Poarta lui Ionele Cave

Poarta lui Ionele Cave is situated on the right slope of Valea Ordâncușa, in the heart of Cheile Ordâncușii, on the territory of Gârda de Sus commune, Alba county, at an altitude of 890 m. Declared a natural monument in 1999 and included among Romania's protected areas, the cave is part of Parcul Natural Apuseni — one of the richest karst regions in Romania. Its name comes from its grand portal — a natural entrance 12 m high, carved by water through the mountain's white limestone, which impresses visitors even before they step inside. At the entrance, a spring outlet emerges from the rocky wall, surfacing through scree and forming a small stream with stones covered in green moss. During rainy periods or snowmelt, a beautiful waterfall and a small temporary lake form inside — a rare and striking spectacle. The cave is set up for tourism — lit and equipped with metal stairs and footbridges, accessible even for children. A tourist guide accompanies visitors and presents the cave's legend and scientific data. The interior hosts a large bat colony and several stalactites on the ceiling of the last chamber. Access is from the centre of Gârda de Sus commune, along the paved road toward Ghețarul Scărișoara, through Cheile Ordâncușii — approximately 3 km. Nearby attractions include Grota Corobana lui Gârțău, Izbucul Cotețul Dobreștilor and, a few kilometres away, the celebrated Ghețar Scărișoara.