Discover Lake Galbenu (Lacul Galbenu): The Hidden Turquoise Mirror of the Latorița Mountains +video and views
Posted: Fri Feb 06, 2026 12:10 pm
Tucked away in the heart of the Latorița Mountains, far from the bustling crowds of the Transalpina road (see more), lies a place where time seems to stand still. Lake Galbenu (Lacul Galbenu) is more than just a reservoir, it is a stunning display of nature's artistry, reflecting the deep greens of the surrounding pine forests in its crystal-clear, turquoise waters.
Why You Should Visit
Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,300 meters, Lake Galbenu is an oasis of tranquility. The journey there is an adventure in itself, taking you through the dramatic Latorița Gorges (Cheile Latoriței) (see more), where the cliffs rise sharply on either side and waterfalls whisper from the shadows.
The Echoes of the Past: Legends and Stories
Every hidden gem in Romania carries a story, and the area around Lake Galbenu is no different.
-The Shepherd’s Gold: Local lore suggests the lake earned its name ("Galbenu" meaning Yellow) not just from the autumn leaves, but from a legend of a wealthy shepherd. It is said that during a great storm, a flock of sheep—and the shepherd’s pouches of gold coins—were swept into the depths. Some locals jokingly say that on the clearest days, when the sun hits the water at just the right angle, you can see the glimmer of "galbeni" (gold coins) on the lake bed.
-The Spirits of the Latorița: Old-timers in the nearby villages of Malaia and Ciunget talk about the spirits of the mountains that guard the waters. They believe the lake's shifting colors—from emerald to deep yellow-gold—are a reflection of the mountain's mood.
Capture the Magic
Whether you are a photographer looking for the perfect shot of the dam or a hiker seeking solitude, Lake Galbenu is a destination that stays in your heart long after you’ve left.
The Twin Jewels of the Latorița: From Emerald to Gold
To visit one without the other is to leave the story half-told. Separated by just five kilometers of rugged mountain road, Lake Petrimanu (see more) and Lake Galbenu form a breathtaking liquid staircase in the heart of the wilderness.
While Petrimanu greets you first with its deep, emerald-green waters and dramatic limestone backdrops, Galbenu awaits just a short drive higher, offering a more secluded, golden-hued serenity. Together, they represent the raw, untouched beauty of the Latorița Gorges—a journey from the vibrant colors of the valley to the quiet whispers of the high peaks.
Whether you are chasing the perfect reflection or the legend of hidden gold, these two lakes are the inseparable soul of the Romanian Carpathians.
A video from tourists wich present Lake Galbenu (Lacul Galbenu):
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How do I get to Lake Galbenu?
The most common route is via the village of Malaia (on the DN7A road between Brezoi and Voineasa). From there, you follow the forest road through the Latorița Gorges. While the scenery is breathtaking, the road is unpaved and can be rough, so a high-clearance vehicle or a 4x4 is recommended.
2. Can you swim or fish in the lake?
Lake Galbenu is a reservoir used for hydropower, and the water is icy cold even in mid-summer. Swimming is not recommended due to the low temperatures and underwater currents near the dam. However, fishing is permitted with a valid license, and the lake is known for its mountain trout.
3. Is it safe to camp near Lake Galbenu?
Yes, there are several spots where you can set up a tent, but you must be prepared for a "wild" experience. Since wild animals are unpredictable and bears are common in the Latorița Mountains, ensure you store food in airtight containers far from your sleeping area and never leave trash behind.
4. What is the best time of year to visit?
Absolutely. You can use Lake Galbenu as a starting point to hike toward Lake Petrimanu (just a few kilometers away) or take more challenging routes up toward the Latorița Ridge for panoramic views of the Parâng and Căpățânii Mountains.
Why You Should Visit
Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,300 meters, Lake Galbenu is an oasis of tranquility. The journey there is an adventure in itself, taking you through the dramatic Latorița Gorges (Cheile Latoriței) (see more), where the cliffs rise sharply on either side and waterfalls whisper from the shadows.
A landscape of Lake Galbenu in the Latorița Mountains, Romania, during autumn, featuring vibrant orange forests reflected in turquoise water and a distant dam.
Every hidden gem in Romania carries a story, and the area around Lake Galbenu is no different.
-The Shepherd’s Gold: Local lore suggests the lake earned its name ("Galbenu" meaning Yellow) not just from the autumn leaves, but from a legend of a wealthy shepherd. It is said that during a great storm, a flock of sheep—and the shepherd’s pouches of gold coins—were swept into the depths. Some locals jokingly say that on the clearest days, when the sun hits the water at just the right angle, you can see the glimmer of "galbeni" (gold coins) on the lake bed.
-The Spirits of the Latorița: Old-timers in the nearby villages of Malaia and Ciunget talk about the spirits of the mountains that guard the waters. They believe the lake's shifting colors—from emerald to deep yellow-gold—are a reflection of the mountain's mood.
Capture the Magic
Whether you are a photographer looking for the perfect shot of the dam or a hiker seeking solitude, Lake Galbenu is a destination that stays in your heart long after you’ve left.
The Twin Jewels of the Latorița: From Emerald to Gold
To visit one without the other is to leave the story half-told. Separated by just five kilometers of rugged mountain road, Lake Petrimanu (see more) and Lake Galbenu form a breathtaking liquid staircase in the heart of the wilderness.
While Petrimanu greets you first with its deep, emerald-green waters and dramatic limestone backdrops, Galbenu awaits just a short drive higher, offering a more secluded, golden-hued serenity. Together, they represent the raw, untouched beauty of the Latorița Gorges—a journey from the vibrant colors of the valley to the quiet whispers of the high peaks.
Whether you are chasing the perfect reflection or the legend of hidden gold, these two lakes are the inseparable soul of the Romanian Carpathians.
A video from tourists wich present Lake Galbenu (Lacul Galbenu):
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How do I get to Lake Galbenu?
The most common route is via the village of Malaia (on the DN7A road between Brezoi and Voineasa). From there, you follow the forest road through the Latorița Gorges. While the scenery is breathtaking, the road is unpaved and can be rough, so a high-clearance vehicle or a 4x4 is recommended.
2. Can you swim or fish in the lake?
Lake Galbenu is a reservoir used for hydropower, and the water is icy cold even in mid-summer. Swimming is not recommended due to the low temperatures and underwater currents near the dam. However, fishing is permitted with a valid license, and the lake is known for its mountain trout.
3. Is it safe to camp near Lake Galbenu?
Yes, there are several spots where you can set up a tent, but you must be prepared for a "wild" experience. Since wild animals are unpredictable and bears are common in the Latorița Mountains, ensure you store food in airtight containers far from your sleeping area and never leave trash behind.
4. What is the best time of year to visit?
- Late Spring/Early Summer: For the most vibrant turquoise water and rushing waterfalls.
- Autumn (October): To see the "Golden" side of the lake, as the surrounding deciduous trees turn brilliant shades of orange and yellow.
Absolutely. You can use Lake Galbenu as a starting point to hike toward Lake Petrimanu (just a few kilometers away) or take more challenging routes up toward the Latorița Ridge for panoramic views of the Parâng and Căpățânii Mountains.