Old Believers who escaped the religious prosecution settled in Estonia 1600s On the western shore of Lake Peipsi. Decedents of the Old Believers still preserve their religious customs and their unique traditions. Although Russian is widely spoken by the locals they are well assimilated with the Estonian society.

The sandy soil is suitable just grow onions and narrow road along the shores of the lake is know as The Onion Route. Fishing is carried out all year around in traditional way. In the summer locals sell Onions, Garlic and Dried fish along the long road starting from Varnja, going through Kasepää, and ending in Kolkja. This approximately 5 KMs long road is dotted with colorful wooden houses, churches and cemeteries.