Discover Ruhnu
Accommodation in Ruhnu
Ruhnu combines protected coastal landscapes, beaches, historic buildings and diverse island experiences. This allows you to assess the island’s highlights according to your interests.
Quick facts about Ruhnu
The Ruhnu-Hoiuala in Ruhnu küla protects coastal meadows as well as fore-, white, grey and wooded dunes and is located in the internationally important Ruhnu nature area (EE0040462). An eight-seat aircraft operates on the Pärnu–Ruhnu–Kuressaare route from 1 October to 30 April.
The beaches also differ considerably. Limo Beach is Ruhnu’s main summer beach because of its large sandy area. The eastern part of Kuunsi Beach, by contrast, is a narrow beach 10 metres wide, with a dense covering of gravel and rocks. West of Kuunsi Cape lies a low sandy beach.
Which cultural sites shape Ruhnu?
The Ruhnu Museum displays around 300 objects that the islanders used in their work and everyday lives, as well as photographs and texts about the island’s unique history and nature. St. Magdalene’s wooden church is Estonia’s oldest known surviving wooden building; its construction began in 1643. Ruhnu’s two churches are used for services, concerts, lectures and exhibitions.
Another notable building is the Ruhnu Lighthouse. It was built in 1877 on Håubjärre Hill, the highest point on Ruhnu Island. Another historic site is Korsi Farm, which is around two hundred years old. It is considered the only almost completely preserved farm complex of the Ruhnu Swedes in the world.
Which experiences suit your interests?
Ruhnu Kultuuriait preserves the local cultural heritage and revitalises traditional crafts and ways of life. Workshops include braiding bands and nets, rope-making, loom knitting, Ruhnu knitwear and ceramics made from local clay. At Vetikafarm ja kalastusretked, you can go out on a boat with a local professional fisherman while nets are being set or hauled in.
Abelberg Farms welcomes visitors independently or together with the hosts. It offers walks and smaller adventures on the island, conveying stories and introducing places in Ruhnu. Avasta Ruhnu offers nature walks and village tours; the provider also rents bicycles and SUP boards. This makes it possible to combine historical impressions, village tours and outdoor activities in different ways, without requiring a specific route.
The local use of the landscape is also part of the island’s character. Estonian Landrace sheep have been kept on Ruhnu’s farms since the time of the Ruhnu Swedes. Their wool has two layers and is particularly suitable for felting, but it can also be spun into yarn. The experimental algae farm Planeet Ruhnu researches and cultivates local bladderwrack.
FAQ
Do groups need to book Ruhnu Kultuuriait workshops in advance?
Yes. Groups must book Ruhnu Kultuuriait workshops in advance.
Which special exhibits are shown at the Ruhnu Museum?
The Ruhnu Museum exhibits quartz tools around 8,000 years old that were used by seal hunters.
What events are held at Ruhnu Rahvamaja?
In summer, Ruhnu Rahvamaja presents exhibitions and historical film programmes. In winter, it organises film evenings as well as handicraft, ceramics, board game and dance evenings.
What makes the Ruhnu Lighthouse special?
The Ruhnu Lighthouse is the only surviving lighthouse of its type in the Baltic Sea region.
To the main travel overview: Saaremaa.
