Visiting Estonia’s islands is always a wonderful idea. Time moves a little differently here, and you can visit quite a few places in a day. To make coming back to the islands even more exciting, we've put together a list of new places and services to visit and experience in 2024.
NEW SIGHTS AND ADVENTURES
1st FLOOR OF THE SAAREMAA MUSEUM
The renovations to the 1st floor of Kuressaare Castle are now complete. There's a great deal to discover for young and old alike. For example, you can now also see a big cat pacing around in the lion’s pit instead of just hearing its roar. You can sit in a big cauldron with a ‘live’ fire crackling beneath you. Or examine a well that was excavated during the reconstruction work which no one previously knew existed.
KURESSAARE’S GREAT BRIDGE
Kuressaare is home to one of the longest stone bridges in Estonia. Crossing the Põduste River, it was built in 1820 but has been renovated several times since then. Today it has a new look and is beautifully lit. Make sure to visit after nightfall so you can admire all the colours: it makes for a great light show.
LOHETIGU LABYRINTH
A magical stone labyrinth named Tigulohe, has been built in the immediate vicinity of the Sõrve lighthouse. In the old days, sailors, merchants and other travelers performed rituals in them to ensure success on their journeys and wanderings. Those who passed through the labyrinth secured themselves against getting lost and other accidents.
MUHU CREATIVE CENTRE
Muhu Creative Centre has set itself up in what was previously the island’s community centre. The hard-working craftspeople of Muhu decided to get together under one roof, and so the centre was born. Here you can admire beautiful knitwear, jewellery and even jackets and have them made to order.
SAARE PARK
The Liiküla border outpost has been given a new lease on life: it is now home to a Border Guard museum and Saaremaa’s first film museum. Saare Park also has a sizeable observation tower from which you can enjoy exclusive (and arguably the best) views from Saaremaa to Hiiumaa. The exitement is provided with an unique bomb shelter attraction.
ORISSARE RALLY PARK
Orissaare Rally Park is opening its doors in Orissaare at the beginning of summer, which (as the name suggests) is a unique permanent exhibition on rallying. At the exhibition, you will find several super rare car models as well as equipment belonging to the world's top rally drivers. Several trophies adorn the shelves. In addition, it is possible to see things involved in accidents and much more.
SAARE SURF SUP RENT
Located in an old fishing village, Nasva river is the largest in Saaremaa and is perfect for enjoying water pleasures. From this summer, it is possible to rent SUP boards from the river bank to head along the river either towards the sea or Mullutu Suurlahe bay. The flat-flowing river is occasionally stirred only by passing fishing boats.
ISLAND'S ADVENTURE
Enduro bike tours are for those, who wish for adrenaline packed adventures. The journey takes place on various forest trails. If skills are present, it's possible to rent a bike and go for a ride on your own.
TORGU JET RENT
Whether you want to conquer the waves or just enjoy the sunset at sea, Torgu jet rent offers you all of that! In addition, it is possible to go see the wreck of the Volare, which ran aground in 1980. It is only a 5-minute jet ride away from the harbor of Rahuste!
THE DELPHINE
Starting in May, Kuressaare Harbour will be home to a beautiful sailing boat by the name of Delphine. It is a three-cabin, almost 12-metre-tall boat with everything you need to enjoy a voyage at sea, whether that be in Kuressaare Bay or around the smaller islands, or further afield to Pärnu or Gotland.
CANOE TRIPS
Canoe trips on Saaremaa are for just about everyone, regardless of their age or physical condition. The largest rivers on the island offer gentle currents, and its bays are shallow, meaning they can be crossed at as sporty or leisurely a pace as you like while you enjoy the surrounding nature. Trips can be tailored to suit your needs. You can choose the location and length of the trip, as well as any additional services.
SOPHIA SAILING
Sophia Sailing is a magnificent open-water yacht that can accommodate up to 12 people. Trips are available to nearby islands as well as to Gotland and the Latvian coast. You could probably sail even further with a bit of sweet-talking!
SAARE GOLF STUDIO
Saare Golf Studio is a golf simulator in Kuressaare. Starting from your second visit, it can be used completely independently. Golf simulators offer realistic playing conditions and allow you to hone your skills just as you would on a real course.
JOSPEL
A branch of the Archebald Medieval Activity Centre, Jospel will be setting itself up in the courtyard of Kuressaare Castle this summer, where a hall for old games will open. You’ll be able to test your mental and physical skills in games from both ancient and medieval times. You’ll also get to try your hand at pub and fairground games originating in England and France in the early 20th century.
GALLERY 1891
The Nöges café and guesthouse in Pihtla, located just outside Kuressaare, is home to an indoor and outdoor exhibition on steam engines, life in the previous century and steampunk. Anyone who enjoys handicrafts is welcome to take part in a steampunk workshop.
NEW EXPERIENCES FOR BOTH BODY AND MIND
SÖRWESPA
Sörwespa is a relaxation spot with chill vibes on the Sõrve peninsula. The calming effect of the water is enhanced by the island's junipers and pines, which will help you organise your thoughts and find the way to yourself.
NEW SERVICES AT PÄDASTE MANOR SPA
The Sanctuary of Six Senses at Pädaste Manor has added new procedures designed to pamper body and mind alike. In the middle of the spa lies the Healing Hot Spring, a haven where the sun’s energy breathes life into an ancient wellness tradition. Additionally, you can now experience a centuries-old ritual in Pädaste’s modern smoke sauna.
SAAREMOOR BEE THERAPY
A bed, a blanket, a pillow and the buzzing of bees beneath the beds going about their lives: that’s what bee therapy is like. The benefits of the therapy stem from the vibrations created by the flapping of the bees' wings, which can be experienced through micro-massage.
NEW TASTE EXPERIENCES
WIO BURGER
If you’ve ever driven from Kuressaare towards Sõrve, you’ll surely have noticed the WIO burger kiosk. Well, now you don't even have to leave Kuressaare to get your hands on their delicious burgers! Wio Burger has opened its doors right in the middle of the town, at Raekoja 10.
SÖSTAR KITCHEN & BAR
In early summer a new bar and eatery opened its doors in the centre of Kuressaare. Its menu has something for everyone, from quick bites to hearty meals. The overarching theme of the menu is fast slow-food, with a bohemian atmosphere giving the place its finishing touch.
LOORBER CAFÉ & BAR
A new café celebrating flavours from all over the world has opened its doors in the centre of Kuressaare. Of course, local ingredients have a place on the menu as well. The café offers a new selection of sweet treats every morning, including pastries, muffins and cakes.
WINE TERRACE
Wine Terrace is setting itself up on Allee Street near Kuressaare Castle for the summer. It will serve a wide selection of wines, including sparkling wines. Alongside your drinks you’ll be able to enjoy light snacks including flammkuchen and pizza. On weekends, with a bit of luck, you’ll even find oysters on the menu!
GUNPOWDER CHAMBER
At the heart of the medieval Kuressaare Castle lies a charming medieval treasure: the mysterious Gunpowder Chamber, dating from 1672. Here you can enjoy food inspired by medieval cuisine, from delicious soups to nourishing stews. The restaurant will take you on a journey through the delightful cuisine of the past. You can also try local craft beers, herbal liqueurs and schnapps.
KARDEMON COFFEE BAR
Kardemon Coffee Bar, which will be opened in mid-June, will be a boutique-style cafe with stylish furnishings that can be seen throughout the cafe's premises. It is especially nice that if you really like something, you can also buy it with you. The cafe offers warm pastries, cakes and tarts every morning. The art of coffee is taken seriously, and leaving without good coffee is basically a sin!
VON TRÖLL
A new, trendy and local food truck named Von Tröll has established itself in the Kuressaare market. In addition to appetizing burgers, they also offer loaded fries and snacks! In order to make the most of the time waiting for food, it is a great opportunity to take a short tour of the Kuressaare market and why not buy local products for yourself.
LUCIANO´S
In Auriga shopping center, all lovers of Italian cuisine will be treated to a new fast food place called Luciano's. In Italy, dinner often begins with delicious antipasti - a quick, elegant and always a wonderful choice. The menu also includes Italian classics such as pasta and panini. All this can be enjoyed at Luciano's!
SÖRWEKÖÖK
SörweSpa’s brand new eatery Sörweköök will soon be opening its doors in the village of Läätsa. Like an upside-down boat hidden among the junipers and pines, it will tell the story of the island’s heritage and natural environment and of the ships found close by in Salme. Sörweköök will offer authentic island food, combining local traditions and modern cooking techniques.
ODRAKODA
Odrakoda, in the Asva Viking Village, takes guests on an amazing culinary journey with delicious dishes inspired by the Vikings and made from local ingredients. Since the oldest Estonian grain, barley, was found in Asva and was a staple of the Viking diet, it is a favourite on the menu here.
KLIFF RESTAURANT
Kliff is a cosy place on the Panga cliffs, from which it enjoys picturesque views of the sea. The restaurant has two terraces: one overlooking the water to enjoy the gorgeous summer weather, and one on the other side, sheltered from the wind. It offers a varied menu, from light summer dishes to more substantial meals. The flavours are fresh and clean, showcasing their ingredients.
KAHVERJAN
Kahverjan is a great café you’ll find in the village of Liiva on Muhu. Kahverjan is a word in the local dialect whose meaning you can ask the café’s owners about. If this has piqued your interest, then set off for Muhu House in Liiva and eat delicious homemade food and mouth-watering cakes.
KALA RESTAURANT & BAR
On 1 June, Kala Restaurant & Bar will open its doors at Lõunaranna Harbour on Muhu. Its menu will include fresh fish, delicious summery salads and meat dishes. Alongside its culinary delights, it will offer beautiful sea views and allow you to relax the Muhu way.
RIBE SUMMER RESTAURANT
Ribe summer restaurant in Muhu, is a real gem on the island. Ribe is already a well-known name on the Estonian food scene - they had a restaurant in the old town of Tallinn for many years, and now they have been offering a high-quality catering service for several years. They opened a summer restaurant on the magical island of Muhu for six weeks. Come and enjoy local delicacies and delicious drinks at Ribe summer restaurant, this is a place where time rests!
SUSHIMON
In Muhu, Liiva, a cafe serving Japanese food called Sushimon has opened its doors. Chef Maria has been working in the sushi industry since 2007 and has long-term experience with Japanese food. She has lived in Japan and also speaks the language. In addition to sushi, the menu also includes other exciting Japanese dishes, and it is possible to order training courses where, in addition to preparing delicious food, you can also get an idea of Japanese culture.
BEACH CAFE
PILLIROOGFOOD
A food truck called Pilliroogfood has set up shop in the beautiful Atla harbor. There you can enjoy burgers, fries, shrimp and a refreshing ice cream cocktail will sweeten your mouth. The view is enchanting and a nice companion to a good meal.
NEW ACCOMMODATION PLACES
BOTTENGARN KURESSAARE
Bottengarn, which has been operating on Muhu for a number of years, will be opening its doors in Kuressaare this summer. Bottengarn Kuressaare will be a private, personalised, year-round complex with architecture suited to a resort town. It will offer beautiful views of one of the city’s symbols, Kuressaare Castle.
LÕUNARANNA HARBOUR ACCOMMODATION
Cosy lodgings accommodating up to 24 people have opened their doors at Lõunaranna Harbour on the island of Muhu. In addition to the pleasant seaside location, you can rent fishing boats on site and take a trip out onto the water. Dinner is available at Kala Restaurant & Bar right there at the harbour.
BOTTENGARN FARM
Bottengarn Farm is located in Igaküla on Muhu, just a couple of kilometres from Koguva. It offers three different accommodation options: the main house has five guest suites, while its two granaries are ideal for families and smaller groups, one with three bedrooms and the other with two.
KLIFF BOUTIQUE
Kliff Boutique is located right on the waterfront just before you come to the Panga cliffs. It offers unique accommodation in which every room and piece of furniture has its own particular character. Kliff Boutique offers accommodation for up to 43 people in its main house, family villas and cabins.
UUELU TOURISM FARM
In June, Uuelu Tourism Farm in Kõrkvere will open its gates to vacationers. Uuelu is the right place to get away from the city noise and recharge your batteries. To make the most of your vacation, there is also a sauna, grill and terrace on site. Since it is a tourist farm located on the island, there is ofcourse delicious smoked fish on site, which is prepared in Uuelu.
ABRUKA BOUTIQUE SPA GLAMPING
This summer at Abruka Boutique Spa you can spend the night glamping with sea views. Additionally, you can enjoy dishes made with fresh local ingredients. For a particularly memorable visit, why not book your very own saxophonist?
TORGU PALACE
Torgu Palace is waiting for you on the Sõrve Peninsula, in the Kingdom of Torgu, where you can enjoy living in a glass house. Breathtaking views of the surrounding nature open from there, and you can also relax in a luxurious glass sauna. It is the perfect place to find some peace and quiet.
MÖNUS PESA
Mönus Pesa is a newly renovated accommodation located in one of the oldest wooden buildings in Kuressaare, just a five-minute walk from the central square. The guest apartments offer the visitor a cozy and romantic environment, spiced with a unique interior design.
OLD PLACES IN THE NEW LOCATIONS
OMNOM
This café, near the bus station in Kuressaare, has been catering to locals and tourists alike for quite some time now. However, OmNom will soon be opening in a new location, setting up shop near the castle! This new site will make it possible to organise big events at the café.
CASTLE TOWER CAFÉ
You no longer have to visit the tower in Kuressaare Castle just to get your hands on its delicious pastries: cake, coffee and other tasty treats can be purchased from the café in the courtyard. So while enjoying them, you get to admire the unique view of the castle itself!
VIKING BURGER
Viking Burger in Salme is a must for anyone who appreciates good burgers. This year, however, it will be undergoing some changes. Once these have been completed, even more people will be able to enjoy its extensive menu in the second half of summer.
NEW CERTIFICATES AND TITLES
GREEN KEY RECOMMENDS:
VANALINNA CAFE AND BOUTIQUE HOTEL
Vanalinna Café and Boutique Hotel now has one more label to add to its website: the Green Key. The label recognises tourism organisations that operate in an environmentally friendly and sustainable way.
ESTONIA RECOMMENDS:
FLAVOURS FROM SAAREMAA, MUHU AND RUHNU
Saaremaa, Muhu and Ruhnu are proud to announce that our islands have been chosen as Estonia's food region and we will hold this title until the end of April 2025. This significant recognition highlights the island's rich food culture and commitment to local food traditions.
