Published on April 17, 2023 by Zoltan Nyaradi
After driving a few hours from Timisoara, I finally arrived at Gura Apelor. The drive from the village of Clopotiva to the dam is full of sharp curves, so be sure to take it slow and stay alert. As you get closer to the dam, the road hugs steep cliffs, and you’ll likely encounter rocks that have fallen onto the road in several places. This makes it even more important to drive cautiously.
About the lake
Gura Apelor lake, also known as Lacul Gura Apei, is a hidden gem located in the heart of the Retezat Mountains in Romania. This lake can be found about 40 km away from the small Romanian city of Hateg. To those who don’t know, the Retezat Mountains are a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers. However, despite its natural beauty and stunning vistas, Gura Apelor lake remains relatively unknown to many tourists, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a quieter and more intimate experience.
The lake is surrounded by several hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, that offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
In addition to its natural beauty, Gura Apelor Artificial lake is also a significant source of hydroelectric power for the region. The lake’s dam generates electricity for the surrounding towns and cities, making it an essential infrastructure asset for the region’s development.
I visited Gura Apelor in early April and I have included an Instagram video below to show what it was like. Down in the valley, the weather was warm and pleasant, but as you head higher into the Retezat Mountains, you’ll find the conditions can change quickly. That day, the weather turned foggy as we arrived, and a light rain began to fall. Higher up on the surrounding mountains, patches of snow were still visible from winter.
Five places to visit in the Hateg region
On your way back from Gura Apelor, there are many interesting places that you can visit in the Hateg region which is known for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and unique attractions. Below I highlighted a couple of them:
- Corvin Castle – One of the most impressive castles in Europe, Corvin Castle, also known as Hunyadi Castle, is a stunning Gothic-Renaissance fortress located in Hunedoara. It has a long and fascinating history dating back to the 14th century, and it is surrounded by picturesque scenery.
- Densus Church – This ancient church is one of the oldest Christian buildings in Romania, dating back to the 13th century.
- Dacian Fortresses – The Hateg region is home to several Dacian fortresses, including Blidaru, Costesti, and Sarmizegetusa Regia. These ancient fortifications were built by the Dacians more than 2,000 years ago and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Deva Fortress – This medieval fortress, perched on a hill overlooking the city of Deva, is a must-see attraction in the Hateg region. The fortress dates back to the 13th century and has played a significant role in Transylvania’s history.
- Sarmizegetusa Ulpia Traiana – This ancient Roman city was once the capital of the Roman province of Dacia and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the ruins of the city’s public buildings, temples, and residential areas and learn about life in ancient times.
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