Ruhnu

Ruhnu is a small island in Estonia, isolated from the rest of the country in the Gulf of Riga. The island is called Runö in Swedish.

Understand
Prior to 1944, the island was populated by ethnic Swedes for centuries, and traditional Swedish law was used. Ruhnu now has fewer than 100 permanent inhabitants, mostly ethnic Estonians who like to keep to themselves.

By boat
A ferry runs from Munalaid in the mainland to Ruhnu. The trip takes about 4½ hours. Bookings can be made via phone and internet.

On foot
You can reach pretty much everything by walking.

By plane
If arriving by airplane, there is a free shuttle bus to the village. Tell the bus driver the name of the place of the family where you are staying, he will take you there. The same for getting to airport—ask your host to call the bus, it will pick you up.

Do
The island is popular with hikers and swimmers; the best beach for swimming is Limo beach, with its "singing" sands.

Buy
There are a few small shops on the island. Write down their opening times, because they may not be open all day. As in mainland Estonia, the official currency is the euro. Credit and debit cards are usually accepted.

Go next

 * Saaremaa – The largest Estonian and wild seaside character island with castles and fortresses, one perfectly preserved, a beach, a spa and famous mills. Saaremaa is even sometimes called Sparemaa. Furthermore, the island is surrounded by a myriad of tiny islands including Abruka with its nudist camps.
 * Pärnu – Estonia's 4th largest city and the summer capital of Estonia, popular for its balneo-therapy complexes and spa centres, surrounded by numerous beaches.
 * Kihnu – The southernmost group of islands, Khinu, is on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List. Cosy and warm yet exotic – folk costumes are worn here every day and the handicraft of older generations remains highly valued.