Rummu Quarry and Murru Prison
A hauntingly beautiful former Soviet prison and limestone quarry, now a surreal landscape of submerged ruins and turquoise waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Rummu Quarry and Murru Prison
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hauntingly beautiful former Soviet prison and limestone quarry, now a surreal landscape of submerged ruins and turquoise waters.
"The combination of natural beauty and haunting history makes it truly unforgettable."
Check Entry Fees First
Entry fees can be surprisingly high. Confirm current prices before you go to avoid sticker shock. :euro:
Water Shoes Recommended
If you plan to swim or explore the water's edge, water shoes are a must for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Submerged Prison Ruins
Rummu Quarry
Hauntingly beautiful remnants of a Soviet-era prison, partially submerged in turquoise waters.
The Ash Hill Viewpoint
Adjacent to the quarry
Climb this man-made hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the quarry and surrounding landscape.
Crystal Clear Lagoon
Rummu Quarry
Swim or paddleboard in the surreal, bright blue waters of the former limestone quarry.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Rummu Quarry & Prison
Respecting the Site's History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Entry Fees First
Entry fees can be surprisingly high. Confirm current prices before you go to avoid sticker shock. :euro:
Water Shoes Recommended
If you plan to swim or explore the water's edge, water shoes are a must for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Climb the Ash Hill
The hike up the ash hill offers incredible panoramic views of the quarry and ruins. Worth the effort! :hiking_boot:
Bring Your Camera!
The unique landscape and submerged ruins make for stunning, surreal photographs. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Entry Fees First
Entry fees can be surprisingly high. Confirm current prices before you go to avoid sticker shock. :euro:
Water Shoes Recommended
If you plan to swim or explore the water's edge, water shoes are a must for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Climb the Ash Hill
The hike up the ash hill offers incredible panoramic views of the quarry and ruins. Worth the effort! :hiking_boot:
Bring Your Camera!
The unique landscape and submerged ruins make for stunning, surreal photographs. :camerawithflash:
Safety First Near Water
Quarries are not safe swimming spots. Be cautious around the water and heed any warnings. :warning:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rummu Quarry is lauded as a uniquely beautiful and haunting destination, blending natural beauty with a stark historical past. Visitors are captivated by the surreal submerged ruins and crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it a photographer's paradise and an adventurous day trip. However, some find the entry fees to be quite expensive for the experience offered.
"Rummu is one of the most unique places I’ve ever visited. The combination of natural beauty and haunting history makes it truly unforgettable. The turquoise water is incredibly clear, and the submerged buildings give it an almost surreal, post-apocalyptic feel—like a scene from a movie.
We spent hours exploring the area, swimming, and taking photos. If you’re into urban exploration, history, or just want to experience something completely different, Rummu is the perfect destination. Make sure to climb the nearby ash hill for panoramic views—it’s worth the short hike.
Highly recommend visiting during sunny weather and bringing water shoes if you plan to swim. Whether you’re an adventurer, a photographer, or a history enthusiast, Rummu is a must-visit gem in Estonia."
Avican Oy
"A must-visit hidden gem in Estonia!
Rummu is an incredibly scenic spot where nature and history blend beautifully. The crystal-clear blue water, the submerged prison ruins, and the surrounding limestone hill create a surreal atmosphere. Perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or just relaxing with a view. There are also adventure activities. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Estonia!"
Sri Vishwanth Chowdary Vasireddy
"Nice place to visit, but definitely way too expensive for just simple site seeing. I have traveled a good part of the world and this was really the first please - I found it ridiculously expensive (7€) per person for site seeing of ~ 20 minutes. Even Suiss where you are paying a lot for everything - are not that greedy!"
Rieksts Terrorss
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rummu Quarry is about a 50km drive from Tallinn. You can rent a car for the most flexibility, or take a bus towards Vasalemma and then a short taxi ride or walk to the quarry. Some organized tours from Tallinn also include Rummu Quarry. 
The quarry is generally well-signposted once you are in the Rummu area. Using GPS or a navigation app is recommended for a smooth journey.
Yes, you can take a bus from Tallinn to Rummu or Vasalemma. From the bus stop, it's a walk or a short taxi ride to the quarry. Check local bus schedules in advance.
There is usually parking available near the entrance to the quarry area, though it can get busy during peak season.
Yes, several tour operators in Tallinn offer day trips that include Rummu Quarry, often combined with other nearby attractions like Paldiski.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees can vary and have been noted as quite expensive by some visitors, around €7-€8 per person for general site seeing. There might be separate fees for prison visits or specific activities. Always check the latest prices.
Some reviews mention senior discounts, with prices around €4. Family activities might have package deals.
Yes, it's often possible to visit the Murru Prison area, usually for an additional small fee. This offers a deeper dive into the site's history.
While the quarry is visually striking in all seasons, including winter,
Opening hours can vary, especially depending on the season and whether you are visiting the quarry area or specific attractions within it. It's advisable to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim in the clear lagoon, paddleboard, explore the submerged ruins (with caution), climb the ash hill for views, and visit the former prison. Some adventure activities are also offered.
Swimming is at your own risk. While the water is clear, the quarry floor can be uneven and contain debris. Always be aware of your surroundings and heed any safety warnings.
The Murru Prison offers a glimpse into the harsh conditions of Soviet-era incarceration, with cells and common areas that can be explored.
Yes, there are facilities available, including a cafe with decent toilets and changing rooms, especially near the beach area. Mobile toilets are also present.
Dogs are generally allowed in the area, particularly near the beach and caravan sites. However, it's best to confirm if they are permitted to swim.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Sunny mornings offer beautiful light that highlights the turquoise water and surreal ruins. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide dramatic lighting.
Expect to capture unique shots of submerged buildings, clear blue water, the ash hill landscape, and the stark architecture of the former prison. It's a photographer's paradise for unique, almost post-apocalyptic scenes.
Climbing the ash hill provides an excellent vantage point for panoramic shots of the entire quarry. The shoreline also offers great perspectives of the submerged structures.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscape and submerged ruins. A polarizing filter can enhance the water's color.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local drone laws and any specific restrictions in place at the quarry before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the water, the site's unique visual appeal can spark curiosity about history. While the prison aspect might be a bit intense for very young children, the overall atmosphere is captivating. The nearby ash hill is also a fun, albeit slightly challenging, climb for active kids, offering great views. Remember to pack essentials like snacks, drinks, and sun protection.
📸 Photographers & Urban Explorers
+1For the best shots, aim for sunny days to maximize the water's color and clarity. Climbing the ash hill provides a fantastic vantage point for sweeping panoramas. Be prepared for varied terrain and consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the site. Respect the historical significance and avoid disturbing any structures.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize value, focus on the free or low-cost activities like exploring the grounds, climbing the ash hill, and enjoying the views. Bringing your own food and drinks can also help save money, as on-site cafe prices might be higher.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Haunting History of Rummu
+1The unique visual of submerged buildings stems from the cessation of water pumping after the prison's closure. As the pumps stopped, the quarry rapidly filled with groundwater, engulfing the utility buildings, machinery, and even parts of the prison infrastructure. This created the surreal, almost post-apocalyptic landscape that draws visitors today.
+1Exploring Rummu offers a tangible connection to this past. The stark contrast between the natural beauty of the clear, turquoise water and the decaying, submerged remnants of human endeavor creates a powerful and unforgettable experience. It's a place that prompts reflection on history, labor, and the enduring impact of human activity on the landscape.
Experiencing the Quarry: Activities and Safety
For the adventurous, exploring the submerged ruins is a key attraction. However, safety is paramount. The quarry floor can be uneven and contain debris, so wearing water shoes is highly recommended. Visitors are advised to be cautious and aware of their surroundings, as swimming is at their own risk.
Beyond water activities, climbing the nearby ash hill is a must-do. This man-made hill offers spectacular panoramic views of the quarry, the submerged structures, and the surrounding Estonian landscape. It's a relatively short hike that rewards visitors with incredible photo opportunities and a broader perspective of the site.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit