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Orchids

Saaremaa has gained fame as an orchid paradise. Of the 38 orchid species growing in Estonia, as many as 36 can be found on Saaremaa.

A total of 38 flowering orchid species have been recorded in Estonia, 36 of which can be found in Saaremaa’s diverse nature. For this reason, Saaremaa has gained widespread fame as an orchid paradise, attracting orchid enthusiasts from around the world.

Saaremaa, with its orchids, is a true gem that marks the start of the tourism season – the search for orchid blossoms begins in early spring and lasts until the end of summer. The orchid blooming period extends from May to August, but June is an especially favorable time to admire these stunning flowers.

Saaremaa, home of the orchids

Orchids grow in various natural habitats. They can be found in wooded and coastal meadows, pastures, alvars and even bogs. The most flower-rich areas are located on Saaremaa’s western coast, particularly in the Vilsandi National Park region. In the island’s diverse nature, one can discover rare and remarkable orchid species, making Saaremaa a true haven for orchid enthusiasts.

It is important to remember that all orchid species in Estonia are protected. Since 1983, these stunning plants have been safeguarded to ensure that future generations can appreciate their beauty and significance. Saaremaa’s nature is a unique place where the beauty of orchids and the richness of biodiversity go hand in hand.

Visit Saaremaa - Orhidee looduses - loodusfoto
Visit Saaremaa - Looduses kasvav orhidee - loodusfoto

Wide world of orchids

There is no need to spend hours wandering through deserted meadows to find orchids. In Saaremaa, spotting orchids is relatively easy. A short ten-minute walk from the center of Kuressaare takes you to the Roomassaare Peninsula, where the juniper-filled fields are home to an abundance of heath spotted orchids (Dactylorhiza maculata). If you travel a few kilometers from Kuressaare towards Sõrve, you will reach Loode Oak Forest, where you can admire the blooming of the magnificent lady’s slipper (Cypripedium calceolus). Loode Oak Forest is also home to the burnt orchid (Orchis ustulata) and several other rare orchid species. Did you know that Saaremaa has its very own unique orchid species—the Saaremaa marsh orchid (Dactylorhiza osiliensis Pikner)? This species was discovered by Saaremaa orchid expert Tarmo Pikner, adding another natural gem to the island’s rich biodiversity.

Saaremaa’s natural environment is truly special. Since 1990, Saaremaa and the other West Estonian islands have been part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve “Man and the Biosphere,” a recognition of the region’s unique and diverse nature. The people of Saaremaa have been caring for their environment for centuries and remain committed to its preservation. We hope that visitors to the islands also recognize the value of nature and help protect it during their stay.

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