Muddy Volcanoes – Beciu
✨ Short description
The Mud Volcanoes of Beciu, often also called the “Fierbătorile de la Beciu” are a spectacular site of the phenomenon, located in an isolated area of the Scorțoasa commune (Beciu village), close to the border with the Beceni commune. In contrast to the other volcanoe areas, here the volcanoes appear as mud puddles and the intense eruption activity includes crude oil erupting to the surface. The area, less than 1 hectare in size, lies in a green meadow surrounded by pastures and forests, the contrast between the vegetation and the blooming mud providing a unique landscape. The site is part of the Volcanii Noroioși Nature Reserve, protected since 1955, but remains undeveloped for tourism.
📜 History of the location
The first scientific observations of the “Beciu Volcanoes” were made as early as 1867 by the Frenchman H. Cognand, and later the area was known locally, being mentioned in various documentations, although it has remained relatively little visited until recently.
⭐ Importance and uniqueness of the location
The Beciu Plateau is located in a small depression (Policiori Depression) between the sub-Carpathian hills, at an altitude of ~300 m. The volcanoes here occur almost exclusively in the form of boils – about 40 mud meshes, with diameters ranging from a few tens of centimeters to 2-3 meters. The mud, more fluid and watery than that of Paclele Mari, forms boiling lakes, and in the center of the plateau is a thin patch of dry mud, resembling soft “mats”. The volcanoes of Beciu add to the uniqueness of the whole ensemble of mud volcanoes in Buzau. The most frequent and rapid mud eruptions are observed here, with bubbles coalescing and creating spectacular visual effects, sometimes managing to capture more “explosions” in a few minutes than at other sites. The area is notable for its eruptions of mud mixed with crude oil, providing a direct link to the hydrocarbon deposit, and its isolation provides an authentic, almost meditative natural setting.
🐉 Local myths and stories
Although Beciu has fewer legends of its own, folklore from neighboring villages (Arbănași, Beceni) has borrowed tales from the area’s mud volcanoes. The boiling noise is said to be the growl of the dragon buried beneath the Istrița Hill, and old names such as ‘Borhoturile dracului’ (the devil’s boiling) suggest a demonic origin. Another legend tells of the hidden treasures of Mihnea Voda, cursed never to be found, explaining the phenomenon of boiling as divine protection.
🗺️ What to visit
Visitors are free to explore the boiling field, admiring the constantly bubbling mud, with bubbles coalescing into a natural spectacle. The plateau also features dry vegetation-covered cones, ditches and micro-canyons carved by erosion. For keen photographers, the varied texture and the contrast between the mud and the vegetation make for great shots, especially in the morning light or at sunset.
📍 How to get there
The access to Beciu is either from Pâclele Mari/Mici or from Beceni.
- Route via Scorțoasa: From Pâclele Mari, follow the communal road DC190/DJ102F towards the village of Beciu – about 8 km asphalt, then ~3 km on the stone road (DC97) that climbs the hill towards Arbănași.
- Route via Beceni: Alternatively, you can come from Beceni commune (DJ203K – Valea Slănicului) and follow a local road to Arbănași village, connected with DC97. The dirt road is difficult after rains; a 4×4 vehicle or walking some segments is recommended.
- There is no designated parking – stop by the roadside in a farm area.
🔎Things to keep in mind
- Road and weather: The rocky road can be slippery after rain; if it has rained, leave the car in Beceni and walk the last section.
- Equipment: Wear waterproof boots, clothing suitable for densely vegetated areas, and take water and snacks as the area is unmaintained.
- Precautions: Watch out for the edges of puddles, test the terrain with a stick and avoid getting too close to oil installations.
- Group: It is advisable to go in a group as the GSM signal is weak and the area is isolated.
⏳ Visiting hours and Fees
The Beciu Volcanoes have no fixed program or ticket office; access is free of charge at your own risk. Visiting during daylight hours (ideally between sunrise and sunset) is recommended, as visibility and safety are maximized. In winter, conditions can be difficult due to snow and ice