Red Lake & Bicaz Gorge - Must-see destination!

Red Lake & Bicaz Gorge – Spectacular Nature Experience

Red Lake
Approaching from Gheorgheni, the mountain landscape unfolds in breathtaking beauty: green meadows, rushing streams, vast pine forests and winding mountain roads offering spectacular views.

It’s hard not to stop every few minutes to admire the scenery or take photos. At Pongrácz Pass (1257 m), the panorama is simply irresistible. From here, you can admire the surrounding forested peaks and the impressive Giurgeu Mountains.

Continuing through the Hășmaș Valley, we soon reach Red Lake, located at 983 m altitude – one of the most unique natural attractions in Transylvania.

Formation of the Lake
Red Lake was formed in 1837, during a violent storm. A landslide blocked several streams (Hășmaș, Cohárd, Verescheu and Licaș), creating a natural dam and forming the lake.

The petrified tree trunks emerging from the water create a mysterious and unforgettable atmosphere.

Surrounding peaks include:

Little Cohárd (1352 m)
Great Cohárd (1507 m)
Killer Stone (1406 m)
The lake sometimes turns reddish due to iron oxide carried by nearby streams. According to legend, however, the color comes from the blood of shepherds buried beneath the landslide.

Things to Do at the Lake
The area is well-developed for tourism.

Recommended activities:

boat ride among the tree trunks
walk around the lake on marked trails
hike to Little Cohárd viewpoint (approx. 1.5 hours round trip)
The peaceful atmosphere, fresh mountain air and stunning views make this an unforgettable experience.

Bicaz Gorge
From Red Lake, you can continue towards Bicaz Gorge, one of the most impressive natural formations in Europe.

The limestone canyon features:

vertical cliffs up to 200–300 meters high
roaring mountain streams
waterfalls and caves
 
Main Attractions
On the way:

Fairy Garden rock formations
Oltár Rock (1156 m) with a large cross on top
As the valley narrows, the scenery becomes more dramatic, with towering cliffs on both sides and the Bicaz stream rushing below.

Highlight: “Hell’s Gate” (or “Hell’s Throat”)

Here, the power of nature is overwhelming: steep rock walls, thunderous water and cascading streams create an intense, almost surreal experience.

End of the Route
Further along, the landscape gradually softens. At the confluence of the Ticoș stream, you reach the border between Transylvania and Moldova.

Legend of Red Lake
According to legend, a beautiful girl named Eszter was kidnapped by a bandit. She prayed to the mountains for help, and a violent storm buried them both under rocks, forming the lake.

It is said that her grey-green eyes can still be seen in the water today.

Recommended Route
Odorheiu Secuiesc – Gheorgheni – Red Lake – Bicaz Gorge
(approx. 90 km)

We wish you a wonderful and memorable trip!