VILSANDI NATIONAL PARK

Beware, you'll love it! Open to visitors since 1993, Vilsandi National Park, with its string of islands, is one of the most important bird reserves in Eastern Europe and the oldest in the Baltic region. Covering an area of more than 23,000 hectares, the park comprises some 160 islands, including Vilsandi, the bays of Kihelkonna, Kuusnõmme and Atla, and the peninsulas of Elda, Eeriksaar, Kuusnõmme and Harilaid. The park is known for its exceptionally rare flora and fauna. There are orchids and ivy, grey seals, white-tailed eagles, barnacles, and the orcas with their famous calls. The amateurs of walks and the impassioned of birdwatching will be able to appreciate the intact nature of the places and its authenticity far from the mass tourism. The park also represents a very important historical heritage. The site attests to the settlement of the area since the Neolithic period.

The oldest church in Estonia is also located in Vilsandi Park. To fully enjoy the beauty of this natural setting, you can also rent a bicycle or book a guided tour (ask at the park reception or at a tourist office on the islands or directly in Pärnu). The area is also suitable for summer cruises (from the port of Papissaare). Access to the reserve is strictly regulated. A soothing and pleasant natural setting to visit!