Golfmagic heads to Tallinn to and asks readers:
And so into Tallinn; a city of fascinating history, intriguing architecture and jaw-dropping views. And I place I had been desperate to visit since friend-of-Golfmagic Darren Farman told us of his trip in the summer.
Despite being founded in the 12th Century, Estonia has experienced just 40 years of independence – having previously been ruled by Denmark, Sweden, Germany and, most recently until 1991, Russia.
The city is now split into two predominant areas - conveniently named Old Town and New Town. We’d seen the New Town on the drive through; modern office and apartment blocks which dominate the skyline. If we hadn’t just stepped off a plane, we could have been in Canary Wharf.
It was the Old Town we are here to see. Our tour guide Anneli Hallik escorted us round the twisting maze of cobblestone lanes, gothic spires and medieval markets. We visited St Olav’s Tower, once the tallest building in the world, before climbing what felt like a million steps in front of Tallinn’s version of the White House.
It is well worth it once you are on the Toompea Viewing Platforms, offering unrivalled scenic views across the Old Town’s red rooftops and towers.
It became very clear this was no ordinary press trip. For two hours, Miss Hallik captivated us with enthralling tales about almost every building we passed – including the Old Town Square which is rumoured to have staged an execution over a bad omelette.
I would poach this story to share with you, but I’d hate for you to shell out on a holiday and already know all the best an-egg-dotes. Okay, that’s en-oeuf cracking of the terrible yolks…
We bid fair well to our newest Estonian friend and headed to Troika – a traditional Russian restaurant lit solely by candlelight.
The vodka, wine and beer was soon flowing again and… well, I don’t remember a lot of that evening. I do remember trying bear meat though. Like really well-done steak, if you’re interested.
Tallinn is a remarkable city. Enchanting, charming and fascinating. It’s also wonderfully romantic, but I was there with four other male journalists so kept this opinion to myself.
The best thing a golf holiday in Tallinn is everyone can enjoy it.
Taking your wife? She’ll love the town while you love the course.
Want a boozy one with your friends? Well there are plenty of bars to grab a Coq. And, speaking from experience, that joke never gets old...
If you fancy a golfing holiday with a difference, Tallinn is where you need to be.
Where to play…
EGCC, host of November’s World Cup of Golf Erupean Qualifier, currently have a number of offers for when they re-open in March. For more information, visit their website.
Where to stay…
The Three Sisters Hotel took my breath away. Traditional boutique rooms, attentive staff and wonderful food will make it hard for you to leave. And when you do, it’s right on the doorstep of all the best Tallinn has to offer. For more information, visit their website.
What to do...
A guided tour of Tallinn is an absolute must. Anneli worked for EstAdventures. For more information, visit their website.
Where to eat…
If you can drag yourself from the fine Three Sisters’ cuisine, Troika is an experience you really must take up. For more information, visit their website.
Getting there…
Flying to and from Tallinn is easy, with a number of British airports – including Stansted, Luton, Liverpool, Manchester, Edinburgh, East Midlands and Dublin – all serving the Estonian capital with flight times of between two and two-and-a-half hours.
Visit the websites of EasyJet or RyanAir for more.
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