It is the best-known gorge in Piatra Craiului and an easy walk on a forest road, fine for children too.
About the place
The gorges are 3.9 km long in all, and the most striking section, Valea Prăpăstiilor, is 1.7 km: narrow, with vertical walls and layers of Jurassic limestone showing in the rock. The valley is dry: it formed when the roof of an old cave collapsed, according to the Piatra Craiului National Park administration. With luck you will see chamois on the walls.
On foot you start from Zărnești, through Gura Râului, or from the Fântâna lui Botorog spring; leave the car in the parking spots along the road, before the barrier at the entrance to the narrow section. Marked trails lead from the gorge to the Curmătura hut (blue stripe, 2–3 hours from Zărnești) and to La Table (red cross, 3–4 hours). In winter the road and path can be covered in snow and ice.
Good to know
- The gorge is inside Piatra Craiului National Park: buy the visitor ticket online, by SMS or from the machines in Zărnești.
- In winter wear boots with a good grip and warm clothes: between the high walls it is shady and colder.
- Salvamont Zărnești (mountain rescue) has a base right by the gorge; in an emergency call 112.
Opening hours
Opening hours are not confirmed. Check the venue's website before you go.