Băile Balvanyos Resort

Băile Balvanyos is a permanent spa and climatic resort in Covasna County, located on the southern slope of the Munții Bodoc, in the Carpathian Bend area, on the territory of Turia commune, at an altitude of approximately 840–950 metres and about 20 km from Târgu Secuiesc. The present-day resort was formed through the merging of several older bathing colonies, and the balneological exploitation of its resources began in the first half of the 20th century, although the curative properties of the waters had been known and used by locals long before that. The area's richness is due to its post-volcanic character: the volcanic and sedimentary rocks, together with emanations of carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulphide, have given rise to a remarkable number of mineral springs — sources cite around 57 carbonated springs, known locally as "borvíz", with a high content of iron and microelements such as bromine, iodine and fluorine. The waters are used both for internal cures and baths, and have traditionally been recommended for digestive and cardiovascular conditions. The resort also features developed mofettes, as well as the Puturoasă Grotto (Peștera Pucioasă), one of the largest sulphurous caves in Europe, with natural therapeutic gas emanations. Beyond its balneological value, Balvanyos is also an important tourist and natural landmark. Nearby are the ruins of the medieval fortress of Bálványos, set on a hill above the stream of the same name, as well as well-known natural attractions of the Carpathian Bend: Lacul Sfânta Ana — the only volcanic lake in Romania — approximately 10 km away, the Mohoș bog reserve, and the Cimitirul Păsărilor area, known for its gas emanations. The tonic bioclimate and the highly ozonated air round out the resort's profile as a destination for rest and treatment.