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Weather in Saaremaa
Estonia's largest island of windmills and meteorite craters
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About Saaremaa
Saaremaa is Estonia's largest island, accessible by ferry or bridge, a landscape of windmills, forests, small villages, and the Kaali Meteorite Crater—created 4,000 years ago and now a serene lake surrounded by legend. The island feels genuinely remote despite good tourism infrastructure, and the light (long summer days, brief winter ones) is magnetic. Hiiumaa is the neighboring island with even fewer people.
Best months to visit
Year-round
Things to do in Saaremaa
Kaali Crater lake visiting and mythology learning
Windmill tours and photography
Lighthouse visits and coastal walks
Beach exploration and swimming
Island cycling and nature trails
Traditional Estonian sauna experiences
Weather by month
Click any month for detailed weather information and travel tips.
January
1C
Cold, with some rainy days.
February
1C
Cold, with occasional showers.
March
4C
Cold, with occasional showers.
April
9C
Cold, with occasional showers.
May
15C
Cool, with occasional showers.
June
20C
Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.
July
21C
Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.
August
21C
Mild and comfortable, with some rainy days.
September
16C
Cool, with some rainy days.
October
10C
Cool, with some rainy days.
November
6C
Cold, with some rainy days.
December
3C
Cold, with some rainy days.
Saaremaa, Estonia's largest island, is a landscape of windmills, juniper-covered fields and the dramatic Kaali meteorite crater, reached by ferry across the Baltic from the mainland. Its capital Kuressaare is anchored by a remarkably intact medieval bishop's castle, while the island's slow pace and spa traditions make it a favourite escape for Estonians.
Best areas to stay in Saaremaa
Kuressaare
The island's main town, centred on its medieval bishop's castle and a small harbour.
Kaali Crater area
A meteorite crater and small museum, a popular short stop inland.
Sõrve Peninsula
A remote southern peninsula with lighthouses, beaches and World War II history.
Northern coast windmill villages
Traditional windmill clusters and fishing villages along the island's quieter northern shore.
Getting to Saaremaa
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Flights
Fly into Tallinn, then drive or take a bus to Virtsu and a ferry to Saaremaa (around 3-4 hours total).
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From London
~3 hours by air from London to Tallinn plus a road and ferry transfer.
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Getting around
A car is the easiest way to explore the island; some buses connect Kuressaare to villages and the ferry port.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Saaremaa?
By ferry from Virtsu on the mainland, a roughly 25-minute crossing, followed by a drive to Kuressaare; a car is recommended for exploring the island.
What is the Kaali crater?
A meteorite impact crater with a small lake at its centre, formed thousands of years ago and a popular short stop for visitors exploring the island.
What is Kuressaare Castle?
A well-preserved medieval bishop's castle surrounded by a moat, now housing a museum on the island's history.
Is Saaremaa good for a relaxing trip?
Yes — the island is known for its spa hotels in Kuressaare, quiet beaches, and a generally unhurried pace of life.
When is the best time to visit Saaremaa?
Summer for warm weather, blooming juniper meadows and easy ferry access; the island is much quieter and the ferry schedule reduced in winter.
Traveler reviews
★★★★★
Renting a car and driving around Saaremaa for a few days was one of the best parts of our Estonia trip — windmills, quiet beaches and the Kaali crater were all worth seeing.
Liis R. · July 2024
★★★★☆
Kuressaare Castle was more impressive than expected, and the spa hotel we stayed at was a lovely way to unwind after exploring the island.
Henry P. · August 2023
★★★★★
The ferry crossing itself was scenic, and the island felt wonderfully remote and unspoiled compared to the mainland.
Mart S. · June 2024
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