Beliș-Fântânele Lake - Calm lake with a dense forest and house.
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Beliș-Fântânele Lake

4.7
·762 reviews·, Romania

A serene artificial lake in the Apuseni Mountains, famous for its visible sunken church ruins and surrounding pine forests.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late Summer / Early Autumn

Lower water levels reveal church

CrowdMedium
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Beliș-Fântânele Lake - Calm lake with a dense forest and house.

Beliș-Fântânele Lake

Best Time

Late Summer / Early Autumn

Lower water levels reveal church

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene artificial lake in the Apuseni Mountains, famous for its visible sunken church ruins and surrounding pine forests.

4.7
(762 reviews)

"A beautiful lake with an interesting history, offering one-of-a-kind views and a place to just stop and breathe."

Vertical photo
TIP

Boat Tour for History Buffs

Don't miss a boat ride! Guides share fascinating history, especially about the sunken village . :boat:

Check Water Levels

The sunken church is the star. Check water levels beforehand to ensure visibility . :water_wave:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Sunken Church

The Sunken Church

Center of the lake

Eerie ruins of a submerged village church, a haunting reminder of history revealed by low water levels.

Scenic Boat Rides

Scenic Boat Rides

Lake surface

Glide across the tranquil waters, soaking in panoramic views and learning local history from guides.

Pine Forest Trails

Pine Forest Trails

Surrounding hills

Hike through fragrant pine forests offering breathtaking vistas of the lake and Transylvanian countryside.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Sunken Church

The iconic sunken church ruins are only visible when water levels are low. Check local conditions before your visit to ensure you catch this unique sight. Boat tours offer the best vantage point for exploring the lake and its history.Reddit

Embrace the Outdoors

Beliș-Fântânele Lake is surrounded by pine forests, offering fantastic hiking and a serene escape. Pack comfortable shoes for exploring the trails and enjoy the fresh mountain air.Reddit

Best Times

When
Late Summer / Early Autumn
Why
Lower water levels reveal church
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring Mornings
Why
Fresh air & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Our first camping spot was at Lake Fântânele in the Apuseni Mountains, Transylvania 🏕️🌲 The road there wasn’t easy, but we found the perfect place right by the water. Beneath the surface lies the sunken village of Beliș, a ghostly reminder of the past. Legends speak of mysteries hidden in the lake and even vampires roaming the night… Pure magic.❤️❤️❤️
oldskull_chef
10 likes • 249 views

Boat Tour for History Buffs

Don't miss a boat ride! Guides share fascinating history, especially about the sunken village.Reddit :boat:

Check Water Levels

The sunken church is the star. Check water levels beforehand to ensure visibility.Reddit :water_wave:

🌲 Beliş-Fântânele Lake in the Apuseni Mountains | Romania | Beliș-Fântânele Lake is located in Cluj county, just a 90-minute drive from Cluj-Napoca. #stillnessdoes #ovidiuponoran #breathtakingnature #breathtakingviews #naturelovers #naturebeauty #natureshorts #outdoors #gooutdoors #natureheals #innerpeace #innerstillness #vitality #energy #harmony #freedom #cluj #visitromania #apuseni #lakeview #...
stillnessdoes
10 likes • 125 views
Beliș, Cluj . . . . #cluj #clujphotography #clujinsta #beliscluj #fântânele #fog #ceață #lake #lac
cami_banani
15 likes • 399 views

Hiking Boots Recommended

Explore the beautiful pine forests. Comfortable shoes are a must for the trails.Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Pack a Picnic

Enjoy the serene nature with a picnic amidst the pine-scented air. Few dining options nearby.Reddit :sandwich:

Lacul Beliș-Fântânele, lac artificial, Munții Gilăului, Cluj, lungime 13 km, 990 m. altitudine #lac #nature #lake #france #montagne #landscape #photography #paysage #naturephotography #e #mountains #love #switzerland #la #travel #naturelovers #randonn #photo #sunset #summer #suisse #maedemenina #photooftheday #nba #landscapephotography #picoftheday #clippers #alpes #losangeles #t
ionuthabuc_duster_fan
40 likes • 2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Boat Tour for History Buffs

Don't miss a boat ride! Guides share fascinating history, especially about the sunken village.Reddit :boat:

Check Water Levels

The sunken church is the star. Check water levels beforehand to ensure visibility.Reddit :water_wave:

Hiking Boots Recommended

Explore the beautiful pine forests. Comfortable shoes are a must for the trails.Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Pack a Picnic

Enjoy the serene nature with a picnic amidst the pine-scented air. Few dining options nearby.Reddit :sandwich:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(762 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Beliș-Fântânele Lake, particularly the unique sight of the sunken church ruins when water levels are low. The surrounding pine forests and the opportunity for boat rides are frequently praised, offering a tranquil escape and a glimpse into local history. Some visitors note the limited dining options and the dependence on water levels for the main attraction.

"If you get here, I would suggest you to take a ride by the boat on the lake. The experience is rewarding and you also get to discover the area's history from the local guides."

Anca Sumalan

"Beautiful lake and surroundings. Great for fishing trout, pike and more! Boat rides are possible and when the water is low you can see a church spire in the lake as there was a village on what is now the bottom of the lake."

Alexandru Vlad

"A beautiful lake with an interesting history. Besides supplying water for a few cities, it also supplies one of a kind views and a place to just stop and breathe and enjoy the beauty of nature"

Ana Cuibus

What People Like

Sunken church ruins
Beautiful lake scenery
Pine forest hikes

What People Dislike

Limited dining
Water level dependent

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The lake is accessible by car, located in the Apuseni Mountains. Roads can be winding, so drive carefully. Public transport options are limited, making a car the most convenient way to reach this beautiful lake.Reddit

Yes, it's a wonderful spot for a day trip from Cluj-Napoca or surrounding areas, offering a refreshing escape into nature and a glimpse into local history.Reddit

From Cluj-Napoca, you'll typically take DN1R towards Beliș. The drive itself is scenic, passing through charming villages and forests.Reddit

Public transport is scarce. While buses might go to the nearby village of Beliș, reaching the lake itself often requires a taxi or private arrangement from there.

The lake is approximately 70-80 kilometers (about 1.5 to 2 hours drive) from Cluj-Napoca, depending on traffic and road conditions.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there is no entrance fee to access the lake area itself. However, boat tours and any specific activities might have associated costs.Reddit

The lake is accessible year-round during daylight hours. Specific facilities or tour operators may have their own operating schedules.

It's advisable to inquire about booking boat tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and confirm availability.Reddit

Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment. Swimming might be restricted in certain areas due to safety or water supply purposes.

The sunken church ruins are only visible when water levels are low. You can view them from the shore or during a boat tour when accessible.Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy boat rides, fishing (check local regulations), hiking in the surrounding pine forests, and simply relaxing by the water.Reddit+1

Yes, the lake is known for fishing, particularly trout and pike. Ensure you have the necessary permits and adhere to local fishing regulations.Reddit

The most rewarding way to see the sunken church ruins is by taking a boat tour on the lake, especially when water levels are low.Reddit+1

Absolutely! The area is surrounded by beautiful pine forests with well-marked hiking trails offering stunning views.Reddit

Expect a picturesque landscape with a large, serene lake nestled amidst rolling hills covered in dense pine forests, offering a tranquil and natural setting.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Dining options directly at the lake are limited. It's recommended to pack a picnic or dine in the nearby village of Beliș.Reddit

You can find traditional Romanian cuisine in local guesthouses and restaurants in Beliș, offering hearty and authentic dishes.

Small shops might be available in the village of Beliș, but it's best to come prepared with snacks and drinks, especially if you plan to spend a full day exploring.Reddit

While not always designated, the natural surroundings offer plenty of beautiful spots for a picnic. Just be sure to clean up after yourself.

Traditional Romanian cuisine can be heavy. It's advisable to ask for simpler vegetable-based dishes or inform restaurants of your dietary needs in advance.

📸 📸 Photography

The sunken church ruins (when visible), panoramic lake views from the surrounding hills, and the dense pine forests offer stunning photographic subjects.Reddit

Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provide beautiful lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear views of the ruins.Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone in the area.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant details. Don't forget a polarizing filter for water shots.Reddit

The roads around the lake offer various viewpoints. Hiking up slightly into the hills provides elevated perspectives of the entire lake and its surroundings.Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Beliș-Fântânele Lake offers a refreshing outdoor adventure for families. The boat rides are usually a hit with children, providing a fun way to see the lake and hear stories.Reddit The surrounding pine forests are perfect for easy hikes, allowing kids to burn off energy in a safe and beautiful environment.Reddit

Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining options are scarce. Consider bringing a frisbee or ball for playtime by the lake. The natural beauty and the unique story of the sunken church can spark curiosity and imagination in young minds.

🎣 Anglers and Nature Lovers

For fishing enthusiasts, Beliș-Fântânele Lake is a prime spot, known for trout and pike. Remember to secure the necessary permits and respect local fishing guidelines.Reddit The serene atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal location for a peaceful fishing trip.

Nature lovers will appreciate the extensive pine forests offering excellent hiking opportunities and breathtaking views.Reddit The clean mountain air and tranquil environment provide a perfect escape for those seeking to reconnect with nature. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

📸 Photographers

Beliș-Fântânele Lake is a photographer's dream, especially when the sunken church ruins are visible, offering a dramatic and unique subject.Reddit The panoramic vistas from the surrounding hills, combined with the lush pine forests, provide endless opportunities for landscape photography. Capture the interplay of light and shadow on the water during the golden hours for truly magical shots.Reddit

Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the scenery and a telephoto lens for capturing details. Drone photography can offer spectacular aerial views, but always check local regulations first.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of the Sunken Village

Beliș-Fântânele Lake is an artificial reservoir created in the 1970s, submerging the old village of Beliș. The most striking remnant is the church spire, which becomes visible when the water level drops significantly, usually in late summer or early autumn. This haunting sight is a powerful reminder of the community that once thrived here, now resting beneath the waves. Local guides on boat tours often share poignant stories about the village's history and the lives of its former inhabitants.Reddit+1

Experiencing the sunken church is a unique and somewhat melancholic moment, offering a tangible connection to the past. The visibility of the ruins is entirely dependent on the season and rainfall, making each visit potentially different. Planning your trip around periods of lower water levels is key to witnessing this iconic feature of the lake.Reddit

Beyond the church, the lake itself is a vital water source for nearby cities, showcasing the dual purpose of this man-made wonder: providing essential resources while also creating a breathtaking natural landscape.

Exploring the Apuseni Mountains

The lake is nestled within the Apuseni Mountains, a region renowned for its dramatic karst landscapes, extensive cave systems, and traditional Romanian villages. The pine forests surrounding Beliș-Fântânele Lake are perfect for hiking, offering clean air and stunning panoramic views. Trails range from easy walks to more challenging treks, catering to all fitness levels.Reddit

The scent of pine needles and the crisp mountain air create an immersive natural experience. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna as you explore. The picturesque villages scattered around the area offer a glimpse into authentic Transylvanian rural life, with their unique architecture and warm hospitality.Reddit

For adventure seekers, the wider Apuseni region boasts numerous caves, such as Scarisoara Ice Cave, and unique geological formations. While Beliș-Fântânele Lake is a primary attraction, it serves as an excellent gateway to discovering the broader natural and cultural treasures of the Apuseni Mountains.

Fishing and Recreation

Beliș-Fântânele Lake is a popular spot for fishing, with anglers often seeking trout and pike. It's crucial to be aware of and comply with local fishing regulations, including obtaining the necessary permits. The clear waters and serene environment make it an appealing destination for those looking to cast a line.Reddit

Beyond fishing, boat rides are a highly recommended activity. These excursions not only offer a relaxing way to enjoy the scenery but also provide valuable historical context from knowledgeable local guides.Reddit The lake is also suitable for kayaking or paddleboarding for those who prefer a more active water experience, though rentals might be limited.

The combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities makes Beliș-Fântânele Lake a well-rounded destination. Whether you're an avid angler, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, the lake and its surroundings offer a fulfilling experience.

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