - Aidu veespordikeskus | 59.308, 27.058 South of Kiviõli. Only really reachable by car. The nearest village is the unremarkable Aidu-Liiva. The former shale quarry has been transformed into an active recreation centre on the water, which includes a rowing channel for paid canoeing and the only such site in Estonian, independent rowing and diving. Everything must be ordered in advance. Sometimes and there are rowing competitions here.

Halal Restaurants

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to East Estonia

East Estonia - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to East Estonia, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for East Estonia. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in East Estonia and its surrounding regions. With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to East Estonia. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values. The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to East Estonia. Key components include: Halal-Friendly Accommodations in East Estonia: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in East Estonia. Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in East Estonia: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in East Estonia, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in East Estonia. Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in East Estonia, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations. Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in East Estonia, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values. Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within East Estonia and beyond. Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in East Estonia, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in East Estonia, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of East Estonia without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients." The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for East Estonia is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring East Estonia. About eHalal Travel Group: eHalal Travel Group East Estonia is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values. For Halal business inquiries in East Estonia, please contact: eHalal Travel Group East Estonia Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in East Estonia

eHalal Group East Estonia is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in East Estonia. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in East Estonia. At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in East Estonia ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property. For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within East Estonia. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living. If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in East Estonia, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values. For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in East Estonia are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

In the following a list of various lodging options in the region worth mentioning and outside of the above covered cities, towns, and parks:

Avinurme Hostel - Teenus OÜ | Võidu 8, Avinurme 58.985352, 26.866438 ☎ +372 5183123 Single from €17 Remote but lovely.
Remniku Holiday Centre 59.011692, 27.524491 Lake Peipus central north coast ☎ +372 5086656 Dorm from €12 Great location at Lake Peipus.
Niinsaare Recreation Center Niinsaare puhkekeskus | Konsu küla, Illuka Vald ☎ +372 5257516 Single from €20, tent place from €5 Highly rated sport complex lodging with sauna and other convenient amenities.
Raja Country House 59.13222, 27.364157 5 kilometers north of Iisaku ☎ +372 56933713 Holiday home for 1 person from €15 If you prefer a stop on the way between Tartu and Narva, or if Mustvee is full.
Tuhamäe Hostel Mäepealse tee 2, Kiviõli 59.366020, 26.955597 on the very outskirts of Kiviõli, 50 m from the slopes of the Kiviõli Adventure Tourism Centre ☎ +372 55575556 Single from €32 The furniture in the rooms is quite decent. There are showers, windows and balconies, from which you can see the Cossack mountains.

Stay Safe

The region is known for industrialisation, but also poverty, unemployment and abandoned properties, and a larger Russian population. Hence, keep track of your property, do not walk alone at night, and do not behave in any provocative way. Crime has increased slightly in the past.

News & References East Estonia

Travel Next

North Estonia – Famous for the financial centre of the nation, Tallinn, and the Lahemaa National Park.
South Estonia – Famous for the intellectual hub, ancient city and university town Tartu, and many picturesque town like Viljandi.
Russia – Organised boat trips without visa into Saint Petersburg for up to three days are feasible.