Kurese küla, Lääneranna vald, Pärnu maakond
See photos (10) Soontagana Stronghold, which is located on an island in Avaste swamp and was established in the 7th to 8th centuries, is one of the best known strongholds of the ancient people living in this region. It is a stronghold with a circular earthwork, 50 × 100 m in size, which was 6-7 metres higher than the rest of the island.
A very secret underwater path through the swamp led to the stronghold and only those in the know were able to get there. The place succumbed to the crusading knights with the last christenings in 1226.
Today, the stronghold is surrounded by beautiful landscapes – meadows, old farms, and stone fences.
You can go for a nice walk and enjoy the views, make a fire, stay in the hiking hut, and spend the night in a tent.
Turn towards Koonga Village from Pärnu–Haapsalu highway and head for Mihkli Village. Follow the signs for the stronghold. The last part of the path can only be passed on foot.
