Ceahlău is Moldavia's holy mountain, and the Bicaz Gorges are the most dramatic defile in the Carpathians. Together they make an unforgettable weekend, with a serious climb on one day and a spectacular drive on the other. Check the weather, because wind and fog are common on Toaca, and read the Ceahlău – Bicaz page.
Ziua 1 — Ceahlău and Toaca Peak
Start from Durău and climb the Durău – Toaca route toward Toaca Peak, with its final metal staircase and a panorama over the whole massif. Roughly 6–8 hours return, a sustained climb. The Dochia chalet can host you for a break or overnight — see chalets. Otherwise descend and sleep in Durău; see accommodation.
Ziua 2 — The Bicaz Gorges and the Red Lake
Move toward the Bicaz Gorges, where the road winds between limestone walls hundreds of metres high — roughly 30–40 minutes by car from the Ceahlău area. Stop at the "Hell's Throat" and then at the Red Lake, a natural dam lake with fir trunks rising from the water. The walk around the lake is easy and photogenic.
Tips
- The staircase to Toaca is exposed to wind; do not climb in a storm.
- There are rockfalls in the gorges — do not stop beneath the walls and watch the traffic.
- The Red Lake gets crowded at midday; arrive in the morning for calm.
- For meals and rest, the area's guesthouses are a good choice — see guesthouses.