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.
GPS coordinates: 45.14500,23.13889
Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:56
The Endless Column
16.6 km
Tismana Monastery
18.1 km
Table of Silence
15.4 km
Lainici Monastery
23.9 km
Sculptural Ensemble of Constantin Brâncuși at Târgu Jiu
16.6 km
Defileul Jiului National Park
22.9 km
Constantin Brâncuși memorial museum
12.1 km
Tudor Vladimirescu National College, Târgu Jiu
16.1 km
Jiu Bridge
15.2 km
Stadionul Tudor Vladimirescu
15.3 km
Cula Cartianu
14.1 km
Cula Cornoiu
17.2 km
Archangels' church in Târgu Jiu
15.6 km
Vârful Custura
28 km
Ruins of Vișina monastery
19.3 km
Gorj County Prefecture
15.6 km
Wooden church of the Presentation in Măzăroi
10.8 km
All Saints' church in Stănești, Gorj
8.3 km
Crow's Cave
11.2 km
Saints' Peter and Paul church in Târgu Jiu
16.2 km
Stadionul Tudor Vladimirescu
15.3 km
"La Cetățui" archaeological site in Tismana
19.4 km
Church of the Presentation of Mary, Lainici monastery
23.8 km
Barbu Gănescu House
15.6 km
Stăncești Larga
27.3 km
Podul din Scocul Urzicarului
22.9 km
Târgu Jiu City Hall
15.4 km
Roșia Jiu
28.4 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes