The RMK Hiiumaa Cycling Route offers a way to explore Estonia’s island of Hiiumaa by bicycle. Created by the State Forest Management Centre (RMK), the Environmental Board and local cyclist Alari Remmelg, it follows a distinct itinerary where the island’s hiking route crosses terrain unsuitable for bikes.
An island journey from Heltermaa
The signed cycling itinerary begins at Heltermaa Harbour and heads towards Kärdla before making a circuit of the island. It finishes at Sarve camping area, approximately 3 km from the harbour. The main route is 250 km; including the additional route to Sõru Harbour brings the total to 275 km.
RMK opened the cycling alternative in 2025. It uses existing roads and paths to connect places of interest and established rest stops, visiting the same stops and many of the same sights as the walking route. The two itineraries share some ground but also have separate sections.
Forest trails and island roads
Route designer Alari Remmelg describes a mixture of asphalt, gravel, forest paths and sandy stretches. He particularly singles out the narrower forest trails and sand on the Tahkuna and Kõpu peninsulas as demanding parts of the ride. He recommends a mountain bike, with a gravel bike as another possibility.
For a closer look at the island’s landscapes, Remmelg highlights forest riding on the Kõpu peninsula and around Leemeti. The route also links places where riders can pause, including established camping and campfire sites.
Follow the cycling route
The distinction between the walking and cycling itineraries matters. Sensitive landscapes on the Heltermaa–Ristna–Sarve hiking trail need protection, and bicycles are not permitted on certain sections. Follow the designated cycling route rather than assuming that every walking trail is open to bikes.
Cyclist-pictogram direction signs mark the route in one direction. RMK also provides a separate cycling map on its Hiiumaa route page. Information boards at Heltermaa Harbour, Ränkaja campfire site, Ristna visitor centre, Kaleste camping area, Leemeti forest hut and Sarve camping area show where the routes diverge.
Planning stops and protected areas
Use RMK’s cycling map to plan the itinerary and identify rest stops before setting out. The Sõru Harbour extension is an optional addition, so decide whether to include it when considering the distance.
Parts of the route cross protected areas. Go Travel’s account advises riders to stay on signposted roads and trails and notes that Environmental Board permission applies in some areas. Some private roads within protected areas allow passage only between sunrise and sunset; check local signs and applicable restrictions when planning the ride.