The Bears' Cave in the Apuseni Mountains is Romania's best-known show cave, and deservedly so: its galleries are an almost complete catalogue of karst forms — stalactites as fine as needles, columns as thick as a person, translucent draperies and calcite pools of perfectly still water. The name comes from the cave-bear bones found here, an animal extinct for tens of thousands of years whose traces are still visible on the floor of one gallery.
The visit follows a made-up circuit with walkways and discreet lighting, and it is one of the few mountain experiences that suits absolutely everyone — children, grandparents, rainy days. The internal temperature is constant and cool whatever the season, so a jumper is not optional.
Good to know Entry is in timed groups, and queues build on summer weekends; come in the morning. Flash photography is usually restricted to protect the formations. Combine the visit with Scărișoara Ice Cave, the Turda Gorges or the trail to Cetățile Ponorului; in winter, Arieșeni-Vârtop is close at hand. See accommodation in the area and the mountain weather.
Experiences & tours
Tours & activities · Munții Apuseni: Padiș, Arieșeni, Scărișoara
Excursions, guided tours, adventure and tickets — book online, many with free cancellation.
Before you set off
Check the ground truth, don't guess
Plan your trip
Everything you need for the mountains
Affiliate content: bookings through these offers may earn us a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Stays in the area
Stays nearby
Compare stays available near this place, on the map.
Accommodation map by Stay22 · indicative prices. Bookings through the map may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Frequently asked questions about Peștera Urșilor
When is the best time to visit Peștera Urșilor?
For peaks, lakes and alpine roads, the ideal window is summer to early autumn (June–October), when the weather is more stable and access is easier. Check the forecast first, as conditions change fast at altitude.
How do you get to Peștera Urșilor?
The easiest way is by car to the area, then on the marked trails or access roads. See the map below and plan your route by season and road conditions.
