Saaremaa between Coast, Nature and Island Culture
Accommodation in Saaremaa
Saaremaa combines protected landscapes, distinctive coastal formations, long hiking trails, historic sites and a unique island cuisine. If you would like to plan your trip according to your interests, you will find specific starting points here for observing nature, experiencing culture and enjoying active days.
File:Kaali Meteorite Crater, Kaali, Saaremaa, Estonia 01.jpg
Photo: Fry72, Karel Frydrýšek via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Saaremaa is part of the West Estonian Archipelago Biosphere Reserve. This reserve includes juniper and coastal meadows, swamps and peat bogs. The landscape therefore ranges from open coastal areas to wet bog landscapes. The Koigi study trail is also located in the Koigi Landscape Protection Area and combines a specific nature experience with a protected landscape.
Mändjala became Saaremaa’s official bathing beach in 2014.
What characterizes the landscape of Saaremaa?
The distinctive natural features include the Kaali meteorite field. It comprises a main crater 110 metres wide and 22 metres deep, as well as eight smaller craters. The exact size of the main crater also makes the area interesting for travellers who want to include geological formations and unusual landscapes in their plans.
Panga cliff reaches a maximum height of 21.3 metres and extends for approximately 2.5 kilometres. Sunset watching, picnics, birdwatching and nature photography are possible in the Panga Recreation Area. This allows various peaceful activities to be combined in this landscape, from observing the coast to spending time outdoors.
Which trails lead to nature experiences?
The nature trails on Saaremaa are well marked and equipped with information boards. This makes it easier to find your way during a walk or a longer hike, without implying a specific trail length or a uniform level of difficulty for all the trails.
A 260-kilometre hiking trail connects existing educational and hiking trails through Saaremaa’s most beautiful natural areas. Saaremaa’s coastal trails can be explored on foot or by bicycle using the NaviCup app.
The visitor centre of Vilsandi National Park provides information about hiking trails, fire pits and sights in the national park. With advance registration, it organizes free nature events and nature education programmes. The visitor centre also has a permanent exhibition on the nature, history and cultural heritage of the national park. This combination makes the site a specific point of contact for travellers who want not only to walk a trail but also to gain a better understanding of the natural and cultural environment.
Which cultural sites shape the island’s identity?
Kuressaare Castle is the only fully preserved fortress complex in the Baltic States. In Kuressaare Castle, the Saaremaa Museum presents permanent exhibitions on the history of Saaremaa, contemporary history and the island’s nature.
St Catherine’s Church in Karja dates from the 13th century and is known for its carvings and stone sculptures. It offers another cultural focal point where medieval heritage, sacred architecture and craftsmanship come together.
Reomäe Monastery is the only traditional convent with a communal way of life in the Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church. The main church of Reomäe Monastery was built in 1873, and the iconostasis is protected as a historical monument.
What can you do between observing nature and being active?
Asva Viking Village includes an animal and bird park. Asva Viking Village also offers archery and axe throwing.
The Sõrve lighthouse is 52 metres high and the tallest lighthouse on the Baltic Sea. The west coast of Harilaiu is suitable for observing birds and seals, once again directing attention more strongly towards the island’s wildlife.
How does Saaremaa’s island cuisine express itself?
Juniper is used on Saaremaa for syrups, infusions, sweets, spices, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic gins. The plant therefore appears in a wide variety of culinary forms and is not limited to a single product.
Smoked fish is considered an essential part of Saaremaa’s island cuisine. Home-brewed beer is considered an accompaniment to smoked fish on Saaremaa.
Which subregions can you also explore?
FAQ
How long is the Vilsandi study trail?
The Vilsandi study trail is eight kilometres long. It runs along the southern coast past the coral reefs to a lighthouse and then returns through the forests of the northern coast.
What are the dimensions of the main crater of the Kaali meteorite field?
The main crater is 110 metres wide and 22 metres deep. The Kaali meteorite field also includes eight smaller craters.
What does Koigi bog offer hikers?
Koigi bog has a hiking trail approximately 4.8 kilometres long, with a boardwalk around Lake Pikkjärv and a nine-metre-high observation tower.
Where can you observe birds and seals?
The west coast of Harilaiu is suitable for observing birds and seals.
For the higher-level travel overview: Estonia.
