Leg 3: Haapsalu to Kuressaare

Distance: 63 miles/101 km
Climb: 1,171 ft/357 m


Ridewithgps course in three segments, here, here and here.

An aircraft revetment at an abandoned Soviet fighter base

Since we were departing Haapsalu and intended to ride across Hiiuma Island and Saarema Island to end in Kuressaare, we had to worry about the ferry schedule.  Luckily, it's available online here.  There are many ferries from the Estonian mainland (Rohuküla) to Hiiumaa (Heltermaa), but very few from Hiiumaa (Sõru) to Saarema (Triigi).  Therefore, you have to choose your departure time and route to synchronize your ferry choices. 

The ferry terminal at Rohuküla

Cycling maps of Estonia, including the islands, can be found here.  We followed cycling route 302 across Hiuumaa, taking time to stop at the wool factory for some gift purchases and a drink at the cafe.  After that we passed many idyllic farm and seascapes.  It was truly pleasant and beautiful.  There was also very little traffic.  The traffic there consisted of farm equipment, trucks full of agricultural products and tourists. All drivers gave us good room and were friendly.

We finally closed in on our destination, Kuressaare, at about 2215 (10:15 PM).  We were so late because we elected to synchronize our ride with the late ferry from Hiiumaa to Saarema Island.  We stayed at the Karluti Hostel and can recommend it.  After a meal around the corner at Veski Trahter (also recommended), we called it a night.

The ferries in Estonia are modern and efficient.  The crews

are very bike friendly

Debarking the ferry in Heltermaa

Many roads in Hiiumaa are treelined and covered

The wool shop on Hiiumaa

The bikes at the wool factory cafe

There is much livestock on Hiiumaa Island and they
are not afraid of people

One of the many traditional windmills which grace the islands

These sheep will give their coats to the wool factory 

A derelict vessel awaiting overhaul at Sõru

The ferry from Hiiumaa to Saarema is small

Bikes stowed on deck

One of the many canola fields.  Long shadows at 2100 (9 PM)!

You guessed it, more windmills

A red-hued crop on Saarema.  Do you know what it is?