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Upper Zarvalka Waterfall
In short
The uppermost of the four waterfalls on Zarvalks here is named simply: the Upper Zarvalka Waterfall. This waterfall is located on the upper rim of the wide Abava Valley.
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GPS coordinates
Stream
Height
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Width
Name in Latvian, alternate names
Map of the site
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In detail
Valley of Abava River near Vegi village is some 1.3 km wide, while the river itself is just some 15 – 20 m wide. This undulating, picturesque valley was formed by the waters of the melted glacier at the end of the last Ice Age and is some 25 meters deep.
The small Zarvalks Brook is some 2 kilometres long and flows over the rim of the ancient valley downwards, towards Abava River.
While on the lower terraces of the valley on this brook have formed three more waterfalls (including the more impressive Zarvalka Waterfall), the first waterfall is on the upper rim of the valley.
This waterfall is hidden in dense bush at the rim of agricultural fields. It falls over the Devonian dolostone layer of Plavinas Formation. During the summer this waterfall usually is dry – the further falls, meanwhile, have some water even during the dry period of the year. Upper Zarvalka Waterfall is some 1.4 m high and up to 1.8 m wide.
In 2023-2024 the waterfall was partly hidden under an enormous, fallen tree.
Linked articles
Wonders of Latvia
Highlights of Latvia are the rich architectural heritage in Riga City, numerous palaces, country houses, and castles.
Waterfalls
Some of the most fascinating and awe-inspiring natural monuments are waterfalls or locations where a river abruptly changes its elevation.
Wonders of Europe
The heritage of Europe is diverse and endlessly interesting. Incomparably rich is the wealth of European historical architecture, but this part of the world has exciting natural heritage and archaeological heritage as well.