Those considering Mărgău as a travel destination will find several specific points of interest: church architecture, the history of itinerant glassmaking and a cycling route that passes through the village. The commune is a mountain commune at the foot of the Vlădeasa Mountains and forms part of the Apuseni Mountains. The Mărgăuța River runs through Mărgău from south to north. When planning, it is worth distinguishing activities in Mărgău from routes in the wider region.

Village History and Church Architecture

The village of Mărgău dates back to 1200; the current settlement site has been inhabited since the 14th century. The Church of the Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel is a historic monument and was built between 1804 and 1810. A stone wall around the church and cemetery was built in 1735, before the church itself. The “Sfinții Arhangheli” Church in Mărgău is made of dressed stone and river stone; its bell tower was built from beams, while the nave and porch are covered with sheet metal.

Glassmaking, Textiles and Gumuțeasca

Since the beginning of the 20th century, itinerant glassmaking was widely practised in Mărgău. Glassmakers travelled throughout the country and earned their living by selling glass. A report published in 2021 traces the origins of Gumuțeasca to the glassmakers of Mărgău: they used it to communicate during price negotiations and while working, without their customers understanding them. Linguist Romulus Todoran studied Gumuțeasca and described it as a distinct rural occupational jargon. Some expressions can still be heard in conversations among commune residents today; how often varies. In addition, women from the Mărgău area were known for making high-quality textiles and traditional costume pieces.

Cycling and Hiking

For cyclists, the Bánffy K60/70 cycling route passes through Mărgău and is classified as moderate. In the wider region, the Răchițele circuit passes through the settlement of Răchițele and follows the Valea Stanciului valley to the Cascada Vălul Miresei waterfall. The hike is classified as an easy circular route, is 12.5 kilometres long and has 450 metres of elevation gain; walking time is four to five hours. The options therefore differ both in activity and location: the cycling route passes through Mărgău, while the circuit is a hike in the wider area with specific details on distance, elevation gain and walking time.

Getting There

From Cluj, the commune can be reached via the DN 1 (E 60); the connection to the national road is via the DJ 108C, which passes through Mărgău. Check road conditions before setting off.

Discover more destinations: Apahida, Gherla, Jucu de Mijloc, Câmpia Turzii, Negreni, Frata, Dealu Negru, Gilău

For the main travel overview: Cluj-Napoca.