Cheile Lăpușului

Cheile Lăpușului is a gorge system running about 25 kilometers through limestone cliffs and crystalline schist rock, with the Lăpuș River carving deep canyons between steep rock walls. The river creates distinct sections with varying rock formations and canyon widths throughout its course.

The area became protected in 1994 and received official status as a nature reserve in 2000. The rock formations themselves developed over millions of years during ancient geological periods.

Several villages nestle along the river valley where people still practice traditional farming and handcrafts that define the region's way of life. These everyday activities shape how the landscape looks and feels to visitors passing through.

Marked trails connect the villages of Răzoare and Remecioara and guide visitors through the gorge, with spring and autumn offering the clearest views and best conditions for watching wildlife. Walking paths can become slippery after rain, so proper footwear is important.

The gorge is home to the yellow-bellied toad, a protected species listed on the IUCN Red List and difficult to spot in most places. This rare amphibian is a key reason why the area gained international protection as part of the Natura 2000 network.