Jenny’s Blog: Estonia - an unexpected delight

When I was invited to join a small group of UK travel agents on a four-day educational trip to Estonia, I’ll be honest - I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. It’s not really been on my radar, but maybe that’s what made it all the more special.

What I found was a country full of charm, calm, history and warmth - a Baltic beauty that completely took me by surprise.

After meeting part of the group at Heathrow, we flew with Finnair via Helsinki and arrived in Tallinn ready to get started. Our private minibus took us straight to Estonia’s much-loved summer capital, Pärnu, about two hours away on the west coast.

Pärnu is a small coastal town with a big heart: wide sandy beaches, leafy parks, colourful houses and a relaxed, laid-back vibe that makes you instantly unwind. And, unexpectedly, a quirky connection with Indian elephants!

We kicked things off with a gentle bike tour around the town. It was all flat and easy-going, with a brilliant guide, Veronika, who gave commentary through headsets and even stopped to serve us homemade linden tea and biscuits – a lovely start.

We stayed at the Hedon Spa & Hotel, a gorgeous four-star property right on the seafront. Modern, stylish and welcoming, with a calm feel and a beautiful view of the beach and ocean from my room.

That evening we dined at Mon Ami, a terrific local restaurant that fully delivered on flavour and service – an early taste of the culinary delights to come over the next few days.

After a peaceful morning in the hotel’s spa (silent sauna heaven!) and a fabulous breakfast, we set off for our next destination: Saaremaa, Estonia’s largest island.

The journey included a short ferry ride from Virtsu to Muhu Island, and then a drive across to Saaremaa itself. Even the journey felt like part of the adventure.

Lunch was at Muhu Winehouse, the world’s northernmost wine tourism farm and it turned out to be one of my favourite stops. Surrounded by fields and vines, it’s a real celebration of slow living and local pride. They make small-batch wines from fruits and berries grown on-site – rhubarb, apple, sea buckthorn, blackcurrant - and after an entertaining tasting session with our host Peke, we were treated to a gorgeous lunch made with local ingredients, cooked by a Michelin-trained chef.

It’s more than just a place to taste wine; it’s a window into rural Estonian life, where traditions are cherished and every detail is rooted in love for the island. It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Later that afternoon, we visited the Angla Windmills - a little cluster of wooden windmills standing proudly on a hillside. We were greeted like old friends with warm bread, homemade biscuits and big smiles. That genuine hospitality was something we experienced again and again on this trip.

We arrived at Kuressaare, the capital of Saaremaa, in time to explore its castle - a proper medieval fortress with towers, moats and history at every turn.

That night we had dinner at Veski, a restaurant in a converted windmill, where the charismatic owner, Kaupo, served us nine different homemade berry infusions alongside traditional dishes with a twist. It was an experience to remember!

Our hotel, the Georg Ots Spa, had a lovely waterside setting and beautiful views - perfect for a good night’s sleep.

The next morning, we flew back to Tallinn on a tiny plane - not my favourite part, if I’m honest!

Once safely back in the city, we checked into the Nordic Hotel Forum. It’s modern, stylish and right in the centre. What made it feel personal was the handwritten welcome note in my room and a little jar of honey from the hotel’s own rooftop beehives. Such a thoughtful touch.

Lunch that day was at Radio in Kadriorg - fresh, seasonal dishes and a chance to meet Agnia from Visit Estonia, who had curated the whole itinerary so brilliantly.

Later that afternoon we explored Tallinn with Vidrik, an absolutely brilliant guide who really brought the city to life. I’d always imagined Tallinn was all about its beautiful Old Town, but there’s so much more: rooftop bars, cool creative spaces, food markets, trendy marinas and new districts. It feels like a modern city that knows who it is but isn’t afraid to surprise you.

Of course, we still made time for a walk through the Old Town. It’s just stunning - cobbled streets, pastel buildings, towers and hidden courtyards. Like stepping into a storybook.

We ended the trip with dinner at Härg, a sleek award-winning restaurant that delivered the perfect final evening: great food, great company and a chance to reflect on how much we’d packed into just four days.

Estonia wasn’t at all what I expected - it was so much more. From the peaceful beaches of Pärnu to the rustic charm of Saaremaa and the buzz of Tallinn, it really is a country that offers something for everyone: nature, culture, food, history - all served up with heart.

It’s also a fantastic alternative for summer travel if you’re looking for something cooler, quieter and just a little bit different.

Huge thanks to Visit Estonia, Nordic Travel Solutions and Minty Highway for putting together such a thoughtful and inspiring itinerary - and to my lovely fellow agents, it was a joy to share it all with you.

Estonia, you’ve officially won me over. I’ll be back – for bog walking, bear watching and even more of your incredible food.