Estonia, a small Baltic country covered in evergreen forests and world-famous for its fantastic public wifi coverage, is becoming a sought-after destination for luxury travelers, especially for those looking for a bargain.
Some of Estonia’s most popular attractions are the elegant spa town of Pärnu, the beautiful Old Town of Tallinn, or one of its many pristine islands for those seeking for a nature retreat. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the top luxury experiences and accommodation options available for luxury travelers.
Estonia’s Luxury Hotels Are a Bargain Compared to Nearby Scandinavia
Compared to nearby Helsinki, Stockholm or Copenhagen, Tallinn’s luxury hotels offer much more affordable rates without making any compromises in quality. Style and character of the city’s luxury hotels vary significantly and there is something for any taste.
In the heart of the city, Tallinn’s Swissotel is located in one of the highest buildings in Estonia. It’s a very modern and luxurious hotel that has great views of the Old Town and the harbor, an amazing spa club dubbed Purovel, and Estonia’s largest ballroom.
For a different style and vibe head to Hotel Telegraaf. It is perfectly located just steps away from the Old Town’s medieval square. The hotel’s building, which was beautifully restored into the current five-star hotel, has housed the Estonian Telegraph back in 1878. Aside from incredible architecture and stylish rooms, guests can enjoy fantastic meals cooked by chef Vladislav Djatšuk in the hotel’s Tchaikovsky restaurant.
Schlössle Hotel is another very popular option among luxury travelers. Located in the Old Town of Tallinn, it has a rich history and has housed many famous guests such as Prince Charles and Queen Paola of Belgium. The hotel lies in a beautiful 13th century building and all the architectural elements were kept intact during the hotel renovation.
Discover the Beauty and Charm of Estonia’s Islands
Estonia has over 2,200 islands (!) and they offer a very different feel and vibe than the mainland. The pace of life is slower and the beautiful scenery and wealth of outdoor activities is a major draw for travelers looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
But Estonia’s islands are not just a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, they are also famous for their luxury spas and excellent restaurants, specializing in delicious seafood.
Georg Ots Spa Hotel is perfectly located in Kuressaare, the capital of Saaremaa island, and offers splendid harbor views. The architecture and style are distinctively Scandinavian. The spa center offers a lot of luxurious amenities, while also being child-friendly. You can enjoy many different saunas pools and spa treatments such as the local red algae and salvia body wrap.
For incredible local cuisine head to Saaremaa Veski, a picturesque restaurant located in a windmill. The food is locally sourced and you can enjoy a wide variety of delicious local dishes like the smoked baby trout or wild boar soup.
Hiiumaa, the second biggest island in Estonia, is also a great destination for locally-sourced food. You can start by having a few drinks from Hiiumaa Brewery, a local beer company that uses only the purest ingredients to brew their beverages.
Ungru Resto is a seaside restaurant on the northern shores that mixes traditional flavors with touches of the modern kitchen. Try their tasty local fish and you won’t be disappointed.
When it comes to accommodation on Hiiuma, you are best off staying at Dagen Guesthouse, a luxurious space built out of an old grain factory in Orjaku Manor.
Pärnu, Estonia’s Preferred Summer Destination
Pärnu is Estonia’s summer capital and it is synonymous with fun in the sun. Travelers from all over the region flock to the city during the summer months to enjoy its sandy beaches, excellent restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and also its famous spa centers.
Located in the historic Mud Baths complex, Hedon Spa & Hotel stands for a wonderful overnight vacation spot. The rooms are beautifully decorated and the boutique spa area consists of a bathing area, silent spa experience, and treatment rooms. When out of the wellness oasis, you are able to visit the beachfront for some swimming and walking along the promenade.
When you get hungry, head out to Restaurant Raimond, where each dish looks like a masterpiece. There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options as well.
Another unmissable attraction on Pärnu is Pärnu Bay Golf Links. Opened in 2015, the golf course is situated on a narrow strip of land with unbeatable scenery. The golf course was nominated for the Best Golf Course in 2016 by the World Golf Awards. After a golf game, guests can relax at the modern clubhouse and dine at the elegant EAGLE restaurant, which offers breathtaking sea views.