Nestled in the Baltic Sea, Vilsandi Island is a pristine Estonian island known for its diverse wildlife and commitment to nature conservation. When I visited Vilsandi island, it was home to only seven residents, and I met half of the island that day 😀 This small number of inhabitants adds to the quiet and mystic aura of Vilsandi. In Summer, the number of residents grows a little due to some people having summer houses on the island. What I describe in this blog post is my experience in Springtime (Mid-April).
- How to travel to Vilsandi island
- What to Do on Vilsandi island
- Nature and Conservation on vilsandi island
- Where to Sleep on Vilsandi island?
- Amenities you will find on Vilsandi island
- History of Vilsandi Island
How to travel to Vilsandi island
By boat
Access to Vilsandi is primarily by boat. Services from the mainland operate from the port of Pappisaare to Vikati, with increased frequency during the summer months. Visitors can find schedules and ticket information on the Saaremaa Ferry website: https://saarelaevapiletid.ee. Locals are often willing to help tourists in finding their way to the island with their own boats (in off-season), reflecting the little community’s welcoming nature.
Hiking
In Spring you can’t cross with lots of luggage (in my case my backpack with all of my belongings) from Saaremaa to Vilsandi on the hiking trail. I tried it (in Mid-April) and encountered myself in deep water in the middle of the ocean at some point. If you are a good swimmer, you could swim the deepest part, though. In Summer, you can hike to the island from the “mainland”, but you probably still get wet to the knees in some parts or even to the chest, as someone told me who has done the tour in summer. There is the possibility of having guided tours, which is probably the safest.
What to Do on Vilsandi Island
Visit the Lighthouse:
Vilsandi’s lighthouse is a historic structure that offers visitors a unique glimpse into maritime navigation. If you find the lighthouse door closed, there is a contact number posted that you can call to gain access inside. One of the residents will then open up for you. In my case, I was lucky to spend some time with Terje, one of the residents. She would tell me many stories about the island and how she ended up living there.
Explore (Future) Art Gallery:
During my visit, I had the unique opportunity to enter the homes of a resident, one of whom plans to convert their space into an art gallery. They even sought advice on setting it up, which showed me the community’s openness and cultural engagement. I am looking forward to seeing what’s going to happen. If you have the chance to visit, please let me know if the art gallery is set up!
Cemetery Visit:
The island’s cemetery, though small with only about seven graves, provides a profound sense of peace and solitude. Its quaintness and the surrounding silence make it a surprisingly serene spot to reflect.
Windmills:
Vilsandi’s historical windmills add a picturesque element to the landscape, reminiscent of the island’s agricultural past and traditional life.
Birdwatching and Seal Watching:
As a key site for bird and seal watching, Vilsandi offers exceptional opportunities to observe these species in their natural habitats. The island is part of Vilsandi National Park, known for its biodiversity.
Hiking the Study Trail and exploring the island
Vilsandi boasts two main hiking trails that start from the center of the island at the observation tower. The 8 km educational trail runs along the southern shore by the coral reefs up to the lighthouse and then back along the northern shore through the forest. Another trail leads to Vesiloo Island, passing by a fenced environmental monitoring area. It’s designed to educate visitors about the local flora and fauna, and the trail leads through diverse landscapes. I loved hiking around and just exploring the island, and with every kilometer, I found some interesting things.
Nature and Conservation on Vilsandi Island
Designated as the first nature reserve in the Baltics in 1910, Vilsandi protects over 100 islands and their ecosystems. It is home to numerous species of birds and marine life. The Vilsandi National Park is central to regional conservation efforts, emphasizing the preservation of natural habitats and sustainable tourism practices.
Known for the most sunny days in Estonia and a year-round mild climate, Vilsandi’s weather is as inviting as its scenic views. This makes the island an ideal destination for those seeking mild weather and outdoor adventures.
Formed about 350 years ago from the merger of smaller islands, Vilsandi is geologically young. The island continues to evolve, with ongoing changes promising to further alter its landscape and perhaps even its connection to nearby Saaremaa.
Where to Sleep on Vilsandi Island?
For those looking to stay overnight on Vilsandi, the island is equipped with an RMK hut, which offers basic shelter. Additionally, there are designated areas for free camping, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. Trust me, the symphony of birds in the morning is a spectacle and truly magical!
Amenities you will find on Vilsandi island
- Information Panels: Offer educational insights into the island’s ecosystem and history.
- Observation Tower: A vantage point for panoramic views and birdwatching.
- Dry Closets (DC): Environmentally friendly sanitation facilities.
- Recreation Area/Picnic Site: Facilities for picnics and leisure activities.
- Camping Area: Designated spots for setting up camp.
- Sleeping place They also have 3 beds for sleeping in the information center
- Info center and snacks: Located directly at the harbor when you arrive, has a snack machine as well as some drinks to buy
History of Vilsandi Island
Vilsandi’s recorded history begins with its first known permanent resident, Johann Doll, a Dutch sailor who settled after a shipwreck in 1703. Over the centuries, Vilsandi has evolved from a remote outpost to a vibrant community, particularly noted for its role in maritime activities. By the 20th century, it became a pioneer in conservation efforts in the Baltic region.
By 1809, Vilsandi boasted four farms and eleven fishermen, with the construction of a lighthouse marking a significant development in the same year. The island’s community peaked at 169 people by 1934, thriving on fishing, seafaring, and agriculture. The 19th century saw Vilsandi flourish as a small but vibrant community, dependent on the sea for its livelihood.
The Soviet invasion during World War II forced many of Vilsandi’s residents to flee, with 96 escaping to Sweden and 46 remaining behind. This exodus significantly altered the island’s population and dynamics.
