Kuressaare Castle is the only fully preserved fortress complex in the Baltic States. On Saaremaa, this striking cultural landmark meets island nature that ranges from juniper and coastal meadows to swamps and peat bogs. The island is part of the West Estonian Archipelago Biosphere Reserve, which encompasses these habitats. Culture and nature thus offer two distinct ways to discover Saaremaa: history in its buildings and exhibitions, and landscapes along trails and the coast.
Landscapes and striking scale
The Koigi study trail is located in the Koigi Landscape Protection Area. The Kaali meteorite field offers a vivid sense of geological scale: the main crater is 110 metres wide and 22 metres deep, with eight smaller craters nearby. Panga Cliff reaches a maximum height of 21.3 metres and extends for about 2.5 kilometres. The Panga Recreation Area is suitable for watching the sunset, picnicking, birdwatching and nature photography.
Hiking trails and coastal observations
Saaremaa’s nature trails are well marked and equipped with information boards. A 260-kilometre hiking trail links existing nature and hiking trails through Saaremaa’s most beautiful natural areas. Hiking options range from individual nature trails to a long route through the island’s landscapes.
Saaremaa’s coastal trails can be explored on foot or by bicycle using the NaviCup app. As app availability may change, check before your trip whether the app is currently available. One example of a longer route is the eight-kilometre Vilsandi study trail: it follows the south coast along coral reefs to a lighthouse, then returns through the forests of the north coast. Harilaid’s west coast is suitable for observing birds and seals.
Experience nature and find out more
The Vilsandi National Park Visitor Centre has a permanent exhibition on the park’s nature, history and cultural heritage. The centre also provides information about hiking trails, campfire sites and attractions in the national park; for specific, up-to-date visitor information, it is advisable to enquire in advance. Free nature events and natural science education programmes are available by prior registration. The programme may vary.
Buildings, exhibitions and island cuisine
At Kuressaare Castle, the Saaremaa Museum presents permanent exhibitions on Saaremaa’s history, contemporary history and natural environment. St Catherine’s Church in Karja offers a different historical perspective: dating from the 13th century, it is known for its carvings and stone sculptures.
Reomäe Monastery is the Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church’s only traditional convent with a communal way of life. Its main church was built in 1873; the iconostasis, the wall of icons in the church, is protected as a cultural monument. Asva Viking Village offers an animal and bird park, as well as archery and axe throwing. As activities may change, check what is currently available before your visit.
Juniper also features in local cuisine: on Saaremaa, it is used in syrups, infusions, sweets, seasonings, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic gins. Smoked fish is considered a must on the island, and home-brewed beer is regarded as its accompaniment. Alongside landscapes and buildings, local ingredients and dishes offer their own discoveries.
More destinations
Discover more destinations: Kuressaare, Lilbi, Kõõru, Haeska, Laugu, Kirikuküla, Nurme, Igaküla, Kuralase, Valjala, Pamma, Tumala, Koguva, Mustjala, Salme, Siiksaare, Raugi, Metsaääre, Muratsi, Orissaare, Pidula, Lümanda, Pihtla, Valjala Parish, Rannaküla, Laimjala Vald, Muhu Vald, Mustjala, Kihelkonna, Leisi, Pöide, Torgu Vald, Ruhnu, Haapsu, Nässuma, Kaarma Parish, Orissaare Parish, Kärla.
For the overview of destinations: Estonia.
