An earthy spa town in historic Transylvania, Sovata exudes small-town charm with its surrounding natural beauty and family-friendly steam train rides and adventure parks. Its renowned saltwater thermal lakes have reputed restorative properties.
Things to do in Sovata
Join travellers from across the globe at Bear Lake to soak in the legendary mineral-rich waters, which have drawn members of the Romanian Royal Family for generations. Nicknamed “Transylvania's Red Sea” for its helio-thermal properties and rumoured therapeutic effects, the lake lies amidst towering forests and remote paths.
Bear Lake is part of the 79-hectare Bear Lake Nature Reserve, where you can also swim in smaller salt lakes or freshwater pools, such as Lacul Paraschiva. Follow ecological trails and explore the rocky Muntele de Sare salt mine or admire rare plant species and protected lady’s slipper orchids.
Travelling with the family? Head out to Park Aventura Sovata, an outdoor adventure park with ropes, swings and zip-lines separated into age-appropriate routes. Older kids will enjoy the Flying Fox attraction that soars over a small lake. Younger family members can save their energy for Salina Praid Salt Mine, an amusement park with climbing, finger painting and kid-friendly rides.
Another way to enjoy the mountains and forests is with a ride on Mocanita Sovata, a vintage steam train that traverses wilderness tracks for a two-hour round-trip journey. It stops at Campu Cetatii, a small village where you can explore the ruins of Vityal Fortress.
Getting around Sovata
You can rent a car at Targu Mures Transilvania International Airport, about 65 kilometres away. Buses offer limited routes, while taxis are available on request. The best way to get around is by car.