A tour of Estonia and Finland's shared drinking culture

Did you know that Estonia and Finland share a rich heritage beyond language to the world of wine, spirits, and beer? Learn more on this tasting tour.

Victoria Kusma

Virumaa DMO

This culinary pilgrimage takes you to manor houses, craft producers, and experience centers in North Estonia.

Winding your way along the route, you will come to Moe Visitor Center, Tulivee Experience Centre and a range of manors: Vihula, Sagadi, Saka, Mäetaguse and, ending in suitably grand style, Palmse. At each of these, you will discover how food and drink have been made in Estonia over the centuries, from the traditions of manor cooking to modern artisanal flavors.

The tour also highlights how the drinking cultures of Estonia and Finland have become intertwined, exploring the similarities and crossover points between our nations, as well as their differences. The tour includes tastings, stories, and adventures to suit any open-minded traveler seeking a deeper understanding of Estonian food and culture.

Cheers to discovering the drinks of North Estonia!

What to expect along the way

Main attractions: Moe Visitor Center, Tulivee Experience Center, and various manor houses
Distance: 420 km
Duration: 4 days, 3 nights
Best time to visit: All year round
How to get here: By car
Where to start: We recommend setting out on your journey from Tallinn or Rakvere.

Sagadi and Vihula Manors

Day 1

Your tour of Estonia’s northern counties starts in Tallinn and will lead you to one of the country’s most beautiful and historic regions. Your first stop on Day 1 is at the elegant Sagadi Manor, one of the best-preserved complexes of its kind in Estonia. Here you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the manor culture of centuries past and to enjoy peaceful natural surroundings. You can learn about the life, customs, and traditions of the family who once lived here, explore the manor’s historic rooms, take a walk in its lush park, and participate in fun workshops. For example, you can try your hand at making traditional schnapps based on an old recipe.

A relaxing walk in the surrounding countryside will refresh you before you continue on to Vihula Manor in the heart of Lääne-Viru County. This beautifully restored estate perfectly combines history and nature. Here you can discover what noble life was like in Estonia, admire valuable historical artifacts, stroll through the manor’s gardens, and enjoy exclusive spa treatments.

A highlight of Vihula Manor is its Vodka Museum, where you can dive into the history of this popular spirit. Admission is free to overnight guests. You can also visit an eco-farm or play mini-golf for an extra charge.

Vihula Manor is an ideal destination to relax, unwind, immerse yourself in history, and savor delicious local cuisine. Spend the night here before setting off on new adventures the following morning.

Elegant restaurant with piano, a chandelier, and set tables at a manor in Estonia

Photo author: Lauri Laan

From Purtse Brewery to Tulivee Restaurant

Day 2

Your first stop on Day 2 is Purtse Brewery, where you can learn about (and try) local craft beers. Purtse is one of the oldest and best-known breweries in Estonia, and offers a comprehensive overview of the history of beer and brewing. Experienced guides explain both the beer-making process and the characteristics of different varieties. After the tour, you will have the chance to buy special beers and other freshly brewed beverages.

The day then continues at Tulivee, a seaside restaurant which is renowned for the quality and freshness of its food. The menu is structured around local ingredients with influences from both Estonian and international cuisine. Here you will enjoy a cozy atmosphere, carefully selected wines, and thoughtful combinations of flavors that create an enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant is an ideal spot to unwind after a full day of travel and exploration.

A craft beer tasting tray in front of the Purtse Brewery in North Estonia

Photo author: Elen Juurma

Places of historical interest: Saka and Mäetaguse Manors

Day 3

Day 2 ends on the wild shores of the Baltic Sea at Saka Manor, a charming place known for its history, luxury, and natural beauty. This elegantly restored manor house offers a range of spa treatments and fine dining options. Luxurious accommodation and rooms with a historical touch create a unique atmosphere for special events and romance. You can also explore the surrounding hiking trails or use an audio guide to further enrich your stay. Saka Manor is the perfect place to end your day.

The morning of Day 3 will take you to historic Mäetaguse Manor in the heart of Ida-Viru County. Here you can soak up the traditional atmosphere, which is brimming with history and culture. Renovated rooms and stunning grounds offer a glimpse into the past life of nobles in Estonia. Apart from history, everyone is sure to find something exciting to do here as well: you can play disc golf, try your hand at archery, take part in workshops to make your own cocktails or home-brewed beers, enjoy a picnic in Selisoo Bog or spend time in the manor's cozy surroundings. Mäetaguse merges historical and modern, offering a fun experience for visitors of all ages.

Couple raising glasses at a romantic candlelight dinner at Saka Manor in North Estonia

Photo author: Saka Manor

From Moe Visitor Center to Palmse Manor

Day 4

The second-to-last stop on your tour is the Distillery Museum and Visitor Center on the grounds of gorgeous Moe Manor. This is a place where you can discover everything that the history and nature of Northern Estonia have to offer. The centre offers interactive exhibits that combine education and entertainment and are suitable for all ages. For nature lovers, a number of hiking trails that showcase the region’s beautiful landscapes have their starting points here. You can also visit the manor’s distillery museum, take part in tastings, buy drinks and enjoy the accommodation provided at its cosy boutique hotel. Meals are available if ordered ahead of time, adding a personal and very special touch to your visit.

The tour comes to an end at Palmse Manor, one of the most beautiful and historic complexes of its kind in Estonia. Palmse will transport you to the world of 18th-century nobility as you stroll through its restored rooms, admire its beautiful gardens and explore the history of local manor culture. The pathways that wind through its lovely park create a peaceful atmosphere in which to experience the rich heritage of Lääne-Viru County. Palmse Manor has a tavern and (when booked in advance) a restaurant, both of which offer unique experiences. Adult visitors can take part in workshops revealing hidden aspects of manor life, such as making the lord of the manor’s favoured tincture, or taking part in the lady of the manor’s tea ceremony.

Tasting room at distillery in North Estonia with glasses and a painting on the wall

Photo author: Moe Distillery Museum

Embark on a journey to discover the flavors and history of Estonia!

We hope you take time to join us in experiencing the shared drinking culture of Estonia and Finland and enjoying local flavors in beautiful manors and other unique places. We hope you learn something along the way and that the tour provides you with delicious experiences and fond memories.

If you would like to explore North Estonia in greater depth, check out these other tours: "The beautiful views along the Klint Road" and "On the Pathways of Culture."