Discover Laugu: Nature, Manor History and Glassmaking

When planning a trip, you can explore Laugu through three distinct interests: protected nature, manor history and glassmaking. Local highlights range from a named natural feature to historical traces and glassmaking techniques you can observe at the Laugu Glass Studio. Which you explore first depends on whether nature, cultural history or craftsmanship is the stronger influence on your choice of destination.

Nature around Laugu

The Laugu astang covers 1 hectare and is a protected natural feature on the northern edge of Laugu küla. Its area and location give you two specific points of reference for understanding this natural feature. An elm tree near Laugu School is also listed as an individual natural feature. This gives you two natural features of different scales to compare: a protected area of one hectare and a single tree near the school. If nature is a factor in choosing your destination, you can explore Laugu's highlights through these specific local features.

Manor history and the brickworks

Laugu Manor was founded in the second half of the 17th century. Roman (Reinhold) von Helmersen bought it in 1846. The founding and the purchase are two distinct historical milestones: the first dates the beginning of the manor, while the second identifies its later acquisition by Helmersen. Another trace of the manor's past can be found on the Angervaksa property in Laugu village. Remains of the former Laugu Manor brickworks are preserved there. These structural remains add an example of the manor's former use to its historical timeline; Laugu's history can be explored both chronologically and through the surviving brickworks. For travellers interested in cultural heritage, these offer different ways to explore Laugu: dates from the manor's history and the specific story of a former enterprise.

Glassmaking at the Laugu Glass Studio

The Laugu Glass Studio is located at Kurisu Farm in Laugu küla, Leisi vald, Saaremaa. There, you can observe glassblowing, coldworking and glass casting. These three techniques bring the subject of craftsmanship to life, drawing attention to different ways of working with glass. This sets the studio apart from the manor and brickworks, which are historical sites. If you would like to include craftsmanship in your trip alongside nature and local history, the studio offers a distinct focus. As visiting arrangements may change, please check the latest information before your visit.

Different focuses for planning your trip

The themes also differ in their time frame: the Laugu astang is a permanent protected natural feature; the manor's history can be explored through its founding in the second half of the 17th century, its purchase in 1846 and the former brickworks; the studio offers craft processes you can observe. When choosing where to stay, consider whether you are most interested in the landscape, historical context or craft techniques.

Discover more destinations: Kuralase, Ruhnu, Raugi, Salme, Tumala, Haeska, Kirikuküla, Nurme.

Go to the main travel overview: Saaremaa.