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Saint Ana Lake
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Saint Ana Lake is the only volcanic crater lake in Romania, located in the Ciomadul Massif of the Eastern Carpathians. It formed in the crater of an extinct volcano at an altitude of 946 meters, following volcanic activity that occurred between 30,000 and 42,000 years ago. The lake spans approximately 19 hectares and reaches a maximum depth of around 7 meters, though this depth has been gradually decreasing due to sedimentation. Uniquely, the lake has no springs or outlets, relying entirely on atmospheric precipitation for replenishment, which results in water purity levels comparable to distilled water. On its shore stands a small chapel dedicated to Saint Ana, a site of local pilgrimage for centuries. Nearby, the Mohos Peat Bog occupies a twin crater and hosts rare glacial relict plants such as the sundew. Today, the area is a protected natural reserve with strict regulations regarding tourism and swimming to preserve its sensitive ecological balance.
- Location: Harghita, Romania
- Top sights: Ciomatul Mare · Piatra Șoimilor · Ștrand mezotermal
- Nearby: Băile Balvanyos (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -5 | -4 | 1 | 7 | 13 | 16 | 19 | 19 | 13 | 8 | 2 | -3 |
| Rain mm | 35 | 34 | 43 | 56 | 83 | 109 | 95 | 69 | 53 | 54 | 38 | 40 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Accessible via a paved mountain road from Bixad, followed by a managed descent path to the crater; shuttle services are often provided from the upper parking area to the lake.
Best season
Late spring to early autumn is handy for pleasant hiking conditions and seeing the surrounding forest in full bloom, though winters offer a dramatic, frozen landscape.
Terrain & paths
The crater features well-maintained forest trails and a boardwalk around parts of the shoreline, with some elevation change when hiking back up to the rim.
What to bring
Comfortable hiking shoes are essential for the surrounding trails; bring rain gear as mountain weather changes rapidly, and carry bear spray if venturing deeper into the woods.
Parking
A large, paid official parking lot is located at the top of the crater rim, from where visitors must either walk or take the organized shuttle down to the water.
Safety
Brown bears are frequently spotted in this region; stick to marked trails, travel in groups, dispose of trash properly, and note that swimming is strictly prohibited.
Time needed
A typical visit takes around three to four hours to hike down, walk around the lake's perimeter, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and return to the rim.
Geography
Facts
- The only volcanic crater lake in Romania, located in the Ciomadul Massif.
- Situated at an altitude of 946 meters above sea level.
- Covers an area of 19 hectares with a maximum depth of 7 meters.
- The water contains almost no minerals, similar to distilled water.
- Fed solely by precipitation as it lacks natural springs or streams.
- Part of a protected natural site including the Mohos Peat Bog.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Saint Ana Lake (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is swimming allowed in Lake Saint Anne?
Swimming is currently prohibited to protect the water quality.
Are there bears in the area?
Yes, bears are frequent visitors; stay on trails and don't leave food scraps.
Can you drive directly to the lake?
You must park at the upper lot and walk 1.5 km down or use the shuttle bus.
Is there an entry or parking fee?
Yes, a parking fee per vehicle is charged for access to the nature reserve.
Are there restaurants near the lake?
There are kiosks at the parking lot for snacks and chimney cake, but no big restaurants.
Saint Ana Lake: where is it located?
Saint Ana Lake is located in Harghita, Romania.
Saint Ana Lake: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ciomatul Mare, Piatra Șoimilor, Ștrand mezotermal.
Saint Ana Lake: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Saint Ana Lake: why is it worth visiting?
Saint Ana Lake is the only volcanic crater lake in Romania, located in the Ciomadul Massif of the Eastern Carpathians.
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