The darkest time of the year is approaching. On those long autumn evenings, many of us feel an irresistible urge to wrap ourselves in a blanket, light a candle and escape into another era through a good book or film. But why not experience it in real life? Step outside and discover Estonia’s historic castles and manors. A refreshing getaway can take your mind off everyday worries and give you a little extra energy for the darker months.
Kadriorg Palace
Every architecture and art enthusiast should make a point of visiting Kadriorg Palace in Tallinn. This beautiful Baroque palace was commissioned by Russian Tsar Peter I in honour of his wife, Catherine I.
You can explore the palace’s interiors, too, as it houses the Kadriorg Art Museum, displaying Western European and Russian art from the 16th to the 20th century. Surrounding the palace is a French-style garden with fountains, hedges and flower beds.
Combine your palace visit with a stroll through Kadriorg Park, and remember to bring along a flask of hot chocolate.
Keila-Joa Castle
Just half an hour by car or an hour by bus from Tallinn, you will find Keila-Joa Castle.
This beautiful Neo-Gothic castle welcomes visitors to a museum dedicated to its history. You can also visit the fashion history museum, where historical clothing and masterpieces of haute couture are on display.
What makes the castle particularly special is its setting beside a fast-flowing river, right next to a six-metre-high waterfall. The castle park is an ideal place for a walk with your family or loved one, surrounded by beautiful scenery.
Taagepera Castle
Set amid the beautiful countryside of southern Estonia, the Art Nouveau Taagepera Castle is a wonderful choice for couples wishing to escape their everyday routine and spend a romantic weekend in a historic setting.
The Wagenküll Castle Spa offers everything you need for a relaxing getaway: peace and quiet, the atmosphere of the 1930s, a luxurious castle spa and dining in a restaurant with beautiful views.
The von Stackelberg Hotel Tallinn
When we think of manor life, we tend to picture a grand house surrounded by beautiful countryside, with the lord and lady arriving by carriage or strolling arm in arm along tree-lined avenues. Yet manor houses can also be found in cities.
One former city manor that has since been transformed into a hotel is The von Stackelberg Hotel Tallinn on Toompea. Built in 1873 at the meeting point of the old and new parts of the city, it was designed as the city residence of Baltic German Baron Georg von Stackelberg.
Here, within thick historic limestone walls in the heart of Tallinn, you can enjoy a luxurious getaway without leaving the city. Guests can also unwind at ZEN SPA, an oasis of well-being offering water-based relaxation in a historic setting.
Sagadi Manor
The 500-year-old Sagadi Manor estate welcomes anyone wishing to step away from screens and the modern technological world and escape into another era.
Sagadi feels special from the moment you arrive. Its charm lies in the completeness of the estate: alongside the manor house and outbuildings, you will find well-maintained paths, tree-lined avenues, a park and ponds. It feels as though you have stepped into a film. There is no need to rush away, either, as the estate has a hotel and restaurant, as well as forest and manor museums.
The estate’s crowning jewel is its main manor house, furnished in the style of a 19th-century country residence. And if all this has not yet persuaded you to book your next mini break, consider its location in Lahemaa National Park. The 9.5-kilometre Oandu–Võsu hiking trail begins close to the manor and can be explored on foot or by bicycle in autumn. In winter, it welcomes skiers.
Vihula Manor
Vihula Manor is a wonderful retreat for romantics. The sight of the manor house reflected in the pond is enough to leave you speechless. Add golden autumn leaves, and you have a scene that warms the heart – just what we need during the dark days of late autumn.
First mentioned in the 16th century, Vihula Manor took on its present appearance in the 19th century. The manor houses an elegant restaurant, a luxurious spa and a hotel. You can also stroll through the manor gardens or follow a walking trail through the estate.