What are the Mud Volcanoes?
The Mud Volcanoes in Buzău County, located in the village of Scorțoasa, are a unique natural attraction in Romania. They are one of the most visited spots in the region and offer a fascinating experience for tourists of all ages. Despite popular belief, the Mud Volcanoes are not located in Berca, but a few kilometers away in Scorțoasa.
These small volcanoes are formed by natural gas escaping from deep underground, pushing mud, oil, and salt to the surface. The result is a series of cone-shaped craters that resemble a lunar landscape. The barren yet stunning scenery is dotted with these mud formations, which vary depending on the composition of the mud.
Two Distinct Plateaus – Pâclele Mari and Pâclele Mici
The Mud Volcanoes Natural Reserve includes two main plateaus, Pâclele Mari and Pâclele Mici, which are located a few kilometers apart. Although they seem similar at first glance, each plateau has its own unique characteristics.
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Pâclele Mari – Here, you’ll find larger mud cones, providing a more dramatic spectacle. The landscape becomes increasingly barren, with mud bubbling up from several craters.
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Pâclele Mici – This smaller plateau is home to shorter cones, but they are no less fascinating. You’ll also notice a greater variety of mud structures, some of which are quite striking in their unusual shapes.
How to Get to the Mud Volcanoes
No matter where you start from, the Mud Volcanoes are easily accessible due to well-marked roads and a solid tourist infrastructure. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to get there:
From Bucharest
- Start from Bucharest on DN1 towards Ploiești.
- After Ploiești, continue on DN1B towards Buzău.
- From Buzău, follow DN10 towards Brașov.
- After about 20 km, you’ll reach Berca, where you'll follow the signs to the Mud Volcanoes.
From Brașov
- Follow DN10 towards Buzău.
- After about 80 km, you’ll arrive in Berca.
- From here, follow the road signs to the Mud Volcanoes.
From Ploiești
- Take DN1B towards Buzău.
- After Buzău, follow DN10 towards the Mud Volcanoes, as indicated by road signs in Berca.
From Constanța
- Take the A2 highway towards Bucharest.
- From Bucharest, follow the DN1B towards Buzău, then DN10 towards the Mud Volcanoes.
Things to Know Before Your Visit
The Mud Volcanoes are open year-round, but there are a few important things to keep in mind:
- Access during the cold season is allowed between 8 AM and sunset. Plan your visit accordingly to ensure you have enough daylight.
- During rainy or very humid periods, access may be restricted for safety reasons, as the mud becomes extremely slippery.
- Entrance fees are very affordable, around 4 RON, and you can also purchase souvenirs such as magnets or clay figurines.
What Else to Do in the Area
While you’re in the area, it’s worth exploring other nearby attractions:
- Ciolanu Monastery – A peaceful and historically rich monastery nestled in a serene natural setting.
- Măgura Sculpture Camp – An impressive open-air sculpture collection, perfect for a relaxing walk.
- Mocearu Lake – A mountain lake just a few kilometers from the Mud Volcanoes, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
Conclusion
The Mud Volcanoes offer a unique experience you shouldn’t miss. The lunar-like landscape, the continuous bubbling of the mud, and the intriguing formations make this destination unforgettable. Although the visit may be brief, the impression it leaves will last a lifetime, and the easy access and good infrastructure make the Mud Volcanoes a must-see destination.
Hurry to visit them while they are still in their full glory!
