Memories by the Sea: Haapsalu, Roosta, Historic Manor Houses, and Medieval Monks

Total route length: approximately 285–300 km.
Driving time: 4 hours 30 minutes – 5 hours (without stops).
Total duration of the tour: 10–11 hours.

Itinerary

☕ 09:00 — Departure from Tallinn
The journey begins with a scenic drive through the beautiful forests of Harjumaa and Läänemaa.

10:30–13:00 — Haapsalu: the town where summer lasts longer

Haapsalu is a charming seaside town where, during the Nostalgia Days festival, the entire city transforms into a huge celebration.

✨ During the tour, you will have the opportunity to experience and see:

• a parade of vintage cars;
• people dressed in 1950s–1980s style clothing;
• old buses, motorcycles, and bicycles;
• live music stages;
• a craft fair;
• the unique atmosphere of an old seaside resort.

The main festival events traditionally take place on Saturday: a parade of historic vehicles, a car exhibition, concerts, and a market. In 2026, the festival will take place on 11–13 September.

And, of course, we will visit the Rannarootsi Museum.

This museum is unlike ordinary museums. It tells the fascinating story of Estonian Swedes, who lived for more than a thousand years along Estonia’s western coast and islands.

Ticket price: €5 / €4 for pensioners.

You can discover:

• traditional boats;
• fishing traditions;
• everyday household items;
• national costumes;
• the history of a disappearing culture.

The museum regularly organizes traditional wedding reenactments, fish-smoking days, workshops on building traditional boats, and preserves the heritage of Estonia’s coastal Swedish community.

13:30–15:00 — Lunch and a trip to Roosta through the pine forest

After the lively festival atmosphere, we move to a completely different setting.

Roosta offers:
✔ walks along white sandy beaches;
✔ peaceful pine forests;
✔ fresh sea air;
✔ coffee with a view of the Baltic Sea.

It is a place where you always want to stay a little longer.

Short stop on the way (10 minutes): Tammejuure Oak (Tammejuure tamm)

If we travel through Nõva towards Vihterpalu, we will pass near one of the largest oak trees in northwestern Estonia. The tree is estimated to be around 500 years old. It is a perfect place for beautiful photographs.

15:00–15:40 — Vihterpalu Manor

One of the most romantic manor houses in northwestern Estonia.

The historic park, old avenues, ponds, and peaceful surroundings create the feeling of a true journey back in time. There are usually very few tourists here, which makes the place even more special.

(If the manor house is closed, the park area is still a wonderful place for a walk.)

16:30–17:45 — Padise

The final highlight of the journey.

Padise is one of the best-preserved Cistercian monasteries in Northern Europe. The atmosphere here is incredibly peaceful: thick stone walls, Gothic arches, and medieval cellars create a unique historical experience.

You can climb the tower, walk around the monastery, and enjoy coffee at the local restaurant.

From here, Tallinn is less than an hour away. Free parking is available near the visitor centre.

18:45–19:00 — Return to Tallinn

❤️ In one day, we will experience four different sides of Estonia:

• festive Haapsalu with its retro atmosphere;
• the peaceful Baltic Sea coast in Roosta;
• a romantic historic manor house;
• a true medieval monastery.

Between these destinations, you will enjoy pine forests, fresh sea air, beautiful roads, and small discoveries that make you want to set out on the road again.

This journey is relaxing rather than tiring — yet it leaves you with the feeling of having had a small holiday.