Discover Kata: Karst Landscape, Hiking Trails and Special Places

Kata combines an impressive karst landscape with hiking opportunities, unusual natural phenomena and special places in the surrounding area. Those planning a trip to Kata can choose between a hike through the Tuhala Karst Area, a visit to the Tuhala Nõiakaev and family-oriented experiences at Polli Zoo. Historical and cultural destinations are also part of the area’s character.

Karst Landscape and the Tuhala Nõiakaev

One of the defining sights is the Tuhala Nõiakaev. The intermittently ascending spring is located in the Nabala-Tuhala Nature Reserve, at an underground river in the Tuhala Karst Area. When the spring overflows, it can “boil” at a rate of up to 100 litres per second. The Tuhala Nõiakaev was voted Estonia’s Wonder in 2012. It is therefore a natural phenomenon that clearly differs from ordinary excursion destinations.

In the vicinity of Kata, the 26-kilometre-long Tuhala River flows through the karst area. Six kilometres of the river run through three underground branches. These figures convey the special structure of the landscape without limiting the trip to a single viewpoint.

Hiking Trails for Different Day Plans

A 2.5-kilometre-long hiking trail runs through the Tuhala Karst Area and is also suitable for family hikes. It therefore offers a practical way to explore the karst landscape on foot. For orientation on site, the Tuhala Hiking Trail begins at the car park near the Tuhala Nõiakaev.

Another way to access the landscape is the Tuhala Karst Trail, which begins beneath the Kooli Oak in the centre of the village. Guided hikes to the Tuhala Nõiakaev and through the karst area are offered year-round in Kata küla, Kose vald. Groups must make prior arrangements with the nature guide. This allows you to choose between an independent hike and a guided tour when travelling as a group.

Special Places and Experiences in Kata

There are also destinations with their own distinct character away from the karst springs. The Kataveski hiiekadakas in Kata küla is over 300 years old and surrounded by a stone enclosure. The tree combines a tangible landscape experience with a sense of history. The Tuhala Kaarli kirik also stands in Kata küla, Kose vald. It was built at the commission of Count Karl von Mellin between 1775 and 1777.

For a different kind of outing, Polli Zoo offers the opportunity to see and touch various animals and birds. Pony rides are also available there. Families can therefore view a day in the karst area surrounded by nature and an animal-focused visit as different travel ideas, rather than experiencing the area through just one central theme.

The Right Accommodation for Your Travel Plans

If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Kata, you can choose your accommodation based on the experiences that are most important for your trip. For hiking enthusiasts, the Tuhala Karst Trail, the Tuhala Hiking Trail and the guided tours are important points of reference. Those who prefer historical places can include the Kataveski hiiekadakas and the Tuhala Kaarli kirik in their plans. Families who want to combine nature with animals can also consider Polli Zoo.

For the overarching travel overview: Kose.