Close to the city of Cluj-Napoca lies Cheile Turzii, one of the most picturesque reserves in the country. It serves as a haven for nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and climbers. The site beckons with breathtaking vistas, encompassing sheer cliffs, a meandering river, and intriguing caves. The Turda Gorge provides an optimal setting for strolls, picnics, and bird watching. Dive into our detailed hike review below!
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Essentials of Cheile Turzii Nature Reserve
Cheile Turzii is characterized by its unique karst topography. The gorge spans 324 hectares and is sculpted out of Jurassic limestone rocks eroded over time by the Hășdate River. The cliffs soar up to a staggering 200 meters. This region boasts over 1,000 distinct species of plants and animals, inclusive of numerous rare specimens.
Traversing the Gorge
Before delving into the route’s specifics, it’s pivotal to note that the path isn’t designed for strollers. Hence, if you’re considering a trip with an infant, this is a factor to consider. There are four bridges, unmodified for stroller accessibility, coupled with staircases.
Our car was securely parked at a paid facility by Cheia Village. Our chosen trail encompassed both the left and right flanks of the Hășdate Valley, with us crossing the scenic bridges periodically. Intriguingly, each bridge has its moniker; for instance, the second one is dubbed “Middle of the Gorge.” The path also introduces you to quaint caves along the way.
Spanning roughly 1,300 meters, the route isn’t particularly arduous. It’s important to highlight that there’s no cellular reception (given the deep ravine setting). You can trek up to the observation point at the gorge’s extremity and either double back or venture onto lesser-known trails.
Did You Know? Climbers favor this locale due to its uncomplicated access to gear transportation. Over 200 climbing and mountaineering paths are available for exploration.
Captivating Viewpoints – The Ideal Spots for Pictures
Exquisite snapshots often result from a more distant perspective, notably from the Tirolian Cheile Turzii vantage point. Additionally, numerous such locations can be found along the 103G route. Particularly in the summer, with sunflowers in full bloom against the backdrop of the cliffs, the scene is simply mesmerizing.
More blog posts about Romania:
Cluj-Napoca: A Transylvanian Gem
Salina Turda – An Amazing Salt Mine in Romania
Timisoara: What to Do in My Favorite Romanian City
