The only anthropomorphic lake in Europe, Gavril Lake is located in Ocna Șugatag resort in Maramureș (northern Romania).
The lake was formed on the site of a former salt mine more than half century ago. Although it has a depth of only 30 meters, the lake is the largest anthroposaline one in Romania, stretching on 2.35 hectares.
The first salt lakes have been tracked down here near the Salt Valley in 1831, but they actually date back to the Antiquity. In early the 18th century, when the mines over there belonged to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the salt from Ocna Șugatag, known for its exceptional quality, was exploited in plaques or bunches and exported to Austria, Hungary, Russia, and even to Africa. The salt exploitation lasted until 1950 when, due to the massive leaks of fresh water, the mines have been closed down.
Besides its size, another curiosity is that Gavril Lake has a layer of fresh water on the surface which enables the existence of fish. As the healing water is full of fish, tourists can enjoy not only taking boat rides but also fishing.
What is also luring more and more tourists here is the curious shape of the lake. While overflying it, one can clearly see that the lake resembles to a human silhouette.
Foreign tourists are mostly valuing the spa properties here, due to the natrium and chloride mineral waters, but also the fact the location is a real oasis of peace, greenery and health. Hydrotherapy is good for rheumatic, neurological and gynecologic diseases.
Moreover, the surroundings are splendid, so, if you get bored you can always stop by the Happy Cemetery in Săpânța or by “Craiasa Forest” Natural Reservation where you can admire the most impressive oak trees in the country.