Saare County
Estonia's largest island with Kuressaare castle tourism, spa hotels, and wind energy generation.
Saare County comprises Saaremaa, Estonia's largest island—a territory where tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy create diversified but small-scale economy. Ferry connections to the mainland constrain logistics while enhancing the island's destination appeal.
Tourism exploits natural and cultural assets. Kuressaare's medieval castle, spa hotels, and juniper-covered landscapes attract visitors seeking Estonian island experiences. The island's distinct traditions (brewing, festivals) provide differentiation from mainland destinations.
Agriculture adapts to island conditions. Dairy farming and meat production serve local and export markets. Juniper and other native plants support craft industries. Wind energy exploits consistent Baltic winds, generating renewable electricity for export to the mainland grid.
The biological pattern is island economy: Saaremaa maintains self-contained economic activity while connecting to mainland markets through controlled ferry access. This isolation protects distinctiveness while limiting scale.