Lakes, rocks, spirits – 6 natural wonders in Transylvania you must see before you die

The Korond Snail Hill is an 8-hectare geological reserve located at the northern exit of Corund (Romania), at an altitude of approximately 643 metres. This site is home to Romania's largest aragonite deposit, a carbonate mineral with a metallic sheen considered a semi-precious stone. The area has been nationally protected since 1980.

The nature trail is well-developed, featuring protective railings, benches, and information boards to guide visitors through the fascinating geological phenomena. Here, you can observe not only aragonite and calcite deposits but also, as a unique highlight, fossilised remains encased in calcite.

(Photo: Visit Harghita Facebook page)

One of Székely Land's most mysterious medieval ruins is located near Praid, atop a steep, forest-covered hill. The remnants of the fortress known as Rapsonné's Castle are nestled among andesite rocks – moss-covered walls, sunken stones, and an artificial water reservoir tell the story of the fortress's former role. It is believed to have been built in the 13th century, possibly providing refuge during the Mongol invasion, but it was abandoned shortly after. Over time, nature reclaimed the walls, and today the ruins, blending seamlessly with their surroundings, offer a unique experience.

Several legends are associated with the castle. Some tales describe Rapsonné as a fairy or witch who built her castle with the help of a black cat and a rooster, while other traditions link her to siblings who constructed other castles in the region. The most famous story claims that Rapsonné made a pact with the devil to attend mass in Cluj-Napoca: she had a magical road built over the mountains in exchange for Praid's gold and the valley's silver. However, Rapsonné outwitted the devil, causing the road to vanish, though the legend endured. Around the ruins, people still speak of Rapsonné's rose, said to bring extraordinary luck to those who approach the castle with respect. The site can be reached sustainably on foot, offering visitors the tranquillity of nature and the enchantment of legends.

(Where the castle once stood - Photo: Cazare Praid)

Red Lake (Lacu Roșu) is located at the foot of the Bicaz Gorge and is distinguished by tree trunks protruding from the submerged forest. It was formed in 1838 due to a sudden landslide. The reddish colour of the lake's water is caused by sediment washed down from the Red Rock by rain.

The lake's origin is steeped in a tragic and mystical folk tale. According to the story, a young girl named Eszter was kidnapped by a tyrannical bandit leader. She prayed to God for deliverance, and the heavens responded with fury: a massive storm arose, causing the collapsing mountains to bury the bandit and create the lake in its place. The protruding tree trunks stand as witnesses to the destroyed forest and the past.

The gorge carved by the Bicaz Stream is one of Transylvania's most renowned natural wonders. It features 200–300-metre-high rock walls and winding paths. The Bicaz Gorge is not only a natural spectacle but also a popular training ground for climbers.

The gorge serves as a passage between Moldavia and Transylvania, historically facilitating trade and cultural exchange. The surrounding Nagyhagymás Mountains boast a rich variety of endemic flora and fauna and are protected as part of a UNESCO biosphere reserve.

One of the most iconic sights of the Hagymás Mountains is the Lonely Rock (Piatra Singuratică), a 1,608-metre-high dolomite block that stands out prominently and is recognisable from afar. It can be accessed from either the Bicaz Gorge or the Nagyhagymás area.

Its name derives from its solitary position, standing like a sentinel over the landscape. Naturally, a legend is associated with the site: according to one tale, a Székely warrior stood guard here in ancient times, waiting for his fallen comrades to return from battle, but they never came. The gods turned him into stone so he could stand as an eternal memorial. The nearby mountain hut is an excellent resting point for hikers.

(Photo: Dezső László / Visit Harghita)

Borsec lies in the heart of the Gyergyó Mountains and is renowned for its more than 15 mineral springs. The term "borvíz" originates here, referring to the sparkling waters of the carbonated springs, which have been used for medicinal purposes since the 16th century. The crystal-clear waters, with their varying mineral compositions, are recommended for digestive, circulatory, and musculoskeletal issues. Walkways and drinking fountains in the area allow visitors to sample the waters directly from the springs.

Today, Borsec is a model of sustainable health tourism: the local community has respectfully utilised nature's gift for centuries, and visitors are encouraged to engage responsibly with this tradition.

(Photo: https://statiuneaborsec.ro/)

These six natural wonders are not just visual spectacles but also journeys into the geological, cultural, and spiritual depths of Transylvania. Whether it's the power of nature (Red Lake, Bicaz Gorge), volcanic energy (Lake Saint Anne), or soul-stirring panoramas (Madarasi Harghita, Lonely Rock), these locations beckon visitors time and again.

Travel responsibly – Harghita County is home to particularly sensitive natural treasures, so we encourage all visitors to tread carefully on the trails, respect the locals' living spaces, and leave nothing behind but memories.