Peștera Șugău, Limestone cave in Giurgeu Mountains, Romania.
Peștera Șugău is a limestone cave in the Giurgeu Mountains with multiple chamber levels stacked above one another and connected by narrow passages. An underground stream runs through the lower sections and has carved much of the cave's internal structure over time.
This cave formed around 65 million years ago during the Paleocene epoch when tectonic activity began shaping the limestone layers underground. The present structure developed gradually through water erosion working on the rock over millions of years.
The name comes from the Hungarian word 'Súgó', describing the whispering sounds made by water and air flowing through the passages. You can still hear these subtle noises as you walk through the cave.
Entry is only possible with a guide as part of a group tour, and you need to wear a protective helmet with a flashlight for safety. The cave is cool and damp, so bring layers and sturdy footwear as the pathways can be slippery in places.
The cave is home to five bat species, including Natterer's bat and the Greater mouse-eared bat, which have adapted perfectly to the cool underground environment. A notable feature is the elevated carbon dioxide levels in some chambers, creating a rare underground ecosystem.
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