Simisti: The History of a Fishing Village on Muhu

Simisti is an old fishing settlement first mentioned 375 years ago. In the past, the village’s families were predominantly engaged in fishing. The old harbour tells the story of this working life: local fishermen used it to collect fish fry. This brings the past to life through a tangible part of everyday life in earlier times. Those who want to discover Muhu through the history of its villages will find in Simisti a historic perspective on fishing and the livelihoods of the past.

Harbour, Restaurant and Traditional Cuisine

The preserved keeper’s house at Simisti’s old harbour is now home to KALA Resto&Baar. The keeper’s house thus connects the harbour’s former use with its present-day role as a restaurant. At Lõunaranna Harbour on Muhu, KALA Resto&Baar’s menu focuses on Baltic Sea fish and seasonal ingredients; the selection may change. A traditional festive dish also offers a tangible insight into Simisti’s cuisine: it combines potatoes, carrots and rutabagas with salted meat. This traditional dish for special occasions adds to the story of fishing.

Sea Camp and Schoolhouse History

In 1972, the historic sea camp was moved to Simisti on the island of Muhu. Simisti’s former schoolhouse served as its base building; the tent camp operated from 1972 to 1980. The stone schoolhouse of Simisti also stands in nearby Rässa. It was built in 1933–1934 to a design by Alar Kotli and is a rare and remarkable building. At the time, it was the first centrally heated house on Muhu; Vassili Kolk designed the heating system. For architecture enthusiasts, the building combines a clearly dated construction history with a technical feature that was unusual on the island.

Cycling or Yoga on Muhu

For a peaceful bike ride, the Muhu Tourism Association recommends heading south, including to Simisti. The recommendation gives the ride a specific destination; route conditions may change, so check them before setting off. At Muhu Namaste, yoga sessions combine movement, breathing exercises and meditation. Open Yoga Week welcomes locals and visitors; check the dates before your trip. These activities offer different ways to plan your day: a peaceful ride south or a yoga session combining movement, breathing exercises and meditation.

Harbour, Beach and Holiday Apartment on Muhu

The small Lõunaranna Harbour on Muhu’s southern coast was renovated in 2009. Fuel, electricity and fresh water are available at the jetty; as harbour services may change, check the latest information before your trip. Lõunaranna Beach is within walking distance of the harbour. When looking for a holiday apartment on Muhu, you can start with what matters most to you: Simisti offers a historical connection to fishing and school history, while the harbour and the beach within walking distance provide landmarks around Lõunaranna. This makes it possible to choose a location based on the themes you would like to explore during your island stay.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Liiva, Hellamaa, Muhu, Lalli, Kuivastu.

Return to the main travel overview: Muhu Vald.