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

Echoes of the Past, Depths of the Earth

Today was a day of contrasts, journeying from the meticulously preserved history of a traditional farm to the raw, geological power of a karst sinkhole. It's amazing how much history and natural wonder can be packed into a single day on this enchanting island. Hiiumaa continues to surprise and delight at every turn.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Meite Möte. The reviews online were spot on – it felt like stepping into someone's cozy home, with the aroma of freshly baked goods and strong coffee filling the air. Kati especially loved the *Fish & Chips*. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration. After breakfast, we set off to Mihkli Farm Museum, eager to immerse ourselves in Hiiumaa's rural past.


Discover the heart of Hiiumaa at Mihkli Talumuuseum - a captivating journey through Estonian rural heritage and culture.

Mihkli Farm: A Living History

As we drove towards the museum, the landscape transformed into a patchwork of fields and forests. It felt like driving back in time. The Mihkli Farm Museum is located in Malvaste village. The museum is an ensemble of buildings dating back to the 19th century, offering a glimpse into the island's rural architecture and traditional way of life. As someone with Estonian roots, I felt a deep connection to this place, a sense of coming home to something familiar yet also somewhat lost to time.

Wandering through the farmyard, I was struck by how well-preserved everything was. The main house, with its traditional wooden construction, the old barn, the smoke sauna. Each building told a story of a life lived in close harmony with nature. I could almost hear the echoes of past generations, their laughter, their struggles, their daily routines.

The museum is more than just a collection of old buildings; it's a living heritage center. We learned about local construction practices, household items, and the history of the families who lived here, including the Hiiu Swedes who called this farm home until 1781. It was fascinating to learn that the last residents only left the farm in 1987, making it feel like time truly stood still here.

Kati was particularly intrigued by the children's games scattered around the farmyard, designed to help them discover the museum on their own. She ran around with enthusiasm, solving clues and learning about the farm's history in a fun and engaging way. Hans, ever the architect, was fascinated by the construction techniques used in the buildings, noting the intricate details and the resourcefulness of the builders.

Time stands still here, and so does history.

After exploring the farm, we sat down for a picnic lunch in the spacious courtyard. The sun was shining, the birds were singing, and a gentle breeze rustled through the trees. It was a moment of pure bliss, a chance to connect with nature and appreciate the simple things in life.

Kurisu Karst Sinkhole: A Geological Wonder

After our delightful immersion into history, we decided to venture into the geological heart of Hiiumaa. Our next stop was the Kurisu karst sinkhole, a natural wonder located near Kurisu village. The drive there was beautiful, with winding roads leading us through dense forests and past quaint villages. It was a stark contrast to the manicured fields of Germany, a reminder of the wild, untamed beauty of Estonia.


Explore the breathtaking Kurisu Karst Sinkhole in Hiiu County, Estonia—a natural wonder showcasing stunning geology and rich biodiversity.

As we approached the sinkhole, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. I had read about it, seen pictures, but nothing could have prepared me for the real thing. The Kurisu sinkhole is a geological phenomenon where rainwater dissolves the bedrock, creating underground cavities and sinkholes. This particular sinkhole is quite impressive, with an upper part that's about 32 meters in diameter and a depth of 6.2 meters. It's where a creek disappears underground, a testament to the power of nature.

We walked around the perimeter of the sinkhole, marveling at its size and the surrounding landscape. In the summer, when the weather is dry, you can see the limestone bedrock and a small opening to a cave at the bottom. During the spring floods, the crater fills with water, creating a small lake. Unfortunately, today the sinkhole wasn't filled with water, but we could still appreciate its unique beauty and geological significance.

I learned that karst is widespread in Estonia, mainly in areas with limestone and dolomite bedrock. Large sinkholes are called 'kurisu' in Estonian, and Hiiumaa is home to some of the most magnificent examples of this phenomenon. It's fascinating to think about the forces that shaped this landscape over millions of years, the slow, relentless erosion of rock by water.

Of course, there are also legends associated with the sinkhole. One story tells of a girl who took oxen to drink at the sinkhole, only to have them swallowed by a powerful vortex. Only her red hair ribbon was found later in a nearby pasture. It's believed that such incidents led people to call the sinkhole an evil mouth, although the name likely comes from words meaning abyss or vortex.

Hans, ever the pragmatist, was more interested in the geological processes at play. He explained to Kati how the sinkhole was formed, pointing out the different layers of rock and the evidence of erosion. Kati, always curious, peppered him with questions, eager to learn more about the science behind this natural wonder.

Culinary Delights and Evening Reflections

After a day of exploring, we were ready for a delicious dinner. We chose Lest & Lammas Resto, drawn in by its intriguing name and promising reviews. The restaurant is located near Kassari, and it's known for its grilled dishes, particularly fish and lamb. It seemed like the perfect way to end our day of contrasting experiences.


Experience authentic Estonian cuisine at Lest & Lammas Resto in Kassari Village - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

The restaurant itself was cozy and inviting, with a rustic charm that perfectly complemented the island's atmosphere. The menu featured a variety of local specialties, and we were eager to try them all. We started with the Hiiu viiul, a smoked lamb appetizer that was both flavorful and satisfying. For our main courses, Hans opted for the grilled lamb, while I chose the fried flounder, a local favorite.

The food was delicious, a testament to the island's fresh ingredients and culinary traditions. The service was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. As we ate, we reminisced about our day, sharing our favorite moments and discussing what we had learned. It was a perfect way to reflect on the day's adventures and appreciate the beauty and history of Hiiumaa.

After dinner, we made a quick stop at Meite Möte for a nightcap. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and we enjoyed a few drinks before heading back to our guesthouse. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.

As I sit here writing, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. From the meticulously preserved history of Mihkli Farm to the raw, geological power of the Kurisu sinkhole, Hiiumaa has shown us its many faces. And tomorrow, we're off to explore the Hiiumaa Military Museum and the Orjaku õpperada, continuing our journey of discovery on this enchanting island. I'm also looking forward to trying Muku Tare for breakfast – another local gem that comes highly recommended.

Travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the unknown.

I'm also hoping to pick up some local goods at Hiiumaa Selver tomorrow. It's always fun to bring back a little piece of the places we visit. And who knows, maybe we'll stumble upon another hidden gem along the way. That's the beauty of travel, isn't it? The unexpected discoveries, the chance encounters, the feeling of being truly alive.

Until tomorrow, dear readers, keep exploring and keep discovering!