Bike and Hike in Tallinn

I dedicate a full day to Tallinn, the third capital of the Baltics. Of course, one day is not enough to fully explore such cities, but on one hand, this trip is meant to give me a first overview of the Baltics, and on the other hand, my need for people is usually fulfilled after a day.

So today, I went from my parking spot in the peripheral marina to the center of Tallinn by bike. And I can already tell you, this city is a gem! On one hand, you can find many great, well-preserved cultural highlights, and on the other hand, there is also a lot of modern, urban, vibrant life. So, I enjoy my little trip, sometimes riding on, sometimes pushing my bike. In the shady Cathedral Park, I take my lunch break before heading up to the impressive Dome Hill. Dome Hill not only houses cultural treasures, but it is also the seat of the Estonian government. The view up here is phenomenal, and I let the cool wind caress me before diving back into the hustle and bustle.

On the way back, I make a stop in the glamorous Rotermann Quarter. For me, it symbolizes the Baltic States' spirit of progress.

It is fascinating to stand at such a historical focal point. The Baltic States have repeatedly been the plaything of great powers, be it the Swedes, Germans, Russians, or Poles. It has only been in the past century that they have been on the path to lasting independence. The last major liberation began with the end of the Soviet Union. I still remember the Baltic Way, when people held hands on a 650-kilometer-long chain from Tallinn to Riga to Vilnius. This peaceful protest against the Soviet occupation was very characteristic of these joyful, courageous people. It is hoped that they will not become pawns of the powers again and that they can devote the coming years to the peaceful development of their countries.

Now, I enjoy an evening in the marina with buzzing boats, constant coming and going, and then later in the evening, a refreshing shower at the Sailsor's Home. By the way, I am in the sailing center where the sailing competitions of the 1980 Olympic Summer Games took place. These Olympic Games were boycotted by many countries, primarily due to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.

Tomorrow, I will slowly head south towards Klaipeda. In a week, I have booked a ferry back to Kiel.