The travertine corridors are about 1 km from the resort and an easy walk from Poiana Zânelor.
About the place
Grota Urșilor (Bear Cave, Hungarian Medve-barlang) is a set of narrow corridors, niches and hollows cut by water into travertine. Its name comes from the cave bear bones found here, according to visitharghita.com. It belongs to the Scaunul Rotund geological and botanical reserve, which Wikipedia describes as the country's most important travertine deposit. Close by is Cerdacul Iadului (Hell's Porch), a similar formation.
You reach it from the area of the Kossuth and Petőfi springs and Poiana Zânelor (Fairy Glade), going slightly downhill on the trail marked with a red triangle. There are several signposts in Poiana Zânelor. The same trail leads to a viewpoint at the old travertine quarry.
Good to know
- Wear shoes with a good grip: the corridors are narrow and can be wet.
- In winter, snow and ice make the path slippery.
- Combine it with Poiana Zânelor, where there are mineral-water foot baths.
Opening hours
Opening hours are not confirmed. Check the venue's website before you go.