Pietrosu Peak (Vârful Pietrosu) Muntii Rodnei landscape
The Legends of the Rodna Mountains1. The Tears of the Mountains (Pietrosu Rodnei)
The Legend: Linked to the highest peak in the range, Pietrosu Rodnei. The Story: Long ago, a beautiful girl from a local village was forced by her parents to marry a wealthy but cruel man she didn't love. Her true love was a poor shepherd who lived on the high ridges. In despair, she fled into the mountains on her wedding night. Legend says the mountain itself opened up to hide her from her pursuers, and the many glacial lakes found in the Rodna range (like Iezer or Buhuiescu) are the "frozen tears" she shed for her lost love.
2. The Golden Cave of the Rodna Peaks
The Legend: A hidden treasure protected by the mountain. The Story: Folklore tells of a secret cave hidden behind a waterfall in the Rodna Mountains that is filled with pure gold. This wasn't just any gold, but the "Dacian's Sun Gold." The entrance is said to open only once a year, on the night of Sânziene (the Midsummer's Eve). However, the cave is guarded by a "Solomonar" (a powerful wizard who controls the weather). If a greedy person enters, the wizard brings down a massive storm to trap them inside forever.
Why You Should Visit the Rodna Mountains1. Conquer the "King of the North"
At 2,303 meters, Pietrosu Rodnei is the highest peak in the entire Eastern Carpathian chain. Standing at the top feels like being on the edge of the world. On a clear day, your gaze can travel across the border into Ukraine and over the rolling hills of Maramureș.
2. The Legend of the Horses’ Waterfall (Click HERE to see more)
No trip to Rodna is complete without seeing Cascada Cailor (Horses’ Waterfall). With a drop of nearly 90 meters, it is the tallest waterfall in Romania. Legend says that a herd of horses, cornered by a bear during a storm, jumped off the cliff here—giving the waterfall its tragic yet poetic name.
3. Glacial Wonders: A Lake Shaped Like a Country
The Rodna Mountains are famous for their "eyes of the sea"—deep blue glacial lakes.
-Iezer Lake: Located under Pietrosu Peak, it is famous for its uncanny resemblance to the geographic map of Romania.
-Lala Mare: One of the most photogenic spots in the country, especially in June when the pink rhododendrons bloom all around its shores.
-The Daffodil Meadow (Poiana cu Narcise): Located on Mount Saca, this protected area turns completely white every May when thousands of wild daffodils bloom.
Iezer Lake (Lacul Iezer) (Muntii Rodnei) landscape
Being a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this is one of the few places where nature remains truly undisturbed. It’s a haven for:
-Chamois (Capra Neagră) (see more): Often seen jumping across the rocky ridges.
-Marmots: Their high-pitched whistles are the soundtrack to your hike.
-Edelweiss (see more): The "queen of mountain flowers" hides in the high limestone cliffs.
An Amazing High Quality video from tourist who already vistited The Rodna Mountains:
Travel Tips for Your Adventure-Best Time to Go: June (for the rhododendrons and daffodils) or September (for stable weather and autumn colors).
-Where to Stay: Use Borșa as your base camp for northern trails or Rodna/Șanț for southern access.
-Difficulty: While beautiful, these mountains are tough. Weather can change in minutes, so always pack a waterproof jacket and high-quality hiking boots.
Are You Ready to Explore?
The Rodna Mountains offer a sense of solitude and raw beauty that is becoming hard to find in modern Europe. Whether you are a professional climber or a nature photographer, this massif will leave you breathless.
A 4K video who present The Rodna Mountains (Muntii Rodnei):
Frequently Asked Questions: Rodna Mountains (FAQ)1. What is the highest peak in the Rodna Mountains?
The highest peak is Pietrosu Rodnei, reaching an elevation of 2,303 meters. It is the highest point in the Eastern Carpathians of Romania and offers panoramic views of the Maramureș region.
2. How do I get to the Horses' Waterfall (Cascada Cailor)?
The easiest way to reach Cascada Cailor is from the Borșa tourist resort. You can take a chairlift (telescaun) up the mountain and then hike an easy, 30-minute downhill trail, or hike the entire way from the base in about 1.5 to 2 hours.
3. Can I see the "Romania-shaped lake" in Rodna?
Yes! This is Iezer Lake, located at an altitude of 1,825 meters, right below Pietrosu Peak. For the best "map shape" view, you need to look down at it from the trail leading up to the summit.
4. Is hiking in the Rodna Mountains difficult?
The difficulty varies. While the walk to the Horses' Waterfall is easy/moderate, the main ridge trail and the ascent to Pietrosu or Ineu peaks are challenging. These require good physical fitness, proper hiking gear, and navigation skills.
5. When is the best time to visit the Rodna Mountains?
The best time for hiking is from late June to September. If you want to see the pink rhododendrons or the wild narcissus fields, visit in June. For winter sports or ski touring, the season usually peaks between February and April.
6. Are there bears in the Rodna Mountains?
Yes, the Rodna Mountains National Park is a natural habitat for Brown Bears. Hikers are advised to stay on marked trails, make noise (talk or whistle) while walking through dense forests, and never leave food outside their tents.
7. Do I need a permit to enter Rodna Mountains National Park?
There is a small entry fee for the National Park, which can usually be paid at the park administration points or via SMS/online platforms (check local signage at trailheads like Borșa). The funds are used for trail maintenance and conservation.
Have you ever visited the Romanian Carpathians? Or you plan do this in the future?
