Narvamus is an independent magazine created by young people from Narva in 2019. Made up of students, designers, activists, researchers, and youth workers, they use their platform to explore culture, identity, social change, and the city they call home. For the upcoming Station Narva festival, Narvamus co-founder and graphic designer Ljubov together with editor-in-chief Margarita share their favorite spots, putting together a Narva Guide that opens the city through their eyes.
"Dear reader,
For most of us, living now in other parts of Estonia, Narva remains our hometown. Some sunny or rainy days when we visit the city we come upon places where we gain strength, romanticise life, talk until sun rises and cheer for life. You can hear many different opinions about the city and people, still we hope you will see the city as we do – full of rare beauty, calmness and potential."
"I (Narvamus) suggest we start our Narva tour at the place where the sun rises and shadows from the trees cover your identity – Dark Garden. You can choose your own path, left, right, or even go down to The Victoria Bastion casemates. I love it in the morning, tho love can happen in the evening. "
"From up there you can choose your own path down to the Narva river. Now is the salmon season, so looking long enough you might notice fishies jumping from the dark fast current."
"Walking from the river promenade up to the “5 krone view”
Definitely Narva most touristy gem and one of the rarest and terrifying (for some) places on Earth – a place where two castles reveal themselves in their glory. Yes, one on the other side of the river is Russia – Ivangorod Fortress, built in the 15th century. While Narva Hermann Castle was established around 1256. You can spend an hour or two at the area down the viewing platform, called Joaorg. You can swim, walk the dog, have a morning coffee with a view, talk to fishermen or hike."
"Joaorg roads will lead you to the rocky hill next to the reservoirs.
One of the most romantic spots for dates and long talks. As seeing you on the top of the rock, few will dare to come up and disturb your privacy. If you get lucky, you see massive amounts of water coming down as if in Niagara falls. Don't be late for sunset, this place is loved by the locals."
"Must see the sunset by the sea in Narva-Jõesuu! It takes a lot of time to go all the way there, so we recommend to take a walk of health through the Äkkeküla – area, where you can grill, exercise, ride a bike or snowboard, shoot and look at the squirrels! Take the main road or explore surroundings. In the end, right here the beautiful sunset by the river will be waiting for you. "
"On the opposite side of Narva, right after the ex-textile manufacturing company – Kreenholm, a place called Kulgu Sadam – another spot for romantic sunset or apocalyptic foggy view in the night.
Another place of power is Kadastiku järv. It’s wide and calm, windy and sometimes lonely. P.S. Editor in Chief loves to take her dog for a walk there."
"As coffee lover I can share a secret with you. There are no places where you can find espresso tonic in town... I know, I know. If you secretly and politely ask the ladies of Alex Kohvik, they can make it for you! Enjoy!"
"Last bits of old town architecture you can find at the town hall. Stepping into the Tartu University Narva College you can find a cafe MUNA and enjoy coffee right behind the town hall at The Stockholm Square. "
"It only depends on you how Narva will reveal herself to you!"
"See you on the streets, love, Narvamus"