Things to see and do Băile Herculane

A gigantic-year-old tree standing in front of the city's history museum.

Inside the Roman Hotel are the remains of Roman baths from the 2nd century, the only ones that were not destroyed in the wars between the Turks and Austro-Hungarians. You can admire a copy of a bas-relief depicting Hercules, a cup of thermal water in his hand. Legend has it that it was in the Cerna valley that the hero defeated the Hydra, after bathing in the beneficial waters of the spring that still feeds the station today. You will also see votive paintings, offered to the gods after healing.

You will find some agencies and information in major hotels.

Along the Cerna River, this park enchants with its diversity of flora and with the landscapes created by the river that cuts its way through the limestone massif. A scientific reserve was created here in 1932 on an area of 61,211 hectares to study 1,051 plant species. Three types of habitats are represented: aquatic, terrestrial and underground. There are many caves and grottoes and a rich cave fauna.

Located along the Cerna River, it covers an area of 61,121 ha. There are 1,051 plant species, including the endemic Turkish hazel and Banat black pine. there are 1,500 species of butterfly, as well as animal species such as the horned viper, wildcat, wolf and bear. Three types of habitat are represented: aquatic, terrestrial and underground. There are many caves and caverns, and a wealth of cave-dwelling fauna. It's a magnificent park, yet rarely visited. A variety of activities can be enjoyed here, including canyoning and rafting in the sublime Cerna valley. There's also plenty of scope for hiking, in a hilly landscape culminating at 1,105 m. There are a dozen signposted trails for all levels. You'll find a detailed map at the visitor center at the southern exit of Băile Herculane (strada Uzinei 9), which also features an exhibition on the park's natural riches. Below are the hikes we recommend.

Băile Herculane-Izvorul Munk-Foișorul Roșu-Băile Herculane (blue triangles): a 4 km walk accessible to all, offering beautiful views over the city.

Băile Herculane-Crucea Alba-Vârful Domogled Mare-Cheile Feregari-Băile Herculane (yellow markers): a beautiful 5-6h hike that takes you into the heart of the national park, with an ascent of 890 m. The path goes deep into the forest and offers superb views.