Discover Tău Bistra: Reservoir, Rock Formations and Oașa Monastery

Nature

The Tău Bistra Reservoir was built for hydroelectric power generation. At the same time, it can also be used for tourism. The water is held back by a 78-metre-high, arched concrete dam, meaning that the landscape around the reservoir also includes a striking water-management structure.

The reservoir therefore represents both the technical use of water and a place that can be used for tourism. The dam is defined by its specific construction: it is made of concrete, has an arched design and is 78 metres high.

A distinctive point in the landscape is Masa Jidovului. The natural monument is located in Șugag commune, in the village of Tău Bistra, and covers an area of 0.20 ha. The rock formation is situated on the right bank of the Sebeș, in the immediate vicinity of DN 67C, the Transalpina. It is also known as Masa Uriașului.

Masa Jidovului consists of crystalline schists. As an isolated rock, it forms a table-like platform that projects into the valley. Its shape, the rock from which it is made and its location by the river are among the characteristic details of this natural monument.

The rock formation is therefore located both on a specifically named riverbank and near a specifically named road. Masa Uriașului is another name for the same isolated rock, whose table-like platform of crystalline schists projects into the valley.

Stânca Grunzii also consists of crystalline schists. The rock formation lies at a sharply narrowed section of the valley that resembles a wild gorge. In this section, the river makes several winding bends. The name La Grumaji is also used for the same rock formation.

Culture

The Oașa Monastery and its wooden church are part of Tău Bistra’s cultural landscape. It was founded in 1943 by the writer Mihail Sadoveanu. However, its history did not end at this place of foundation: in 1983, during the construction of the Oașa Reservoir and the Oașa Dam, the church was moved to its current location in the Poarta Raiului clearing.

In 1983, during the construction of the Oașa Reservoir and the Oașa Dam, the church was moved to its current location in the Poarta Raiului clearing. It had already been founded by Mihail Sadoveanu in 1943.

Oașa Monastery is located in Tău Bistra and organises youth camps. These camps focus on spirituality, tradition and culture. Thus, in addition to the historic building, the monastery is also associated with organised programmes with an explicitly defined thematic focus.

Activities

The Poarta Raiului–Prisaca circular trail runs at the foot of the Șureanu Mountains around the Vf. Canciu peak, at 1,766 m. The route is an easy, family-friendly hiking trail with only minor changes in elevation.

The entire circuit is estimated to take around 3–4 hours. In addition to hiking, the route is recommended for cycling tourism.

The circular trail has only minor changes in elevation and takes around 3–4 hours. It is also recommended for cycling tourism.

Another activity is possible in the Șureanu ski area. The ski area is located on DJ709K in Tău Bistra, Alba County.

Other Places

Other places to explore independently include Blaj, Mătișești, Scărișoara, Ţelna, Gârda De Sus, Sohodol, Rimetea and Lancrăm.

For the higher-level travel overview: Alba.