Driving the scenic ice road from Sviby to Rohuküla in western Estonia
Running from Sviby to Rohuküla (between the mainland and Vormsi) in the western part of Estonia, there's an ice road open during the winter months.
How long is the ice road from Sviby to Rohuküla?
The ice road is 10.2 km (6.33 miles) long and connects the mainland to the island of Vormsi. The ice road runs from near the ferry port of Rohuküla, west of Haapsalu. To reach the start of the ice road, head towards the port, but take a signed right turn just after the port comes into view. This will take you to the caravan, which somewhat incongruously marks the start of the ice road. The access to the ice road is just before the Rohuküla port and near the Sviby port on Vormsi. There are also longer and more challenging routes, but more preparation is needed for those. Additionally, there are quite a few unofficial ice roads that can be used at your own risk; every year, about 10-15 cars typically fall victim to the ice.
When does the ice road from Sviby to Rohuküla open?
It usually opens in mid-January and lasts until mid-March. The road can be used by vehicles with a total mass of up to 2.5 tonnes. Ice roads are open for traffic only during daylight hours and when visibility is good. The recommended travel speed is either under 25 km/h or between 40-70 km/h. Seatbelts must be unfastened, and vehicles are not allowed to stop while on the ice road.
What do I need to know before driving on the ice road from Sviby to Rohuküla?
Limitations for ice road traffic include: weight limits depending on conditions, mostly between 2 t (2.0 long tons; 2.2 short tons) and 2.5 t (2.5 long tons; 2.8 short tons); vehicles traveling in the same direction must maintain a distance of at least 250 m (820 ft) apart. Recommended travel speeds are under 25 km/h (16 mph) or between 40-70 km/h (25-43 mph). Avoid speeds between 25 and 40 km/h (16-25 mph) due to the risk of creating resonance in the ice layer, which can break the ice. Seatbelts must not be fastened due to the danger of drowning if the ice breaks. Vehicles are not allowed to stop, and they can enter the ice road in three-minute intervals. Ice roads may only be used during daylight hours.
Did Armies Really Walk Across Frozen Seas to Invade Estonian Islands in the Middle Ages?
The freezing of the seas between the Estonian mainland and the islands has historical significance, as during the Middle Ages, these occurrences were used by armies to invade the islands by simply walking across the frozen sea.
Pic: mardu123