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Hiiumaa Island

Kardla, Estonia

The second largest island was formed as a result of a meteor explosion. It has an airport with flights to Tallinn but you can also access via ice-road from the mainland, in winter. Hiiumaa is well known for its lighthouses, unspoilt nature, Hill of crosses and the sense of humour of its inhabitants.

It is located in the Baltic Sea, north of Saaremaa Island and its largest town is Kärdla. Formed 455 million years ago as a result of a meteorite explosion Hiiumaa is one of the oldest islands in the world.

The easiest route to the island is by ferryExternal link or planeExternal link. The most exotic and spine-tingling way to Hiiumaa is the winter ice road. Driving on the Hiiumaa ice road is a unique experience especially when the vehicle in the next lane is a boat!

It’s difficult to find anywhere more picturesque than Hiiumaa. Enjoy long sandy beaches, visit sleepy villages or explore the deeply forested interior.

Hiiumaa is ideal for nature lovers; hikingExternal link, sailingExternal link or simply relaxing holiday. In summer time there are many music festivalsExternal link, for example, each July the Hiiumaa Chamber Music Days and Hiiu Folklore Festivals are held.

The people of Hiiumaa are peaceful and tolerant. They live close to nature and have their own language – the Hiiu dialect is not easily recognisable even to Estonians. The most important thing to remember about the people of Hiiumaa is their sense of humor – they like to laugh at themselves and love all kinds of jokes- especially the ones which are about their neighbours - the people of Saaremaa.

Hiiumaa is also known for its wealth of lighthouses. If you don’t have time to visit them all, at least try to visit three, at Kõpu, Ristna and Tahkuna.

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