The 824-metre-high andesite tower of Piatra Șoimilor offers panoramic views over the Olt Valley. In Băile Tuşnad, nature, the history of the spa resort and wellness are distinct aspects of a stay. To choose a destination, consider whether you are most interested in views and protected plants, historic sites or thermal waters.
Views and Nature in the Olt Valley
Piatra Șoimilor rises above the Olt Valley, overlooking the natural surroundings. The Piatra Șoimilor Nature Reserve is also part of the area’s natural appeal: two yellow hawkweed species grow there that are found nowhere else in Romania. Teleki’s hawkweed has the scientific name Hieracium telekianum; the second species is called Hieracium piloselloides.
The viewpoint can therefore be appreciated for more than its elevation and views of the valley. Its protected plant life gives the nature reserve another specific point of interest. Visitors interested in botanical rarities will find two rare species here, each clearly associated with this location.
History and Architecture
Bastionul Apor was built in 1883 on the lower part of Surduc Peak, at an elevation of 761 metres. It serves as a viewpoint and rest stop, but was never used as a strategic facility. This sets it apart from a military installation: its main purposes are to provide a view and a place to rest.
During its renovation in 2017, an exhibition area was created inside. Panels featuring archival images and a brief account of its history provide historical context for visitors. Bastionul Apor thus combines its role as a viewpoint with an exhibition about its own past.
Another cultural highlight is the Orthodox Church of Băile Tuşnad. It is painted inside and out and is presented as a copy of Voroneț Monastery. Together with Bastionul Apor, it offers a different way to experience the area than its landscapes and plant life: the focus here is on religious architecture and its connection with a well-known monastery.
Thermal Waters, Wellness and a Spring
Wellness Tușnad is located in the centre of the spa resort, next to Lacul Ciucaș. Its facilities include a thermal-water pool and a wellness area with a Finnish sauna, steam room, infrared sauna, salt room and massage salon. These are specific amenities for travellers looking to include wellness in their stay.
Izvorul Apor spring is another local highlight. It is open to the public and located in a decorative pavilion. While Wellness Tușnad brings together a range of facilities, Izvorul Apor is a single spring in a landscaped pavilion. Each offers a distinct feature within the spa-resort experience.
The sights and amenities mentioned offer different points of interest, without promising the same kind of visit.
Getting There by Train
Băile Tuşnad is served by Regio and Inter-Regio trains on the CF 400 Brașov–Deda railway line. If you plan to travel by train, check the current timetable before setting out. This lets you plan your journey based on the available connections without assuming a particular departure time.
Views over the Olt Valley, the history of Bastionul Apor and the thermal-water facilities offer different reasons to consider Băile Tuşnad as a place to stay. You can take into account which of these matters most to you when choosing your hotel.
Discover more destinations: Siculeni, Vlăhița, Tulgheş, Cristuru Secuiesc, Corund, Sândominic, Subcetate, Lacu Roșu
For the broader travel overview: Harghita.
