Charming Pearls of Western Estonia: Hiiumaa and Saaremaa
Text and photos by Jaakko Ahti
Although Estonia’s largest islands, Saaremaa and Hiiumaa, are known to all by name, many still have yet to experience them. For example, a three-night car trip to the large islands of Estonia is just the right combination of culture, nature, food, and rest in a relaxing manner. When the ferry arrives at the island’s shore, you leave all stress behind. Thanks to the short distances, you will have more than enough time to see and experience everything.
Calming Hiiumaa
The ferry trip to Hiiumaa, which takes just over an hour, starts from Rohuküla, very near Haapsalu. Along the way, you can get used to the island atmosphere and enjoy the sea breeze on deck. You will also have time to eat a relaxed lunch, as you can also enjoy hot food on the ferries at reasonable prices. The main town of Hiiumaa is the green and friendly Kärdla. Despite its small size, the town offers accommodation options, shopping at the traditional Kaubamaja department store, and culinary experiences. For example, the Rannapaargu restaurant with its sea view is a good place to have dinner, where you can enjoy fresh fish or local specialties.
Hiiumaa is charming with its nature and tranquility. For those interested in lighthouses, the island is a treasure: the Kõpu, Tahkuna, and Ristna lighthouses offer magnificent views. And best of all, you can go up all three to admire the scenery. The Kõpu lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in the world that is still in operation, and its thick stone walls exude history. In the vicinity of the Tahkuna lighthouse, there is also a memorial to the Estonia shipwreck, as well as the Hiiumaa War Museum.
For families with children and those looking for an adventure, the Tuletorn Experience Centre on the southern shore of Hiiumaa in Käina offers interesting things to do. It combines exhibitions, an adventure park, and interactive activities. In addition, the coasts of Hiiumaa also offer hiking opportunities for nature lovers, such as the idyllic Kassari area near Käina.
Saaremaa of spas and history
From Hiiumaa, the journey continues on a ferry between Sõru and Triigi on Saaremaa. The hour-long route from Hiiumaa to Saaremaa is particularly popular in summer, and it is worth booking your seats in advance, as the ferry is considerably smaller than the larger ferries between the mainland and the islands.
On the way from Triigi towards Kuressaare, you can stop to admire the Angla Windmill Hill, where five traditional wooden mills form a picturesque view. The area also has a small museum, a café, and in the summer, various domestic animals. The Karja Church, on the other hand, is one of the oldest stone churches in Estonia, and its Gothic details are worth seeing. The Panga cliffs on the north coast offer a magnificent view of the sea.
Kuressaare is a lively spa town that comes to life in summer. Lossi Street between the central square and the Bishop’s Palace is filled with art, restaurants, and a summery atmosphere. The charm of the small town comes from its pedestrian streets, terraces, and unhurried atmosphere. The town also has interesting boutiques selling local handicrafts, cosmetics, and delicacies. If you are staying in an Airbnb apartment and cooking your own food, you will especially enjoy the food from the Kaubamaja department store, with its selection and versatile service counter.
Kuressaare’s Episcopal Castle is one of the most important attractions in Saaremaa. The castle has been exceptionally well preserved, and inside it is a museum where you can learn about the island’s history, medieval objects, and interesting exhibitions. A pleasant park area opens up around the castle, and a beach promenade runs in front of the castle, which attracts joggers and evening walkers. There is also a small beach next to the castle.
For those looking for a beach holiday, good options include the sandy beach of Mändjala near Kuressaare, a bike ride from the city centre, and the long sandy beach of Tuhkana in the northern part of Saaremaa. Tuhkana beach offers magnificent sunsets on summer evenings, and is a perfect place for a picnic for those looking for peace. The sea water on both beaches is also delightfully clear.
Home via Muhu
On the way back, it is worth stopping at Saaremaa’s famous Kaali Meteor Lake, which was formed thousands of years ago when a huge meteorite hit the ground. The mystical atmosphere of the place and the stories surrounding the lake make it a fascinating destination.
Muhu Island offers one last moment of pleasure before returning to the mainland, as the legendary Muhu Pagarid bakery in the village of Liiva enchants visitors with the smell of its freshly baked bread and other delicacies. In addition, Muhu Island has restaurants, such as the Alexander restaurant at Pädaste Manor, which has been certified as one of the best in Estonia. It is also worth visiting the village of Koguva in Muhu. In this museum village you can experience traditional Estonian village life, combining mossy stone fences and old thatched houses.
A three-night tour through Hiiumaa and Saaremaa is a compact holiday, but it is packed with wonderful things to see and do. So go ahead and set sail—the Estonian islands have a magic that will stay in your memory for a long time!
To learn more about this and similar topicsEstonian Islands Ferries Haapsalu Hiiumaa Kuressaare Lighthouse Muhu Saaremaa
