Way of Living in Saaremaa Style
Way of Living in Saaremaa Style
Sightseeing tour to historical villages that pride in preserving their unique atmosphere. The people have pertained harmony with islands’ nature. Islanders’ aim is to live according to circular economy and be self-sufficient.
Saaremaa, together with other West Estonian islands, belongs to the UNESCO biosphere program area “Man and the Biosphere.” The living environment that has been preserved for centuries, the unique traditions, and the hard-working and humorous people here have received special recognition precisely because they have been able to live in harmony with nature. The forest and the sea play an important role in the diet of the islanders. Juniper is used to make traditional souvenirs, but syrups, soaps, and gin are also made. The circular economy is important, and the local beverage producer decided and gave new life to the Christmas trees in the city center. The tonic was first produced from the Christmas tree in the center of Kuressaare, now the branches and thorns of the Christmas trees in Pärnu, Loviisa, and Helsinki have also been collected and turned into a tonic. Local healthy birch sap is also bottled here, and more than half of the packaging is made of plant material, including cork made from sugar cane.
First drive from the port to the almost 500-year-old Leedri village in Western Saare County. The sightseeing tour of the village will be made by the local guide. Visit also Orbu Farm: juniper syrup masters cook an enchanting delicacy from juniper and sugar, to which they add nuts, berries, herbs, and spices. According to folk belief, juniper provides vitality and health, bringing marine refreshment to the lungs, summer heat to the bones, and power to the voice. Taste juniper syrup in Orbu farm. Continue the tour to Kihelkonna village. The local residents have passed their knowledge and skills on from generation to generation and they know how to survive in every situation. This primeval wisdom must be preserved and valued, as those centuries of experience help us leave the world in a better condition for future generations. Next drive to Mihkli farm complex. It was developed over eight generations of one family with many farm machines and tools which have been mostly manufactured or used by the residents of the same farm. Mihkli farm is a typical Western-Saaremaa farm, which is interesting from the point of view of various planned buildings. After the visit to the Mihkli farm drive back to cruise port.
Notes: Moderate activity. Requires intermittent effort throughout, including walking medium distances over uneven surfaces and/or on steps.
A minimum participation is required to operate all Yachting Land Adventures and some have limited capacity. All adventures in the SeaDream Yachting Land Adventures program are subject to change. Final departure time will be announced on board.
Port: Kuressaare, Saaremaa
Duration: 4 hours
Current Price: 389 USD
Voyages where this land adventure may be found: