Discover Kõrgessaare: Industrial Culture, Nature and Fishing Tradition

Kõrgessaare combines impressive industrial culture, manor history, unique nature and a lively fishing tradition. Those planning a trip with a variety of experiences will find both cultural attractions and a short nature trail here, as well as concrete insights into the regional cuisine. A holiday apartment or holiday home in Kõrgessaare can serve as a suitable base for your personal selection of excursions.

Industrial culture around Viscosa

A prominent destination is Viscosa, a cultural factory on the site of a viscose factory dating from the tsarist era. The complex covers more than 12,000 square metres and brings the industrial history of the area to life. Visitors who would like to explore the site in greater depth can book a 60-minute guided tour of the factory grounds for €120 per group. The outdoor area also has a pump track for practising cycling. This makes it possible to combine a cultural visit and an active break when planning your day, without both experiences having to appeal to the same interests.

Kõrgessaare Manor and its history

Kõrgessaare Manor also offers a historical perspective on the region. It was founded in the late 16th century by the Russian boyar Pervoy Putilov. The warehouse, steward’s house, servants’ house, stables and parts of two lime kilns have survived; the main building has been destroyed. These surviving buildings make it clear that a visit is not focused solely on a single grand manor house, but on the remaining traces of a larger manor estate.

Another historical connection leads to Count Jakob De la Gardie, the later owner of Kõrgessaare Manor. He founded the first Estonian glass factory on Hiiumaa. Those interested in the development of manor estates, crafts and industry can include this history as a separate focus in their travel plans.

Orchid Trail and fishing tradition

For a moment in nature, the RMK Kõrgessaare Orchid Nature Trail is a good choice. Ten orchid species grow naturally along the trail. The boardwalk can be walked in 15 minutes and is equipped with information boards. This makes the walk a manageable addition to a day on which you plan to visit other cultural attractions. The boards also give the short route an informative character.

Another side of Kõrgessaare is showcased by the Kõrgessaare Flounder Festival. The 2025 edition took place on 9 August 2025 at Kõrgessaare Harbour and was the twelfth event in the series. The programme included activities for the whole family, opportunities for recreational anglers to catch flounder and a fish preparation workshop with chef Stella Kurik from Toiduakadeemia. The festival is therefore a concrete example of the connection between fishing, shared leisure time and cuisine. As this information relates to the 2025 Flounder Festival, you should check current dates separately.

A literary view of the harbour

Kõrgessaare Harbour, also known as Hohenholm, is a central setting in Herman Sergo’s novel series “Näkimadalad” and in the book “Randröövel”. The latter deals with the life of Hiiumaa’s Swedish population in the 18th century.

More places to explore

If you would like to compare other places alongside Kõrgessaare, you can expand your selection: Kalana, Jõesuu, Mudaste, Suureranna and Poama.

Back to the higher-level travel overview: Kõrgessaare.