In the middle of the fairy-tale dome landscape of Haanja, right next to the Mustjõgi primeval valley, there’s the small and lovely village of Kõrgepalu. On the dome rising in the middle of the village, stands the pearl of the surrounding area – Kõrgepalu Manor. When driving along the road winding up the slope, you can see the wrought iron gates between the stone garden walls. You pass the red-brick tenant house and find yourself in the centre of the Manor estate.
The red-roofed main Manor house and outbuildings are surrounded by a park, full of ancient trees. You can find lindens, larches and maples there. Naturally, the king of trees – the oak – is also represented in the park. The distinct relief rolling hills give the entire Manor complex a special and even unique look in Estonia, and it captivates you from the first moment.
Kõrgepalu, which originally belonged to Sänna Manor, became a separate management unit already in 1793. The main log building was probably erected sometime at the beginning of the 19th century. After the great fire of 1932, it was restored according to the original design, and adapted to the use of the local school. The adjacent building was later used as the community cinema and theater building.
Regardless of the difficulties and strugglings through the ages, the Manor has always been in good hands. Kõrgepalu started a completely new life in 2014, when the new owners began to renovate it. Although the buildings are not under heritage protection, the family aimed to preserve the real soul of the Manor as well as possible, and stay closely connected to nature.
Long-lasting things are made slowly, and are born out of love. Today, 150 of the 490 square meters of the property are completely renovated, radiating love from every little thing. The old doors, windows and floors have woken up from a long sleep, forming a cozy and dignified whole with clay and lime plastered walls, and stylish wooden ceilings. Besides, lots of attention has been paid to recycling in a completely unique way. Seemingly old and useless ceramic tiles have been turned into pieces, and these pieces deliver incredible beauty – wonderful handmade mosaics.
The roof has been replaced and the load-bearing parts have been rebuilt. Logs and beams that have worn out over time have also been replaced.
Also, the kind family members are attentive to guests who can use the red brick summer cottage which in the old times served as the tenant house. And the 4 rooms of the renovated Manor house are intended for year-round living. The smoke sauna and the outdoor kitchen and party area add value to the wooden manor, and the observatory built here makes the place unique and rare.
The small, lovely and sufficiently private Kõrgepalu Manor with its slightly more than 10-hectare property in the middle of an enchanting dome landscape is like a fairy tale within a fairy tale. Instead of the city noise, the sounds and rhythms of nature caress your ears here. The life of Manor owners is no longer what it used to be. Today it’s much more comfortable. Come and breathe in the wonderful air and imagine what it feels like to be the heart and soul of a small and cozy Manor.
Are you planning to rent out, sell or get your property appraisal?
Contact me: +372 5660 8721 or gerli.asmer@uusmaa.ee