Picture this: You’re winding through towering limestone cliffs that seem to touch the sky, with walls so close they could literally crush your car. Welcome to Bicaz Gorge – Romania’s most jaw-dropping natural spectacle that’ll have you questioning if you’re still on planet Earth.
Why Bicaz Gorge Should Be Your Next Adventure
Forget everything you think you know about mountain drives. Bicaz Gorge is a very scenic canyon located in the historic region of Transylvania, in Romania. The road that slices through the gorges is among Romania’s most spectacular. This isn’t just another pretty view – it’s a full-blown adrenaline rush that connects Moldova and Transylvania through some of the most dramatic scenery you’ll ever witness.
Here’s what makes it absolutely unmissable:
The Hell’s Gate Experience – This stunning gorge has a part that is so narrow that it is known as “Neck of Hell.” Seriously, the walls close in so tight that you’ll feel like the mountain is literally trying to swallow you whole. In some spots, there’s barely 7 meters between the towering rock faces!
Limestone Giants That Defy Logic – We’re talking about sheer, 300m-high limestone rocks that rise straight up from the roadside. These aren’t just big rocks – they’re geological masterpieces that have been carved by the Bicaz River over thousands of years.
A Road That’s Pure Cinema – The road through the gorges, known locally as Cheile Bicazului, is totally paved but pretty narrow and defiant, with tunnels and 12 hairpin turns. Every curve reveals another “how is this even real?” moment.
The Epic DN12C: Your Gateway to Adventure
Let’s talk about the star of the show – National Road DN12C. This isn’t your average mountain road; it’s a engineering marvel that somehow managed to thread its way through what locals once called “Gura Iadului” cum era numită partea inferioară a acestuia (the Mouth of Hell).
What Makes DN12C Special:
- Distance: The road through the gorges is 10.8 km (6.71 miles) long, running from Lacu Roșu to Bicaz-Chei
- The Route: Stretches 55km total, connecting Gheorgheni to Bicaz
- The Challenge: The road through the gorges (National road DN12C, also known locally as Cheile Bicazului) is totally paved but pretty narrow, with tunnels and 12 hairpin turns
Pro Driving Tips:
- Start early to beat the crowds (summer weekends can get crazy busy)
- Road surface very patchy in places, but road still good fun on an adventure bike like a GS, scenery is stunning
- Keep your eyes on the road – the scenery is so distracting that accidents happen when drivers get mesmerized by the views
- The asphalt is good but it’s not worth it to go fast because the view is impressive
Red Lake: Nature’s Own Tragic Masterpiece
After navigating the gorge, you’ll discover Lacul Roșu (Red Lake) – The Red Lake – Lacu Rosu is the largest natural mountain lake in Romania created in 1837 after a major natural landslide. This isn’t just any lake – it’s Romania’s most famous natural dam, with a backstory that’s both fascinating and slightly eerie.More read…
What Makes Red Lake Unforgettable:
- The Sunken Forest: You can still see the tops of drowned fir trees poking through the water like ghostly fingers
- The Name Origin: The name of Red Lake comes from the reddish alluvium (iron oxides and iron hydroxides) deposited in the lake by the Red Creek
- Activities: Perfect for kayaking, fly-fishing, or just soaking in the surreal atmosphere
Adventures for Every Type of Traveler
For Adrenaline Junkies:
- Via Ferrata Astragalus for heart-pounding cliff climbing
- The Bicaz Gorges also offer challenging climbing routes, some of the most difficult in Romania
- Mountain biking trails that’ll test your limits
For Nature Lovers:
- 18 trekking trails allow visitors to discover spectacular scenery and rich wildlife
- Wildlife spotting including the brown bear (Ursus arctos), the lynx (Lynx lynx), the wolf (Canis lupus)
- Bird watching with species like Wallcreeper and Alpine Swift are the most sought after species here along with the critically endangered Apollo Butterfly
For Families and Casual Visitors:
- Easy walking trails around Red Lake
- Along the road, one may find bazaars where one can buy products made by the Romanian and Hungarian craftsmen from this area
- Perfect picnic spots with Instagram-worthy backdrops
Hidden Gems Worth Exploring
Secret Caves and Mysterious Formations:
- The limy walls of the crags hide amazing caves (The Black Cave and The Waterfall Cave) and also circular precipices (Licas, the precipice with three entrances)
- Piatra Singurătică Peak for panoramic views that’ll blow your mind
- Sugău Gorges for a quieter, equally stunning experience
Local Experiences:
- Stay overnight at mountain huts for sunrise views that’ll change your perspective on life
- Sample traditional Romanian and Hungarian crafts from local artisans
- Try fresh trout from the local hatcheries
Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips
Best Times to Visit:
- Summer (June-August): Peak season with warm weather but heavy crowds
- Spring/Fall: It’s impossible to appreciate their real beauty during crowded summer months, the gorges and the lake are best seen on foot during the low season
- Early Morning: Start your day early. This way you can find a parking spot on the narrow spaces along the road
Getting There:
- By Car: Follow DN12C from either Gheorgheni or Bicaz
- Closest Train Stations: Piatra Neamt, Gheorghieni, Bicaz
- Gateway Villages: Balan, Bicaz Chei, Barnadu, and Lacul Rosu
Where to Stay:
- Red Lake area offers hotels, B&Bs, and camping options
- Mountain huts for the full wilderness experience
- Nearby towns for more comfortable accommodations
Safety and Respect
Important Considerations:
- This is bear country and secondarily be prepared with hiking booths and you need to be in top physical shape to mitigate the cliffs of the area
- Weather can change rapidly in the mountains
- Respect the environment – pack out all trash
- Stay on designated trails to protect both yourself and the ecosystem
The Bottom Line
Bicaz Gorge isn’t just a destination – it’s a life-changing experience that’ll have you planning your return visit before you’ve even left. Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding adventure, peaceful nature immersion, or simply want to witness one of Romania’s most spectacular natural wonders, this place delivers on every level.
The combination of the dramatic DN12C road, the mysterious Red Lake, and the countless adventure opportunities makes Bicaz Gorge a must-visit destination that belongs on every traveler’s bucket list. Trust us – your social media feed will never be the same, and neither will your appreciation for the raw power and beauty of nature.
Pack your camera, fuel up your car, and prepare for an adventure that’ll remind you why Romania remains one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Bicaz Gorge is waiting, and it’s absolutely spectacular.
