<h2 class="RegionName"><span class="PhoneCode"> </span> Estonian Islands </h2> <p>Many Estonians say the country’s islands offer a glimpse of the way life used to be, with farms dotting their green and forested terrain. Afraid that the 1500 islands would become an escape route out of the USSR, the Soviets isolated the region, shielding it from outside influence. Today, the islands remain naturally beautiful, and rural life is punctuated by just a few large towns. The coastal areas are a top holiday spot for those looking to hike, bike, or merely relax in the countryside. </p> 2009-06-25T17:55:24+00:00 232 false 16720 Estonian Islands 16712 5 15293 2009-06-25T17:55:56+00:00