In the centre of Valka, you can stand in both Latvia and Estonia at the same time. This unusual border point is connected with views of both cities, a path along the Pedele, and a layered architectural history.
Border and river landscape
At the Latvian-Estonian border, there is a border post and EU signs reading “Latvia begins here” and “Estonia begins here”. The border post and signs make a photo opportunity and illustrate the location of the two countries at this spot.
The Pedele nature trail runs through Valka and Valga along both banks of the Pedele River, near the Latvian-Estonian border. On the Valka side, the trail runs for 350 metres along one bank; there are walking paths, benches, and a gazebo. Both the paths and the seating provide specific landmarks for a walk by the river.
The viewpoints over the border landscape offer different perspectives: from the gazebo on Putraskalns, you can see the Pedele River in two countries, as well as Valka and Valga. The tower of Lugažu Church also serves as a viewing tower, offering views of Valka and Valga—the city in two countries. You can choose between a view specifically focused on the river and one from the church tower.
Architecture and railway history
Lugažu Church features elements of Gothic, Classicism, and National Romanticism. Its name first appears in historical sources in 1477. The three named styles offer an opportunity to compare architectural styles in a single building. Schrader Chapel, built in 1773, stands in Cimze Cemetery and is considered one of the oldest buildings in Valka.
The city’s railway history is another trace of its past. Valkas vecā stacija (Valka II) was built around 1896/97 for the Valka–Rūjiena–Pērnava 750 mm narrow-gauge railway line. After the state border was drawn, Valka II station became a border station. Its construction period and later function thus reflect two different chapters in the station’s history, without making any claims about current train services.
Museum and exhibitions
The Valkas novadpētniecības muzejs is located in a building constructed specifically from 1850 to 1853 for the Vidzeme parish school teachers’ seminary. The museum is dedicated to the cultural heritage of Jānis Cimze and his students. Individual and group visits to its exhibitions and displays are available; check the visiting arrangements in advance, as they may change.
The exhibition “Valkas slimnīcas vēsture” presents the hospital’s medical life through photographs and exhibits. These include medical equipment and instruments, furniture, and staff clothing. The different types of objects offer several concrete perspectives on the exhibition’s history, from photographic depictions to items from everyday hospital life.
Discover more destinations: Ērģeme, Turna, Omuļi, Zaķi.
Return to the main travel overview: Valkas Novads.
