Venta waterfall Travel Guide

Venta Waterfall, or Ventas Rumba as it's known in Latvian, is a captivating natural wonder located in the charming town of Kuldīga. What sets it apart is its exceptional width, earning it the title of the widest waterfall in Europe. During the spring floods, it can stretch up to an impressive 270 meters. While its height is only around 2 meters, the sheer breadth of the falls creates a stunning spectacle.The waterfall is formed by the Venta River flowing over a layer of Devonian dolomite. The lower part of the dolomite is more brittle and erodes faster, causing the upper layer to overhang and occasionally collapse, leading to the waterfall's gradual recession.One of the most unique aspects of Venta Waterfall is the 'flying fish' phenomenon. During the spring and autumn spawning seasons, various fish species, including salmon and vimba, attempt to leap over the falls to reach their breeding grounds. This incredible sight draws many visitors. Historically, the waterfall was used for fishing, and remnants of old fishing weirs can still be seen. In the 17th century, Duke Jacob of Courland devised a method of catching the jumping fish using baskets placed along the falls, leading to Kuldīga being known as a town where you could catch salmon in the air.The surrounding town of Kuldīga is also worth exploring, with its well-preserved medieval center, cobblestone streets, and historic buildings. The old brick bridge, built in 1874, offers a wonderful vantage point for viewing the waterfall.