Into the Heart of Stone: Discovering Sohodol Gorges (Cheile Sohodolului) +video and views
Posted: Thu Feb 05, 2026 1:21 pm
Deep in the Vâlcan Mountains, nature has spent millions of years sculpting one of Romania’s most impressive limestone landscapes: Cheile Sohodolului. Spanning over 12 kilometers, these gorges offer a wild, cinematic scenery that feels like a gateway to another world.
Whether you are a rock climber, a photographer, or a storyteller, the Sohodol Gorges have something hidden for you.
The "Natural Studio" of the Carpathians
The gorges are famous for their unique geological formations. The water has carved the limestone into shapes so distinct they’ve earned their own names:
Legends of Outlaws and Giants
The wild beauty of the Sohodol Gorges is wrapped in local folklore. The most famous stories involve the Haiducs (outlaws) who used these narrow passes to escape the authorities.
-The Ring of the Lady (Inelul Doamnei): Legend says that a local nobleman's daughter fell in love with a brave haiduc. To seal their impossible love, they climbed the highest cliffs where no one could reach them. It is said the mountain itself pierced a hole through the rock—The Ring—to allow the moon’s light to shine upon them and protect their secret meetings.
-The Giant's Footsteps: Old folks in the Gorj region tell stories of giants (uriași) who once walked these mountains. They say the deep basins in the riverbed aren't made by water, but are the footprints left behind by these giants as they stepped from one mountain peak to another.
Travel Tips for Your Visit
Safety in the Wild
Just like in the Lotru Mountains, the Vâlcan range is raw and untamed.
Frequently Asked Questions: Sohodol Gorges (Cheile Sohodolului)
1. Is there an entrance fee for the gorges? Yes, usually there is a small conservation fee (ecological tax) collected by the local administration at the entrance of the gorges, especially during the summer season. The cost is symbolic (a few RON), used for maintaining the area.
2. Can I drive through the gorges? Yes, one of the unique features of Sohodol Gorges is that a paved road (DJ 672C) runs through them. This allows you to admire the massive limestone walls and formations like "The Sphinx" directly from your car. However, walking is highly recommended to truly experience the scale of the cliffs.
3. How do I find "Inelul Doamnei" (The Lady's Ring)? "Inelul Doamnei" is located high up on the cliffs. While it is visible from the road if you know where to look (look up toward the ridgelines!), reaching it requires a steep hike on a marked trail. It is recommended to wear proper hiking boots as the limestone can be slippery.
4. Is it a safe place for families with children? Absolutely. Because the main road follows the river at the base of the cliffs, it is a very accessible destination for families. Children enjoy the shallow parts of the river and the impressive cave openings at road level. Just be mindful of the "unpredictable wildlife" rule and keep them close.
5. Are there vipers in the area? Yes, like many limestone areas in Southwestern Romania, the Horned Viper (Vipera ammodytes) lives here. They usually avoid people and stay on the sunny rocks. Stay on the marked paths, watch where you step when climbing, and never try to touch or provoke one.
6. Can I go rock climbing there? Yes, Sohodol Gorges is one of the premier rock climbing destinations in Romania. There are numerous sectors with varying degrees of difficulty. If you are a beginner, it is best to go with a local guide or an authorized climbing school from Târgu Jiu.
Whether you are a rock climber, a photographer, or a storyteller, the Sohodol Gorges have something hidden for you.
The "Natural Studio" of the Carpathians
The gorges are famous for their unique geological formations. The water has carved the limestone into shapes so distinct they’ve earned their own names:
- The Rings (Inelul Doamnei): A natural stone arch that looks like a giant ring suspended against the sky.
- The Sphinx of Sohodol: A rock formation that resembles a human profile, watching over the valley.
- The Painted Cave (Peștera Piatra de Foc): Where the colors of the rock layers create a natural tapestry.
Dramatic view of Sohodol Gorges in the Vâlcan Mountains, Romania, featuring a massive natural stone arch known as the Lady's Ring over a turquoise river and a winding mountain road.
The wild beauty of the Sohodol Gorges is wrapped in local folklore. The most famous stories involve the Haiducs (outlaws) who used these narrow passes to escape the authorities.
-The Ring of the Lady (Inelul Doamnei): Legend says that a local nobleman's daughter fell in love with a brave haiduc. To seal their impossible love, they climbed the highest cliffs where no one could reach them. It is said the mountain itself pierced a hole through the rock—The Ring—to allow the moon’s light to shine upon them and protect their secret meetings.
-The Giant's Footsteps: Old folks in the Gorj region tell stories of giants (uriași) who once walked these mountains. They say the deep basins in the riverbed aren't made by water, but are the footprints left behind by these giants as they stepped from one mountain peak to another.
Travel Tips for Your Visit
- Perfect for Climbing: Sohodol is a paradise for rock climbers, with over 100 established routes on its vertical walls.
- Easy Access: Unlike other gorges, you can drive through a large part of Sohodol, making it accessible even for a quick scenic trip.
- Climate: The air here is remarkably cool even in the scorching heat of July, thanks to the canyon effect and the proximity of the river.
Safety in the WildJust like in the Lotru Mountains, the Vâlcan range is raw and untamed.
- Keep your distance: Wild animals are unpredictable. Keep an eye out for vipers on the sunny rocks and remember that bears frequent these woods.
- Stay alert: If you are hiking or climbing, always check the weather, as the river level can rise quickly during heavy rains.
Frequently Asked Questions: Sohodol Gorges (Cheile Sohodolului)1. Is there an entrance fee for the gorges? Yes, usually there is a small conservation fee (ecological tax) collected by the local administration at the entrance of the gorges, especially during the summer season. The cost is symbolic (a few RON), used for maintaining the area.
2. Can I drive through the gorges? Yes, one of the unique features of Sohodol Gorges is that a paved road (DJ 672C) runs through them. This allows you to admire the massive limestone walls and formations like "The Sphinx" directly from your car. However, walking is highly recommended to truly experience the scale of the cliffs.
3. How do I find "Inelul Doamnei" (The Lady's Ring)? "Inelul Doamnei" is located high up on the cliffs. While it is visible from the road if you know where to look (look up toward the ridgelines!), reaching it requires a steep hike on a marked trail. It is recommended to wear proper hiking boots as the limestone can be slippery.
4. Is it a safe place for families with children? Absolutely. Because the main road follows the river at the base of the cliffs, it is a very accessible destination for families. Children enjoy the shallow parts of the river and the impressive cave openings at road level. Just be mindful of the "unpredictable wildlife" rule and keep them close.
5. Are there vipers in the area? Yes, like many limestone areas in Southwestern Romania, the Horned Viper (Vipera ammodytes) lives here. They usually avoid people and stay on the sunny rocks. Stay on the marked paths, watch where you step when climbing, and never try to touch or provoke one.
6. Can I go rock climbing there? Yes, Sohodol Gorges is one of the premier rock climbing destinations in Romania. There are numerous sectors with varying degrees of difficulty. If you are a beginner, it is best to go with a local guide or an authorized climbing school from Târgu Jiu.