An ice road from Virtsu to Kuivastu on the Baltic Sea
Located in Lääne County of Estonia, the ice road across the Baltic Sea from Virtsu to Kuivastu is a unique experience for many drivers.
How long is the ice road from Virtsu to Kuivastu?
The road, part of the Estonian National Road Number 10, is 6.5 km (4.03 miles) long and usually opens every winter. During the rest of the year, the route is serviced by a regular Virtsu-Kuivastu ferry.
Where is the ice road from Virtsu to Kuivastu?
It’s located in the western part of the country and connects Virtsu, in Hanila Parish on the western coast of continental Estonia, to Kuivastu, a village on the eastern coast of the Estonian island Muhu.
How to drive the ice road from Virtsu to Kuivastu?
To ensure safety on icy roads, vehicles must maintain a minimum distance of 250 meters apart to reduce the risk of collisions and prevent undue stress on the ice. In Estonia, these ice roads are marked with juniper bushes spaced every 50 to 100 meters. The speed limit is set at 70 km/h to keep stopping distances manageable, and stopping on the ice is strictly prohibited. Additionally, drivers should avoid traveling at speeds between 25 and 40 km/h, as this range can create resonance, which may compromise the ice's integrity. Vehicles allowed on the ice are typically restricted to a maximum weight of 2–2.5 tonnes.
Pic: https://www.lets-get-lost.com/blog/2013/10/island-living-saaremaa-by-brit