Lacul Ursu Sovata

Lake Ursu in the resort of Sovata is the largest heliothermic lake in Europe and the main spa attraction of this area of Transylvania. Its name comes from its shape, which recalls an outstretched bear skin, and its most important feature is the phenomenon of heliothermy: the layer of fresh water at the surface lets the sun's rays warm the deeper, saltier layers, which can reach high temperatures even when the surface is cool. The lake formed after the collapse of a salt massif, and its high salinity and therapeutic mud earned it fame as a treatment resort, especially for gynaecological and rheumatic conditions.

Beach facilities, bathing areas, and treatment bases developed around it from the end of the nineteenth century. Visitors can bathe in the salty water and benefit from the properties of the mud. It is advisable to follow the resort's rules on time spent in the concentrated water.