© Ken Mürk

Around Estonia in three days

Estonia
Travel
Hotels

Tallinn is Estonia's best-known tourist destination. However, simply visiting the capital does not give a full picture of what the country has to offer. You can get a much better impression by staying at these three very different characteristically Estonian hotels around the country.

The Schlössle Hotel - history and exclusivity in Tallinn

©Schlössle Hotel
©Schlössle Hotel

 in Tallinn's Old Town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – has recently joined the (SLH) collection. Nestled in a building that dates back to the 13th century (!), it channels the lifestyle of the merchants of yesteryear. The historic atmosphere is inimitable, with medieval architecture meeting modern luxury among the stone walls and old wooden beams.

With just 23 rooms and suites, peace and privacy are guaranteed amidst the bustle of the city centre. Many of the elegantly furnished rooms have cozy fireplaces. A personal concierge service is provided to ensure each guest has a bespoke experience. We highly recommend booking a private guided walking tour of Tallinn's Old Town and a sommelier-curated tasting in the hotel's well-stocked wine cellar. The Schlössle Hotel also has a world-class restaurant, Stenhus, serving seasonal dishes made from local ingredients.

In addition, the Schlössle Hotel is environmentally conscious, supports local traditions and provides the highest standard of elite tourism in Tallinn. Staying here is an unforgettable experience.

SPA Hotel Peetrimõisa Villa - magic time in Viljandi

© SPA Hotel Peetrimõisa Villa
© SPA Hotel Peetrimõisa Villa

Located dead center, Viljandi is more or less 150 kilometers from any point in Estonia. While much smaller and slightly different from Tallinn, Viljandi also has an old town with charming wooden houses – a walk in the castle hills is very impressive.

The newly renovated awaits on the outskirts, a 15-minute walk from the town center. The small, comfortable mansion has a total of 16 modern rooms and a versatile spa with several different saunas, a swimming pool and a jacuzzi offering relaxing massages and halotherapy. Known for its friendly and helpful staff, the hotel café serves breakfast and lunch. For dinner, Bodega is the newest restaurant in town.

Featuring interiors created by local designers, you can enjoy carefully selected wines and arguably the best cocktails in town. Most of the dishes are cooked over an open fire and are inspired by classic dishes from various wine regions. A day in Viljandi is plenty of time to see the essentials and sample the best the town has to offer.

Ugandi Hotel – Peace and elegance in Otepää

©Ugandi Hotel
©Ugandi Hotel

Another 80 kilometres further south and you're in Otepää, known as the winter capital of Estonia and a popular destination all year round, thanks to its historical sites, gorgeous natural surroundings and myriad sports activities. The  and  complement this with elegant accommodation and delicious local cuisine.

With just ten rooms, this modern hotel offers a homely feel and plenty of outdoor activities. Hiking and skiing trails start right at its doorstep, and there are several lakes nearby.

A good place to dine is the nearby Ugandi Restaurant. We recommend the organic lamb, raised at the nearby Karula National Park or freshly caught trout from the Karilatsi village fish farm.

From Otepää it is exactly 200 kilometres to Tallinn airport. Just three days and 430 kilometres of driving will give you three completely different experiences of Estonia. All three complement each other, and the Tallinn-Viljandi-Otepää-Tallinn traveller can safely say that he knows Estonia well.

Aivar Hanson
Aivar Hanson
Author
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