Viljandi County
The County of Viljandi (area 3589 sq km, population ca 62,000) is situated in South Estonia, to the west of Lake Võrtsjarve. The settlement is centered in the Sakala Upland in the Central and Eastern part of the County. In the Northwest there is a big wetland of international importance - the National Park of Soomaa (370 sq km), which comprises of the Bogs of Kuresoo, Valgeraba, Oordi and Kikepera and the rivers running between them. Low-lying meadows on the river banks are rich in different species and rare forests in the river valleys are the habitat of many protected birds; spring floods are common here.The most interesting sights of Viljandi County :Soomaa National Park was founded in 1993 to protect untouched bogs, wetlands with varied species, meadows covered with scattered trees and forests. The varied nature of Soomaa, its peculiar culture of suspension bridges, one-log-boats and fifth (flood) season has made this place popular. The Soomaa Visitor Center in Kõrtsi-Toramaa provides information about the nature trails, picnic places, observation towers, camping huts, etc. The most popular of these are Ruunaraipe Dunes, Kopra Track, Riisa Bog Track, Mulgi meadow, Oksa complex, Latvian Observation Tower, Meiekose Study Track and camping place, Ingatsi Track and Observation Tower, suspension bridges, bear post.The main building of the Olustvere Manor was built following the Jugenstil in the 16th century. The governor's house opposite the main building harmonises well in style with the main building. Of other buildings, the courtyard with the red brick dairy and gates, the distillery and the barn, are noteworthy. A peculiar feature is the well with metal awning and a crank. The complex is surrounded by an English-style Park, which is bounded by a high stonewall, and avenues of old trees. In the main building of the Manor, where the Olustvere Service and Country Economy School is located, there is a Museum, where a collection of stuffed animals is on display. One of the oldest bogs in Estonia - Parika Bog - is situated in the Parish of Olustvere, which is considered to be approximately 9000 years old. Many rare water plants grow in Lake Parika.
Kolga-Jaani Ristija Johannese Church was already erected in the 14th century; the tower was added in 1875. The stone crucifix of 1380, the chandelier from the 18th century, paintings and an old graveyard have been preserved. On the East window there is a vitrage instead of the altar wall. The paintings of the themes from the Old Testament are unique.
The only juniper thicket of Viljandimaa - the Tilli Juniper Thicket - is located on the Northern shore of Lake Pirmastu. The height of the Juniper Thicket is 2-5m, some junipers even grow up to 6.5m.
Karksi Citadel or Lossimägi (Castle Hill) is considered to be a stronghold site of the ancient Estonians. The lakes of this region offer delightful scenery and fishing and swimming possibilities. The biggest and most beautiful of the lakes is Lake Linnaveski. The Karksi Peetri Church and the Baroque-style Chapel, deriving from the 17th century and situated on the site of the former graveyard of the Teutonic Knights, provide historical interest. The Chapel is the oldest building artifact in the surrounding area. The heart of the Karksi Manor is some kilometers away from the Stronghold; part of a park with ponds and some outbuildings have been preserved.
