About 20 km away from the small city of Rupea you will find the village of Racos which is popular destination because of its captivating natural marvels waiting to be explored. Here, located within close proximity, you’ll encounter an ancient volcanic crater, an enchanting emerald lake, and striking basaltic columns. With their proximity, you can effortlessly explore these wonders within just a few hours, making for a memorable and fulfilling excursion.
The old volcano (Vulcanul Racos)
Located in close proximity to the charming village of Racos lies the remarkable remnants of a once-active volcano or vulcanul Racos in Romanian, serving as the nearest attraction to the area.
Our journey began with a visit to this geological site, situated on the outskirts of the commune. Accessible by vehicle, you can conveniently drive right up to the base of the volcano, providing an excellent starting point for your exploration of the region’s natural wonders.
As we approached, the imposing presence of the volcano’s crater became increasingly apparent, evoking a sense of awe and curiosity within us.
Exploring the crater of the former volcano offers a unique chance to see many signs of its active past. As you explore this special place, you’ll find various elements that vividly show its fiery history. One of the most noticeable features is the volcanic ash scattered around, reminding us of the intense geological activity that once happened here.
Important tip: Stick to the marked paths for visitors to stay safe
Perched on top of a big hill, the crater gives visitors an amazing view of the wide landscape surrounding the former volcano. From here, you can see stunning views that spread out in all directions, showing the varied geography of the area. The view includes green valleys, rolling hills, and faraway peaks, creating a beautiful scene that goes on as far as you can see. This special perspective lets you see how the volcano fits into the larger natural environment, giving clues about how the land formed over thousands of years. Standing at the edge of the crater, surrounded by peaceful surroundings, you can’t help but feel amazed and respectful of the grand landscape in front of you.
The emerald lake (Lacul de Smarald)
Once a busy quarry where basalt was mined, this place has now turned into a beautiful lake with a unique and striking character. Surrounded by tall rock walls that tell the story of its transformation, the lake feels calm and mysterious. Walking down the pathways that lead to the water’s edge, visitors get a close look at the mesmerizing scene.
What really catches your eye, though, is the amazing green color of the lake’s water—it’s like the most beautiful emeralds hence its name, the emerald lake or lacul de smarald in Romanian. This stunning color makes the landscape even more magical, shining brightly on everything around it. When the sunlight hits the water, it sparkles and shines, making it even more enchanting.
In this amazing place, you can’t help but get lost in thought, thinking about the wonders of nature and the incredible beauty all around. Whether you’re standing by the water or looking at it from up high, the emerald green lake fills you with wonder and amazement, inviting you to explore and think deeply. This is truly a place where the line between natural and magical blurs, leaving a lasting impression on everyone lucky enough to see it.
Other must-see attractions nearby:
In addition to exploring the wonders of Racos itself, there are several captivating attractions in the surrounding area waiting to be discovered. Here are some notable destinations worth visiting:
- The Rupea Fortress – Just 20 km away, this well-preserved medieval fortress sits atop a hill and offers incredible views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a must-see for history enthusiasts!
- The Transylvanian village of Viscri – explore this wonderful and unique traditional Transylvanian village, including the famous Fortified Church located in the village.
- The Fortified Church in Saschiz – as you drive towards Sighisoara, right next to the main road, almost in the middle of the village, you will find the old Fortified Church.
