Explore the culinary delights of Saaremaa and Muhu Islands, Estonia

Discover the best places to stay, eat, and explore on Estonia’s Saaremaa and Muhu Islands. From luxury hotels to gourmet restaurants, plan your perfect getaway.

Saaremaa and Muhu Islands, located in the Baltic Sea off the southwest coast of Estonia, are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Known for their stunning natural landscapes and rich biodiversity, these islands offer a unique blend of serene beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore lush forests, pristine beaches, and picturesque villages, all while experiencing the islands’ commitment to preserving their natural environment. As part of the UNESCO biosphere program, Saaremaa is home to prolific birdlife, rare orchids, and the intriguing Kaali meteorite crater, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

The islands are steeped in history, with a past that includes tales of pirates, Viking invasions, and centuries of foreign rule. Saaremaa’s Kuressaare Castle, with its imposing medieval architecture, stands as a testament to the island’s storied past. Muhu, connected to Saaremaa by a short causeway, boasts ancient stone churches and charming windmills that dot the landscape. The cultural heritage of these islands is also reflected in their traditional festivals, handicrafts, and local folklore, providing a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors to immerse themselves in.

Culinary delights are a cornerstone of the Saaremaa and Muhu experience. The islands’ isolation has fostered a unique food culture centered on foraging, pickling, and preserving, resulting in flavors that are both rustic and refined. Local specialties such as black bread (Muhu leib), farmhouse beer, and dishes infused with juniper and wild mushrooms showcase the creativity and resourcefulness of the islanders. Dining options range from gourmet restaurants aboard historic schooners to cozy bistros nestled in scenic villages, offering a true taste of the islands’ gastronomic traditions. Whether you’re savoring freshly caught fish or sipping award-winning local gin, Saaremaa and Muhu promise a culinary journey as captivating as their landscapes.

Saaremaa and Muhu Islands: Estonia’s Hidden Gems

Nestled in the Baltic Sea, Saaremaa and Muhu Islands are Estonia’s best-kept secrets. These islands boast stunning landscapes, rich history, and a unique culinary scene. Once isolated, they have developed a distinct culture of foraging and preserving, resulting in a cuisine filled with tart vinegar, salt, and smoke. Visitors can explore lush forests, ancient castles, and vibrant communities while indulging in the local flavors that make these islands a must-visit destination.

Where to Stay

GoSpa Hotel

Located at the harbor in Kuressaare, GoSpa Hotel is perfect for families. It offers large rooms with sea views, an extensive restaurant, and a breakfast buffet. The highlight is the remarkable spa with multiple pools, saunas, and steam rooms. Doubles from $96. Address: Tori 2, Kuressaare, Saaremaa. Contact: +372 455 0000, gospa.ee.

Hotel L’Embitu

This stylish four-star hotel in Tallinn is ideal for city explorers. Close to the city center and 4km from the airport, it features spacious rooms, a large ROOF restaurant, a wine cellar, and spa facilities. Doubles from $105. Address: Lembitu 12, Tallinn. Contact: +373 699 6400, lembituhotel.ee.

Pilguse Residency

Dating back to 1558, this eco-friendly estate on Saaremaa’s west offers unique accommodations, including mirrored cabins overlooking a protected park. It features a traditional sauna, a stream plunge pool, and an excellent restaurant blending international and local flavors. Doubles from $160. Address: Jõgela, Saaremaa. Contact: +372 454 5445, pilguse.com.

Travel Information

Saaremaa and Muhu lie off Estonia’s southwest coast. As part of the UNESCO biosphere program, Saaremaa is home to prolific birdlife, orchids, and the Kaali meteorite crater. Currency is the Euro (EUR), and the local time is two hours ahead of GMT. Flights to Tallinn take around 2 hours and 45 minutes, where rental cars are available for the ferry ride to Muhu.

Resources

• Visit Saaremaa: For trip planning and guides, visit visitsaaremaa.ee/en.
• Visit Estonia: National tourist board with travel tips and information. Visit visitestonia.com.

Where to Eat

Hoppet

Aboard an old schooner in Saaremaa’s port, Hoppet offers a gourmet experience with seasonal menus crafted by Alar Aksalu. From $50 per person. Address: Raiekivi tee 2, Kuressaare. Contact: +372 5647 4466, purjelaevad.ee.

Ku-Kuu

Known for the best local seafood, Ku-Kuu serves a fish plate with mildly salted ide and smoked trout fin. From $37 per person. Address: Lossipark 1, Kuressaare. Contact: +372 453 9749, kuressaarekuursaal.ee.

Lahhentagge Distillery

This award-winning distillery on Saaremaa offers a one-hour tasting tour for $11 per person. It features products like gin, non-alcoholic gin, and tonics. Address: Vallamaja, Lümanda. Contact: +372 564 4562, lahhentagge.com.

Liiva Street Food

Muhu’s food truck pop-up, now permanent, offers street food made from local ingredients. Try the famous Muhu leib (black bread). Lunch from $9. Address: Liiva küla, Muhu.

Muhu Veinitalu

Part of the Estonian Wine Route, this b&b serves incredible dishes like dolmas and hot smoked rainbow trout. Lunch or dinner from $45. Address: Vahtraste village, Muhu. Contact: +372 53 309912, veinitalu.ee.

Pihtla Brewery

Visit Pihtla’s taproom to sample IPAs, Spruce Ale, and more. Spruce ale from $2. Address: Õlleköögi, Pihtla. Contact: +372 520 8010, pihtlapruul.ee.

Resto Hafen

Located in Kuressaare Harbour, Hafen offers plates prioritizing local products and fish. From $35 per person. Address: Tori 4, Kuressaare. Contact: +372 59 104045, hafen.ee.

Food Glossary

Chanterelles: Wild mushrooms foraged between summer and late autumn.

Farmhouse Beer: A Saaremaa specialty, this unpasteurized beer is light and mild.

Juniper: Used in local gin and beer, as well as traditional juniper syrup.

Muhu Leib: Famous black bread made from milled rye, intrinsic to Estonian culture.

The food

Saaremaa and Muhu’s cuisine is a tribute to their history of isolation and ingenuity. Foraging has become an art, and their food culture reflects this with flavors of tart vinegar, salt, and smoke. Visitors can experience this unique culinary landscape through innovative local restaurants and passionate producers.

Exploring Saaremaa and Muhu is a journey through time and taste. From ancient castles to modern gourmet kitchens, these islands offer a blend of history, nature, and exceptional cuisine. Whether staying in a luxury hotel or a rustic cabin, visitors will find comfort and hospitality. The local food scene, with its emphasis on fresh, foraged ingredients and traditional techniques, is a highlight that shouldn’t be missed.

Discover the charm of Estonia’s islands, where every meal tells a story and every stay is an adventure. Saaremaa and Muhu invite you to taste their history and experience their hospitality.