Exploring the Historic Charm of Kuressaare Castle

Whispers of Wind and Stone

Today's journey across Saaremaa felt like stepping through a portal into Estonia's captivating past. From the iconic windmills of Angla Windmill Park to the mystifying craters of Kaali, each location held stories etched in wood and stone, whispers of a time long before our own. It was a day of exploration that intertwined history with the simple pleasures of local cuisine and the quiet observation that I so cherish during my solo travels.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at WAAG restobar in Kuressaare. The weather was overcast, with a cool breeze hinting at the sea's proximity. It reminded me of mornings back in Cēsis, where the air carried the same scent of damp earth and distant horizons. I savored a simple meal, preparing myself for a day immersed in Saaremaa's unique landscape. After breakfast, I set off towards Angla Windmill Park.


Experience the beauty and history of Angla Windmill Park, a serene escape showcasing Estonia's cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.

The drive to Angla was a scenic tapestry of rolling fields and quaint villages. As I approached the windmill park, the iconic silhouettes of the windmills against the skyline created a picturesque scene. These windmills, a symbol of Saaremaa's agricultural heritage, stood proudly as if guarding the secrets of generations past.

Stepping onto the grounds of Angla Windmill Park felt like entering a living museum. The windmills, mostly built in the 1920s, showcased the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the islanders. I explored each mill, marveling at the intricate wooden mechanisms and imagining the countless hours of labor they had witnessed. One particular Dutch-style windmill caught my eye with its turnable tower, a testament to innovative design.

Wandering through the park, I also discovered vintage farm equipment, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of Saaremaa's rural communities. The park also had a small museum that showcased the local folk culture. I found myself drawn to the displays of traditional crafts, imagining the hands that had woven intricate patterns and shaped the clay into functional art. It was a poignant reminder of the connection between people and their environment, a theme that resonates deeply with my own Latvian roots. The weather was still cool, and I had forgotten my raincoat, but I was still able to enjoy the sites. I made a mental note to buy a travel adapter tomorrow when I'm in town.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

After thoroughly exploring Angla Windmill Park, I continued my journey towards the Kaali meteorite crater. The landscape shifted, becoming more rugged and untamed, as if mirroring the cosmic event that had shaped this region millennia ago. The thought that I was walking on ground forever altered by a force from outer space was humbling, to say the least.


Explore the Kaali Meteorite Crater and Museum, a fascinating blend of science and natural beauty in Estonia's stunning Saare County.

Arriving at Kaali, I was immediately struck by the serene beauty of the main crater, now a tranquil lake surrounded by lush greenery. It was hard to imagine the cataclysmic impact that had occurred here thousands of years ago. According to scientific estimates, the Kaali meteorite impact occurred around 1530–1450 BC. The meteorite broke apart at an altitude of 5–10 kilometers, with the largest fragment creating a crater 110 meters in diameter and 22 meters deep. The explosion was so powerful that it incinerated vegetation up to six kilometers away.

I visited the Kaali Meteorite Museum to delve deeper into the crater's history and significance. The museum provided a fascinating overview of the geological and mythological aspects of the site. I learned about the ancient stone wall that once surrounded the crater, suggesting its importance as a sacred site for early inhabitants. The findings of animal bones within the wall's borders further fueled the belief that the crater lake was a place of sacrifice. It was intriguing to learn that some offerings dated back to the 1600s, long after such rituals were forbidden by the Church.

The museum also touched upon the various mythological tales associated with the Kaali crater. Some scholars believe that the event is featured prominently in regional folklore, with the crater and lake considered sacred. This blend of scientific fact and cultural interpretation added another layer of depth to my experience.

For lunch, I decided to try Kaali Tavern, located near the meteorite crater. The tavern offered a cozy, rustic atmosphere, perfect for reflecting on the day's explorations. I savored traditional Estonian cuisine, a delightful fusion of local flavors and hearty ingredients. It was a comforting and satisfying meal, providing a taste of Saaremaa's culinary heritage.

As the afternoon waned, I made my way back towards Kuressaare, the setting sun casting long shadows across the fields. Before dinner, I decided to stop by Lounge Muusa for a drink. The lounge offered a relaxed ambiance, and I enjoyed a quiet moment reflecting on the day's adventures.


Discover the cozy ambiance of Lounge Muusa in Kuressaare, where local flavors and a relaxing atmosphere await every visitor.

For dinner, I chose Ristorante la Perla, known for its Italian cuisine with a Saaremaa twist. I enjoyed a delicious meal, savoring the flavors and reflecting on the day's journey through time and space. The restaurant's ambiance was warm and inviting, providing a perfect ending to a day filled with exploration and discovery.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Ristorante la Perla in Kuressaare - where every meal tells a story.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of Kuressaare itself, including the Suur Tõll ja Piret statue and the Kuressaare kindluse pukktuulik windmill. I might also do a bit of antique shopping at Arensburg Antiik OÜ. It will be another day of delving into the heart of this charming island.

Back at the Johan Spa Hotel, I journaled about my day, feeling a deep connection to Saaremaa's history and landscape. It was a day of quiet contemplation, a reminder of the enduring power of the past and the simple joys of solo travel. As Hans-Peter always tells me, travel is not just about seeing new places, but about seeing with new eyes. And today, my eyes have been opened to the wonders of Saaremaa.


Discover serenity at Johan Spa Hotel in Kuressaare, where relaxation meets city exploration with luxurious amenities and local charm.