Cheile Sohodolului, Nature reserve in Runcu, Romania
Cheile Sohodolului is a protected gorge in the Vâlcan Mountains where limestone walls rise steeply and a river flows through deep rock passages. The landscape displays layered geological formations and water-carved shapes created over thousands of years.
The gorge formed through slow limestone erosion over millions of years as water carved through the rock layers. In 2000, the area gained official protection to preserve its geological features and natural character.
The gorges have long held meaning for herding communities who moved livestock through these passages across generations. The local villages view the canyon as part of their living heritage and a place shaped by centuries of human presence.
The site is best visited during warmer months when paths are dry and safe to navigate. Visitors should bring sturdy footwear and a flashlight, as high rock walls block out sunlight and some sections are quite dim.
The gorge contains a distinctive rock formation whose holes and indentations resemble a giant face. This erosion-carved shape is known to hikers but often missed by those passing quickly through.
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