Tõstamaa

Tõstamaa Manor is considered to have medieval origins and today displays a late-classical appearance. The museum features several exhibitions on different aspects of everyday life and regional history. The Tõstamaa–Värati area lies entirely within Kihnu Strait Marine Park; the park surrounding the manor house also covers 15 hectares. Regional buses operated by the City of Pärnu run between Pärnu and Tõstamaa.

Different historical periods come together at Tõstamaa Manor: the manor house is considered to date from the Middle Ages, while its present appearance is late classical. There is also an information point in the manor house. You can get assistance, information, maps and brochures introducing the region there. It can be a useful starting point if you want to orient yourself as you explore the area.

The present-day Lutheran Tõstamaa St. Mary’s Church was built from fieldstones between 1763 and 1768 under the direction of master builders from Pärnu. Its tower was an important landmark in Kihnu Strait. The church and the manor house represent different aspects of local cultural heritage: the church reflects 18th-century architectural history, while the manor house has medieval origins and a late-classical appearance.

The basement hall of the Tõstamaa Museum houses several exhibitions. Topics and objects include tools, school supplies and household items, as well as objects relating to the Soviet period and marine exploration. Items from the lives of fishermen are also represented. The collection thus offers different ways to explore everyday life, history and regional activities. The Tõstamaa Handicraft Centre complements this cultural perspective: it preserves and collects regional handicraft heritage and folk traditions.

The Tõstamaa–Värati area lies entirely within Kihnu Strait Marine Park. The area’s name and location in the marine park offer nature enthusiasts a distinct theme to explore during their trip. The 15-hectare park surrounding Tõstamaa Manor offers another green side. Those interested in landscapes and cultural heritage will find two distinct themes here: the area’s connection to a protected area and the park around the manor house.

The Tõstamaa hiking trail is intended for independent hiking. This is especially relevant for travellers who want to include a self-guided hike in their plans. The route can be considered a focus in its own right, separate from the exhibitions, manor house or events. Which of these options you prioritise depends on whether you would rather spend your time hiking, exploring regional history or combining these interests.

The outdoor stage of Tõstamaa Community Centre is situated by a reservoir in scenic surroundings. Jaanipäev bonfires, fairs, concerts, community days and other events are held there. The programme therefore includes a range of formats—from markets and community days to concerts and Jaanipäev bonfires. If events are important to your trip, you can include this venue as part of Tõstamaa’s cultural offerings.

One local speciality is Tõstamaa cake, which is available for sale every Tuesday at Tõstamaa Shop. The day of the week provides a specific point of reference for planning. This regional speciality can thus be considered separately from the broader cultural and nature-related themes.

Regional buses operated by the City of Pärnu run between Pärnu and Tõstamaa. If you are looking for accommodation in Tõstamaa, you can take the connection between the two places into account when planning your journey. The manor house’s information point also provides maps and brochures about the region, as well as assistance and information. Together, these services offer two different starting points for planning: the bus connection for getting there and the information point for finding your way around the region.

For further comparison, you can also view the pages for Seliste, Ermistu and Kiraste.

What can you see at the Tõstamaa Museum?

The museum’s basement hall features several exhibitions, including tools, school supplies, household items, as well as objects relating to the Soviet period, marine exploration and the lives of fishermen.

When is Tõstamaa cake available?

Tõstamaa cake is available for sale every Tuesday at Tõstamaa Shop.

What bus connection is there between Pärnu and Tõstamaa?

Regional buses operated by the City of Pärnu run between Pärnu and Tõstamaa.

What is the Tõstamaa hiking trail intended for?

The Tõstamaa hiking trail is intended for independent hiking.

For the main travel overview: Tõstamaa.