Dreamer

Happy new week dreamers!

Another week, another Monday another travel article! As yesterday was a little more sunny than expected, a motorcycle ride was the thing of the day, and why not see something a little different?

Someone asked for hot volcanos in your area? At just about one hour from Brasov, you’ll find them! But if you visit during a hot day, don’t wear motorcycle equipment.

Before I start telling you about this amazing place, let me amuse you with some information. For example, keep in mind that I spend over an hour and a half in direct sunlight, at more than 27 C, wearing black leather pants, and winter tights underneath, a black body-tight body, and fleece on top. Of course, I stripped down to the body, but that was it! Nothing more! I also wore sneakers, wich didn’t bother me as it is an easy hike, but during wet days, you might want to consider appropriate footwear. I am so grateful, that we could leave our equipment to a nice lady who had a shop in the parking lot!

Racoș Geodesic Park

Nestled in the heart of Brașov County, Romania, Racoș Geodesic Park is a destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with a rich history. This off-the-beaten-path locale is perfect for adventurers, history buffs, and anyone seeking a tranquil escape from the normal. With three main spots and a castle not so far away, this one-day trip is worth your energy.

Racoș Volcano: One of the first things to see, from afar, is the Racos volcano. Extinct or not, with its moonish landscape, it’s pretty amazing and huge! This is a geological relic that invites you to hike its crater walls and marvel at the layers of volcanic rock. It’s more a basaltic slag, 100 m tall with red sand all over, and some soot on its wall, which make you think maybe it’s just sleeping. Some cracks in its walls called Hell’s-mills by the villagers also might make you think it’s not a good idea to bother Mister Volcano. You can also enjoy the view over the Carpathian Mountains and hills and of course, the little village!

Emerald Lake: Not so far from the volcano, remains of industrialization are transformed by nature, and a little human help into a magnificent lake. Imagine a lake so vividly turquoise that it seems plucked from a dream. This is Emerald Lake, formed in an old basalt quarry with the help of rains, snows, and some deep down spring of water. With a total height of 50 m, and 200 long, this Instagramable place gives same-time serenity and wonders as basalt columns are shown in their beauty! The lake’s striking color comes from minerals in the volcanic rocks, and it has a rising depth of 18 m. The increase it’s about 0.5 to 1 m every year. One thing that really amazed me besides being a picturesque spot for contemplation and photography​ is that the lake was filled with fishes that enjoy their life in the wild.

Basalt Columns: Nature’s artistry is on full display with the basalt columns at Racoș. These towering, hexagonal pillars, about 6-8m, were formed as ancient lava cooled and contracted, resembling a grand organ carved by the earth itself. Of course, they were mostly found before the basalt exploit was stopped in the 60s. Only after, the whole area was declared a nature’s monument. It’s said to be 1.3-1.4 million years old.

Nature and History, is there a better match?

Sükösd-Bethlen Castle: As I said in the beginning, nearby in the village a little shy castle nestles. A 17th-century fortress that stands as a testament to the region’s storied past. Even if it is mostly ruined, its story might come to life step by step. It had a significant grandeur, and it was built somewhere between 1594 and 1603 by GyorGy Sukosd. At first only a three-room building, then transformed with time into this amazing edifice. Although partially in ruins, the castle’s grandeur is still evident. It wasn’t really a defensive crucial spot, but it served as one in some special cases. One thing I really loved, it was surrounded by old fir trees and a lot of green!

Plan Your Visit

Accessibility: Racoș Geodesic Park is conveniently accessible by car, and motorcycles, with well-maintained roads from Brașov. Alternatively, you can take a train to a nearby station and complete your journey with local transport or a leisurely walk. And it’s family-friendly!

Entry Fees: Tickets can be purchased at Sükösd-Bethlen Castle for around 25 lei, about 5 euros, which includes access to all 4 attractions and 2 flyers with info!

Best Time to Visit: While the park is enchanting year-round, the warmer months offer the best conditions for exploring its outdoor wonders. Whether you’re hiking the volcano or lounging by Emerald Lake, summer and fall provide the perfect backdrop​, but for me, it was magical in May as the Acacia was in full bloom and it smelled so sweet and perfect! However, for more information that might change consider visiting their website Visit Racos!​

So, this is my adventure to Racos geodesical park. I hope you’ll enjoy it when you decide to visit!

Until next time, have #adreamerlife!

Cristiana Apreutese