Saaremaa is a very beautifull island: It is the biggest island in the West-Estonian archipelago. Due to its location in the western region, it is nearer to potential tourism markets than the other Estonian countries.
The only town in Saare County is Kuressaare (up to 1917 known as Arensburg, 1949-1989 Kingissepa). The first written document about Kuressaare dates back to 1424. In 1563 the town bylaws were inacted by Duke Magnus, the brother of Danish King Frederik II. It still has a medival touch, and has as a big attraction the Kuressaare castle from the 12th century which is quite untouched by time. It contains the historiacal museum of the island and some parts of the interior are just as well preserved as it's exterior.
The Little Strait (there is a dam road built over it) from Muhumaa in the east and the straits of Irben from Kurzeme in south-west. The coastline of Saaremaa is indended. Limestone forms the flat surface of Saaremaa, its height reaching not more than 25 metres above the sea level. Only the Western-Saaremaa highland is 54 metres high. In S�rve the height is 36,6 metres. There are many bluffs (Panga, Ninase) on the northern coast of Saaremaa.
On the Western-Saaremaa highland Lake Karuj�rv, outstanding for its beautiful nature, is situated. The Kaali meteorite craters are unique. The biggest crater is surrounded by a bank and it is covered with shady trees which have formed a natural ark. The depth of the crater is 16 metres, the diametre 110 metres. The maritime climate and variety of soils have contributed to the richness of Saaremaa's plant life. Among them you can find 4/5 of the species found in Estonia.