Buzău Mountains (Munții Buzăului): The Land of Living Legends and Amber Skies +video and views
Posted: Thu Feb 26, 2026 12:09 pm
The Buzău Mountains, part of the Curvature Carpathians, are perhaps the most mysterious corner of Romania. Unlike the high, jagged peaks of the Făgăraș, these mountains offer a landscape of rolling ridges, deep forests, and bizarre rock formations that seem to defy the laws of physics. For a traveler seeking the "unsolved" side of nature, this is the ultimate destination.
The Land of Legends: "The Athos of Romania"
The most captivating feature for any visitor is the complex of Rock-Hewn Churches of Aluniș, Nucu, and Bozioru.
Biodiversity: A Wild Sanctuary
The Buzău Mountains are a haven for wildlife, offering a glimpse into Europe's pristine ecosystems:
-The Giants of the Forest: This area is home to a healthy population of brown bears, wolves, and lynxes (see more).
-Avian Wonders: Keep an eye on the sky for the Golden Eagle or the Peregrine Falcon, which nest in the high cliffs.
-The Flora: You will find vast forests of beech and fir, interspersed with meadows that, in spring and summer, are carpeted with rare wildflowers, including various species of mountain orchids.
Unique Attractions
-The Living Fires (Focurile Vii) (see more): In the village of Terca, natural gas escapes through cracks in the earth and ignites spontaneously, creating "eternal flames" that dance on the hillside.
-The Amber of Colți: This is the only place in the world where you can find Rumanite (Romanian Amber), famous for its unique deep red and black hues. The local Amber Museum is a must-see.
-Trovants (The Growing Stones): In Ulmet, you can find "living stones" — spherical sandstone formations that appear to have grown out of the ground over millions of years.
Traveler’s Tip
The trails here are of moderate difficulty but are rich in spiritual history. Walking through the "Stone Wilderness" feels like stepping back into a time when hermits lived in silence within the mountain walls.
A aerial video which present Buzău Mountains (Munții Buzăului):
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About the Buzău Mountains (Munții Buzăului)
1. Where exactly are the Buzău Mountains located?
The Buzău Mountains are part of the Curvature Carpathians in South-Eastern Romania. They are located approximately 150 km (93 miles) from Bucharest, making them a perfect weekend getaway for those landing in the capital.
2. What are the "Living Fires" (Focurile Vii)?
The Living Fires are a rare natural phenomenon found in the village of Terca. Natural gas reaches the surface through cracks in the earth and ignites spontaneously due to solar friction or lightning. They burn continuously, creating a mystical atmosphere, especially at night.
3. Is it true that there are "Growing Stones" here?
Yes! Locally known as Trovants, these are sandstone concretions found in the village of Ulmet. While they don't "grow" like living organisms, they expand over millions of years through mineral deposition from rainwater. Their bizarre, bulbous shapes make them a favorite for photographers.
4. Can I visit the Rock-Hewn Churches alone?
While the trails to the cave settlements (like Aluniș or Fundătura) are marked, they lead through dense forests. We recommend using a GPS or hiring a local guide, as the paths can be confusing and the area is home to wild animals.
5. Are there bears in the Buzău Mountains?
Yes, like most of the Romanian Carpathians, this area has a significant population of brown bears. Always hike in groups, make noise to announce your presence, and never leave food outside your tent or car.
6. What is the best time of year to visit?
The amber found here, known as Rumanite, is unique in the world because of its incredible color palette, ranging from deep honey to "black amber" (actually a very dark green or red). It is over 40 million years old and highly prized by collectors.
8. Is there any truth to the legends of "Time Portals"?
The Buzău Mountains are a hotspot for Romanian folklore regarding "energy centers" and vanishing people. While there is no scientific evidence for portals, the unique magnetic properties of some rock formations and the absolute silence of the caves create a powerful psychological experience for many visitors.
The Land of Legends: "The Athos of Romania"
The most captivating feature for any visitor is the complex of Rock-Hewn Churches of Aluniș, Nucu, and Bozioru.
- The Luana Legend: Local lore speaks of a benevolent king (or sometimes a divine entity) named Luana, who ruled over these mountains and built "fortresses of light." It is said that the waters here have healing powers, a belief that persists among locals today.
- Time Anomalies: Enthusiasts of the paranormal often search for stories about the "Blue Mist" or the "Takis" portals, where legends say people have vanished or moved through time. While these remain myths, they add an undeniable layer of intrigue to every hike.
Snow-covered peaks and traditional village houses in the Buzău Mountains, Romania, during a serene winter morning.
The Buzău Mountains are a haven for wildlife, offering a glimpse into Europe's pristine ecosystems:
-The Giants of the Forest: This area is home to a healthy population of brown bears, wolves, and lynxes (see more).
-Avian Wonders: Keep an eye on the sky for the Golden Eagle or the Peregrine Falcon, which nest in the high cliffs.
-The Flora: You will find vast forests of beech and fir, interspersed with meadows that, in spring and summer, are carpeted with rare wildflowers, including various species of mountain orchids.
Unique Attractions
-The Living Fires (Focurile Vii) (see more): In the village of Terca, natural gas escapes through cracks in the earth and ignites spontaneously, creating "eternal flames" that dance on the hillside.
-The Amber of Colți: This is the only place in the world where you can find Rumanite (Romanian Amber), famous for its unique deep red and black hues. The local Amber Museum is a must-see.
-Trovants (The Growing Stones): In Ulmet, you can find "living stones" — spherical sandstone formations that appear to have grown out of the ground over millions of years.
Traveler’s Tip
The trails here are of moderate difficulty but are rich in spiritual history. Walking through the "Stone Wilderness" feels like stepping back into a time when hermits lived in silence within the mountain walls.
A aerial video which present Buzău Mountains (Munții Buzăului):
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About the Buzău Mountains (Munții Buzăului)
1. Where exactly are the Buzău Mountains located?
The Buzău Mountains are part of the Curvature Carpathians in South-Eastern Romania. They are located approximately 150 km (93 miles) from Bucharest, making them a perfect weekend getaway for those landing in the capital.
2. What are the "Living Fires" (Focurile Vii)?
The Living Fires are a rare natural phenomenon found in the village of Terca. Natural gas reaches the surface through cracks in the earth and ignites spontaneously due to solar friction or lightning. They burn continuously, creating a mystical atmosphere, especially at night.
3. Is it true that there are "Growing Stones" here?
Yes! Locally known as Trovants, these are sandstone concretions found in the village of Ulmet. While they don't "grow" like living organisms, they expand over millions of years through mineral deposition from rainwater. Their bizarre, bulbous shapes make them a favorite for photographers.
4. Can I visit the Rock-Hewn Churches alone?
While the trails to the cave settlements (like Aluniș or Fundătura) are marked, they lead through dense forests. We recommend using a GPS or hiring a local guide, as the paths can be confusing and the area is home to wild animals.
5. Are there bears in the Buzău Mountains?
Yes, like most of the Romanian Carpathians, this area has a significant population of brown bears. Always hike in groups, make noise to announce your presence, and never leave food outside your tent or car.
6. What is the best time of year to visit?
- Late Spring (May-June): For blooming meadows and the best flow of the (Cascada) Pruncea waterfall (see more).
- Autumn (September-October): To see the forests change color and for the best visibility of the "Living Fires."
The amber found here, known as Rumanite, is unique in the world because of its incredible color palette, ranging from deep honey to "black amber" (actually a very dark green or red). It is over 40 million years old and highly prized by collectors.
8. Is there any truth to the legends of "Time Portals"?
The Buzău Mountains are a hotspot for Romanian folklore regarding "energy centers" and vanishing people. While there is no scientific evidence for portals, the unique magnetic properties of some rock formations and the absolute silence of the caves create a powerful psychological experience for many visitors.