The natural reserve was established in 1982 and declared a protected area by Law No. 5 of March 6, 2000. The protected area covers 176.60 hectares and is part of the Cheile Nerei - Beușnița National Park.
After approximately 200 meters, the spring water, rich in limestone, flows into the Miniș River from a rocky ledge, forming a travertine waterfall known as Bigăr Waterfall. Near the waterfall, there is a geographical marker indicating that the 45th parallel north passes right by this location.
In 2013, the website The World Geography created a list of the most impressive waterfalls in the world, ranking Bigăr Waterfall in Caraș-Severin in first place.
Bigăr Waterfall is located in a wild area, surrounded by forests and high mountains. Access to the waterfall can be challenging, but once you arrive, you are rewarded with a spectacular view. It has a height of approximately 8 meters and falls into a small basin covered with lush vegetation. It is one of Romania’s most popular tourist attractions, where visitors can admire the beauty of nature.
Bigăr Waterfall is formed by the waters of the Bigăr River, which fall from a height of about 8 meters, creating a dense curtain of water. The water flows into a small mountain lake, surrounded by fir and beech forests.
Around the waterfall, there are numerous hiking trails that allow you to explore the surrounding area and enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains. There are also several viewpoints where you can admire the waterfall from different angles. Bigăr Waterfall is a popular destination for photographers and videographers who come here to capture its natural beauty and the surrounding landscape.
Unfortunately, on June 7, 2021, a large travertine slab collapsed naturally. “The travertine and moss that had accumulated over time increased in size and weight, and the waterfall gave way under its own weight,” announced Romsilva. An environmental activist claimed that “the collapse of Bigăr Waterfall was caused by water capture by the Valea Miniș trout farm,” but Romsilva rejected this accusation, stating that such a process would have reduced the amount of carbonated water, which would otherwise have deposited even more calcium carbonate and further strengthened the structure.
If you are looking for a secluded place to enjoy the beauty of nature, Bigăr Waterfall is an excellent destination to relax and experience peace and tranquility. It is a perfect place to spend your free time with family and friends and admire the spectacular landscapes of the Anina Mountains.