Our farm in Selgase Village was founded in 1850 on the order of two parishes, separated by a stone fence and gate – hence the name of the farm Värava (gate in English). It is known that the founders of the farm had been lived a couple of hundred meters away on Aksli Farm already since the Northern War and we, the current owners of the farm, are their direct descendants.
In the middle of the yard there is a big chestnut tree planted in 1893, which circumference today is 3 meters and 15 centimetres. This chestnut tree was planted by Villem, who was the grandfather of the present farm owner Aado. The chestnut plant was brought to Villem by his father Aado, who was the gardener in Pidula Manor.
Once there was a manor also in Selgase Village feudalised to the Essen Family in 1472, but united with Pidula manor later. The Family Von Essen regards this manor as their initial home and has marked the site of the former manor by a memorial stone.
People in Selgase Village have been engaged in agriculture, tar making and lime burning. The remains of ovens can be seen here and there even today. Before WW II, there was a sawmill in the village, which was one of the biggest enterprises in Saaremaa at that time. Also limestone or dolomite as we call it today was and is mined here today.
Angla Cultural Heritage Centre and Kaali Visitors’ Centre have been built of Selgase dolomite. This stone has been used for the elaboration of various buildings in St. Petersburg and Moscow. Dolomite is one of the most widespread materials of souvenirs in Saaremaa. Pidula Manor, which is located 2 km from the village and currently being restored, is also built of Selgase dolomite.
There is a lot to see in the surrounding area. The biggest karst funnel in Saaremaa – Kalja kurisu and the hiking trail of the State Forest Management Centre are located within two kilometres from the farm. There are several other hiking trails in the neighbourhood by Lake Konati and on the banks of Tagalahe. The picturesque Lake Karujärv and Pidula Fishing Farm are also only some kilometres away. The local forests are rich in berries and mushrooms.
We rent bikes if you want to go and explore the local sites. Breakfast and sauna can be ordered. Games, balls and swings are available. You can use the outdoor kitchen or make a bonfire. Accommodation provided in huts and chambers of the former granary. If you want to get acquainted with Saaremaa more closely, guide service in Saaremaa and Muhu Island is available.