• The Soimos Fortress in the Mures Valley

    The Soimos Fortress in the Mures Valley

    The Soimos Fortress is located near the small town of Lipova in Arad County, Romania. To reach the fortress ruins, you’ll need to take a short but steep hike, as the fortress was built on top of a large hill. The trail begins just past an abandoned house on the outskirts of Soimos village, right off the main road. The hike usually takes around 30 minutes, including a few short breaks to catch your breath and enjoy the views.

    Built in the 13th century, the Șoimoș Fortress became a significant military base when the Ottomans occupied it in 1552. However, in 1788, the fortress was completely abandoned. Despite its long abandonment, the fortress remains a popular destination, drawing visitors eager to explore its historic ruins and experience the stunning scenery from its hilltop vantage point.

    The Mures Valley

    When you reach the fortress, you’re rewarded with stunning views over a large stretch of the Mures Valley. From this vantage point, you can see the winding Mures River below, flowing peacefully through the valley. Off in the distance, you can also spot the church towers of the Maria Radna Monastery, a historic landmark that stands out beautifully against the landscape. The nearby village of Radna is also visible, adding to the charm of the scene. The panoramic view from the fortress is a highlight for visitors, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty and glimpses of local history.

    The Mures Valley seen from the fortress.
    The Mures Valley.
    Maria Radna Monastery’s church towers, view from the Soimos fortress.
    The Maria Radna Monastery church.

    Interior of the Soimos Fortress

    Inside the fortress, you’ll mostly find scattered ruins, with little else remaining of its former structures. Still, wandering through these remnants allows you to imagine what life here might have been like when the fortress was bustling with activity.

    Ruins inside the Soimos Fortress.
    Old ruins of the fortress.
    Supporting elements built in order to sustain the ruins.
    Supporting elements built to sustain a part of the wall.
    Ruins in the fortress.
    Ruins.
    Old arches which are still standing
    Old arches.
    Small path next to the fotress
    Path leading to the front of the fortress.

    In front of the fortress

    A narrow path leads you to a spot directly in front of the fortress, where you can take in the full view and capture some memorable photos. From this vantage point, you can admire the entire Soimos Fortress with the vast Mures Valley stretching out below. The view includes the winding Mures River, with the town of Lipova on the left bank and the village of Radna on the right. This sweeping landscape, dotted with historic landmarks and natural beauty, adds a sense of timelessness to the fortress experience.

    The Soimos Fortress and the Mures Valley.
    The Soimos Fortress
    The city of Lipova and Radna.
    The city of Lipova and Radna as seen from the fortress.

    What to visit near the Soimos Fortress

    • The Șiria Fortress – this is another old fortress located 30 km away from this place in the Zarand Mountains.
    • Maria Radna Monastery – this monastery is actually very close to the Șoimoș Fortress and you should check it out especially if you are in the area.
    • The Săvârșin Castle – if you plan to drive in the Mureș valley towards Deva then you can plan a short stop at the former residence of King Michael of Romania in Săvârșin.
  • The Jiet Gorge In The Parang Mountains

    The Jiet Gorge In The Parang Mountains

    The day I visited Taii Gorge, I decided to explore another nearby spot, Jiet Gorge, which is just 10 kilometers away. After enjoying the peaceful beauty of Taii Gorge, I headed back to Lonea and made my way toward Jiet Gorge. This gorge is tucked between the stunning Parang Mountains, with a scenic main road running through it that leads up to Obarsia Lotrului. From there, you can even continue on the famous TransAlpina road, which winds all the way to Ranca—a popular ski resort in winter.

    The Ranger’s Waterfall

    One of the highlights of Jiet Gorge is the Ranger’s Waterfall, called “Dusul Padurarului” in Romanian. This small but beautiful waterfall is right by the main road, making it easy to stop and admire. For those who enjoy photography, a path alongside the Jiet River provides various viewpoints of the falls and the lush, surrounding landscape.

    The Ranger's Waterfall
    The Ranger’s waterfall or Dusul Padurarului in Romanian.
    Dusul Padurarului waterfall in the Jiet Gorge.
    The waterfall in slow-motion.
    Jiet river next to the main road
    The Jiet river next to the road in the gorge.

    The nature near Groapa Seaca

    My last stop in Jiet Gorge was at a cozy cabin called Groapa Seaca. After a short hike through the nearby forest, I started my drive back toward Petrosani as the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the mountains.

    Near Groapa Seaca
    The scenery at Groapa Seaca.
    Mist in the forest.
    Mist in the forest during sunset.
    Inside a large pine tree forest.
    Inside a pine forest.
    The forest near Groapa Seaca
    Sunset light hits the forest.

    Other Places to Visit Nearby

    If you have time, I recommend visiting the Miner Rescuer’s Museum in the nearby city of Petrila. The museum is located on the grounds of the former coal mine, which was closed in 2015. Inside, you can see different types of equipment used by rescuers over the years and learn about their important and dangerous work in mining rescue operations.

  • The Charming Taii Gorge Near Petrila

    The Charming Taii Gorge Near Petrila

    Just outside the former mining city of Petrila, around 5 kilometers from its center, lies the beautiful Tăii Gorge. This scenic spot is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy nature and explore the outdoors.

    To get to Tăii Gorge, you need to drive towards the small town of Lonea. As you approach the bridge over the Jiu River, make a left turn right before crossing. From there, simply follow the winding road through the mountains, which will eventually lead you to the entrance of the gorge.

    The drive itself is peaceful, with towering mountains on either side. If you continue along this road, it will guide you further to a picturesque area called Lunca Florii, where the landscape opens up beautifully. Keep in mind that road is in a pretty bad condition after Taii Gorge.

    The starting point of the Tăii gorge which is located near Petrila.
    The road in the small gorge.
    Small cabin built on the cliff.
    Small cabin built on a cliff.
    The Tăii Gorge.
    Taii Gorge.
    Stream flowing in the gorge.
    River flowing between the steep cliffs.
    The mountains covered with snow in the distance.
    Mountains covered with snow.

    What else to visit in the area:

    • The former Petrila coal mine – actually you are allowed to visit only a small part of the mine. Next to the main entrance, you will find a couple of administrative buildings and in one of them you will find a very interesting museum with all sorts of mining equipment which once were used by the miners in rescue operations.
    • The Parang Mountains –  not far from Petrila, there is a beautiful vantage point from where the entire Jiu valley is visible. If you are lucky enough, you can even spot the tips of the Parang Mountains.