If you would like to combine hiking with coastal scenery, the third section of the Hiiumaa hiking route has a specific starting point in Kalana: it begins at the Ristna Visitor Centre in the village. From there, the third section continues to Kaleste campsite.

Hiking between coast and heath pine forest

From the Visitor Centre, the route leads to the coast, along dune ridges and through a heath pine forest to Kaleste campsite. This means the route includes more than a coastal stretch: dunes and forest are also part of the described section. If you choose a trail based on its scenery, you can consider this sequence as a specific difference between the coastal section and the subsequent dune and forest stretches. Kaleste campsite is the named destination of the route.

The Hiiumaa hiking route is marked with signposts and white-green-white trail markings.

Ristna Visitor Centre and lighthouse history

The Ristna Visitor Centre is located in the forests of the Kõpu Peninsula, in the village of Kalana. The outbuilding houses the exhibition “Mere kaubamaja” (“Sea store”). Its title adds a distinct cultural touch to the landscape and, even in translation, evokes the sea.

Ristna Lighthouse is located at Ristna Cape in the village of Kalana. In 1874, it was assembled from parts purchased in Paris. This specific account of its construction gives the lighthouse a historical connection that goes beyond its location on the cape. The light rises 37 metres above sea level; this figure refers to the height of the light, not the overall height of the structure.

The hiking route and the lighthouse represent two different perspectives on Kalana: one leads through a succession of coastal, dune and forest landscapes, while the other points to a specific place and a history of construction. The exhibition in the Visitor Centre’s outbuilding adds another cultural connection to these themes.

Ristna Beach and harbour

Ristna Beach is located at the tip of the Kõpu Peninsula. The beach is not an official bathing beach and has no lifeguard service. If swimming is part of your plans, take this into account and check the conditions and services on site. The waves show another side of the coast: when winds come from westerly directions, surf waves roll ashore at Ristna Beach. Wind direction is therefore a specific factor for this coastal activity.

Kalana Yacht Harbour can also be described with precise figures: there are 14 berths at the fishing pier and 24 at the regular quay. These figures refer to two different areas of the harbour. If you are planning to berth a boat, check availability before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Kõrgessaare, Mudaste, Suureranna, Jõesuu, Poama.

Go to the main travel overview: Kõrgessaare.