The lakes are a product of abandoned salt mines that were abandoned as far back as the 1700’s. The lakes developed during the 1700’s and became known to the public in the early 1800’s. The resort was officially opened at Ocna Sibiului in 1858. There are three salt lakes:Horia, Closca and Crisan. One of the more popular lakes known as “the bottomless lake” has been designated a natural monument. It’s given that name for the opacity of the waters, which give the lake the illusion of being bottomless. The opacity of the water also creates a great heliothermic effect, meaning that the water traps the sun’s heat leaving the water a comfortably warm temperature. When you are submerged in the lake you can’t even see your hand under the waters.
The lakes have natural healing properties. Many people come to the salt lakes as a way to treat arthritis (the waters will also hell up any cuts you may have in a matter of days, I know from experience.) There are also stands along the lakes where you can buy a cup of theraputic mud called “namol,” which is said to have many curative effects. The resort also offers a wide range of treatments such as hydrotherapy, electrotherapy, and thermotherapy. Ocna Sibiului is the place to visit if you want both the health benefits of a natural salt lake, and the spa treatments of a resort.