The Bicaz Gorges are an impressive natural area located in southeastern Romania, on the border between Transylvania and Moldavia. These gorges were formed by the Bicaz River, which over time carved out a series of spectacular defiles.
The Bicaz River alongside the road in the Bicaz Gorges
The area is famous for its biodiversity and offers visitors exceptionally beautiful scenery and a wild, picturesque natural setting.
In this article
Location
The Bicaz Gorges cut through the Hășmaș Massif along the Bicaz River and pass through Neamț and Harghita counties.
Bicaz Gorges road
Access to the area is via national road DN12C, a secondary national road in Romania connecting the towns of Gheorgheni and Bicaz.
If you're traveling from Gheorgheni, Harghita County, take the DN12C toward Piatra Neamț. You'll reach the gorges after passing Red Lake and the tunnel.
If you're starting your trip from Piatra Neamț, Neamț County, take the DN15 toward Bicaz, then the DN12C toward the town of Gheorgheni. You'll reach the gorges after passing through several villages (Bistrița, Pângărați, Tarcău, Bicaz, Tașca, Bicazu Ardelean).
Distances
Distances to the gorges:
from Bucharest – 5 hr 35 min (362.9 km) via DN1/E60 and DN12/E578
from Cluj-Napoca – 3 hr 56 min (246.6 km) via the Transylvania Motorway/A3
from Târgu Mureș – 2 hr 40 min (135.9 km) via DJ135 and DN13B
from Alba Iulia – 3 hr 50 min (267.9 km) via the Transylvania Motorway/A3
from Bacău – 2 hr 6 min (113.5 km) via DN15
from Piatra Neamț – 1 hr 8 min (57.6 km) via DN15 and DN12C
from Bistrița – 3 hr 2 min (173.8 km) via DN15/E578
from Arad – 6 hr 9 min (516.0 km) via A1
from Timișoara – 6 hr 7 min (484.0 km) via A1
from Oradea – 5 hr 53 min (392.2 km) via the Transylvania Motorway/A3 and DN1/E60
Travel time to the Bicaz Gorges may vary depending on the distance covered and on stops to visit attractions along the way. Borsec Resort is a short distance away.
Road through the Bicaz Gorges
The difficulty of the route can be affected by weather conditions and traffic on the mountain road. It is advisable to check up-to-date information on road conditions before setting off.
Routes and Means of Transportation
There are several routes and means of transportation available for reaching the attraction.
Bicaz Gorges landscape
The most popular option is by road, and the DN12C is one of the most famous roads in Romania thanks to its impressive panoramic views of the gorges. The Dobruja Gorges area is similar in this respect.
Another option is to take the train to Bicaz station, and from there you can continue your journey by bus to the gorges.
There are also organized tours that include professional guiding and transportation.
Sections of the Gorges
The Hășmaș Massif is made up predominantly of limestone and other soluble rocks, which have been eroded by the Bicaz River over hundreds or even thousands of years. This is how a narrow valley formed between the high mountains.
Bicaz Gorges landscape
The area stretches over a length of 8 kilometers, and the entire route consists of tight bends along with uphill and downhill sections. The narrow road, with only two lanes, one in each direction, calls for caution, especially at busy times.
Rock wall in the Bicaz Gorges
The gorges begin at the eastern edge of the Lacu Roșu resort, at kilometer 26.5, and end downstream at kilometer 34 of national road 12C, at the entrance to Bicaz-Chei commune. According to mountaineer Emilian Cristea, they are divided into 4 distinct sections:
Section I, called “Între Chei” (Between the Gorges), runs from kilometer 26.5 to kilometer 28.7, stretching from the eastern edge of the Lacu Roșu resort to Poarta de Piatră (Stone Gate). Here, the landscape is bounded by the southeastern wall of Suhardul Mic and the slopes of Cupaș Mountain, with Suhard Cave at the confluence of the Cupaș and the Bicaz.
Section II, known as “Polițele Bardosului” (Bardos Ledges), runs from kilometer 28.7 to kilometer 31 and lies between Poarta de Piatră and Gâtul Iadului (Hell's Throat). This section is dominated by Piatra Altarului (1,120 m) and Piatra Poienii Mountain, with hairpin bends in the road and access to the Lapoș Gorges and the Bicăjel Gorges.
Section III, “Gâtul Iadului”, is a narrow, canyon-like stretch between kilometer 31 and kilometer 32.2, located between Piatra Surducului and Gura Bardosului.
Section IV, “Sfârșitul Cheilor” (End of the Gorges), covers the area downstream of Gâtul Iadului, between kilometer 32 and kilometer 34, and is characterized by gentler slopes and conglomerates. Here you'll find the confluence with the Șugău Stream and the Șugău Gorges. Find out more on Wikipedia.ro
Tourist Attractions on the Way to the Bicaz Gorges and in the Surrounding Area
Travelers who choose to drive to the Bicaz Gorges can visit numerous tourist attractions along the way.
Red Lake
Red Lake
A natural dam lake, formed after an earthquake when a mountainside collapsed.
Boats on Red Lake
Lake Bicaz
Lake Bicaz landscape
Also known as Izvorul Muntelui Lake, this reservoir is the largest dam lake in Romania, covering an area of about 32 square kilometers. It lies in the heart of the Ceahlău Mountains, about 55 km from the gorges.
Bicaz Dam
Bicaz Dam
Built in the 1950s, the Bicaz Dam is an impressive hydroelectric structure located near the Bicaz Gorges. About 127 meters high and 435 meters long, it forms the artificial lake known as Izvorul Muntelui or Lake Bicaz.
Toaca Peak
The rocky Ceahlău Mountains in the Romanian Carpathians
Toaca Peak is located in the Ceahlău Mountains, about 40 km from the reserve.
Praid Salt Mine
Praid Salt Mine
Praid Salt Mine is 80 km away, in Harghita County (don't miss Turda Salt Mine if you're visiting Cluj County!).
Hășmașul Negru
Hășmașul Negru offers numerous viewpoints and marked trails leading to the most beautiful spots in the massif.
Voroneț Monastery
Voroneț Monastery
The best-known monastery in northern Moldavia, it is famous for its renowned blue frescoes and dates back to the 16th century (about 160 km away).
Sucevița Monastery
Sucevița Monastery
Sucevița Monastery is one of the best-preserved monasteries in northern Moldavia and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (about 200 km away).
Neamț Fortress
It is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Romania and an important tourist attraction (about 100 km away).
The “Nicolae Popa” Museum in Târgu Neamț
The museum houses an impressive collection of Romanian folk art.
Bicăjel Gorges
The Bicăjel Gorges nature reserve offers a rare opportunity to explore wild nature and is just a short distance away.
Vatra Dornei Resort
Vatra Dornei Resort is about 150 km away. See details here
Mountain Trails
Bicaz Gorges
Here are a few examples of mountain trails that visitors can explore in the Bicaz Gorges:
Piatra Altarului Trail: The trail usually starts from the entrance and climbs the slopes of the Hășmaș Mountains. It is suitable for day hikes and offers an impressive panoramic view of the area and its surroundings. The hike is considered easy to moderate, and the time needed to complete it depends on your own pace and the weather.
Devil's Waterfall Trail: This trail is one of the most popular choices among tourists, as it leads straight to Devil's Waterfall. Starting from the entrance to the Bicaz Gorges, it takes you along marked paths through the forest, offering spectacular views and a special atmosphere. It is suitable for all ages and levels of hiking experience, and the distance and difficulty can vary depending on the route chosen and local conditions.
Ceahlău Peak Trail: It is longer and more difficult than the two mentioned above and requires adequate physical fitness. Usually starting near the gorges, the trail climbs the slopes of the Ceahlău Mountains toward their summit. Along the way, hikers will encounter varied landscapes, including forests, alpine meadows, and steep cliffs. This hike can take a full day or even longer.
Șugău Gorges Trail: It is ideal for those who want to take in the beauty of the area from above. Usually starting from the entrance to the Bicaz Gorges or from nearby areas, the trail heads toward the upper parts of the gorges, offering spectacular perspectives of the surrounding landscape. The path winds among rocks and forests, providing excellent opportunities for photos and moments of contemplation. It is suitable for moderate hikes and includes a few more difficult sections. The length and duration of the trail can vary depending on the starting point and your own pace, but in general it is suitable for an outing of a few hours or a full day.
Each with its own features and challenges, these trails offer excellent opportunities to explore the nature and landscapes of an area protected as a nature reserve.
Fauna and Flora
The Bicaz Gorges are home to a rich variety of plant and animal species adapted to the rocky mountain environment. As for the flora, the rocky slopes and the damp areas near the Bicaz River host various alpine and subalpine plant species, including common ivy (Hedera helix), butcher's broom (Ruscus aculeatus), and spleenwort (Asplenium).
Bicaz Gorges
In addition, in spring and summer the alpine meadows are adorned with colorful flowers such as gentian (Gentiana), mountain bellflower (Campanula), and edelweiss (Leontopodium alpinum).
As for the fauna, the area provides habitat for numerous animal species, including mammals, birds, and reptiles.
Bicaz Gorges
The wild mammals found in the area include the red deer (Cervus elaphus), the brown bear (Ursus arctos), the wolf (Canis lupus), and the lynx (Lynx lynx). In the sky, you can spot birds of prey such as the peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus), the white-tailed eagle (Gyps fulvus), and the golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos). The river's waters are also home to fish species such as brown trout (Salmo trutta), grayling (Thymallus thymallus), and barbel (Barbus barbus).
Accommodation
The Bicaz Gorges area offers a variety of facilities for tourists, such as accommodation and local hospitality, restaurants and traditional food, and a wide range of activities and recreational facilities.
For those who choose to stay near Red Lake, one accommodation option is Căsuțele Likas, in a quiet and charming mountain setting.
Căsuțele Likas
Pensiunea Hășmaș, in the same area, is rated Exceptional on Booking.com and offers facilities for hikers.
Besides campsites and guesthouses, there are many accommodation options nearby in hotels and villas offering comfort and modern amenities. Hotel Lacul Roșu, a 4-star hotel located 5 km from the Bicaz Gorges, is extremely well rated.
Hotel Lacul Roșu
Pensiunea Cheile Șugăului, located 2.5 km from the gorges, is praised in guest reviews for its welcoming hosts and cleanliness.
Tourists can also stay in local homes and traditional guesthouses, an experience that gives them the chance to connect directly with the hospitality and culture of the area.
For those who want to experience the local cuisine, the area has numerous restaurants and terraces serving traditional regional dishes. From delicious home-style food to local specialties, visitors have the chance to discover the flavor and authenticity of the region's cuisine.
Weather
Here is the weather forecast for Bicaz-Chei for the next 7 days:
Recreational Facilities
1. Hiking and Trekking Trails: From easy trails for beginners to more challenging routes for advanced hikers, there are options for every experience level.
2. Mountain Biking: You can explore the surrounding area by bike.
3. Water Sports: The area offers opportunities for various water sports, such as canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Visitors can rent specialized equipment and explore the natural beauty of the local waters.
4. Boat Trips: For a more relaxing experience, visitors can opt for boat trips.
5. Fishing: For fishing enthusiasts, there are fishing opportunities on the Bicaz River and on Red Lake. The area is known for its variety of fish species and offers excellent opportunities for a relaxing day of fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which part of the Carpathians are the Bicaz Gorges in?
The Bicaz Gorges are located in the Eastern Carpathians, in northeastern Romania, in the Hășmaș Mountains.
What can you visit at the Bicaz Gorges?
You can visit tourist and natural attractions such as the Bicaz Dam, Lake Bicaz, the Bicăjel Gorges, the Șugău Gorges, Munticelu Cave, Devil's Waterfall, Piatra Singuratică, and the Lapoș Gorges.
Which lake is near the Bicaz Gorges?
Lake Bicaz, located nearby, is a reservoir formed by the construction of the dam on the river of the same name.
How far are the gorges from Harghita?
Harghita is about 75-80 km away.
How tall is the Bicaz Dam?
The Bicaz Dam is about 127 meters high (30 m of which are underground) and is one of the tallest dams in Romania.
Did You Know…?
1. …the gorges have been a filming location for film and television productions over the years? Among the best-known films shot here are “Furtuna” (1975) and “Ultimul Corupt din România” (2012), both directed by Sergiu Nicolaescu.
2. …many legends circulate in the area about werewolves and other supernatural creatures that haunt the forests and sheer cliffs of the gorges?
3. …nearby is the Bicaz Hydroelectric Power Plant, a monument of Soviet and Romanian engineering and technology from the 1950s and 1960s, which contributes significantly to electricity production in the region?
The Bicaz Gorges remain one of the most captivating and impressive natural attractions in Romania, fascinating visitors with their spectacular scenery and natural diversity. From massive rocks sculpted by water to the lush green of the forests and the brilliant blue of the lake, every step through this area offers a memorable experience. Whether you're heading for the mountain peaks or exploring the depths of the gorges, every corner hides its own story and a special beauty.
They are definitely a place every traveler should add to their list of destinations to explore in Romania!
About 65 km away is Toplița Resort. See also the articles about Borsec Resort, Durău Resort, and Sovata Resort
Another memorable experience for nature and adventure lovers is the Turda Gorges. See also the Tureni Gorges, Borzești Gorges, Râmeț Gorges, and Vălișoara Gorges in Transylvania.
