Hiiumaa Island

Hiiumaa offers a distinct change of pace from the mainland, making it an ideal destination for families seeking nature without the crowds. Accessing the island itself is part of the adventure; the ferry ride from the mainland takes about 75 minutes, offering children a chance to spot seabirds and watch the waves. Once ashore, the island's flat landscape and sparse traffic create a safe environment for cycling. Families can rent bikes in the main town, Kärdla, and ride through pine forests to secluded beaches where the water remains shallow for hundreds of meters.

The island is famous for its lighthouses, which serve as exciting landmarks for children to conquer. Kõpu Lighthouse, one of the oldest in the world still in operation, sits atop a hill and requires a steep climb that rewards adventurous kids with panoramic views of the forest canopy. For a different experience, the Tahkuna Lighthouse on the northern tip offers echoes inside its metal structure and a history lesson near the memorial to the MS Estonia. Nearby, curious minds can explore the overgrown concrete bunkers from the World War I and II eras, turning history into a tactile exploration game.

Food on Hiiumaa is fresh and locally sourced. Kärdla is known for its cosy cafes—historically referred to as the "coffee drinking capital"—where families can enjoy homemade cakes and local fish dishes. In the summer, the island hosts pop-up home cafes where locals open their gardens to visitors. For a unique natural attraction, a walk along the Sääretirp spit on Kassari allows you to walk far out into the sea with water lapping at your ankles on both sides, a sensation that delights children of all ages. The atmosphere here is unhurried, prioritizing picnics, berry picking, and stone skipping over rushed sightseeing.