It is a rare natural feature close to the centre and holds 4.4 on Google from more than 250 reviews.
About the place
The grotto is on the right bank of the Cerna, on the slope above the old centre. You reach it on the Pavilions Circuit (Circuitul Foișoarelor), marked with a yellow dot, which starts near the Diana spring by the Austrian Imperial Baths. The path climbs through the forest past the Green Pavilion, the Munk spring and the Yellow Pavilion to Sisi's Rock, a viewpoint; from there a 10–15 minute detour leads to the grotto.
The grotto is about 14 metres long. At the far end, steam at 52–56 °C comes out of a rock crack and the air is almost fully saturated. A rare moss, Philonotis schliephackei, grows on the walls, along with gelatinous stalactites a few centimetres long. It is not made for exploring: it is hot and humid, so go no more than a few steps in.
Good to know
- Do not go deep into the grotto: the hot steam and humidity make the air hard to breathe.
- Wear hiking shoes: the path has steps and steep sections.
- Combine it with Sisi's Rock and the walk down towards Peștera Hoților.
Opening hours
Opening hours are not confirmed. Check the venue's website before you go.