The Danube Gorge, known as Clisura Dunării in Romanian, is a breathtaking region located in the southwestern part of Romania, within the Banat region. This road trip follows the Danube River, which serves as a natural border between Romania and Serbia. Along the way, you will discover stunning landscapes, historic landmarks, and charming villages.
The road from Orșova to the village of Coronini stretches for approximately 95 kilometers, offering one of the most breathtaking drives in Romania. Nearly the entire route runs parallel to the Danube River, providing stunning views of the water and towering cliffs.
This scenic road, officially known as DN57, winds through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the Danube Gorge (Clisura Dunării).
Starting the Journey in Orșova
Our journey begins in the port city of Orșova, a picturesque town on the banks of the Danube. Before hitting the road, we took some time to explore Dragalina Park, a peaceful spot offering panoramic views of the city, the port, and the train station. This is a fantastic place for travelers who enjoy photography or simply want to relax while admiring the scenery. We spent nearly an hour here, walking through the park and capturing beautiful moments.
Must-See Landmarks: Decebalus Rex and Mraconia Monastery
A short drive from Orșova brings us to two remarkable landmarks:
Decebalus Rex Sculpture – This is the tallest rock sculpture in Europe, standing at an impressive 55 meters. It represents Decebalus, the last king of Dacia, who fought against the Roman Empire. This iconic monument is an unmissable sight and a great spot for photos.
Mraconia Monastery – Nestled right on the banks of the Danube, this peaceful monastery offers a stunning view of the river. The combination of the monastery’s beauty and the surrounding natural landscape makes it a perfect stop for history and culture enthusiasts.
The Kazan Gorge and Dubova Gulf
Continuing our trip, we arrive at the Kazan Gorge, the narrowest section of the Danube in this region. This gorge is divided into two sections: Small Kazan and Great Kazan. The river flows between towering cliffs, creating one of the most spectacular sights along the route.
Right next to the village of Dubova, we find the Dubova Gulf, which sits between the Small and Great Kazan. This is an excellent place to stop and take in the breathtaking scenery of steep cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
The Danube Widens: Scenic Villages Along the Route
After passing through the Kazan Gorge, the Danube becomes much wider, creating a stunning contrast to the narrow cliffs earlier in the trip. The road continues alongside the river, passing through several charming Romanian villages. This stretch of the journey is more relaxed, with plenty of opportunities to stop, take photos, and admire the peaceful river landscape.
A Short Stop After Svinița
One of the best viewpoints is just past Svinița, a small Romanian village. Here, you can see the towering mountains and dramatic cliffs that rise from the riverbanks on both the Romanian and Serbian sides. It’s a perfect place to take a break and enjoy the view.
Approaching the Final Destination
As we near the end of our journey, a few more fascinating sights come into view:
Romanian Wind Farm – Close to Moldova Nouă, we noticed a large wind farm on top of a mountain. These towering wind turbines contrast beautifully with the natural landscape.
Golubac Fortress (Serbia) – Although located across the river in Serbia, this impressive medieval fortress can be seen from the Romanian side. Built right on the banks of the Danube, Golubac Fortress is a striking historical landmark that adds to the magic of the journey.
From the village of Coronini, you can spot the beautiful Golubac Fortress. You can check out this post if you wish to visit this place: Experience the Beauty of the Danube and Coronini.
Our road trip officially ends at Moldova Nouă, where we stop following the Danube and head towards the city of Oravița. However, for those who wish to continue along the river, the road extends to Baziaș, the last Romanian settlement before reaching the Serbian border.
Final Thoughts
This road trip along the Danube Gorge is a perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and culture. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a history lover, or simply someone who enjoys scenic drives, this route offers unforgettable experiences. Be sure to bring your camera, take your time exploring, and soak in the breathtaking landscapes of Clisura Dunării!
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