Tuhala Witch's Well Overflowing in Estonia 2025
Can you imagine a well literally overflowing with water?
Best time: late March–early April
Tuhala Witch’s Well, located in Kose Parish, Estonia, is a natural phenomenon that has captured public imagination due to its dramatic overflowing episodes. As one of the country’s most unusual attractions, it is deeply rooted in local folklore and geological significance.
A Natural Phenomenon with Mystical Associations
The well is actually a karst spring connected to an underground river system. When heavy rainfall causes the subterranean river to overflow, water gushes out of the well at an impressive rate, sometimes reaching up to 100 liters per second. This overflow typically occurs in spring or after prolonged periods of rainfall.
According to Estonian legend, the phenomenon is caused by witches who beat the well’s waters with birch branches, causing it to spill over. This mythical interpretation has contributed to its nickname, the "Witch’s Well."
Best Time to Visit
The overflowing of Tuhala Witch’s Well is unpredictable, but it most often occurs in early spring or after extended rainfall. Travelers interested in witnessing the event may need to monitor weather conditions and check local reports.
Location and Visitor Experience
Tuhala Witch’s Well is part of the Tuhala Nature Reserve, about 18.6 miles (30 km) from Tallinn, Estonia’s capital. The surrounding area features unique karst landscapes, sinkholes, and small caves, making it an interesting destination for nature enthusiasts.
The well itself is a small, stone-lined structure that remains dry most of the time. However, when conditions are right, the sudden and forceful overflow draws visitors who hope to witness this rare spectacle. Information boards at the site explain the geological and cultural background of the well.
