Matsalu national park and the West Estonian islands.

Section 63. Saaremaa, Muhu and Ruhnu Islands.

Saaremaa, Muhu and Ruhnu Islands The largest island in Estonia, Saaremaa, is surrounded by thousands of smaller islands, thus its name is well deserved.

When you reach Muhu Island after a half hour trip by ferry, you get the feeling that time has stopped – nature and traditions have not changed over the course of time. Muhu island is renowned for its beautiful handicrafts. The blooming island in summer has inspired bright colours and flower embroidery. More than 25 protected orchids species grow here. The outcrops and precipice of the Northern beaches of Saaremaa allows you to see Silurian period fossils formed almost 440 million years ago.

The small strait dam connecting Muhu island and Saaremaa is a popular place for birdwatchers. Thousands of water birds and sparrow species fly across this place during the birds’ migration. The western part of Saaremaa offers you adventures in Vilsandi National Park. When the water level is low, you can walk through the sea to Vilsandi island on foot. There is also a great possibility to see seals.

Along with the beautiful nature it’s also worth visiting the seaside resort of Kuressaar. Here you can spend several days – enjoy SPA treatments and walk around the cosy old town. Today the Saaremaa museum is located in the most popular attraction in the town – the magnificent 14th century bishop’s castle. Saaremaa will greet you with a historical town and lovely cafes serving local foods, Saaremaa smoked fish and home-made beer, as well as a wide selection of SPA hotels or small farmsteads.

If you get tired of the city’s noise and long for nature and want to meet singing Livs, then a few hours distance from Roomassaar Port awaits the pearl of the Gulf of Riga – Ruhnu island.