Discover the Vârghiș Gorges: A Short Visitor's Guide

Located 30 km from the Bodvaj Chalet in the “Forest Land” (Ținutul Pădurilor), Baraolt region (in Hungarian “Erdővidék”), the Vârghiș Gorge is a well-preserved natural monument with a unique charm—and clearly an extra reason to spend an entire weekend in the area. Situated at the border between Covasna and Harghita counties, it has been designated both a nature reserve and a protected area. It hides over 100 caves and cavities (most of which are closed to the public), sinkholes, steep rock walls, as well as a large bat population—specifically 19 distinct species.

Accommodation near by Vârghiș Gorges

If you are looking for accommodation right inside the gorges, we have to disappoint you: there isn’t any. Being a very isolated as well as a protected area, lodging facilities in the immediate proximity of the gorges are non-existent. However, if you enjoy camping, we have good news: you can pitch your tent at the campsite near the entrance to the gorges, in a designated area.

Pay close attention not to store food in your tent, though. “Martinel” the bear is a constant presence in the gorge and the surrounding forests. As long as you follow a few common-sense rules, you certainly won’t run into any trouble.

Costs and how to get to the Vârghiș Gorges

The easiest way to get there is coming from Baraolt towards Vârghiș. The road from the village to the gorges measures about 13 km and was fully repaved a few years ago (with only the last 2 km remaining unpaved). Here you will find a camping area, parking, toilets, as well as a visitor center for the park.

In 2026, the entry fee covers both the visitor ticket for the gorge (for all passengers in the vehicle) and the parking fee, totaling 50 Lei per car, regardless of the number of occupants. That means if a regular car has 5 passengers, it comes down to just 10 lei per person. If it has only 2 passengers, it works out to 25 lei per person. The fee is paid directly to the rangers stationed at the designated parking areas in both Vârghiș and Merești.

Hiking trails in the Vârghis gorges

The elevation gain is minimal—approximately 280 m D+. Taking other trails outside the main gorges stream can significantly increase both the elevation gain and the overall duration of the hike. Since they can be visited year-round, the Vârghiș Gorges is a perfect choice for families and experienced hikers alike. We recommend bringing hiking shoes (limestone can become very slippery when wet), water, a headlamp and a raincoat.

Must-see highlights in the gorges - among other things

Órbán Balázs Cave (Peștera Merești)

The Horse Barn Cave (Șura cailor)

Tatar's cave (Grota tătarilor sau Tatárlik)

Poiana Pietrii Viewpoint

We recommend setting aside about half a day for this experience. Accompanied by a mountain guide, both the overall experience and the depth of information change significantly. You can easily spend up to two days in the gorges without getting bored. However, if you are pressed for time or want to check off multiple attractions, you can take a look at our other recommendations.

The “Șoimul Călător” (Peregrine Falcon) Via Ferrata Route in the Vârghiș Gorges

It has a B/C difficulty rating, making it an easy-to-medium route. The length of the trail is approximately 240 meters with an elevation gain of 120 meters. Completing it takes on average 50 to 60 minutes depending on your experience. Access is free, but (obviously) dedicated via ferrata gear is mandatory (helmet, harness, specialized via ferrata set, and locking carabiners). For the descent/exit from the top point back to the path marked with the yellow stripe, budget a good 10 to 15 minutes.

Activities

If you’ve decided and are looking for a unique experience, here are some of the off-the-beaten-path activities you can enjoy in the gorge alongside our guides:

Explore the depths and off-trail sections of Orbán Balázs Cave (guide required).
Take on the Via Ferrata route. We have the certification, the gear, and the right mindset. Do you?
Histo-Hiking. A guided hike sprinkled with local legends, trivia, and stories. The tales of the area paired with sweeping views of the gorge from above make for a truly memorable experience.
Climb some of the legendary rock climbing routes in the gorge. Turnul Porumbeilor (Pigeon Tower), Gábor, Santinela (The Sentinel), Diedrul (The Dihedral). An unforgettable day on the wall.