The Eye of the Bey Lake (Lacul Ochiul Beiului): The Ever-Blue Mirror of the Banat Mountains +video and views
Posted: Sat Feb 14, 2026 3:39 pm
Hidden deep within the forests of the Anina Mountains, Ochiul Beiului (The Eye of the Bey) is perhaps the most famous karst lake in Romania. Its reputation comes from its almost magical property: regardless of the season or the outside temperature, the lake never freezes and maintains its mesmerizing turquoise color all year round.
The Mystery of the Unfreezing Water
The lake is fed by a submerged spring, which keeps the water at a constant temperature between 4 and 8 degrees Celsius. This constant flow prevents the surface from freezing even in the harshest winters.
The Legend: A Father’s Grief and a Son’s Love
While science explains the chemistry, local legend provides the soul of the place. It is said that the lake was formed after a tragic love story during the Ottoman rule. The son of a famous Bey fell in love with a local girl. His father, refusing to accept the relationship, ordered the girl to be killed.
The young Bey, finding his lover lifeless, cried until his eyes turned the color of the water. Legend says he took his own life on that spot, and the lake formed from his blue eyes. It is believed that even today, the spirit of the young man watches over the waters, and on midsummer nights, the local "Sânziene" (fairies) gather here to dance.
Biodiversity Around the Lake
The area surrounding Ochiul Beiului is a sanctuary for rare species.
Frequently Asked Questions: Ochiul Beiului Lake
1. What makes Ochiul Beiului so special?
Ochiul Beiului is famous for its permanent turquoise color and the fact that it never freezes. Even in the peak of winter, the water temperature remains between 4°C and 8°C due to the constant flow of the underground spring that feeds it.
2. Is it a natural lake or man-made?
It is a natural karst lake. It was formed by the dissolution of limestone and is constantly replenished by an underwater spring (an "izbuc"). Its circular shape and crystal-clear water give it the appearance of a giant blue eye in the middle of the forest.
3. How deep is the water?
The lake is relatively shallow, with a maximum depth of approximately 3.6 meters. Because the water is so incredibly clear, the bottom often looks much closer than it actually is.
4. How long is the hike to Ochiul Beiului?
The hike is very easy and takes about 45 to 60 minutes from the "Păstrăvărie" (Trout Farm) parking area. The trail is mostly flat and shaded by the forest, making it perfect for families with children or amateur hikers.
5. Can I see fish in the lake?
Yes, you can often see trout swimming in the crystal-clear water. Due to the high mineral content and constant temperature, the lake provides a unique habitat for them.
6. Are there any legends associated with the lake?
Yes, the most famous legend says the lake was formed from the blue tears of a Bey's son who was mourning his lost love. This is where the name "Ochiul Beiului" (The Eye of the Bey) comes from.
7. What else can I visit nearby?
Just 20-30 minutes further up the trail from the lake, you will find the spectacular Beușnița Waterfalls (see more). It is highly recommended to visit both attractions during the same trip.
The Mystery of the Unfreezing Water
The lake is fed by a submerged spring, which keeps the water at a constant temperature between 4 and 8 degrees Celsius. This constant flow prevents the surface from freezing even in the harshest winters.
- The Color: The striking blue-green hue is the result of the high concentration of calcium carbonate in the water and the way light reflects off the limestone bottom of the lake, which is only about 3.6 meters deep.
- Clarity: The water is so transparent that you can see the fallen tree trunks on the bottom, preserved almost perfectly by the mineral-rich environment.
Ochiul Beiului lake in Romania, featuring crystal-clear turquoise water with high transparency.
While science explains the chemistry, local legend provides the soul of the place. It is said that the lake was formed after a tragic love story during the Ottoman rule. The son of a famous Bey fell in love with a local girl. His father, refusing to accept the relationship, ordered the girl to be killed.
The young Bey, finding his lover lifeless, cried until his eyes turned the color of the water. Legend says he took his own life on that spot, and the lake formed from his blue eyes. It is believed that even today, the spirit of the young man watches over the waters, and on midsummer nights, the local "Sânziene" (fairies) gather here to dance.
Biodiversity Around the Lake
The area surrounding Ochiul Beiului is a sanctuary for rare species.
- The Fire Salamander: Often seen near the damp edges of the lake after rain.
- Migratory Birds: Many birds stop here because the water remains liquid during winter, providing a rare source of hydration and food.
- Ancient Flora: The lake is surrounded by centuries-old beech forests that create a natural cathedral of silence around the turquoise "eye."
- Location: It is a 45-minute easy walk from the "Păstrăvăria" (Trout Farm) area
- Photography: The best light for capturing the turquoise color is around noon when the sun is directly above the lake.
- Respect the Nature: To maintain its purity, touching or throwing objects into the water is strictly forbidden.
Frequently Asked Questions: Ochiul Beiului Lake
1. What makes Ochiul Beiului so special?
Ochiul Beiului is famous for its permanent turquoise color and the fact that it never freezes. Even in the peak of winter, the water temperature remains between 4°C and 8°C due to the constant flow of the underground spring that feeds it.
2. Is it a natural lake or man-made?
It is a natural karst lake. It was formed by the dissolution of limestone and is constantly replenished by an underwater spring (an "izbuc"). Its circular shape and crystal-clear water give it the appearance of a giant blue eye in the middle of the forest.
3. How deep is the water?
The lake is relatively shallow, with a maximum depth of approximately 3.6 meters. Because the water is so incredibly clear, the bottom often looks much closer than it actually is.
4. How long is the hike to Ochiul Beiului?
The hike is very easy and takes about 45 to 60 minutes from the "Păstrăvărie" (Trout Farm) parking area. The trail is mostly flat and shaded by the forest, making it perfect for families with children or amateur hikers.
5. Can I see fish in the lake?
Yes, you can often see trout swimming in the crystal-clear water. Due to the high mineral content and constant temperature, the lake provides a unique habitat for them.
6. Are there any legends associated with the lake?
Yes, the most famous legend says the lake was formed from the blue tears of a Bey's son who was mourning his lost love. This is where the name "Ochiul Beiului" (The Eye of the Bey) comes from.
7. What else can I visit nearby?
Just 20-30 minutes further up the trail from the lake, you will find the spectacular Beușnița Waterfalls (see more). It is highly recommended to visit both attractions during the same trip.