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Saaremaa

Saaremaa, Estonia

Saaremaa, the largest island in Estonia, offers a unique and enchanting destination for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, history, and relaxation. Located in the Baltic Sea, Saaremaa boasts a diverse landscape…

#Island#Nature#Historic#Baltic Sea#Tourism

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Saaremaa.

Top Hotels in Saaremaa

Top Flights to Saaremaa

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Saaremaa.

Tours

Kuressaare Castle

Explore the historic Kuressaare Castle, a preserved medieval fortress offering insights into Saaremaa's history.

Panga Cliff

Witness the grandeur of nature at Panga Cliff, offering stunning views of the sea.

Angla Windmill Park

Discover the heritage of Saaremaa through its traditional windmills and rural museum.

Kaali Meteorite Crater

Visit the mysterious Kaali Crater, a site of ancient cosmic impact.

Roomassaare Port Visit

Relax by the serene Roomassaare Port, a popular spot for sailing and seafood dining.

Saaremaa Opera Festival

Experience the magic of opera at the Saaremaa Opera Festival, held annually at Kuressaare Castle.

Shopping

Linnahall Shopping

Shop at Saaremaa's Linnahall, offering a variety of local products and souvenirs.

Outdoor

Saaremaa Cycling Tour

Enjoy a cycling tour around Saaremaa's lush landscapes and coastal beaches.

Vilsandi National Park Hiking

Embark on a hiking adventure through Vilsandi National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna.

Orissaare Adventure Park

Challenge yourself with fun obstacles and ziplines at Orissaare Adventure Park.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Saaremaa.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Saaremaa, Estonia, is around 30,000.

Languages

Estonian, Estonian

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Saaremaa.

What people love

Saaremaa, located in Estonia, is the largest island in the country and offers a unique and enchanting travel experience. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Saaremaa:

Natural Beauty: Saaremaa is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including pristine beaches, lush forests, and picturesque countryside. Visitors can enjoy relaxing walks along the coast, explore the island's diverse flora and fauna, and take in breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea.
Historical Sites: Saaremaa is rich in history, with many historical sites and landmarks to explore. One of the most famous attractions is Kuressaare Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress that offers insights into the island's past. Additionally, there are numerous churches, manor houses, and museums that showcase Saaremaa's cultural heritage.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Saaremaa is known for its tranquil and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the island's serene surroundings, enjoying a slower pace of life and a sense of calm.
Local Cuisine: Saaremaa is renowned for its delicious local cuisine, which features fresh seafood, traditional Estonian dishes, and unique regional specialties. Visitors can sample local delicacies at cozy restaurants, cafes, and markets, getting a taste of authentic Saaremaa flavors.
Outdoor Activities: Saaremaa offers a wide range of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. From hiking and cycling to birdwatching and water sports, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the island's natural beauty and enjoy outdoor adventures.

Overall, traveling to Saaremaa provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the best of Estonia's natural and cultural attractions in a peaceful and idyllic setting.

What to know

Saaremaa, located in Estonia, is a beautiful island with many attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. However, like any travel destination, there are some potential drawbacks to consider when planning a trip to Saaremaa:

Limited transportation options: Getting to Saaremaa can be a bit challenging as the island is only accessible by ferry or plane from the mainland. This can lead to limited flexibility in travel plans and potential delays if ferry or flight schedules are disrupted.
Weather variability: Saaremaa experiences a maritime climate, which means that weather conditions can be unpredictable. Visitors should be prepared for potentially rainy and windy weather, especially in the colder months.
Limited dining and accommodation options: While Saaremaa does have a range of hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants, the selection may be more limited compared to larger cities. Booking accommodations and dining options in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Language barrier: While many people in Estonia speak English, there may still be some language barriers for travelers, especially in more remote areas of Saaremaa. It can be helpful to learn a few key phrases in Estonian or have a translation app handy.
Seasonal closures: Some attractions, restaurants, and accommodations on Saaremaa may have seasonal closures, particularly in the winter months when tourism is slower. It's important to check ahead to ensure that the places you want to visit will be open during your trip.

Overall, while Saaremaa is a stunning destination with plenty to offer visitors, it's important to be aware of these potential drawbacks to have a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Saaremaa is the largest island in Estonia, located in the Baltic Sea. It has a rich history due to its strategic location, which has made it a point of interest for various powers over the centuries. Here is a detailed history of Saaremaa:

Early History and Viking Era:

Saaremaa has been inhabited since at least the early Stone Age. Archaeological finds such as burial mounds and ancient fortresses suggest a rich prehistoric culture.
During the Viking Age, Saaremaa was known as Ösel. The island's inhabitants, the Oeselians, were known for their seafaring abilities and took part in Viking raids across the Baltic region.

Medieval Period:

In 1227, the island was conquered by the Livonian Brothers of the Sword, a crusading military order, during the Northern Crusades intended to Christianize the Baltic region.
The Treaty of Stensby in 1238 placed Saaremaa under the joint control of the Bishopric of Ösel-Wiek and the Livonian Order.

Danish and Swedish Rule:

Saaremaa came under Danish control in 1559 when the Bishop of Ösel-Wiek sold his lands to the King of Denmark.
In 1645, after the Treaty of Brömsebro, Saaremaa was ceded to Sweden, becoming part of Swedish Estonia.

Russian Empire:

The Great Northern War (1700-1721) resulted in Saaremaa being ceded to the Russian Empire as part of the Treaty of Nystad in 1721.

20th Century and Independence:

After World War I and the Russian Revolution, Saaremaa became part of the newly independent Republic of Estonia in 1918.
During World War II, Saaremaa was occupied by the Soviet Union in 1940, then by Nazi Germany from 1941 to 1944, and again by the Soviets until Estonia's independence in 1991.

Modern Era:

Since Estonia regained its independence in 1991, Saaremaa has been an integral part of the country, known for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage.

Significant Historical Figures:

The Oeselians, although not individual figures, were well-known in history for their raids and seafaring prowess during the Viking Age.
Bishop Albert of Riga was instrumental in the Christianization of the area during the Northern Crusades.

Important Landmarks:

Kuressaare Castle: Built in the 14th century, it is one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in the Baltic region and now houses the Saaremaa Museum.
Kaali Meteorite Crater: Formed by a meteorite impact, the site is one of the most significant geological landmarks on the island.
Angla Windmill Hill: A site featuring traditional wooden windmills, showcasing the agrarian history of Saaremaa.

Saaremaa's history is marked by its strategic importance and the various powers that have sought control over it, leaving a legacy of cultural diversity and historical richness.