Babele de la Ulmet (Trovants)
✨ Short description
Trovants in Buzău County are a unique geological phenomenon, and the most famous formations are found at Ulmet. These unusual stones, also known as “Babele” or “Stone Mushrooms”, are natural forms of cemented sandstones, formed by a complex geological process. The Trovans of Ulmet are the largest and best known, ranging in shape from spherical and cylindrical to zoomorphic and anthropomorphic. These formations are part of the UNESCO Geopark “Buzău Land”, recognized as a UNESCO site in 2022. They have inspired many legends and stories about spirits and invisible worlds.
📜 History of the location
The Trovants in Buzău county were formed about 14 million years ago, from prehistoric sands which, under the effect of mineral waters, cemented naturally, resulting in sandstone formations. Over millions of years, wind and rain over the course of millions of years have washed away the soft sand, exposing these bizarre geological formations. Today, these formations are called ‘living rocks’ or trovants and are a major tourist attraction.
⭐ Importance and uniqueness of the location
The Trovants of Ulmet are the best known in Buzău County and are famous for their diversity of shapes, from spheres and cylinders to shapes imitating animals or objects. These formations are considered a rare geological phenomenon, and the area around them is part of a geopark recognized by UNESCO. In addition to their geological value, the trovans are also of great cultural significance, being the source of many local legends.
🐉 Local myths and stories
The Trovants are accompanied by various folk legends. The locals believe that these formations are home to mysterious spirits or that they represent “passers to the afterworld”. They are believed to have magical powers and protect households, and are often placed at the entrances of households as talismans.
📍 How to get there
To visit this unique place, follow the national road DN 10 (Buzău-Brașov), then choose one of the following routes:
Route : Take County Road 203 F, then continue on County Road 203 L, passing through the villages Pârscov – Cozieni – Bozioru. From Bozioru, follow the Communal Road 78 to reach the village of Ulmet.
Access to Trovanți
From Ulmet village:
- Go by car to the parking lot near the trovanti.
- From the parking, continue on foot for about 500 meters. The trail leads through a clearing and a grove of maple trees, where a stepped path leads you to the plateau where the “Babele” are located.
Recommendations for visitors
- Equipment: Wear comfortable footwear suitable for light hiking.
- Water: Make sure you have drinking water as there are no sources in the area.
- Photography: Don’t forget your camera to capture the uniqueness of these formations!
🔎Things to keep in mind
- Accessibility: The hike to the Ulmet Trovants is relatively easy, but the final portion is on unpaved road, which can be difficult to cross in wet weather.
- Safety: It is important not to climb the trovants as they are fragile formations that can be damaged or move.
Visiting program and fees
- Schedule: The Trovants can be visited year-round, but it is recommended to visit during dry periods for easier access.
- Fees: Access to the Ulmet Trovants is charged 10 lei for adults and 5 lei for children/students/students/pensioners.