Lake Sfânta Ana, Volcanic crater lake in Harghita County, Romania
Lake Sfânta Ana fills the crater of the Ciomad volcano at an elevation of 946 meters (3,100 feet), measuring roughly 620 meters (2,000 feet) long and 460 meters (1,500 feet) wide. The water occupies the volcanic basin and is surrounded by forested slopes that reach down to the shore.
Scientific measurements taken in 1867 recorded the depth at 12 meters (39 feet), while later surveys showed a decrease to less than 7 meters (23 feet). The change reflects natural sedimentation over time within the crater basin.
The Roman Catholic chapel near the shore honors Saint Anne and draws hikers who make the walk through the forest to reach the water. Visitors often come during summer months to sit by the quiet shore and enjoy the mountain setting.
Swimming in the water has been restricted since April 2018 and now requires special permission due to environmental protection rules. Access is on foot via a trail that leads uphill from the parking area through the forest, taking about half an hour.
The water contains only about 0.0029 milliliters of minerals per liter, resembling distilled water because it comes entirely from rainfall. This unusually low mineral content results from the absence of underground springs or inflows feeding the basin.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
