Nera Gorges

In western Romania there is one of the least known mountainous regions in the Romanian Carpathians. Banat Mountains are keepers of exceptional natural wealth.

One of the major axis of the Romanian Banat mountain tourism is the Nera River valley. Over a length of 18 km Nera pierce Anina Mountains and forms the boundary between them and Locvei Mountains. The area was explored since Roman times when soldiers have built an access road at the west end of the gorges. This road was dotted with several tunnels designed to bind ore exploitation of the access road to the Danube valley.

Rafting

With a mild climate and influential sub-Mediterranean sensitive area Nera host rare species of birds and plants in Romania. During spring the intrepid forests are likely to cross the wild lilac. In summer hiking you should be careful where you step. In rocky areas sunbathing whose horned viper snakebite can be fatal.

From Sopotu Nou tourist path follows the river through meadows and locals gardens. Soon the rocky areas are surrounding the watercourse. Using fragile bridges to cross water whirling overhead. Not long after you arrive at Devil's Lake. It is the largest karst lake in Romania with a depth of over 9 meters. Here is a good resting place for those who cross both keys down and for those who choose that way by rafting boats. Further tourist route becomes increasingly challenging. Besides escalating water crossings by limestone slopes is a challenge. With cables installed in areas hardest journey to succeed in an area called Damian Canton. This officially ends Nera Gorges but not the beauties of the National Park. Nera receives on the right side as tributary river Beiul stream. Continuing its valley enchanting forest road through the woods to a magnificent forest. Forest road continued up the river and after about an hour's hike to reach Ochiul Beiului Lake. This is a lake fed by the river kerst origin Bei through impressive fall in the rainy season the water with breathtaking beauty - the famous Beusnitei Watrefall.

Ochiul Beiului

Sasca Montana town is the terminus of keys and place for an overnight in the area. The village is in ruins of old mining the 18th  and 19th centuries when it was in economic expansion. Old houses, some uninhabited for many years have a charm and make you think of old Westerns.

To reach Spopotul Nou must follow National Road 58B connecting Cerna Valley to Oravita and continue on a local road to Stancilova. Following this local road over the mountain you can reach to Sasca Montana. In the village Carbunari the Roman road built about 2000 years ago is still used. For Sasca Montana north access is on Route 57 descending from Oravita to Danube Valley to Moldova Veche.

Sopotul Nou

Even if the offer is not so varied, you can find nice accommodation in the boarding houses with a charm and where the locals are always happy guests.

You will not regret the choice you made if you plan to explore Banat Mountains.

Map

The Roman galleries