If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and the stress of everyday life, the best plan is to head out toward the most beautiful lakes in Romania. We have a ton of hidden and super spectacular spots where you can recharge your batteries instantly. Whether you want to see a lake surrounded by forest inside a former volcano or a glacial lake high up in the mountains, you will definitely find something to your taste. Pack your comfortable clothes and let's discover together where it's worth going this summer!

Lacul Roșu (The Red Lake)

Located in the Eastern Carpathians at an altitude of 983 meters, Lacul Roșu is one of the most unique attractions in Transylvania. It was not built by man, but formed completely naturally in the summer of 1837 when a massive landslide blocked the flow of the creeks in the valley. The accumulated water flooded a pine forest that was located there, giving rise to the lake's trademark: the tree trunks that still stick out of the water today. The low temperature and high concentration of minerals in the water ensured a remarkable preservation of the spruce stumps, allowing them to defy time for nearly two centuries.

A series of legends shrouded in mystery are also tied to this place. The most popular story claims that the collapse of the mountain buried a young woman of rare beauty who had been kidnapped, along with her captor and the local shepherds. Myth has it that the water took on a reddish hue because of the victims' blood, which is where its current name, Lacul Roșu, comes from. Although stories say there is no life at the bottom of the lake, in reality, trout feel excellent in this clean water. In the summer, the best activity here is undoubtedly a boat ride among the tree trunks, but hiking enthusiasts love the place too: an easy trail circles the lake, and more experienced hikers can climb up the Suhardul Mic rock for an absolutely breathtaking view from above.

(Source: Calatori in bascheti)

Lacul Izvorul Muntelui (Bicaz Lake)

In Neamț County, just 4 kilometers from the town of Bicaz and quite close to Piatra Neamț (about 35 kilometers away), lies the Izvorul Muntelui reservoir, known to many simply as Lacul Bicaz. The clean air, complete peace, extremely welcoming locals, and fairytale landscape will conquer you instantly.

Situated on the course of the Bistrița River, this is the largest artificial reservoir built on the interior rivers of Romania. Its dimensions are impressive: it spans an area of 31 square kilometers, is 40 km long, and has a maximum depth of 97 meters. From the Izvorul Muntelui lake area, you can go on wonderful hikes toward the Bicaz Gorges, Lacul Roșu, or visit the Durău resort, from where spectacular mountain trails start up the famous Ceahlău Massif. You can also take a ride on a steamboat or a boat on the lake, starting from the small port of Bicaz located close to the dam.

(Source: Calatori in bascheti)

Lacul Bâlea (Bâlea Lake)

Located at the highest point of the famous Transfăgărășan road, at an altitude of over 2000 meters, Lacul Bâlea is the most famous glacial lake in Romania. If you want to escape the summer heat, you couldn't find a better place. The mirror-like water, surrounded by giant, barren rock walls, offers an incredible view, reflecting the majestic peaks of the Făgăraș Mountains. This extremely cold body of water has a depth of over 11 meters, and since the entire area is a protected natural reserve, if you're lucky, you can spot chamois leaping on the steep rocks, sometimes coming quite close to the trails.

The road to the lake is an adventure in itself. If you aren't driving, you can choose the cable car from the Bâlea Cascadă cabin, which will carry you directly over the longest stepped waterfall in Romania: Bâlea Waterfall, over 60 meters high. Right next to the lake is also the highest road tunnel in the country, which cuts through the rocks for almost a kilometer, connecting Transylvania to Muntenia. Crossing it offers a truly unique experience marked by the atmospheric instability specific to the area: while bright sunshine might dominate at one end, a thick fog can suddenly appear on the opposite side.

(Source: Urlaub in Rumanien)

Lacul Sfânta Ana (Saint Anne Lake)

Hidden in the crater of an extinct volcano in the Ciomatu Mountains lies the charming Lacul Sfânta Ana, the only volcanic lake in the whole of Eastern Europe that has remained intact. This lake has no springs or streams flowing into it, being fed exclusively by rainwater.

Since you've made it here, another world awaits just a step away: right in the neighboring crater is the Mohoș Peat Bog. This unique and mystical swampy area formed on the site of a former volcanic lake, and today it can only be visited accompanied by a specialized guide, walking on specially built wooden footpaths. Due to the rare and unusual plants left over from the ice age—such as the famous carnivorous plant "Drosera"—visiting the Mohoș Peat Bog is an absolute must-do activity that you should by no means miss when you come to Lacul Sfânta Ana.

(Source: Logout.hu)

Lacul Razim (Razim Lake)

Located in the Dobrogea region, Lacul Razim is the largest freshwater lake in Romania. In the past, it was a gulf of the Black Sea, and today it forms a huge system of lagoons in the southern part of the Danube Delta.

The landscape captures the classic essence of the Delta, where the water's mirror surface is fragmented only by reed vegetation and colonies of water lilies. The ecosystem stands out for its extremely dynamic wildlife, making it an ideal refuge for a wide variety of birdlife. If you come here, not only will you admire one of the most spectacular views in the country, but you can also immerse yourself in the local culture. It is well worth stopping by the villages on the shores of the lake to taste the area's famous and authentic fish dishes.

(Source: Green Dolphin)

Lacul Bolboci (Bolboci Lake)

Not far from Lacul Scropoasa, right among the majestic peaks of the Bucegi Mountains, lies Lacul Bolboci, which locals often call "The Sea of Bucegi". This huge reservoir is located at an altitude of over 1400 meters and offers an incredible sight, with dense pine forests reflecting in its deep blue water.

The roads bordering the lake are perfect for a relaxing walk or a casual bike ride, and numerous tourist trails start from the area toward the famous Babele rocks or the mysterious Ialomița Cave. Thanks to the wild mountain panorama and complete peace, Lacul Bolboci is one of the best destinations for a weekend getaway.

Find the Perfect Accommodation and Hit the Road!

Whichever lake from our list is your favorite, one thing is certain: these beauties of nature are not meant to be rushed through in a single afternoon of transit. To make your relaxation complete and worry-free, we recommend booking your accommodation through the stayhere.ro platform. Grab your backpack, pick the perfect spot for you, and set off on one of the most beautiful adventures in the country!