Rock layers
A grey limestone wall with clear strata.
Guntars Mednis — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Guntars Mednis — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Laima Gūtmane (simka… — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Fry72, Karel Frydrýšek — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Kalervok — CC BY-SA 3.0
Panga Cliff is a coastal cliff on the northern shore of Saaremaa, near the village of Panga at the end of the road from Kuressaare. It is the highest of the Saaremaa and Muhu cliffs, reaching 20 m and running for about 2.5 km above the sea, and it is also known as Mustjala Cliff. The cliff has at least three terraces, with a smaller cliff set further inland behind the main one. Grey layers of limestone show clearly in the wall the sea has cut, which makes this a favourite with people interested in geology and fossils, as well as those who simply come for the open view of the water. Up top you walk on exposed grass with the edge dropping away to the Baltic, and a stone sundial stands on the site. Below, a shingle beach runs beneath the wall, where you can see the rock layers up close and hear the waves on the stones. On clear days, sunset over the sea is among the best things this side of the island offers. The cliff lies about 37.7 km from Kuressaare and 31.2 km from Kaali Crater in a straight line. There are not barriers everywhere along the edge and the ground can give way, so stay well back, especially with children. Wear sturdy shoes for the shingle shore, and bring a jacket since it is often windy here.
A grey limestone wall with clear strata.
A walk below the cliff beside the waves.
An open Baltic view at the end of the day.
Panga village, north coast of Saaremaa, Estonia
Yes, many reach the shingle below the cliff, but stick to clear paths and wear sturdy shoes.
Yes, with care. Barriers are not everywhere and the edge can give way, so keep them well back.