Lacul Colibița

Lake Colibița, tucked between the wooded ridges of the Călimani and Bârgău Mountains, in Bistrița-Năsăud County, is a reservoir created by damming the Bistrița Ardeleană river, yet the surrounding landscape has earned it the name of the "little sea of Transylvania." Its sheet of water, set above 800 metres and ringed by fir forest, creates a mild microclimate of clean air and breeze, which once made the village of Colibița a climatic resort valued for patients with respiratory conditions. Today the shores are a starting point for boat trips, fishing, hikes on the surrounding trails and gentle water sports, in a quiet setting far from the crowds.

The evening light over the water and the mirrored mountains make the lake a favourite with photographers. Practical note: pack layered clothing, since day-to-night temperature swings are large at this altitude and the weather can change quickly.