Exploring the Beauty and History of Arges Valley

Vidraru Dam and the Corbii de Piatra Monastery are two must-see attractions located in the heart of Romania. As a young traveler, I was excited to experience these unique destinations since I had always been fascinated by the beauty and power of nature, and I was curious to explore the history and culture of the area.

The Vidraru Dam is a hydroelectric dam built in the 1960s on the Arges River. It is an impressive sight to behold, with its curved shape and the blue water of the lake it creates. The dam is also an important source of energy for the local community, generating power for the surrounding area. Visitors can take a tour of the dam and learn about its history and operation, as well as enjoy the views of the lake and the nearby Carpathian Mountains. The views from the dam are truly breathtaking and I couldn’t help but take countless photos of the surrounding mountains.

Just a short drive from the dam is the Corbii de Piatra Monastery. The Monastery is built entirely in stone, and it’s been nestled in the cliffs since the 14th century. The monastery is tucked away in a picturesque valley and is surrounded by the little houses in the village. Visitors can explore the inside of the monastery, which was in the past adorned with beautiful frescoes, which unfortunately can be barely seen today, and take a stroll through the peaceful gardens that surround it. One of the highlights of visiting the Corbii de Piatra Monastery is the hike to the top of the cliffs that surround the monastery as well as an old, traditional house, painted light blue, which is preserved by the locals exactly nearby. 

Both the dam and the monastery are surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, making them a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike, bike, or boat on the lake and admire the scenery while exploring the Carpathian Mountains.

Overall, my trip to Vidraru Dam and Corbii de Piatra Monastery was a memorable and enriching experience. I was able to appreciate the natural beauty of the area, as well as the human ingenuity and determination that had shaped it over the centuries. I would highly recommend visiting this spot to anyone looking for an adventure and a glimpse of Romania’s culture and history.

The content for this post is part of our online blog called “Ecoventure” which aims to share our experience in the Erasmus+ Youth Exchange ”Ecotourism Ventures for Youth Environmental Education”. The project was financed with the support of the European Commission through Erasmus+ Programme. This blog reflects only the author’s views, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.