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February 10, 2026
Drive the ‘ice road’, Estonians told
Cold spell means cars can cross 20km stretch of frozen sea but drivers must be able to exit quickly in case of a problem
TL;DR
- A 20km ice road has opened in Estonia, connecting the islands of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa.
- The ice road was established after low temperatures allowed residents to drive across the frozen sea, bypassing ferry disruptions.
- Driving on the ice road requires adherence to specific rules: vehicles under 2.5 tonnes, specific speed ranges (below 20km/h or 40-70km/h), no stopping, and no seatbelts for quick exit.
- Specialists measure ice thickness (minimum 24cm) and maintain the road, smoothing ridges and cracks.
- This ice road is seen as both a necessity and a cultural tradition for the islanders.
- Authorities are planning to open two more ice routes linking mainland Estonia to smaller islands.
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