Biodiversity: The Realm of the "Frumoasa" Valley
The lake is surrounded by thick, emerald-green spruce forests that reach the water's edge.
- The Water: This high-altitude reservoir is famous for its trout and zander, making it a quiet paradise for catch-and-release enthusiasts.
- The Surroundings: The area is part of a migration corridor for brown bears and red deer (see more). If you visit in early autumn, you might even hear the deep echoes of deer roaring in the surrounding valleys.
Cannot talk about Oașa without mentioning Mihail Sadoveanu (see more), one of Romania’s greatest writers.
- The Valley of the Beautiful (Valea Frumoasei): Sadoveanu was so captivated by this area that he dedicated many stories to it. He described it as a land where time stands still—a place of "absolute silence" where the gods used to rest.
- The Water Spirits: Local folklore speaks of the "Vântoase"—spirits of the wind that dance over the water on moonlit nights. Shepherds used to say that if the lake’s surface remains perfectly still for three days, it’s a sign that the mountain is "praying."
Sunset view over Oasa Lake and dam on Transalpina, with turquoise water and purple sky.
-A Massive Feat: The Oașa Dam is a rock-fill giant, standing 91 meters tall. It holds back over 136 million cubic meters of water!
-The Submerged Memories: Before the valley was flooded to create the lake in the 1970s, it was a wild area used only by nomadic shepherds. Some elders still tell stories of old huts that now lie at the bottom of the lake.
-Spiritual Hub: Just a short distance away is the Oașa Monastery. It is unique because many of its monks are former doctors, engineers, or artists who chose the mountain's solitude over city life.
Why a Foreigner Should Visit?
If the Transalpina is the "King's Road," Oașa Lake is its crown jewel. It offers a unique combination of high-altitude engineering and mystical nature. It’s the perfect spot to park your car, breathe in the purest air in the country, and feel the "Valea Frumoasei" magic that Sadoveanu wrote about.
A superb video presenting Oașa Lake (Lacul Oașa) and dam:
Frequently Asked Questions: Oașa Lake & Transalpina
1. Where exactly is Oașa Lake located? Oașa Lake is situated in the Șureanu Mountains (see more), right on the DN67C (Transalpina road), about 45 km from the town of Sebeș. it sits at the border between Alba and Sibiu counties.
2. Can I reach the lake during winter? While the highest parts of Transalpina (the pass over the peaks) are closed in winter, the road from Sebeș up to Lake Oașa and the Șureanu Ski Resort is usually kept open. However, winter tires and snow chains are mandatory as the road can be icy.
3. Are there any boat rentals or boat tours on the lake? No, Oașa is a high-altitude reservoir used for hydroelectric power, and there are no commercial boat tours or rentals. This is actually a plus for many travelers, as it keeps the area quiet, serene, and free from "tourist noise."
4. Can I visit the Oașa Monastery nearby? Yes! The monastery is located on the shore of the lake and welcomes visitors. It is famous for its hospitality and for the "Oașa Summer Camps" where young people from all over the world gather. Please remember to dress modestly when entering the monastery grounds.
5. Is fishing allowed in Oașa Lake? Yes, fishing is permitted, but you need a valid Romanian fishing permit. The lake is well-known for native trout and zander. It is a favorite spot for those who enjoy "slow fishing" in a spectacular mountain setting.
6. Is there mobile phone signal at the lake? The signal can be quite spotty in the area. Near the dam, you might have some reception, but as you move along the lake or deeper into the mountains toward the Șureanu peaks, expect to be "off the grid." It’s the perfect place to disconnect!
