Vilsandi National Park

Vilsandi Overview

Vilsandi National Park, or Vilsandi Rahvuspark in Estonian, is located on the western coast of Saaremaa Island in Estonia. Covering approximately 93 square miles (240 square kilometers), it is a remarkable sanctuary of biodiversity and scenic beauty. The park encompasses a stunning array of landscapes, including coastal zones, over a hundred small islets, rocky beaches, sand dunes, and marshlands, as well as patches of lush pine and spruce forests.

One of its defining features is its proximity to the Baltic Sea, with the coastal terrain often shaped by powerful winds and waves. The iconic Vilsandi Lighthouse, a symbol of the park, stands on the main island of Vilsandi and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding archipelago.

The vegetation in Vilsandi National Park is diverse and adapted to the coastal environment. The maritime climate supports a unique mix of salt-tolerant plants and forest species, including sea buckthorn, juniper, and heathers.

Additionally, the wetlands and bogs host a variety of mosses, sedges, and other flora, creating a vibrant palette of greens and earthy tones across the landscape. The area’s floral richness is particularly evident during the spring and summer months when wildflowers bloom abundantly.

Vilsandi National Park is a haven for wildlife, especially migratory birds, making it one of the most renowned bird-watching destinations in the Baltic region. The park is a key nesting and stopover site for numerous bird species, including barnacle geese, common eiders, and various waders such as redshanks and avocets.

Visitors might also catch a glimpse of white-tailed eagles soaring majestically above the coastal cliffs. On land, mammals such as foxes, hares, and roe deer are common, while the surrounding waters are home to grey seals, which can often be spotted basking on rocky outcrops.

A highlight for many visitors is exploring the archipelago by boat or kayak, navigating between the islets and observing the rich birdlife and seal colonies. Vilsandi itself, the park’s namesake island, is accessible via a causeway during low tide or by boat, offering hiking trails that lead through pristine landscapes and to the historic lighthouse.

Cycling and nature walks on Saaremaa Island also allow visitors to engage with the park’s serene environment. Guided tours, especially bird-watching excursions, are popular, providing insights into the park’s ecology and history.

Vilsandi National Park faces several conservation challenges, including the impact of climate change on its coastal and marine ecosystems and the pressure from tourism. However, the park’s management has seen notable successes, particularly in preserving bird habitats and protecting seal populations. Ongoing conservation efforts focus on balancing the needs of wildlife with sustainable visitor access, ensuring that this natural treasure can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Park Map

Vilsandi National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Vilsandi National Park is a haven for bird enthusiasts, as it serves as an important nesting and migratory site for numerous bird species. The coastal areas, wetlands, and islets provide diverse habitats for these feathered residents.

Common Eider
This sea duck is often seen in large flocks along the coast. Known for their soft, down feathers, they are a hallmark species of Vilsandi’s coastal ecosystem.

Barnacle Goose
During migration seasons, barnacle geese can be observed resting and feeding in the park’s coastal meadows and wetlands.

White-tailed Eagle
This majestic raptor is one of the park’s iconic species. With its impressive wingspan and piercing eyes, it is a top predator in the park’s ecosystem.

Eurasian Oystercatcher
Easily recognizable by its black-and-white plumage and bright orange beak, this shorebird is a common inhabitant of Vilsandi’s coastlines.

Common Tern
Often seen hovering and diving into the water for fish, the common tern is a dynamic and elegant presence along the shores.

Grey Heron
This tall, wading bird is frequently found in wetlands and along the coastline, hunting for fish and amphibians in shallow waters.

Mute Swan
The mute swan is a graceful and iconic species in the park’s lagoons and coastal waters. Its striking white plumage makes it a favorite among visitors.

Northern Lapwing
Known for their distinctive crests and acrobatic flight displays, northern lapwings inhabit the grasslands and wetlands of the park.

Great Cormorant
This large waterbird is commonly seen perched on rocks or diving for fish in the surrounding waters.

Black-headed Gull
A familiar sight in Vilsandi, black-headed gulls are active and noisy, often congregating in large flocks near the coastline and wetlands.

Vilsandi National Park, located in Estonia, is known for its pristine coastal habitats, rich biodiversity, and thriving populations of various marine and terrestrial species. The park is especially recognized for its marine life and the wildlife that inhabits its unique landscapes, such as islets, coastal meadows, and limestone shores.

Grey Seal
The grey seal is a frequent sight around the park’s coastlines. These large marine mammals can often be seen basking on rocky islets or swimming in the clear waters of the Baltic Sea.

Harbor Porpoise
This small and elusive cetacean is occasionally spotted in the waters surrounding the park. Known for their shy nature, harbor porpoises are an indicator of healthy marine ecosystems.

European Roe Deer
The European roe deer inhabits the forests and meadows of Vilsandi. Known for their graceful movements and reddish-brown coats, they are a common sight in the park’s terrestrial landscapes.

Red Fox
This adaptable predator can be found across the park, often hunting for small mammals and birds in the meadows and coastal areas.

European Otter
The European otter thrives in the park’s clean waters and coastal habitats. Known for their playful behavior, they are often seen near streams and shorelines.

Ringed Seal
The ringed seal is another marine species found in the area. They prefer the icy waters of the Baltic Sea, and Vilsandi provides critical habitat for their population.

European Hedgehog
This small, spiny mammal can be seen in the park’s woodlands and meadows, particularly during twilight hours when they search for insects and other invertebrates.

Wild Boar
Wild boars inhabit the forests of Vilsandi National Park. They are known for their foraging behavior and can be identified by their robust build and tusks.

European Hare
The European hare is a common sight in the meadows of the park. With their long ears and swift running ability, they are well-adapted to the open grasslands.

Common Frog
This amphibian is often found near the park’s wetlands. It plays an essential role in maintaining the balance of the park’s ecosystems by controlling insect populations.