Sleepy fishing villages, working windmills, thatched cottages, plenty of deer, moose and birds plus a more secluded location help define Muhu as profoundly Estonian. St. Catherine’s church has pagan tombstones and is one of the oldest in Estonia.
Muhu is more secluded than the two larger islands, Saaremaa and Hiiumaa, yet easily accessible.
At 198 km² Muhu is a small, but still Estonia’s third largest island in the Baltic Sea.
It is linked by ferry to Virtsu on the mainland, and to Saaremaa by a causeway, the Väinatamm. In winter, when its cold enough an ice road connects the island to the mainland.
The landscape of Muhu is considered profoundly Estonian, with windmills, thatched cottages and sleepy fishing villages. The island is home to foxes, deer and moose and lots of birds – even three couples of the rare and majestic sea eagle nest on Muhu Island.
Muhu is also famous for having a working traditional wooden windmill.
St. Catherine’s church is one of the oldest in Estonia and is notable for its trapezium-shaped tombstones with pagan symbols. The most intricate tombstone depicts the pagan Tree of Life.
Over the centuries Muhu has developed at its own pace and its traditions are well known throughout Estonia. The famous Muhu patterns are a refined expression of folk-art as are popular souvenirs made of aromatic juniper wood.
Each midsummer a jazz music festival takes place in Muhu, features famous international musicians and attract jazz fans from far and aside.
Muhu is a great holiday destination for those who value nature and culture, luxury and relaxation, peace and quiet.
It’s also an ideal location for walking, riding, fishing, camping and swimming.
Nearby attractions include Saaremaa and Hiiumaa Islands.
