Lake Viljandi
Viljandi järv
A long, narrow glacial lake at the foot of Castle Hill, where you can swim, row and stroll along the shore in summer, with the lake and the hilltop castle complementing each other.
Lake Viljandi is a long, narrow lake on the Sakala Upland, about 4.5 km long, lying to the southeast of Castle Hill and the old town. The north shore has a city beach with sand, a lifeguard station and a jetty, where in summer you can rent boats and stand-up paddleboards. The fitness trail around the lake is about 12 km long and is good for walking, jogging and cycling. The lake run held in early May each year is a well-known mass race across the country. From the old town you can walk down the Trepimägi steps (about a 24-metre drop) to the lakeshore. The view of the lake from Castle Hill is best at dusk. Admission is free. In winter the lake may freeze and can be walked on, but ice safety must be observed.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Viljandi Suspension Bridge
- Viljandi Castle Ruins
- Estonian Traditional Music Centre (Folk Music Barn)
- St. John's Church
- Kondas Centre
- Ugala Theatre
- Viljandi Old Town
- St. Paul's Church