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Peștera Scărișoara (Ghețarul Scărișoara)

4.5(6,689 reviews)Comuna Garda de Sus sat Ghetar, 517321 Gârda de Sus, România
Peștera Scărișoara (Ghețarul Scărișoara)

Scărișoara Cave shelters one of the largest underground glaciers in Europe, set in the Apuseni Mountains within the Bihor massif, near the Alba region and the routes toward Alba Iulia. The cave stands out for its huge block of fossil ice, formed over thousands of years, with a volume exceeding tens of thousands of cubic metres, considered one of the oldest and most voluminous in the region. The descent goes through a large sinkhole-type entrance, a funnel open in the ceiling, from which visitors reach the great hall by wooden stairs, where the temperature stays below freezing all year round.

In the deeper galleries one can see ice stalagmites and spectacular formations, accessible only on special caving tours. The cave is part of a protected area with remarkable karst landscapes. Since it is a cold and damp environment, visitors are advised to wear warm clothes and non-slip footwear and to check the schedule, which depends on the season and the weather.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Peștera Scărișoara (Ghețarul Scărișoara)?+

Peștera Scărișoara (Ghețarul Scărișoara) is located at Comuna Garda de Sus sat Ghetar, 517321 Gârda de Sus, România, in Alba Iulia.

Is Peștera Scărișoara (Ghețarul Scărișoara) worth visiting?+

Yes — it holds a 4.5/5 rating from 6,689 visitor reviews.

Do I need to book tickets for Peștera Scărișoara (Ghețarul Scărișoara)?+

Popular sights can sell out — booking ahead online saves queuing.

What else is near Peștera Scărișoara (Ghețarul Scărișoara)?+

Nearby you'll find Cheile Râmețului, Traseul celor Trei Fortificații, Mănăstirea Râmeț.

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