Tucked away on the quiet island of Muhu, Estonia, Pädaste Manor is a rare sanctuary where history, nature and understated elegance converge. Dating back to the 14th century, the estate is one of the oldest manors in the Baltic region – yet today it serves as a destination of contemporary luxury with a deeply rooted soul.
“This place has always carried a special energy,” says Michael Stenner, General Manager at Pädaste Manor. “It’s not just a hotel – it’s a story still being written, a retreat where guests find themselves surrounded by timeless beauty and genuine stillness.”
A noble legacy reborn
Pädaste's history stretches back to the medieval period, with visible architectural traces – like 14th-century cellar arches – still intact. Over the centuries, the manor housed several noble families, most notably the von Buxhoevedens, who transformed the estate into a cultural hub in the late 1800s.
“Their contribution went far beyond hosting elite events,” explains Stenner. “Baron Alexander von Buxhoeveden was hunting master to the last Tsar – like a chief of staff today – and together with his wife Charlotte von Siemens, they brought music, art and high society to Muhu.”
That golden era came to a sudden end in 1919. During the Soviet occupation, the estate was repurposed as a military base, a fish distribution centre and later a care home. It wasn’t until the 1990s that two young visionaries – Imre Sooäär and Martin Breuer – saw its potential and began a passionate restoration.
“They understood that beauty is fragile,” says Stenner. “They believed in restoring not just the buildings but also the spirit of the place.”
Living history with modern comfort
Today, Pädaste is widely recognised as one of the finest countryside retreats in the Baltics. It’s a proud member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, and its Alexander Restaurant is recommended by the Michelin Guide and consistently ranked among the world’s top 1,000 restaurants.
Accommodation is spread across three buildings: the Manor House, the Carriage House and the Private Farm House. Each offers a distinct experience – from wood-burning fireplaces and private Jacuzzis to mezzanine poetry lofts and sweeping views of the sea.
“No two rooms are the same,” Stenner notes. “That’s very intentional. We’ve designed each space to honour its history and ensure it offers complete comfort.”
The attention to detail is remarkable – original 150-year-old wall stamps, classic wooden beams and antique furnishings harmonise with discreet modern amenities.
“Our restoration work is ongoing,” says Stenner. “It’s a labour of love – not a project with an end date.”
Silence, scent and simplicity
What truly sets Pädaste apart isn’t just its heritage – it’s the feeling guests take home. With no light pollution and a distinct absence of urban noise, the estate invites guests to pause, breathe and reconnect.
“Real luxury is silence, clean air and the feeling of being completely present,” says Stenner. “Our guests tell us they come here to reset – and leave feeling lighter.”
The manor’s Sanctuary of Six Senses Spa captures this philosophy perfectly. Treatments are inspired by Nordic traditions and powered by nature – geothermal heating, solar-powered seawater baths, and fresh tonic spring water used daily. The recently added a smoke sauna, nestled in a traditional Muhu log house, brings ancient rituals into the modern age.
From land to plate
Dining at Alexander Restaurant is a journey shaped by Estonia’s unique climate and culinary heritage. With a growing season of just 148 days, the focus is on hyper-seasonal produce, foraging, and classical preservation methods.
“We embrace the limitations of our geography,” says Stenner. “It sharpens our creativity and deepens our respect for each ingredient.”
The kitchen team works closely with local farmers, hunters and fishers, many of whom have collaborated with the manor for years. Much of the produce is grown in Pädaste’s own gardens or foraged nearby.
“Every dish tells a story of place and season,” Stenner adds. “That’s what makes our Nordic Islands’ Cuisine not only delicious – but deeply rooted.”
Guests can choose from a daily four-course table d’hôte menu or a nine-course degustation experience – available in both omnivore and vegetarian variants. The Communal Chef’s Table, hosted by head chef Achim Braitsch, is a favourite among returning guests for its intimate and immersive atmosphere.
More than a hotel – a curated experience
Beyond fine dining and spa rituals, Pädaste offers a range of curated activities and seasonal events. From classical concerts and art exhibitions to midsummer bonfires and mushroom foraging weekends, the manor blends old traditions with new interpretations.
“Our guests come here for something meaningful,” says Stenner. “So we tailor experiences to fit their passions – whether it’s food, music, history or just quiet contemplation.”
Among this year’s highlights are beloved traditions such as the Full Moon Party on the Island of Love and the Night of Ancient Bonfires in August. In September, our annual mushroom foraging event returns, guided by a professional mycologist. As the season extends further into the colder months, guests can look forward to even more curated experiences – especially during the festive holiday period.
Sustainability as second nature
Pädaste’s commitment to the environment runs deep. The estate operates using geothermal heating, solar energy and spring water. Its cattle care for the meadows in traditional ways, and all new additions – such as the glass winter garden – are constructed from reversible materials to leave no permanent trace.
“We’ve always believed that quality should come before quantity,” says Stenner. “Sustainability isn’t a trend for us – it’s embedded in how we think and operate.”
Looking ahead
As Pädaste prepares for another season of thoughtful growth, plans include the expansion of the spa terrace, a new series of art collaborations, and further investment in the estate’s gardens and parklands.
“We don’t want to become bigger – we want to become deeper,” says Stenner. “Everything we do is about enriching the experience for our guests.”
Whether it’s a weekend escape or a once-in-a-lifetime stay, Pädaste Manor offers a rare kind of luxury – one that doesn’t shout but whispers. Here, every moment is intentional, every detail considered.
“Luxury, authenticity and timelessness,” Stenner reflects. “Those are the three words I’d use to describe Pädaste. But really, you have to come here to understand what that feels like.”
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