The “backbone” of the Saaremaa Island is the highest and oldest part of the island which began to emerge about 10,000 years ago. The coastal escarpment has been preserved at the height of 18 m to the present day. Viidumäe Nature Reserve is home to over 660 species of vascular plants, among which 59 rare species are under protection in Estonia. The most famous of these is the endemic Rhinanthus osiliensis, a species of rattle. The escarpment is surrounded by a belt of springs, 70 to 80 according to the count. In some places crooked oak trees grow in the understory of pine forests. Bogs and fens cover about 10% of the nature reserve.
The trail starts at Viidumäe Nature Reserve Centre in Viidu, 28 km from Kuressaare.
Parking
Parking for 5 cars or a tour bus at the start of the trail.
Amenities
Information board, arrow signs, points of interest
Sights
Several forest types, species under protection
Additional Information
Before going on a nature walk please read the Environmental code of conduct, rules of conduct and waste-sorting policy
Restrictions
Located in Viidumäe Nature Reserve. Further information can be obtained from the Environmental Board +372 662 5999, info@keskkonnaamet.ee
Contact
Telephone: +372 454 6880 +372 527 7421
E-mail: info.vilsandi@rmk.ee
Object type: study trail
Location info
Location : Saare County, Viidumäe Nature Reserve
Saaremaa municipality
Navigation instructions : Drive 73 km on Kuivastu–Kuressaare road, turn right onto the Kuressaare roundabout and drive 2.8 km to the next roundabout, exit towards Kihelkonna. Drive 12.6 km on Kuressaare–Kihelkonna–Veere road and turn left onto Käesla–Karala–Loona road. Drive 8.9 km and turn right, following the sign to Viidumäe Nature Reserve Centre. Drive 2.3 km on gravel road and turn right to the small parking area which marks the start of two trails introducing Viidumäe Nature Reserve—the Audaku hiking trail and the Viidumäe study trail.
Drive 73 km on Kuivastu–Kuressaare road, turn right onto the Kuressaare roundabout and drive 2.8 km to the next roundabout, exit towards Kihelkonna. Drive 12.6 km on Kuressaare–Kihelkonna–Veere road and turn left onto Käesla–Karala–Loona road. Drive 8.9 km and turn right, following the sign to Viidumäe Nature Reserve Centre. Drive 2.3 km on gravel road and turn right to the small parking area which marks the start of two trails introducing Viidumäe Nature Reserve—the Audaku hiking trail and the Viidumäe study trail.
