In an increasingly passionate world, the largest island of Estonia is a place where the lush green forests make everyone green with envy. A place where the sea is sacred, a source of life and well-being. A place where the food is authentic and clean. A place where honourable customs are valued and respected, while new ways of interpreting traditions are also sought. A place where the locals are the real gem of the destination.
The culture and cuisine of the islands are a blend of deep-rooted traditions and a curious openness to the world beyond. This is likely why the island is home to so many highly regarded restaurants. But one thing is certain: the food here is local and made with love.
A spa for the senses
Writer Jüri Tuulik has said, ‘Saaremaa is not just a geographical point in the Baltic Sea – it is a state of being that never leaves those who have experienced it.’ We can only agree with that. Time takes on a different dimension here. Trends do not matter to us – timelessness does. Everyday life is infused with the exotic charm of isolation and the island idyll. On Saaremaa, you can enjoy all the modern comforts and if you wish to distance yourself from the modern world – perhaps even contrast it – the island offers the opportunity and luxury to escape into nature and recharge in no time at all. And you should not fear getting lost as you will always eventually end up by the sea.
What flavours define the island?
Saaremaa carries the flavour of summer – more specifically, the flavour of the summer solstice, where the nights glow with light, the mood is sublime, perhaps even festive, and while traditions are honoured, there is always space for surprises. This is perfectly complemented by honeyed, yet strong home-brewed beer, a drink that only the stout-hearted can handle. Smoked fish is its perfect companion and, on the island, it is an absolute a must! A smokehouse is the third essential chimney in the backyard – after or before that of the house and the sauna, depending on the family. It is here that the silvery glow of herring and garfish, along with the vibrant perch and flounder, transform into enchanted golden rows that seem to stretch on forever. Juniper, easily found across the island, has countless uses and possibilities. From berries to branches and thorns, every part finds its way into the kitchen. Syrups and infusions, sweets and spices, gins – both alcoholic and non-alcoholic – are just the beginning. Who knows what other mysterious flavours juniper may hold?
Authentic Saaremaa
There are more than 2,000 islands in Estonia. Saaremaa, the largest of them all, offers surprising fragments that together make it feel like a journey around the world. In Angla, you will discover a piece of the Netherlands, while in Torgu, an entire kingdom awaits. The Stonehenge in England and the Blesta Rocks on Saaremaa have a similar powerful energy. Kiipsaare Lighthouse is like our own Leaning Tower of Pisa, leaning and straightening in tune with the moods of the sea. Kuressaare Castle, which inspired the world-famous architect Louis Kahn, is a perfect mecca for any of his admirers. Meanwhile, Panga Cliff could be considered our own Grand Canyon – on a slightly smaller scale, of course. But the feeling it evokes is just as powerful. The Kaali Crater takes the journey around the world to new heights, all the way to space… These are just a few examples of how the island is a world so rich that words alone cannot do it justice. If you are worried about finding only peace and quiet, fear not – the lively people of Saaremaa know how to bring the energy as well. Visitors are often treated to a dose of island humour and a few captivating local stories. The letter Ö can be heard loud and clear, representing the unique dialect of Saaremaa, a true super-pöwer. In honour of this, there is even an Ö/Õ statue that marks dialect border. Such is the cloudless life of Saaremaa, with junipers, sheep and windmills scattered across its landscape. What else is there to do but follow the island’s rhythm and embrace the Saaremaa way!
Locals recommend
- Explore the Koigi Bog, no matter the season. A refreshing skinny dip in the bog lake in the summer, a vibrant display of colours in the autumn vegetation, serene peace and quiet in winter and a blossoming meeting place in spring.
- Find your own fisherman (or fisherwoman) willing to share the magic of an early morning fishing trip with you.
- Take a city break in Kuressaare, where a sensory journey through time in a charming resort town awaits. Enjoy boutiques and day spas, stroll through the castle park, visit galleries and indulge in delicious meals at local cafés and restaurants.
