The Cibin runs along the riverbank through Gura Raului; the municipality also includes a reservoir regulated by a dam and the Cindrel Natural Park. Other attractions include a historic church, local customs, and cycling and hiking routes. This lets you choose different priorities when deciding on your destination: the river and dam landscape, activities on the routes, or the town’s cultural heritage.

River, Reservoir and Natural Park

The settlement stretches along the banks of the Cibin. A reservoir regulated by a dam lies on the river within the municipality. The imposing dam is set in a landscape shaped by mountain ridges; visitors are invited to stop on the dam and take in the surroundings. Cindrel Natural Park is also part of the municipality of Gura Raului. If you would like to focus on the landscape rather than a route, the recommended stop at the dam is a specific option.

Routes and Getting to the Reservoir

The Gura Râului–Râul Mic–Sub Duși–Crinț–Sibiel MTB route is just under 50 kilometres long and has an elevation gain of about 1,000 metres. It starts at the “Trecătoarea Lupilor” ski slope on the outskirts of Gura Râului, in the direction of the reservoir, and follows the lake’s left bank. At the far end of the lake, it continues along the riverbed path of the Râul Mic and climbs towards “Sub Duși” at an altitude of 1,230 metres. The distance and elevation gain are useful figures when fitting the cycling tour into your stay.

As a hiking option, the Coada lacului Gura Râului–Şaua Cânaia–Valea Sadului route is marked with a blue triangle on a white background. This marker gives you a specific point of reference for the hike.

The far end of the Gura Râului reservoir is accessible by car. If you travel to Gura Râului by coach, the walk from the municipality to the reservoir takes about two hours. If you choose this option, take the walking time into account when planning.

Church and Local Tradition

The “Sf. Mihail şi Gavril” church in Gura Raului was built in 1887. Byzantine and Baroque stylistic elements meet in the church, while the tower also features Gothic elements. Contact the priest if you would like to visit the church. On Sundays and public holidays, residents of Gura Raului attend the church in traditional dress and follow a seating arrangement passed down through generations.

Old hydraulic installations have also been preserved in households in Gura Raului. A covered bridge over the Cibin is another attraction in the area.

The “Bujorul de Munte” festival is held annually below the dam. The exact date may vary from one edition to another. Check the event dates if you would like to plan your trip around the festival.

For the broader travel overview: Sibiu.