Vilsandi is the largest island in the national park of the same name. It may seem rocky at first, its true character is bright and soft. As one of the sunniest places in the country, the maritime climate of Vilsandi ensures that winters here are unusually mild. You will immediately recognise the essence of Vilsandi, which is like a warm embrace that is always welcoming and guiding you as you explore the island. Vilsandi is renowned thanks to its globetrotting islander, Jaan Tätte, whose work has been deeply inspired by the island. The most famous of these is the song ‘Vilsandi laul’.
HOW TO GET TO VILSANDI?
The island can be reached by liner from Papissaare Harbour, located less than 45 minutes’ drive from Kuressaare.
By boat from company Islander
By recreational craft Amore II
By your own vessel to Vikati Harbour
Vilsandi: a spa for the senses
It is a point of pride that the westernmost air of Estonia is among the cleanest in Europe. In this fresh environment, Vilsandi has become a tranquil and beautiful haven for wildlife. Vilsandi has already been historically declared a bird kingdom. If you take the time to listen closely and remain still, the island might speak to you in the language of birds – truly a paradise for birdwatchers! Vilsandi captivates with its exceptionally diverse and lush vegetation. The renowned artist Konrad Mägi captured the island’s vibrant landscape in some of his most famous works, filled with the vivid, colourful energy that defines Vilsandi.
ts enchanting nature, short distances, and calm waters offer ideal conditions for a kayaking adventure. Let the seals basking in the sun be your inspiration. Just put your feet up on the rocks, island-style, and indulge in the art of doing nothing. It is a rare skill in today’s world – the simple art of just being.
What flavours define the island?
Like any true island, Vilsandi’s flavour is shaped by what the sea offers and what the land provides. There are days when the fishing nets come up empty, but then the tide shifts, they bring in both red-fleshed fish and whitefish. The islands are a mecca of slow food. The flavour of Vilsandi is deepened by local plants, which find their way into teas and pestos. And the accent is added by the fresh meat, which almost seems to come home by itself. The invigorating wild boar stew is the talk of the island – its flavour is especially rich when prepared in the open air. Simple, yet utterly satisfying.
In times past, bird eggs were gathered from Vilsandi and its surrounding islands and islets, which were large, tasty and sold well. However, this age-old practice gradually took a more exploitative turn, which gave an impetus to place the birds of Vilsandi under protection.
Authentic Vilsandi
The background of Vilsandi National Park dates back to 1906 when the young lighthouse keeper Artur Toom dedicated himself to the protection of seabirds. With great passion. The unwavering commitment of the Bird King of Vilsandi led to the establishment of the oldest protected area in the Baltics in 1910. The century-old Mändre Farm Nature House welcomes you to explore the origins of this remarkable story. The national park now includes nearly a hundred islands and islets. Estonia’s largest seal rookeries are found here and more than 250 bird species have been registered, 112 of which nest on the island. The diverse nature is further enriched by more than 30 species of wild orchids. Vilsandi is also considered the birthplace of Estonian nature tourism. In the early 20th century, the island’s bird kingdom became so popular that a Tallinn-Papissaare bus line was established for nature lovers.
Locals recommend:
- From the top of Estonia’s third oldest lighthouse, you will be greeted by a view of the seemingly boundless open sea, which has brought ‘lovely beach wracks’ to the shore.
- Let yourself be guided by the hiking trails of Vilsandi, which have also inspired beloved writers.
- The island is an ideal place for birdwatching as well as for an orchid tour.
- Take a hike up to the island’s highest point, Tont-Jaagu Hill, where you can recharge your energy. Legend has it that the first mythical inhabitant of Vilsandi once lived there.
More information on the website of Vilsandi
