On location experiences
Off location experiences
Helpful information
⧫ From Raven’s Nest 20 -30 min hike, about 1 km. Easy access. Mountain views and rural landscapes to be seen along the way.
⧫ Basic hiking gear required.
⧫ There is an observatory terrace overlooking the waterfall.
⧫ To reach the cave from the waterfall, go back on the same blue trail you came on and before you exit the forest, take a left turn downstream. You will find the small lake and then the cave.
Description
The huge funnel of Vânătarele Ponorului along with Dâlbina Cave that opens up in its northern extremity is situated at the south-western edge of the Bedeleu Massif, in the Trascau Mountains. Dâlbina waterfall is formed by the confluence of three small mountain rivers: Valea Poienii, Valea Seaca, and Valea Ponorului. They are joined together 200m before the reserve and create the spectacular Vânătării Keys.
The name “vânătări” comes from an archaic meaning of the word “vânăt”, “livid or violet-blue“ color and refers to the special stripes that time painted on the tall limestone wall. In the old Romanian language, a “dâlbina” is used to describe a whirlpool.
It was once classified by a renowned speleologist as the only one of its kind. What sets it apart, is the wide underground basin where water is constantly flowing through. During heavy rains, the water is retained there and creates a temporary underground lake. The river water reaches this lake, through a course of impressive series of waterfalls, that compiles the 80-meter fall to the ground.
The tallest one is Dâlbina waterfall, with a height of 25 meters that creates a magnificent sight. The view gets even more impressive after a period of heavy rains or snow melting in the spring when the water furiously rages into the underground. Along the valley, they enter an eroded chalk cave, leading to the big opening of the Dâlbina Cave and disappearing into the underground trail towards Cave of Papară.
Helpful information
⧫ From Raven’s Nest - 40 min to 1h hike, about 1.5 km. Easy access up to the cave, both by walking as well as by car.
⧫ Explore outside: basic hiking equipment
⧫ Explore inside: local guide & special equipment needed
⧫ The cave can be seen from outside at any time of the year; due to its water crossing, you can get closer to the entrance when water levels are lower, in full summer.
⧫ You can visit the cave only with a guide and have to book this in advance; the visit can depend on weather conditions.
⧫ The duration of a visit inside the cave is 3-4 hours.
⧫ The temperature in the main corridor is between 10–11,5 °C, and it can reach over 20°C in the Wonders Hall.
Description
The first thing you should know about this cave is that you are sitting right on it. The Raven’s Nest grounds stand on a former ceiling of the Cave of Papară, that collapsed thousands of years ago, maybe even longer. Positioned in a preserved area of the Trascău Mountains and although it is a very popular attraction, since 2013 it has been closed down for casual visitations and only the most adventurous and experienced climbers can reach the inner depths of this cave.
Huda lui Papară is a speleological reservation found at an altitude of 567 meters. It shelters karst formations, dug in limestone in the Superior Jurassic. The cave stretches for 2022 meters and is entirely crossed by water. The entry is almost 40 meters tall and presents an opening into the chalk wall. You will have to swim across the 50 meters long puddle, to enter and explore the cave. Then, you will have to climb high rock walls, crouch and pass through tunnels and swim across inside pools only to reach the Wonders Hall, a 102 meters tall cavern.
It is impressive due to the many records it holds - the longest cave, the biggest hall, the highest inside the gallery, the highest waterfall in all Romanian caves - it is also renowned for housing the largest and healthiest bat colony in Europe, with almost 100.000 members of 9 different species. The oldest human traces found inside the cave date back 50.000 years ago, in the Neanderthalian era. It is also believed to be the final hideout of king Decebal, a resting place for the ancient God Zamolxis and a religious site during the middle ages.
Helpful information
⧫ From Raven’s Nest - 5 - 6 hours hike round-trip. The hike crosses fields, forests and mountain peaks, medium difficulty, blue and red hiking paths.
⧫ Recommended basic hiking equipment, headlamp (for exploring the cave), water, a snack.
⧫ The natural site can be visited at any time of the year
⧫ There is an observatory wooden deck overlooking the mountains.
Description
The Dragon’s Gate, along with the Groși Cave are located at an altitude of 1150 meters, in the western Trascau Mountains, on the Bedeleu peak.
Considered the oldest cave in the Apuseni mountains, this natural stone arch is known as Dragons’ Gate was formed after a part of the nearby cave collapsed due to erosion, leaving behind an archway that reminds of the former galleries.
The name is given by ancient popular legends, that talk about dragons that once lived in this former stone castle and sometimes took part in the villages’ celebrations. They would take the appearance of human and set eyes on the most beautiful girls, whom they kidnapped at midnight and took to their castle. The villagers were infuriated by these acts and decided to take down the mighty fortress, burning the surrounding forests and destroying everything. The only reminder left is the stone arch and the nearby gallery, Grosi Cave.
After you’ve gazed at the natural sculpture, take the 15 meters path to the small entrance of the cave. You can explore the 125-meter long fossil cave, that will lead you to a succession of halls and corridors, housing gorgeous formations.
⧫ From Raven’s Nest - 3 - 4 h hike. Easy access. The last part of the waterfall can also be seen from the main road, flowing into the Aries river, just before entering Sălciua Village, coming from Cluj.
⧫ Blue and Red hiking paths.
⧫ Recommended basic hiking equipment, headlamp, water, a snack; red hiking path.
⧫ The natural site can be visited at any time of the year, but water debit is best in spring and autumn. During winter the water freezes up on the mountain, creating unique sights.
Description
Sipote Waterfall is a succession of waterfalls, spanning 1 km long, with the most famous section being the place where it overflows into the Aries river. You can start your trip from Sipote Meadow, from the superior part of the waterfall, and follow the travertine rock, passing along the succession flowing waters. The highest one reaches 15 meters high and the views up top are worth the hike.
The stunning formation of the waterfalls came after a carstic, long-lasting and complex event in the Bedeleu Massif, that generated spectacular transformations: dolines and steep fields, underwater springs that come to light from the narrowest and hardest of spaces or limestone water dams.
The waterfall is formed by an 800 meters mountain creek that streams down in a riverbed from 700 to 430 meters and into the Aries river.
Helpful information
⧫ From Raven’s Nest - 1-hour drive or 5-6 hours hike over Bedeleu Massif. The hike crosses fields, forests and mountain peaks, medium difficulty, blue and red hiking paths.
⧫ If you wish to explore the area, you can hike the 5 - 6 hours up to the fortress, and we can pick you up with the car for your trip back. The hiking and driving routes are set one-way for all destinations.
⧫ Recommended basic hiking equipment, headlamp, water, a snack.
⧫ The natural site can be visited at any time of the year.
⧫ The fortress is located at an altitude of 705 meters, offering a panoramic view of the Trascau
Mountains, as well as the Piatra Secuiului Peak (1192 meters).
Description
If you want to get off the beaten track, Transylvania offers a myriad of hidden gems. One of them is a ruin of the Coltesti Fortress, located in Trascău Mountains nearby Rimetea village. The fortress is placed at over 700 meters altitude, on a steep cliff, only 30 minutes on foot from the village of Coltesti. Once atop the hill, you will be amazed by the panoramic view. This fortress reached its maximum glory in the mid-15th century, but it was built in 1296, by Count Thoroczkay of Trascau, to serve as home and shelter for the whole community in times of war. It was intentionally built on the top of a limestone hill, following the Tartar invasion of 1241, when the towns Rimetea and Colțești were severely damaged.
The medieval bulwark gave rise to some popular legends that talk about a secret tunnel under the hills, or a hidden cellar full of noble wine barrels, even a legend about a strange appearance of Enikö's ghost (the daughter of Count Thoroczkay), who even nowadays, thirsty for revenge, tries to take the lives of those who climb the hill.
But besides stories and legends, Colțești Fortress is definitely a spectacular ruin with panoramic
landscapes. You should definitely conquer the peaks of the Trascău Mountains and immerse yourself into the deep wilderness and the rural landscape.
Helpful information
⧫ From Raven’s Nest - 1-hour drive or 5-6 hours hike. The hike crosses fields, forests and mountain peaks, medium difficulty, blue and red hiking paths.
⧫ Recommended basic hiking equipment, headlamp (for exploring the cave), water, a snack.
⧫ included in UNESCO world heritage
⧫ Activities: trekking, climbing, paragliding.
Description
Rimetea is one of the best-conserved and most beautiful rural attractions in Romania. With its unique heritage and centuries-old history, Rimetea is a traditional Hungarian commune, composed of two villages: Colțești and Rimetea. Located at the base of "Rock of the Szeklers" in an area surrounded by mountains, this was the first village in the country to be granted the Europa Nostra award for the successful preservation of its architectural patrimony. Rimetea was built in the 13th century with the hard work of the miners who were settled here to wrest iron from the depths of the mountains.
Located in Alba county, it is easily accessible from major cities through the national road that passes all historical objectives or natural wonders in the area. Rimetea has been inhabited for more than eight centuries and it is famous for its unique architecture,
influenced by several cultures and rich ethnographic heritage. Thanks to restoration programs and local education, the village proudly hosts as many as 200 pristine historical houses (built between the 17th and 19th century), the oldest functional watermill in Apuseni Mountains, ancient churches and many cultural preserved symbols that define the Transylvanian history.
There is also an ethnographic museum that hosts a rich collection of traditional art and historical objects. From pleasure to extreme sports, the cultural heritage is enriched by the natural wonders around. Piatra Secuiului and Ardașcheia peaks, gorges, caves, and a natural reserve attract many nature enthusiasts.
A couple of days are not enough to take in all the history and enjoy the outdoors. Rimetea also attracts the ones who seek adrenaline: you can hike the mountains around, climb the peaks, or go paragliding in a unique setting. Whether you’re up for hiking, rock climbing or just relaxing in an enchanting setting, this is a dream location - not only because of the food and landscape but also because of the locals who managed to preserve their unique patrimony.
⧫ From Raven’s Nest - 50 min drive or 3-4 hours hike. The hike has a medium to high difficulty. A part of the route can only be crossed through knee-level water (in the summertime, when water levels are lower).
⧫ Blue and red hiking paths.
⧫ Equipment: Basic hiking equipment; proper footwear; wetsuit, but not mandatory as it is recommended to be explored during hot season; climbing equipment for enthusiasts.
Description
The natural reserve that makes up Cheile Râmețului represents the two chalk cut mountains and the gorges, surrounded by forests and meadows. Due to the spectacular landscape and special karstic elements that it presents, the Râmeţ Gorges have been declared Geological, Paleontological, and Speleological Reservation since 1969.
The reserve consists of limestone massifs since the late Jurassic. These makeup for one incredible route that takes you from Râmeț monastery to Cheia village. The gorges crossing starts pretty spectacular. You are surrounded by high limestone walls, tens of meters high. The course of the Râmeț river, which formed these gorges, is filled with boulders. The further you go, the larger the boulders get.
The spectacular canyon has altitudes ranging from 530 to 1139 meters high and you will pass through high stone walls and rivers. You’ll also have to use the steel cables attached to make it though. At the narrowest parts, you can use iron stairs and wires built in the rock. Or much more easily you can walk in the creek. Climbing The Gorges offer many climbing possibilities, on the limestone walls. Keep in mind that you need your full climbing equipment.
The area is also a rich attraction for botanists and ecologists, as it is home to several rare plants and hardwood forests, adapted to live in a diversity of environments.
⧫ From Raven’s Nest - 3 hours hike. The hike crosses rural landscapes and forests; low to medium difficulty, blue hiking path.
⧫ Access by car is not possible as the only road collapsed years ago.
⧫ Using a mountain bike can be doable.
⧫ More info here: http://clubapuseni.ro/baza-cheia/
Description
Deep in the cone forests of the Apuseni mountains, after walking in a fairy-like natural setting, the first house from the Village of Cheia unveils its historical beauty. The building represents the traditional home for the local inhabitants, the “moți” in the 19th century. Ever since most of its villagers have moved away, all that’s left in the beautiful village of Cheia are the remains of what was once a community.
The few houses that still stand form an authentic museum, in which less than a century ago genuine rural life would go on. Frozen in time, away from civilization, with no electricity or roads, the traditional houses now only host memories of the village life.
One of the existing buildings, the old school of the village, was taken into protection by the Apuseni Alpine Club in 1998, to be used as a headquarters for active projects involving ecological surveillance of the area. Overnight stays in the houses is not allowed for safety reasons and also lack of administration. Either way, you choose to visit, it is surely a challenge worth taking. You’ll find yourself entering another world, a lost, abandoned one.
⧫ From Raven’s Nest - 2 hours drive, about 100 km. Easy access by car up to the village of Craiva Nouă;
park the car, then hike to the base of the fortress for about 30 minutes, followed by another 30 minutes of
hiking up.
⧫ The duration of the hike is about 2 hours.
⧫ Basic hike equipment required.
⧫ Activities: trekking; paragliding.
Description:
Located about 100 km from Raven’s Nest (2-hour drive), this historic Dacian fortress sits at 1083 m, overlooking the Cricăului and Bucerzii valleys. A 30-minute hike from Craiva Nouă village leads to the base, followed by another 30 minutes uphill. Basic hiking gear recommended. Activities include trekking and paragliding.
Apoulon was a major Dacian center and the last refuge of King Decebal during Roman expansion. Built with stone terraces and “murus dacicus” walls, its peak was in the 1st century BC. Archaeological finds include sanctuaries, homes, vases, and coins.
Later, a medieval fortification was built on the site, used until the 17th century, witnessing battles and massacres, including after Michael the Brave’s assassination. Nearby, the partially destroyed village of Craiva Veche shows remnants of old homes and a church.
Helpful information
⧫ From Raven’s nest: 1h 20 min drive / approx. 57 km by car
⧫ Access from Beiuș > Arieșeni > Câmpeni - after Câmpeni turn right on DN74 towards Abrud Roșia Montană.
⧫ Access from Turda > Ocoliș > Salciua de Jos - before Câmpeni turn left on DN74 towards Abrud Roșia Montană.
⧫ There is a minimum of 5 persons required for a visit. We suggest calling before the visit to affiliate to a group – 0258 783 165 (keep in mind that the guide only speaks Romanian so bring a friend who can translate).
⧫ Visiting hours – both the Roman mines and the museum – the ensemble can be visited Monday-Friday between 9 AM. to 2 PM (8:00-14:00).
⧫ Pricing – 10 RON per ticket for adults and 5 RON for children
Description
Located northeast of Abrud in the Detunatelor Mountains, Roșia Montană is one of Europe’s oldest mining settlements, with a history of gold extraction dating back to before Roman times. Known as Alburnus Maior in 131 AD, the town features over 7 km of Roman galleries and 80 km of medieval mining tunnels.
Visitors can explore the Gold Mining Museum, housed in former mines, with preserved Roman galleries, ancient mining tools, wax tablets, and exhibits showcasing the town’s mining heritage. The tour includes a 157-step descent and 200 m of accessible Roman tunnels.
Despite centuries of gold wealth, the town struggles with poverty. Roșia Montană has been at the center of national debates over mining, leading to its designation as a historic site of national importance and proposed UNESCO recognition.
Helpful information
⧫ From Raven’s Nest: 1 hour drive to the location / 5-7 hours hike / approx. 24 km by car
⧫ Scărița Belioara is a Geo-Botanical Natural Reserve
⧫ A medium difficulty hike route depending on your physical condition.
⧫ No special gear needed. No rock climbing involved.
⧫ Landscape: mountainous, steep hills, country side
⧫ The highest altitude is 1,382 m on the Scărița Peak
Description
Hiking to Scărița Belioara in the Apuseni Mountains offers a unique adventure through steep stone walls, glacial relicts, and diverse meadows, valleys, hills, and plateaus. Thick forests cloak imposing limestone formations, creating stunning natural landscapes.
The reserve is home to rare plant species like Gentiana acaulis, Dryas octopetala, Nigritella rubra, Aquilegia nigricans, and Lilium martagon, as well as ancient pines, spruce, larch, junipers, and protected yews. Wildlife includes butterflies and the golden eagle, Romania’s largest raptor.
Located near Ocoliş and Poşaga villages, Scărița Belioara can be visited year-round. Energetic hikers can follow the 9 km trail up to Șesul Craiului at 1,350 m, a breathtaking limestone plateau with panoramic views.
Helpful information
⧫ From Raven’s Nest: 83 km, 2-hour drive
⧫ We recommend you visit the cave in May-June because when summer begins, the ice formations are significantly bigger than the ones in late summer/autumn.
⧫ Entrance fee to the cave is approx. 3 EUR (13 lei)
⧫ Visiting hours: Mon-Sat: 10 am – 6 pm; Sun: 10 am – 5 pm.
⧫ During the low season, we recommend that you contact the guide before reaching the cave. You can contact them at 0742010347 or 0740894996.
⧫ You can visit the cave only with a guide in a group of minimum 10, but give them a call just in case.
⧫ The duration of a visit is around 45 minutes. Warm clothes recommended - the temperature inside the cave is maximum 1 degree Celsius.
Description:
One of Romania’s most famous caves, Scărișoara Ice Cave in Gârda de Sus, Alba County, houses one of Europe’s largest underground glaciers, with 7,500 m³ of ice dating back over 10,500 years to the Ice Age. Studies have shown it to be the oldest known cave glacier in the world, offering insights into Europe’s climate over the Holocene.
The cave features a vertical shaft entrance, leading to the Grand Hall—a 3,000 m² ice plateau with an 18 m ice cliff and the “Pool of Ice.” Visitors can also explore “The Church” with its seasonal stalagmites and stalactites. Accessible via a 5 km trail from Gârda de Sus, the cave can be visited year-round.
Helpful information
⧫ From Raven’s Nest option A: 3 hour drive / about 150 km - fastest route (this route contains restricted usage or private roads)
⧫ From Raven’s Nest option B: 3 hour and 50 min drive / about 188 km - this route has restricted usage or private roads)
⧫ Access inside is allowed only in groups, with a guide. Each group can enter at a 20 min time difference.
⧫ Taking photos and filming inside the cave is allowed only with previously paid fees.
⧫ The visitation tour of the cave lasts for about 45 minutes.
⧫ Open hours: Tuesday to Sunday, between 10am to 5pm. The last entrance is at 4.30 pm.
⧫ Visiting tax: adults – 20 lei; children – 10 lei; photographing fee – 15 lei;
⧫ Temperature inside the cave +10C, humidity 97%.
⧫ Warm clothes recommended
Description
Located in Chișcău village at the foot of the Bihor Mountains, Bear Cave is one of Romania and Europe’s most unique natural wonders. Discovered accidentally in 1975, it is famous for the 140 cave bear skeletons found inside, a species extinct for over 17,000 years.
The cave stretches 1,500 m, with 800 m open to tourists across three galleries:
- Bone Gallery – at the entrance, showcasing the bear skeletons and the discovery crack.
- Emil Racoviță Gallery – the most impressive, featuring thousands of stalagmites and stalactites.
- Candle Gallery – near the exit, with hundreds of stalagmites resembling candles, creating a shrine-like atmosphere with the cave lighting.
Bear Cave combines fascinating archaeology with spectacular natural formations, making it a must-visit in the Apuseni Mountains.
Helpful information
⧫ From Raven’s Nest: 3 hour drive / about 170 km / 5-6 hour hike
⧫ Recommended gear includes: full body neoprene, hoodie, pants, socks, gloves, mountain
boots or knee boots, a helmet with a flashlight, survival foil and at least 2 pieces of mountain
rope of 25m each as you will have to pass 2 small jumps.
⧫ Bring with you food rich in calories, water supply, first-aid kit
⧫ For speleological visits, you’ll need approval from the Speleological Patrimonium Committee,
the Salvamont (Mountain Human Rescue) Service of Bihor and Apuseni Natural Park.
Description:
Named one of Romania’s seven natural wonders, the Fortress of Ponor is the country’s grandest karst phenomenon, comparable in Europe only to Slovenia’s Škocjan Caves. Located in Apuseni National Park, it features three large limestone valleys (“dolines”) stretching over 3,500 m, with a lowest point at 950 m.
Adventure seekers can explore hiking trails, caverns, and the subterranean river, marveling at vertical walls, reverse stalagmites, and fast-flowing streams. Up to Taberei Hall, light gear and rubber boots are sufficient, but deeper cavern exploration requires more equipment and an experienced guide, recommended for seasoned tourists.
Helpful information
⧫ From Raven’s Nest: 1 hour drive / 50 km trip
⧫ Dress for temperatures several degrees lower than in the surrounding uplands, and wear grippy footwear.
⧫ Pay the entry fee after the first bridge. Fee is 3 RON.
⧫ Camping is forbidden inside the canyon.
⧫ The best period for climbing is from April to October. During very hot or rainy days the routes located inside caves offer a good alternative.
⧫ Basic hiking equipment recommended.
Description:
Located 6 km west of Turda and 15 km southeast of Cluj-Napoca, Turda Gorges is a stunning natural reserve along the Hășdate River in the Trascău Mountains. The 2.9 km canyon features dramatic limestone walls up to 300 m high, sharp ridges, rock towers, and caves, making it one of Romania’s most impressive gorges.
The reserve is rich in biodiversity, with over 1,000 plant and animal species, including protected birds of prey like the Golden Eagle. Hiking trails offer a 7.2 km round trip with panoramic views and medium difficulty, while the gorges are a premier destination for rock climbers, with routes suitable for beginners and advanced climbers alike.
Turda Gorges combines breathtaking scenery, adventure, and natural heritage, making it a must-visit in the Apuseni Mountains.