Tumala: Nature and History
Accommodation in Tumala
Tumala offers distinct nature and history themes to consider when planning a trip. The Tumala hoiuala protected area protects juniper stands and limestone-rich dry grasslands, which are important habitats for orchids. Historical points of interest include Tumala Silmakivi, Tumala mägi and Tumala Manor. The health trail adds a specific route and directions to the choice of destination.
Health Trail and Directions
To reach the health trail, drive 1 km from Orissaare in the direction of Kuressaare. At the entrance to Tumala, follow the sign and park by the toboggan hill. The distance refers to the drive from Orissaare, not the length of the trail. This makes the health trail a distinct travel-related point of interest alongside the nature and history themes.
Protected Area and Orchid Habitats
The Tumala hoiuala protects juniper stands and limestone-rich dry grasslands; the grasslands are important habitats for orchids. This brings together two distinct protected features: juniper stands and a type of grassland with particular significance as an orchid habitat. For anyone weighing nature when choosing a destination, this offers a specific focus that differs from the area's religious and historical themes. This gives the area's connection to nature more precise meaning than a general reference to the landscape. The Tumala hoiuala protected area is located in Tumala kĂĽla.
Historic Sites and Manor History
Tumala Silmakivi is an archaeological monument and also a historic sacred natural site. Its registration number is 12592. This combination points to two aspects: its status as an archaeological monument and the site's historical sacred significance in nature. Silmakivi is therefore a specific point of interest for travelers interested in archaeology and the history of sacred sites.
Tumala mägi is considered a former sacred complex with a sacred grove and two cup-marked cult stones. The word “former” establishes its historical context; the grove and cult stones specify the components of the earlier complex. Unlike Silmakivi, the emphasis here is on a former sacred setting, while Silmakivi is classified as an archaeological monument and historic sacred natural site.
Tumala Manor offers a different way to explore the area's history. It was established in the mid-16th century and expanded in 1647: the two dates refer to its establishment and a later expansion. During Danish rule, the manor was nationalized after its owners committed high treason. Nationalization refers to the transfer into state ownership; here, this change of ownership is linked to Danish rule and the owners' high treason. The manor's history thus complements the sacred and archaeological themes with its development, ownership and political context.
You can assess Tumala based on which themes you want to shape your travel decision.
Discover more destinations: Nässuma, Mustjala, Kõõru, Haeska, Koguva, Ruhnu, Siiksaare, Laugu.
For the wider travel overview: Saaremaa.
