Vilsandi National Park, National park and Ramsar site in Saaremaa Rural Municipality, Estonia.
Vilsandi National Park is a protected area off the western coast of Saaremaa comprising islands, coastal land, and marine zones. The park covers around 241 square kilometers, with roughly two-thirds being water and one-third islands and peninsulas.
The area began as a bird reserve in 1910 and became a national park in 1971. It was designated a Ramsar Wetland site in 1997.
Local people shape the landscape through cattle raising and sheep herding, keeping the meadows open and maintaining ways of life tied to the land. This traditional use remains visible in how the fields and pastures are managed today.
The best time to visit is from May to September when regular boat connections operate from the mainland. Be prepared for changing weather since boat trips can be cancelled due to storms or rough sea conditions.
This location hosts Estonia's largest colony of grey seals and serves as a wintering ground for rare sea ducks. Around 247 bird species have been recorded here.
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