Kihelkonna

A small western village dominated by its tall medieval St Michael's Church with a landmark bell tower. It serves as a gateway to Vilsandi National Park and Saaremaa's wild western shores.

Things to do

• St Michael's Church — Explore the tall 13th-century medieval church whose imposing stone nave and interior have watched over the village for centuries.
• Climb the bell tower — Ascend the separate landmark bell tower, one of Estonia's oldest, for views across the western Saaremaa landscape.
• Vilsandi National Park gateway — Use Kihelkonna as the launch point for visiting Estonia's oldest protected area, rich with seabirds and juniper heaths.
• Boat to Vilsandi island — Cross to Vilsandi island by boat or on foot at low tide to see lighthouses, seals and remote coastal nature.
• Papissaare harbour — Wander the small former seaplane harbour that serves as the main departure point for Vilsandi trips.
• Kihelkonna heritage walk — Stroll the quiet village to see the old parsonage, pastorate buildings and traditional wooden houses.
• Western wild coast — Drive or cycle to Saaremaa's rugged western shores for windswept beaches, reed beds and birdwatching.

Food to try

• Fresh Baltic fish — Try locally caught herring, perch or flounder, often smoked or pan-fried in the traditional island way.
• Saaremaa black bread — Sample dense, slightly sweet rye bread that is a staple across the island and served with nearly every meal.
• Home-brewed island beer — Look for Saaremaa's farmhouse-style koduõlu, a rustic ale brewed in the local tradition.
• Smoked lamb and mutton — Saaremaa's open pastures produce flavourful lamb, often smoked or slow-cooked as a regional specialty.
• Fresh juniper-smoked treats — Juniper grows abundantly here and is used to smoke fish and season island dishes.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect nature reserve rules — Vilsandi National Park has protected nesting areas, so stay on marked paths and keep quiet during bird breeding season.
• Check ferry and boat times — Trips to Vilsandi depend on weather, tides and seasonal schedules, so confirm departures in advance.
• Bring cash and supplies — Services in this small village are limited, so stock up on food, fuel and money in larger towns like Kuressaare beforehand.
• Embrace the slow pace — Kihelkonna is a quiet rural community, so expect calm, few crowds and a genuine off-the-beaten-track feel.

Nearby

• Vilsandi National Park — 9 km
• Panga Cliff — 26 km
• Kuressaare — 32 km
• Kuressaare Episcopal Castle — 32 km