Kazu krāces, Gauja River Travel Guide

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A scenic park in Valmiera featuring human-made rapids on the Gauja River, perfect for a relaxing escape.

Kazu Krāces, or 'Rapids by the Goats,' is a scenic park in Valmiera along the Gauja River. This spot features human-made rapids originally created to protect the riverbank from erosion. Today, it's a popular place for a relaxing walk and enjoying the natural beauty of the Gauja.

A brief summary to Kazu krāces

Tālavas iela 1C, Valmiera, 4201, LV
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kazu krāces.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the riverbank.
Bring a camera to capture the picturesque views of the Gauja River and rapids.
Visit during different seasons to experience the changing beauty of the park.

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Explore Kazu krāces on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Kazu krāces, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

Kazu Krāces is located at Tālavas iela 1C in Valmiera. From the Valmiera city center, it's an easy walk along the Gauja River. Follow the signs towards the river and Kazu Krāces. The park is located a short distance from Valmiera St. Simon's Church.
Public Transport

Valmiera has a municipal bus network that connects key areas. Check local bus schedules for routes that stop near Tālavas iela. From the nearest bus stop, it's a short walk to Kazu Krāces. A one-way ticket on public transport costs approximately €0.55.
Taxi

Taxis are available in Valmiera. A short taxi ride from the city center to Kazu Krāces will cost approximately €2.50 as a starting price, plus €0.93 per kilometer.

Discover more about Kazu krāces

Kazu Krāces, picturesquely named 'Rapids by the Goats', is a charming park located in Valmiera, Latvia, along the Gauja River. The rapids, as they appear today, are the result of human intervention in the 19th century. In the 1830s and 1840s, the Gauja River began eroding its banks, threatening residential buildings and even the local church. To combat this, a dam was constructed to redirect the river's flow and protect the shoreline. This created an artificial waterfall that also served to protect the newly built bridge from ice in 1864.In 1969, Kazu Krāces was used as a kayaking slalom course. According to local lore, the name 'Rapids by the Goats' comes from a time when the Gauja River was wide and shallow here, and people placed stones in the river to allow livestock, especially goats, to cross to graze in the forests. Another legend says that the Devil himself created the rapids by dropping stones into the river. Today, Kazu Krāces is a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful retreat with lovely views of the Gauja.