Description of the attraction
Valaste waterfall is located in the northern part of Estonia, Ida-Virumas county, in the Ontika region. This is the highest waterfall in Estonia. Initially, its height was about 25 meters, but gradually the water deepened the foot and now the height of the waterfall is 30.5 meters. Locals call this waterfall the Red Tail. In the spring, during the abundant melting of snow and ice, or during the period of numerous rains, a strong stream of water is formed, which passes through the fields and, thus, the water acquires a rich reddish hue. The waterfall takes on a fabulous appearance in winter, when the water freezes and layers, forming bizarre magical forms.
The first note about the Valaste waterfall dates back to 1840, it was published in a German newspaper, all readers of the article were urged to visit this amazing place and enjoy its beauty. The Valaste River, which feeds the waterfall, is called the “great ditch”. The legend tells that the man Kraavi Yuri (Kanavny Yuri) dug a ditch, creating a river and a waterfall. This legend is partly true. Indeed, the river is an artificial creation, created during the period of works on land drainage, however, the waterfall is already a natural phenomenon.
In 1996, a commission of the Academy of Sciences declared the waterfall a natural heritage and a national symbol of Estonia. In 1997, an observation deck was built directly opposite the waterfall. In addition, it offers an interesting view of a picturesque layered outcrop, formed more than 500 million years ago, and therefore of great interest to geologists. Nearby there is a parking lot and an information board.
