Putna Waterfall (Cascada Putnei): The Roaring Heart of Vrancea +video and views
Posted: Fri Feb 27, 2026 1:46 pm
A Geological Masterpiece
Located near the village of Lepșa, the Putna Waterfall is not just a scenic spot but a protected hydrologic monument within the Putna-Vrancea Natural Park. The Putna River has spent millennia carving through the hard sedimentary rock, creating a dramatic 12-meter drop that gathers into a deep, emerald-green pool.
The Legend of the Enchanted Pool
Local folklore tells of a "bottomless" pool at the base of the falls. Ancient stories from the Vrancea shepherds suggest that the mountain spirits, or Vântoasele, guard the waters. It was once believed that the sound of the waterfall changed before a major earthquake or a change in weather, acting as a natural oracle for the villagers of Lepșa and Soveja.
Biodiversity and Surroundings
The area around the waterfall is a micro-ecosystem rich in rare plants and wildlife:
Frequently Asked Questions: Putna Waterfall (Cascada Putnei)
1. Where exactly is the Putna Waterfall located?
The waterfall is situated in the Vrancea Mountains (see more), near the village of Lepșa, on the DN2D road that connects the cities of Focșani and Târgu Secuiesc. It is part of the Putna-Vrancea Natural Park.
2. Is there an entrance fee to visit the waterfall?
Yes, there is a symbolic conservation fee (usually around 5-10 RON) collected at the entrance. The funds are used by the park administration to maintain the stairs, railings, and cleanliness of the site.
3. Is the waterfall easily accessible for families or seniors?
Yes, it is one of the most accessible natural monuments in the region. From the main road, there is a paved path and a series of concrete stairs with handrails that lead you safely to the viewing platforms.
4. Can I swim in the pool at the base of the waterfall?
No, swimming is strictly prohibited. The water is extremely cold even in summer, and the currents at the base of the 12-meter drop are very powerful and unpredictable, making it highly dangerous.
5. What is the best time of day for photography?
The best light is usually in the early morning (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM). During this time, the sun rays filter through the beech forest and hit the water mist, often creating small rainbows and highlighting the emerald color of the pool.
6. Are there any other attractions nearby?
Absolutely. Just a few kilometers away, you can visit the Lepșa Monastery, the Natural Reserve of Cheile Tișiței (great for a light hike), and the Trout Farm (Păstrăvăria Lepșa) where you can see how mountain trout are raised.
7. How much time should I plan for this visit?
A typical visit lasts between 30 to 45 minutes. This gives you enough time to descend to the platforms, take photos from different angles, and enjoy the refreshing mountain air.
Located near the village of Lepșa, the Putna Waterfall is not just a scenic spot but a protected hydrologic monument within the Putna-Vrancea Natural Park. The Putna River has spent millennia carving through the hard sedimentary rock, creating a dramatic 12-meter drop that gathers into a deep, emerald-green pool.
The Legend of the Enchanted Pool
Local folklore tells of a "bottomless" pool at the base of the falls. Ancient stories from the Vrancea shepherds suggest that the mountain spirits, or Vântoasele, guard the waters. It was once believed that the sound of the waterfall changed before a major earthquake or a change in weather, acting as a natural oracle for the villagers of Lepșa and Soveja.
Dramatic sunset over Putna Waterfall with layered rock formations.
The area around the waterfall is a micro-ecosystem rich in rare plants and wildlife:
- Flora: You can find the Lady's Slipper orchid (Cypripedium calceolus) (see more) and various mosses that thrive in the constant mist of the falls.
- Fauna: It is a perfect spot for birdwatching; the White-throated Dipper is often seen diving into the cold currents to find food.
- Geology: The rock layers visible around the waterfall offer a clear view of the "Carpathian Flysch," showing millions of years of earth history in thin, pressed layers of stone.
- Accessibility: Unlike many wild spots in Vrancea, Cascada Putnei is very easy to reach, with a paved path and stairs leading down to a viewing platform.
- Best View: Visit during the spring melt (April-May) for the most powerful water flow, or in deep winter when the falls partially freeze into giant ice organ pipes.
- Photography: The light is best in the early morning when the sun filters through the surrounding beech trees, hitting the mist.
Frequently Asked Questions: Putna Waterfall (Cascada Putnei)
1. Where exactly is the Putna Waterfall located?
The waterfall is situated in the Vrancea Mountains (see more), near the village of Lepșa, on the DN2D road that connects the cities of Focșani and Târgu Secuiesc. It is part of the Putna-Vrancea Natural Park.
2. Is there an entrance fee to visit the waterfall?
Yes, there is a symbolic conservation fee (usually around 5-10 RON) collected at the entrance. The funds are used by the park administration to maintain the stairs, railings, and cleanliness of the site.
3. Is the waterfall easily accessible for families or seniors?
Yes, it is one of the most accessible natural monuments in the region. From the main road, there is a paved path and a series of concrete stairs with handrails that lead you safely to the viewing platforms.
4. Can I swim in the pool at the base of the waterfall?
No, swimming is strictly prohibited. The water is extremely cold even in summer, and the currents at the base of the 12-meter drop are very powerful and unpredictable, making it highly dangerous.
5. What is the best time of day for photography?
The best light is usually in the early morning (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM). During this time, the sun rays filter through the beech forest and hit the water mist, often creating small rainbows and highlighting the emerald color of the pool.
6. Are there any other attractions nearby?
Absolutely. Just a few kilometers away, you can visit the Lepșa Monastery, the Natural Reserve of Cheile Tișiței (great for a light hike), and the Trout Farm (Păstrăvăria Lepșa) where you can see how mountain trout are raised.
7. How much time should I plan for this visit?
A typical visit lasts between 30 to 45 minutes. This gives you enough time to descend to the platforms, take photos from different angles, and enjoy the refreshing mountain air.