Come and discover the pride of Vormsi Island – Saxby Lighthouse, built in 1864, with its 27-meter-high flashing light guiding the way to the Väinamere Archipelago. This lighthouse is not only a navigational landmark but also a historical and cultural symbol standing on the northwestern coast of Vormsi.
According to legend, there are only three such lighthouses in the world: one in Kihnu, one in Vormsi, and the third, lost somewhere on the seabed.
From the top of the lighthouse, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Vormsi’s rocky beaches and the enchanting sunset. This is a place where history, legends and sea views meet – an ideal destination for every adventurer and peace seeker.
Lake Prästvike, located in the central part of Vormsi Island, is a former sea lagoon, which has been taken over by reed to a large extent, but has retained its importance as a spawning and nursery area for fish in the coastal sea. The birdlife of the lake is abundant and diverse – on a quiet spring evening, you can hear the song of the bittern.
The largest spring among the numerous springs in the northern part of the lake is the Suurallikas Spring. The 1.7 km hiking trail leads to Lake Prästvike and the observation tower on the north shore. At the edge of the forest, there is the unique Raviallikas Spring. It is surrounded by calcareous spring meadows with different species of Orchidaceae.
A 2 km hiking trail is situated in the relatively moist and waterlogged area on the Vormsi landscape protection area. The most notable sites on the trail include the Suur Allikas (Big Spring) and Raviallikas (Curing Spring) and an enjoyable view to Lake Prästviigi. You will find signs and information boards throughout the trail. The trail is partly a dirt road; moist areas have boardwalks and bridges. In the wet seasons, the trail is muddy and difficult to pass. Rubber boots are the most suitable footware for passing the trail. The trail has a timber watchtower that is 2.5 m high.
The Rumpo Mäe Farm is located in the Village of Rumpo on the Island of Vormsi. The farm, on the beautiful Bay of Hullo, offers you peace and quiet. It is the perfect place for a family vacation or organizing seminars or camps. Nature and culture lovers will enjoy the rest. Accommodations are provided in three thatched-roof houses. A campground is nearby. Catering, seminar rooms, hiking, tour guide services, boat and bicycle rentals and sailboat rides are also available.
Vormsi Cemetery right next to St Olav’s Church on the island of Vormsi is one of the most unique cemeteries in Estonia. In the older part of the cemetery you will find many limestone and sandstone wheel crosses. More than 330 wheel crosses have survived and there are many crosses of ordinary shapes.
Interesting facts:
There are two memorial stones in the churchyard – one for the Estonian-Swedish cultural figure Hans Pöhl, and the other for the Swedish missionary Österblom who brought about fundamental changes in the local religious life.
Try to find the oldest grave stone in the cemetery originating from 1743. Outside the churchyard you can see one of the few freedom monuments in Estonia which stood in its place through the whole of the Soviet era.
Dreaming of a private holiday in nature?
Hosby Dwarf House is the perfect place for you! The Dwarf House is located on the island of Vormsi, in the small village of Hosby, right by the sea among pine trees.
The Dwarf House and the cabin have a total of six beds and friendly pets are also welcome. In the summer, you can use our bicycles free of charge to discover the exciting island of Vormsi. The hosts can share exciting legends about the island to make it easier to discover the island.
You can relax in a wood-heated sauna (Päka spa) and cosy hammocks.
Cold sparkling wine upon arrival!
Vormsi is an island where Swedes lived for centuries. Documents show that there was a settlement as early as in the 13th century. Vormsi was a Swedish-speaking island, where, for example, in 1934, 2,393 Swedes and 122 Estonians lived.
Vormsi Farm Museum is a typical pre-World War II farm of Estonian Swedish people. The farm has been restored with the help of old photographs, written sources, and the memories of the people of Vormsi who were born in Vormsi and fled Sweden to escape the war.
The museum sells Vormsi handicrafts, souvenirs, and Vormsi-themed books.
Vormsi church which dates back to the 14th century and is the main memento of its history and culture – is located in the centre of the island, in Hullo. The church was unused for a long time after the Swedish escaped from the island in the end of World War II. The church was dedicated again on Olav’s Day in 1990.
Be sure to take a look at the characteristic square-shaped nave and have look at the old ceiling paintings in the altar room.
Interesting facts:
The first church in Vormsi was a wooden church.
* St. Olav’s church in Vormsi is unique for the fact that it has no belfry, the bell hangs above the door under the high ridge.
* There are two gnarled pine trees at the gate of the church – this is the place where the pillory stood.
Sarapuu Home Accommodation, which is open all year round, is located in the centre of Vormsi.
During the summer season, the house can accommodate seven people and in the winter season, five people. There is a double room with a private entrance, terrace, a private toilet, and a shower.
Guests can use a barbeque, swings, a trampoline, and a playground for children. In the summer season, you can also spend some lovely time in the Tea House. The only shop on the island and the beach are located within walking distance. Additional facilities include a wood-heated sauna.
The place is perfect for families with children or groups of friends to spend a short holiday or stop while on a business trip.