Family Adventure on Hiiumaa Island: Exploring Estonia's Hidden Gem

First Impressions of Hiiumaa

After a long journey from Leipzig, with a flight to Tallinn and a ferry to Hiiumaa, we finally arrived! The air here is crisp and clean, a welcome change from the city. Today was all about getting acquainted with Kärdla, the island's capital, and soaking in its unique atmosphere. It’s amazing how quickly the hustle of everyday life fades away when you’re surrounded by such tranquility.

Our first stop was breakfast at Kohvik Ruudi - Cafe Ruudi, a delightful cafe in Käina. It was a bit of a drive from Kärdla, but so worth it! The pastries were heavenly, and the coffee was just what we needed to start our day. Kati was particularly thrilled with her chocolate croissant, declaring it the best she’s ever had. It's the perfect cozy retreat in Hiiu County.


Discover Kohvik Ruudi: Your perfect escape in Käina with delightful coffee and local flavors amidst stunning Hiiumaa landscapes.

Delving into Deep History

Next, we ventured to the Kärdla meteoriidikraatri mudelväljak (Kärdla meteorite crater model area). It’s a fascinating place that gives you a real sense of the immense impact that shaped this island millions of years ago. The model is a scaled-down version of the actual crater, which is hard to visualize in its entirety due to its age and the way it has blended into the landscape. Standing there, looking at the model, it’s incredible to think that a meteorite created such a significant geological feature.


Discover the Kärdla Meteorite Crater Model Field, a stunning geological site on Hiiumaa Island revealing the mysteries of cosmic impacts.

The model is about 43 meters in diameter, and the ring wall is 140 meters long. It is a hundredfold reduction compared to the actual size of the crater. The crater itself was formed about 455 million years ago. The area is very scenic, and there is a 3-meter-high limestone outcrop nearby.

Sometimes, the most profound discoveries are hidden in the most unassuming landscapes.

Nature's Embrace on the Kärdla Matkarada

After our history lesson, we decided to stretch our legs on the Kärdla matkarada (Kärdla hiking trail). The trail is about 4 kilometers long and winds through the forests surrounding Kärdla. It was a refreshing walk, surrounded by the lush greenery and the peaceful sounds of nature. The trail was well-marked, and we enjoyed the diverse forest ecosystems along the way. I was glad I had packed my hiking boots, although Hans did tease me for being over-prepared.


Discover the natural beauty of Kärdla Matkarada, a premier hiking destination in Hiiu County, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The Kärdla matkarada is perfect for both leisurely walks and enjoying nature. Marked with paint markings and signposts, the trail passes through various forest communities and around small bog islands. It is suitable for hiking in any season, but keep in mind that the trail has wetter and more watery sections. There are 4 bridges on the trail to cross the ditches.

A Taste of Hiiumaa

By lunchtime, we were all quite hungry, so we headed to Rannapaargu restaurant for a meal with a sea view. The restaurant has a 50-year history and is located on Kärdla beach. Rannapaargu prides itself on using local ingredients, working with Hiiumaa farmers and producers. They even get fresh fish from local fishermen. I decided to try the local fish, while Hans opted for a hearty meat dish. Both were delicious, and the view of the sea added to the experience.


Experience authentic Estonian cuisine in Kärdla's charming Rannapaargu Restaurant—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

After lunch, we explored Hiiumaa Kaubamaja, the local department store. It was interesting to see the local products and get a sense of what’s available on the island. I picked up a few souvenirs, including a lovely handmade scarf. I always enjoy supporting local artisans when I travel.


Discover Hiiumaa Kaubamaja: Your one-stop destination for local goods, groceries, and unique souvenirs in the heart of Kärdla.

Brewery Delights

For dinner, we chose Hiiumaa Pruulikoja Resto, a restaurant and brewery in the heart of Kärdla. It’s always a treat to sample local beers, and this place did not disappoint. The restaurant focuses on both local and international cuisine, and they have daily lunch specials. We enjoyed the cozy atmosphere and the friendly service. Hans, being the beer enthusiast in the family, was particularly impressed with the selection of local brews. The brewery uses water that has been underground for millions of years, which gives the beer a pure taste.


Experience authentic Estonian cuisine at Hiiumaa Pruulikoja Resto in Kärdla - a culinary haven for food enthusiasts.

Evening Reflections

As the day drew to a close, we took a stroll along the Kärdla coastline, enjoying the sunset. The sky was ablaze with color, and the sea was calm and peaceful. It was the perfect way to end our first day on Hiiumaa. I already feel a sense of connection to this island, and I’m excited to see what tomorrow brings.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit the Kassari Museum House and Vaemla villavabrik (Vaemla wool factory). I’m particularly interested in learning more about the island's cultural heritage and seeing how wool is produced locally. And perhaps we'll end the day at Paradise Beach Bar Hiiumaa.

I'm so glad we made the trip to Hiiumaa. It's a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with my roots, as Estonia holds a special place in my heart. It's amazing to share this experience with Hans and Kati and create lasting memories together.

The first day was a success, and I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you all!

A Few Thoughts on Travel Essentials

I must admit, I was a little disappointed that I forgot the sunscreen and insect repellent. The weather has been lovely, and we’ve been spending a lot of time outdoors. I’ll definitely need to pick those up tomorrow. Otherwise, I’m glad I packed the essentials: warm clothing for the evenings, my camera, reusable water bottles, and hiking boots.

Until tomorrow!