Ponicova Cave

The Ponicova Cave is carved into the left slope of the Danube, in the Cazanele Mari, Ciucaru Mare area, and is partially flooded after the creation of the dam lake.

It can be reached by boat, traveling 500 meters under the Ciucaru Mare cliff to the cave entrance.

Another entrance to the cave is through the Ponicova stream, which has deepened into limestone, forming a natural bridge, then passes through the cave, creating a system of tiered galleries, and empties underwater into the Danube.

It is the most important cave in the Danube Gorge, also known as the Gura Apei Cave or the Bat Cave, due to the colonies of bats living in the Bat Gallery.

The cave has several galleries; from the Ponicova Gorge (on land), you can enter the Ponicova Stream Gallery, or through a narrow path into the Bat Gallery.

This is a long hall over 100 meters in length, 60 meters wide, and over 30 meters high.

Visiting the cave is recommended in groups led by a guide, with lamps, rubber boots, and proper equipment, as the tour of the entire cave lasts 2-3 hours.

The largest cave in the Danube Gorge, Ponicova Cave is accessible both by water and by land! It’s worth visiting on a boat cruise.

🔗 See all cruises that include this landmark:

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