Saaremaa

Saaremaa is the largest island in Estonia in the Baltic region of Northern Europe. It is the main island of Saare County and belongs to the West Estonian Archipelago.

There is only one town, Kuressaare, the capital town has a long history and distinctive architecture, which has made it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Estonia.

Places of interest include the old town of Kuressaare, the Episcopal Castle, the Military Equipment Museum of Saaremaa and St Nicholas Church, which dates back to 1790.

The ruins of the Maasilinn Order Castle are a fine example of medieval castle architecture and are relatively well preserved.

Koguva village is the best-preserved village complex in Estonia. Some houses date back to the 18th century. The village which consists of a number of thatched cottages and barns, is not just a museum piece, but also home to a thriving community.

See unique carvings, paintings and narrow staircases at many fortified medieval churches such as Muhu, Karja and Kaarma.

Saaremaa is famous for its windmills, a good example is a group of five different 19th century windmills at Angla.

Kaali meteorite craters were created by the impact of a meteorite more than 5,000 years BC. The main crater is 110m in diameter, and is one of the world's few easily accessible meteorite craters.

Saaremaa has very rich flora and fauna. Each year hundreds of thousands of migratory birds visit the island including many protected species. Viidumae Natural Reserve and Vilsandi National Park are two places of interest to the nature lover.

Golf can be found at the 18 hole Saare Golf course. Fishing, cycling and horse riding are also on offer, available at many farms in the area. The majority of the island’s hiking trails - most of which are between 1km and 5km long, are suitable for the whole family.

Good buys include traditional, black Muhu slippers with colourful flower embroidery, knitted scarves from Haapsalu, wooden kitchen utensils carved from the juniper tree, ceramic and glass products, rustic local jewellery and artwork from local galleries and antique shops. Chocolates, preserves, milk products and smoked sausages also make popular gifts.

Saaremaa is famous for black rye bread and strong beer. Fresh fish such as perch, pike and catfish play a large part on local menus, along with a good variety of vegetarian options. A local specially is "panileib", a flatbread made from potatoes and pork fat.

The harbour of Saaremaa is capable of receiving ships with the length of up to 200m. Some smaller ships may anchor and tender passengers ashore.

Kuressaare is around 45km from the cruise port so ship organised excursions or hiring a shared mini bus may be advisable here. Once in town, taxis are relatively easy to come by.