Saare County · Travel guide · Updated 2026

Saare County: Estonia's Island Gem

Discover Saare County: Estonia's enchanting island paradise with medieval castles, stunning nature reserves, and vibrant cultural festivals.

Saare County, located in western Estonia, is a captivating destination known for its picturesque islands, rich history, and serene natural beauty. The largest and most famous island in the county is Saaremaa, which is home to the charming town of Kuressaare. This town is renowned for its well-preserved medieval castle, Kuressaare Castle, which dates back to the 14th century. Visitors can explore the castle's museum and enjoy panoramic views from its towers. Nature lovers will find plenty to admire in Saare County. The landscape is dotted with juniper fields, windmills, and coastal meadows. The county is also home to several nature reserves, including Vilsandi National Park, which is a haven for birdwatchers and features beautiful coastal scenery. Don't miss the Kaali Meteorite Crater, a unique geological site that's one of the largest meteorite craters in Europe. In addition to its natural and historical attractions, Saare County offers a range of cultural experiences. Local festivals, such as the Saaremaa Opera Days and the Kuressaare Maritime Festival, provide a glimpse into the region's vibrant cultural scene. The local cuisine, featuring dishes like smoked fish and black bread, is a delightful aspect of any visit. Whether you're exploring its historical sites, enjoying its natural beauty, or experiencing its culture, Saare County has something for everyone.

Kaali

Kaali kraater

Discover Saare County: Estonia's enchanting island paradise with medieval castles, stunning nature reserves, and vibrant cultural festivals.

Kuressaare

Saaremaa Muuseum

Discover Saare County: Estonia's enchanting island paradise with medieval castles, stunning nature reserves, and vibrant cultural festivals.

Kõljala

Kõljala mõis

Discover Saare County: Estonia's enchanting island paradise with medieval castles, stunning nature reserves, and vibrant cultural festivals.

Anseküla

Anseküla lighthouse

Discover Saare County: Estonia's enchanting island paradise with medieval castles, stunning nature reserves, and vibrant cultural festivals.

Kõiguste

Boulder Piretikivi

Discover Saare County: Estonia's enchanting island paradise with medieval castles, stunning nature reserves, and vibrant cultural festivals.

Kirikuküla

Kaarma maalinn

Discover Saare County: Estonia's enchanting island paradise with medieval castles, stunning nature reserves, and vibrant cultural festivals.

Viidu

Viidumäe looduskaitseala keskus

Discover Saare County: Estonia's enchanting island paradise with medieval castles, stunning nature reserves, and vibrant cultural festivals.

Kuralase

Kuralase OÜ

Discover Saare County: Estonia's enchanting island paradise with medieval castles, stunning nature reserves, and vibrant cultural festivals.

Kuressaare

Vabadussõjas langenud saarlaste mälestusmärk

Discover Saare County: Estonia's enchanting island paradise with medieval castles, stunning nature reserves, and vibrant cultural festivals.

When is the best time to go to Saare County?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsJul–Aug
Longest daylightJun–Jul
Driest periodJan–Apr

Explore places in Saare County

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    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Saare County sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Kaali kraater

    Explore the Kaali Crater in Estonia, a breathtaking natural wonder formed by a meteorite impact, rich in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes.

    Kaali kraater

    Saaremaa Muuseum

    Discover the rich heritage of Saaremaa Island at Saaremaa Muuseum, featuring captivating exhibits and a journey through time.

    Saaremaa Muuseum

    Boulder Piretikivi

    Explore the monumental Boulder Piretikivi, a stunning natural attraction in Saare County, rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

    Boulder Piretikivi

    Kaarma maalinn

    Discover the ancient fortress of Kaarma Maalinn in Saare County, Estonia, where history and nature beautifully intertwine for an unforgettable visit.

    Kaarma maalinn

    Viidumäe looduskaitseala keskus

    Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Viidumäe Nature Reserve in Saare County, Estonia, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventurers.

    Viidumäe looduskaitseala keskus

    Kõljala mõis

    Explore the haunting beauty of Kõljala Manor, an abandoned mansion steeped in mystery and surrounded by the natural splendor of Saare County, Estonia.

    Kõljala mõis

    Oti manor

    Experience the historical beauty and serene landscapes at Oti Manor in Saare County, a hidden gem for culture and nature enthusiasts.

    Oti manor

    Anseküla lighthouse

    Discover the beauty and history of Anseküla Lighthouse, a coastal gem in Estonia's Saare County, perfect for photography and peaceful retreats.

    Anseküla lighthouse

    Kuralase OÜ

    Explore the enchanting Kuralase Öü in Saare County, Estonia, a serene tourist attraction perfect for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

    Kuralase OÜ

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

    File:Medieval construction - Tallinn Old Town (23251820890).jpg - Wikimedia  Commons
    Destination guide

    More about Estonia

    Discover Estonia: A perfect blend of medieval charm, modern innovation, and natural beauty in the heart of Northern Europe.

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    Explore Saare County in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    File:Kuressaare Castle.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Sõrve Lighthouse, Saaremaa Island, Estonia.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Kaali-crater-saaremaa-estonia-aug-2007.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Angla tuulikud Saaremaal.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:SoegininaPank062911.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Pangapank3.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Kuressaare Castle Saaremaa Estonia 1.JPG - Wikimedia Commons
    File:The dam connecting Muhu and Saaremaa islands in Estonia - panoramio  (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Kaarma kirik (2022).jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Maasi linnus.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

    Planning another trip?

    Continue exploring nearby country regions around Saare County, from connected city edges to neighbouring counties, coastlines, and countryside escapes.

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