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Tallinn > Tallinn Tours > Naissaar: Soviet Military & Coastal Folk Heritage Day
Naissaar: Soviet Military & Coastal Folk Heritage Day
This is popular! 42 travelers have booked this experience.
Sail out to the remote Naissaar, also known as Women's Island, and discover its fascinating historical heritage and the lasting imprint of the island's former Soviet military presence.
Duration 7 hours
Private tour pricing from 29 EUR per person
Group tour available in Estonian, English, Russian
My partner and I took the day trip to Naissaar Island in June 2017 while visiting Tallinn. We opted for the bike rental rather than the guided tour, so I can't comment on that tour.
The roads are excellent for mountain bikes, as long as you remember to be careful where there is loose sand. The hiking trails vary from easily cyclable, to not at all, so bear that in mind when choosing areas to explore. The western half of the "military" (red) trail, for instance, is NOT suitable for bikes, and would be most comfortable in hiking shoes.
The military installations dotted all around the island are fascinating, and quite well sign posted. If you enjoy military history, you don't want to miss them.
Most of the island is a nature reserve, and is very beautiful quiet - we didn't see a single other walker or biker on most of the paths.
Our package included lunch at a guest house in the south of the island - a simple,hearty meal with a very friendly hostess.
If you're not on the guided tour, and have had enough exploring, there is a bar/café just inland from the harbour where you can get refreshments with a view.
Highlights
Explore the sea mines stockyard and top-secret Soviet military base
Visit a sanctuary for the native people of the island
Stroll on the beautiful sandy beach
Description
Naissaar Island was a popular outing destination prior to World War 2, and home to the Aibofolk (Swedish heritage islanders) who made their fortunes as pilots and seal hunters and enjoyed lucrative business with privateers. The Soviet army then turned the island into a secluded military base. Explore the sights from the Soviet military period and remnants of pre-war life.
Depart for a 1-hour boat voyage from the historic Lennusadam, enjoying beautiful views while passing Katherina Keys, Bald Island, and Midshallows Lighthouse.
You’ll have an amazing opportunity to visit an abandoned sea mine stockyard that was once a top-secret Soviet military base. The secrecy of the base was of utmost importance and is surrounded by double-wire fences guarded by bloodhounds. Afterwards, see the Fire Boulder, another of the island’s landmarks with a thrilling tale to tell.
As a final stop, get a true contrast to the military history with a visit to a sanctuary for the native people of the island and learn about the exciting past of its former inhabitants. At the end of the tour, take some time to wander on the beach.
Depart for a 1-hour boat voyage from the historic Lennusadam, enjoying beautiful views while passing Katherina Keys, Bald Island, and Midshallows Lighthouse.
You’ll have an amazing opportunity to visit an abandoned sea mine stockyard that was once a top-secret Soviet military base. The secrecy of the base was of utmost importance and is surrounded by double-wire fences guarded by bloodhounds. Afterwards, see the Fire Boulder, another of the island’s landmarks with a thrilling tale to tell.
As a final stop, get a true contrast to the military history with a visit to a sanctuary for the native people of the island and learn about the exciting past of its former inhabitants. At the end of the tour, take some time to wander on the beach.
What’s included & not included
Boat tickets
Island visitor fee
GPS-based navigator/audio-guide
Hotel pickup
Lunch
Meeting point
Vesilennuki 6, Lennusadam (Seaplane museum)
Tallinn
Vesilennuki 6, Lennusadam (Seaplane museum)+3725032321
info@sunlines.eu
Sunlines Cruises
Reviews from travelers (3)