Joaveski
Accommodation in Joaveski
Joaveski combines the waterfalls of the Loobu River with limestone terraces and hiking trails. The history of the cardboard mill also shapes the area: an artificial lake and canals were built to operate it.
Joaveski at a glance
At Joaveski, the Loobu River falls over limestone terraces to form waterfalls. The cascade terraces can be viewed from the right bank of the river, next to the hydroelectric power plant canal. The Joaveski paljand outcrop extends for about 400 m on both sides of the Oandu River and exposes approximately 3 m of limestone from the Loobu Formation. Hiking options include the 19 km Võsu–Nõmmeveski trail and the 40 km Oandu–Kalmeoja section.
What shapes the landscape of Joaveski?
The cascades form where the Loobu River flows over limestone terraces. This brings the river landscape and geological outcrop together in a distinctive natural setting in Joaveski. The name Joaveski paljand refers to the outcrop where about 3 m of limestone from the Loobu Formation is visible. The approximate 400 m measurement describes its length along both sides of the Oandu River; it is an approximate distance, not an exact boundary.
Two other features can help you find your way around the outcrop: it begins at the road bridge and continues downstream. The cascade terraces can be viewed from the right bank of the river, next to the hydroelectric power plant canal. This makes it possible to distinguish the geological formation from the river cascades as two separate, specifically described aspects of Joaveski.
Which hiking trails suit your plans?
The Võsu–Nõmmeveski hiking trail is 19 km long. It leads to the Joaveski and Nõmmeveski waterfalls and is located in Lahemaa National Park. For a longer route, there is another option: the Oandu–Kalmeoja section of the Oandu–Aegviidu–Ikla hiking route is 40 km long. The two figures refer to different trails or trail sections, so they should not be treated as equivalent route lengths.
The Oandu–Kalmeoja section reaches Joaveski at the point where the Loobu River falls over limestone terraces to form waterfalls. This connects a named route section with one of the area’s characteristic landscape features. The stated distances can help you factor the length of each route into your plans.
What is the history of the cardboard mill?
Construction of the Joaveski cardboard mill began in 1899. An artificial lake and canals were built to operate the mill, which was powered by a hydroelectric plant. These facts show that water not only shapes the river landscape and its cascades, but also played a specific role in the area’s industrial history.
For visitors drawn to Joaveski mainly by its landscape, the outcrop and waterfalls offer two distinct points of interest. The cardboard mill adds a historical perspective on the use of hydropower to these natural features. You can tailor your stay to your interests without presenting the hiking trails, geology, and industrial history as a single combined experience.
To compare other destinations, you can also explore Kuusalu, Viinistu, Uuri, Suurpea, Saunja, Kiiu, Muuksi and Kolga.
FAQ
How long are the hiking routes mentioned?
The Võsu–Nõmmeveski hiking trail is 19 km long. The Oandu–Kalmeoja section of the Oandu–Aegviidu–Ikla hiking route is 40 km long.
Where can the cascade terraces be viewed?
They can be viewed from the right bank of the river, next to the hydroelectric power plant canal.
What does the Joaveski paljand outcrop reveal?
It exposes about 3 m of limestone from the Loobu Formation and extends for approximately 400 m on both sides of the Oandu River.
When did construction of the cardboard mill begin?
Construction of the Joaveski cardboard mill began in 1899.
For the broader travel overview: Kuusalu.
