Salme offers several distinct starting points for a trip: ship burials, cultural events and activities by the river or sea. Those interested in history will find a striking subject in the burials. Salme Rannapark combines a coastal landscape with Jaanipäev celebrations; the disc golf course offers a different focus. Salme can therefore be explored from different perspectives: through archaeological history, community culture or outdoor activity.

The Ship Burials of Salme

Two ship burials from the Vendel Period (550–800 AD) were discovered and investigated on Saaremaa in 2008 and 2010–2012. Together, they contain the remains of 41 men. The ship burials are considered unique worldwide to date. This combination of a clearly defined historical period and an exceptional archaeological find makes the subject a striking way to explore Salme’s past.

The dates refer to two different things: 550–800 AD denotes the Vendel Period, while 2008 and 2010–2012 are the dates of the discovery and investigation. The numbers also refer to different things: two is the number of ship burials, and 41 is the number of men whose remains they contain. This helps distinguish the historical period from the history of the discovery.

Culture by the Sea

Celebrations can be held at Salme rahvamaja, where concerts and performances are also organized. The program may vary by season. If a particular concert or celebration is the reason for your trip, check the dates before making plans.

Salme Rannapark offers a different focus: it lies by the sea and is characterized by juniper trees. Jaanipäev celebrations are held there. The two cultural attractions therefore differ clearly: the rahvamaja hosts various types of events, while Rannapark is associated with one particular type of celebration as well as its coastal landscape. When planning your trip, both an event date and the park’s distinctive connection with the sea may be relevant.

Disc Golf and Hiking

The 1,082 m-long course at Salme discgolfi park features open areas, a pine forest and throws across the Salme River. The teeing areas are covered with artificial turf. Players must bring their own discs; playing is free. This makes two practical details clear when preparing: bring your own discs, and there is no playing fee.

The Suure-Tõllu-raiesmaa hiking route is also connected to the Salme River: it was laid out along its banks. On the disc golf course, players throw across the river; for the hiking route, the riverbank describes its location. The river is therefore part of two different activities, as part of the game and as a landmark for the route’s location.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Tehumardi, Toomalõuka, Rannaküla, Metsaääre, Muratsi, Kõõru, Pidula, Laugu

For the broader travel overview: Saaremaa.