They are why Ocna Șugatag is a spa resort: salt was mined here as early as 1355, and the lakes formed over the mines closed in 1950.
About the place
Ocna Șugatag is recorded in 1355 as a place with salt mines. Proper mine shafts were opened from 1777, with miners brought in by the Habsburg state. In 1950 the mines were closed because of fresh-water seepage, and salt lakes formed in their place. The largest, Lake Gavril, covers more than 2 hectares and is about 30 metres deep, with a layer of fresh water on top and salt water below.
Around the lakes are outdoor pools and treatment centres, and the resort also has sodium-chloride mineral springs. The Lacul Sărat tourist complex beside the lakes has indoor and outdoor pools of heated salt and fresh water, a hot tub, saunas, a salt room, a restaurant and rooms, open all year according to its website.
Good to know
- Outdoor bathing in the lakes and open-air pools usually runs from June to September; for the rest of the year only the heated indoor pools are open, such as those of the Lacul Sărat complex.
- The lakes are about a 10-minute walk from the centre of the resort.
- The Pădurea Crăiasca nature reserve, with old oaks and larches, lies at the edge of the resort and has a trail marked with a blue dot.
Opening hours
Opening hours are not confirmed. Check the venue's website before you go.