Cycle tourist gets closer to the core of Saaremaa

It is no news that cyclists can see much more of their surroundings than those who drive a car. Saaremaa is just the right size for cycling. Those who want to take a particular guided route can opt for a three-hour tour in Kuressaare, exploring the town's past and present. Besides the cycle road running around Kuressaare Park, a series of roads which all begin form Kuressaare are opened now.

Those who prefer longer tours lasting several days can choose from a variety of routes: a four-day 50 km ride to Vätta Peninsula and the surroundings of Püha church; a five-day 130 km tour to Sõrve peninsula; or a six to eight-day rides spanning from 200 km or more. You can explore the sights of western parts of Saaremaa, or take a route for nature lovers. All such tours provide meals and places to stay overnight, sometimes with sauna.

You can also try the International Euro Velo and Esto Velo signed cycle routes. The signs, which display directions and distances in kilometres, are extremely helpful for those who discover the island on their own. Facilities for eating and sleeping are available all along the route.

Please note that not all roads in Saaremaa are paved. Better be prepared for some dust or gravel roads than be sorry. You should also be aware that many Saaremaa villages are so small that they lack places to eat out.

Moreover, besides those on official tours, there are hundreds of tourists who travel around the island on their own. People who visit tourism farms often ask if they can rent a bicycle and in most cases the answer is yes. This way it is possible to explore the sights around the farmstead. Bikes, helmets and hiking equipment are available for rent in Kuressaare. Lately the number of cycle tourists has been on the rise - maybe because you can visit places not accessible by car.

Seaside trails - sometimes so high off the ground and then so near to sea that you may feel a flicker of anxiety - provide excellent rides. Or you can take a truly historical road - the remains of the narrow gauge railway, which was built by the soviet troops and soon dismantled. But the old railway bed, turned into a road with magnificent surroundings and sparse traffic, is still there and almost fully passable. Those travelling on their own should first look for places where camping is allowed. If possible, stay near a farmstead or use an official camping site. The mild maritime climate makes Saaremaa an ideal place for cycling even in the autumn.