Even before you see a waterfall, you usually sense it. The air becomes fresher, cooler, and slightly damp. Soon, you hear the distant sound of rushing water. Then, suddenly, the view opens up — powerful, continuous, and impossible to ignore. It’s no surprise that waterfalls are among the most popular natural sights travellers look for around the world.
Although Estonia is a relatively flat country, northern Estonia is shaped by a massive limestone escarpment known as the Baltic Klint. Stretching from Russia along the northern coast of Estonia and reaching parts of Sweden, this limestone cliff creates natural drops where rivers flow into the Baltic Sea. These drops form waterfalls — many of them surprisingly impressive for such a flat landscape.
Here are seven wonderful waterfalls near Tallinn that are worth visiting. Some are easy to reach, while others reward those who take a little more time. Estonian waterfalls are beautiful in every season, but winter is especially magical, when flowing water freezes into dramatic ice walls and long icicles.
They are definitely worth passing by when you are on your way to do other winter activities.
1. Jägala Waterfall
Jägala waterfall is often considered a must-see natural sight near Tallinn. Located just 30 minutes from the city, it is the highest natural waterfall in Estonia and a popular stop on the way to Lahemaa National Park. The waterfall is easily accessible, with viewpoints from above the limestone cliff and paths leading right in front of the falling water.
In winter, Jägala becomes especially striking as it partially or fully freezes, forming a massive ice curtain.
We have several tours you can join to visit the waterfall. If you want to see Jägala in the wintertime in its full glory, check out the Frozen Jägala Waterfall Picnic Tour for a 2-hour getaway from Tallinn with a light meal right by the waterfall.
To check out two local gems in one go, perhaps the combined Old Town Walking Tour with a Visit to Jägala Waterfall is something that you fancy. If you not only want to see Jägala waterfall, but also the sights nearby, join the 4-hour Historic Harju County Tour or spend a day exploring on the Day Trip to Lahemaa National Park.
2. Treppoja waterfalls
About 30 km west of Tallinn, the Treppoja waterfalls form a unique series of cascades that resemble a staircase, which is exactly what the name means in Estonian. Stretching over 150 metres, the water flows across six limestone terraces, each up to 1.5 metres high.
Treppoja is beautiful year-round, whether during spring floods or in winter when ice shapes the cascades. Local legends speak of water spirits and nymphs inhabiting the stream, adding a touch of mystery to the site.
Treppoja waterfalls can be visited as an optional extra on the Tour to Rummu Submerged Quarry and Coastal Cliffs.
3. Keila waterfall
Located in Keila-Joa, Keila waterfall is slightly lower than Jägala but often feels more powerful due to its width and strong water flow. Right next to the waterfall stands the historic Keila-Joa manor, surrounded by landscaped park paths along the Keila River.
Keila-Joa is ideal for longer walks, as the area offers well-marked trails following the riverbanks. In winter, the waterfall freezes into thick ice formations, and on colder days, it’s even possible to walk behind the frozen curtain of water.
Keila waterfall is part of the Tour to Rummu Submerged Quarry and Coastal Cliffs.
4. Joaveski waterfall
Joaveski waterfall lies on the Loobu River in Lahemaa National Park. When a hydroelectric power station was built here, the original 4-metre drop was transformed into a series of six cascades. Today, little remains of the industrial past, and the waterfall flows playfully over limestone steps surrounded by forest.
The area feels quiet and untouched, making Joaveski ideal for visitors who enjoy off-the-beaten-path nature. Hiking trails pass nearby, but discovering the best viewpoints requires a bit of exploration.
Joaveski is included in the Hiking Lovers Tour in Lahemaa National Park: Three Waterfalls.
5. Nõmmeveski waterfall
Close to Joaveski lies Nõmmeveski waterfall, known for having the highest water flow among Lahemaa’s waterfalls. The waterfall drops about 1.2 metres, spreading across a wide limestone shelf inside a scenic canyon.
Nearby are the atmospheric ruins of an old hydroelectric power station, including a raised concrete channel where mineral-rich water forms natural travertine and icicle-like formations. The combination of flowing water, canyon walls, and forest creates a truly primordial atmosphere.
Nõmmeveski is also included in the Hiking Lovers Tour in Lahemaa National Park: Three Waterfalls.
Check out the music video of Estonian duo Riffarrica, which was filmed at Nõmmeveski:
6. Pakri waterfall
Located on the Pakri Peninsula near Paldiski, Pakri waterfall is one of Estonia’s most unique waterfalls. It drops nearly 6 metres from a limestone plateau and continues all the way down to the sea, creating a total fall of almost 15 metres.
In winter, strong coastal winds and freezing temperatures turn the surrounding forest and cliffs into a dramatic icy landscape. Nearby Paldiski adds an extra layer of interest with its Soviet-era military history and coastal views.
Pakri waterfall can be visited on the Tour to Rummu Submerged Quarry and Coastal Cliffs.
Local tip: After your visit, stop by the café inside the Pakri lighthouse.
7. Vasaristi waterfall
Vasaristi waterfall consists of three gentle drops flowing through a karst landscape in Lahemaa National Park. Nearby sinkholes swallow small streams that reappear as clear springs a few hundred metres away, making the area especially fascinating for nature lovers.
Local folklore says that washing your face in the waters of Vasaristi brings eternal youth. Whether you believe it or not, the peaceful setting and surrounding forest make it a rewarding stop.
Vasaristi is also included in the Hiking Lovers Tour in Lahemaa National Park: Three Waterfalls.
These seven wonderful waterfalls near Tallinn each offer something different — from powerful ice walls to quiet forest cascades. If you’d like to visit any of them as part of a guided tour, our team is happy to help customise an itinerary to match your interests. We work with experienced local nature guides and focus on flexible, well-paced tours that showcase the best of Estonia’s landscapes.
