• The Semenic Ski Resort

    The Semenic Ski Resort

    The Semenic ski resort is located in the scenic Semenic Mountains, Romania. As a pivotal subunit of the Banat Mountains and part of the southern group of the Western Carpathians, this resort reaches its pinnacle with the majestic Gozna Stone and the towering Semenic peak which has an altitude over 1.400 m.

    Despite the elevated location, the climate remains remarkably mild and easily tolerable, making it an ideal destination even for families with young children. Winter temperatures range from a crisp -25°C to a comfortable 6°C, while summers offer a pleasant escape with temperatures fluctuating between 10°C and 25°C.

    Semenic distinguishes itself as one of the rare spots in the country where snow blankets the landscape for approximately six months each year, creating a haven for winter sports enthusiasts.

    From Valiug to Semenic resort

    Unfortunately, a part of the road is in a pretty bad condition but luckily the snow filled some of the potholes making the road somewhat better.

    Interesting fact, as we drove up to Semenic from Valiug the fog gradually started to appear and the rain turned into snow. Even though we visited this place in early April, I didn’t think that I would find such a big amount of snow up in the mountains.

    Road to Semenic covered with snow and dense fog.
    The road leading to the Semenic resort covered with snow.
    The road near the resort.
    The main road protected by tall pine trees.

    Dense fog on top of the mountain

    After we reached the Semenic mountain, which is located at an altitude of over 1.400 m, the fog started to become even denser.

    statiunea semenic sign.
    Semenic resort sign.
    Buildings in the resort.
    Despite the bad weather, there were many tourists in the resort.
    Cabin and the forest in dense fog.
    In the dense fog, I found a cabin located near the edge of the forest.
    Hotel roof.
    Interesting roof of an older hotel.
    Pine tree near the forest
    A pine tree near the forest.
    Winter wonderland.
    Winter, snow, and of course, dense fog – the perfect combination.
    Forest covered with snow.
    Beautiful winter scenery on the Semenic Mountain.

    How to reach this winter wonderland?

    Depending from where are you coming from, you will have two options:

    • Resita – Valiug – Semenic
    • Slatina Timis – Brebu Nou – Semenic

    What else can you visit near Semenic resort?

    • The first option would be the village of Valiug where you can admire the beautiful lake Gozna. If you visit this place in winter, then you will find a ski slope as well.
    • At the foothill of the Banat Mountains, you will find the city of Resita where you can visit the steam locomotive museum. All the steam locomotives from the museum were built a long time ago in Resita.
  • Steam Locomotive Museum In Sibiu

    Steam Locomotive Museum In Sibiu

    The Steam locomotive museum in Sibiu is located near the main train station. Over there you will find a smaller collection of old steam locomotives which once were used by the CFR. Besides the locomotives, you will have the chance to admire an old steam rotary steam plow and a steam crane as well. Unfortunately you won’t find any sorts of information about the old steam locomotives. You can always Google the number of the locomotives and you will find more details about them.

    The CFR 130.503

    Let me give you a couple of details about the 130.503. I heard that it was built in 1921 by Skoda in the former Czechoslovakia and since they performed very well, the Romanian Railway Company or simply the CFR has decided to make a larger order of these types of steam engines. Today you will find this locomotive near another great steam engine which is the 150.1105 loco.

    The CFR 130.503 in the Sibiu steam locomotive museum.

    The 150.1105

    Probably the 150 series locomotive is one of my favorite steam locomotive from the Sibiu steam engine museum. This steam engine was used in Romania for hauling heavy fright trains on some difficult lines like the line between Brasov – Ploiesti. These great locomotives were retired from service in 1978. Unfortunately, today almost all the exhibits are in a pretty bad condition.

    The CFR 150.1105 steam locomotive in Sibiu.

    The No. 94649

    The No. 94649 steam locomotive is a German loco and it was built in 1914 by Schwartzkopff Berlin. As you can see this loco is unfortunately in a pretty bad condition.

    The No. 94649 steam locomotive

    Old rotary snow plow in the Sibiu steam locomotive museum

    In the photo below you can actually see an old rotary steam snow plow which can be found in the small steam locomotive museum. This snow plow was built in Sweden in 1908.

    Steam plow in the Sibiu steam locomotive museum.

    The Ardelt CFR WMA 65.4 Steam Crane

    Among the amazing and old steam locomotives you will find a very special and probably very unique steam crane which was built in 1939. That steam crane is the Ardelt CFR WMA 65.4. Back in its days of glory, it was capable to lift up to 65 tonne. Now you will find this steam crane inside the small steam locomotive museum in Sibiu, right next to the turntable.

    CFR WMA 65.4 Steam Crane

    The 763-148 narrow gauge steam locomotive

    Besides the standard gauge steam locomotive you will also have the chance to admire a couple of narrow gauge steam locomotives which were used in Romania. One example is the CFR 763-148 which was used in the logging industry near Curtea de Argeş.

    CFR 763-148 narrow gauge steam locomotive in Sibiu.

    What else to do in Sibiu?

    Not far from this steam locomotive museum, you will find the historic center of Sibiu. You should check this place out as well.

  • The Red Lake

    The Red Lake

    The Red Lake lies approximately 26 kilometers from the quaint Romanian town of Ghiorgheni. As you embark on your journey to this picturesque destination, be prepared for a drive along winding roads that promise to captivate with their scenic charm. Rest assured, the adventure ahead guarantees breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains that are sure to leave a lasting impression. And as you near your destination, brace yourself for the enchanting allure of the Bicaz Gorge, a stunning continuation of natural beauty waiting to be explored.

    Short history about the Red Lake

    Lacul Roșu, known as the Red Lake in English, stands as one of the largest barrier lakes nestled within the Eastern Carpathian Mountains. Its origins trace back to a monumental landslide that obstructed a valley, prompting the accumulation of water within the resulting basin. The distinctive hue of its name is derived from the reddish sediment that blankets the lakebed, adding a unique allure to its natural splendor.

    The Red Lake in a beautiful summer day.
    Pine forest next to the lake.
    Large forested mountains which surrounds the Red Lake.
    Suhardul Mic mountain.
    The Red lake in the summer.

    Boat riding on the lake

    For an alternative exploration of this captivating lake, consider renting a boat. Conveniently located near the restaurants, you’ll discover a spot where paddle boats are available for rental. Embark on a leisurely excursion across the tranquil waters, soaking in the serene surroundings and creating unforgettable memories amidst nature’s embrace.

    Paddle boats on the Red Lake.
    Tourists admiring the Red lake.

    Conclusions

    The only downside I encountered was the scarcity of parking spots in the vicinity. During my visit, I observed just one paid parking area situated alongside the main road, which was predictably packed with cars. Consequently, I had to settle for parking my vehicle along the roadside, squeezed in amongst others. Despite this inconvenience, I wholeheartedly endorse a visit to this area. Moreover, you’ll discover numerous hiking and trekking trails waiting to be explored nearby.

    What else can you visit in the area?

    A short drive along the main road toward Piatra Neamt will lead you to the stunning Bicaz Gorge, a natural wonder awaiting your discovery.