Hoia Baciu Forest: Full Guide to Romania’s Haunted Forest

Have you been wondering about the Hoia Baciu Forest in Romania and whether it is really as haunted as people say? I’ve got you covered!

As a former local who has personally explored this eerie woodland during my family trip to Cluj-Napoca, I can share both my expertise and firsthand experience.

Many travelers are fascinated by the mystery of the Hoia Baciu Forest, but feel uncertain—Is it safe? Is it really haunted? Should you book one of the famous Hoia Baciu Forest tours?

This review-style guide will answer your questions, give you trustworthy insights, and help you decide if visiting this legendary place is worth it.

Overall, Hoia Baciu Forest is my top pick for travelers interested in paranormal legends, natural mysteries, and off-the-beaten-path destinations in Romania.

It is not only a hotspot for UFO sightings, ghost stories, and strange tree formations, but also a unique place for hiking, photography, and cultural storytelling.

Families, paranormal enthusiasts, and curious adventurers will all find something memorable here.

If you have ever dreamed of visiting a place with supposedly paranormal activity in Europe, I really recommend the Hoia Baciu Forest.

The Hoia Baciu Forest Romania is a 3-square-kilometer woodland on the outskirts of Cluj-Napoca, often called the “Bermuda Triangle of Transylvania.”

The name comes from the legend of a shepherd, Hoia Baciu, who vanished along with his flock of 200 sheep.

Since then, countless stories of disappearances, strange lights, ghostly apparitions, and malfunctioning electronics have made it one of the world’s most haunted forests.

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Haunted Reputation

The forest is said to be haunted by ghosts of peasants, lost travelers, and even the shepherd Hoia Baciu. Many visitors claim to see shadowy figures or ghostly faces in their Hoia Baciu Forest pictures. This eerie reputation makes it a must-see for paranormal enthusiasts.

UFO Sightings

The most famous Hoia Baciu UFO sighting occurred in 1968, when Emil Barnea photographed a glowing disc above the forest. Since then, the Hoia Baciu circle has been rumored to be a UFO landing site, attracting researchers and thrill-seekers.

Strange Trees and Vegetation

The Hoia Baciu Forest trees are unlike anywhere else in Romania. Many grow twisted, spiraling, or in zig-zag shapes. In the central clearing—known as the Hoia Baciu circle—no vegetation grows at all. Scientists cannot explain this, making it one of the most bizarre natural phenomena in Transylvania.

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• Unique mix of folklore, history, and science.
• Easily accessible from Cluj-Napoca (only 30 minutes away).
• Offers both daytime hikes and thrilling night tours.
• Extraordinary photography opportunities.
• Chance to experience one of Romania’s most mysterious landmarks.

• Paranormal experiences are not guaranteed.
• Trails are not always well marked—getting lost is possible.
• Electronic devices may lose signal (but this adds to the thrill!).
• Can feel spooky for families with small children.

With a guide, safety and navigation issues are minimized, and you’ll get the full history behind the forest’s mysteries.

During my spring 2025 trip, I hiked with my son and husband from Donath Street into the woods. The first part of the trail felt ordinary—singing birds, blossoming apple trees, and a peaceful atmosphere. But as we approached Poiana Rotunda (the Hoia Baciu circle), the forest grew unusually quiet, and the trees became twisted.

When we reached the circle, I was struck by its perfection—an almost perfectly round clearing where nothing grows. My phone lost signal in the middle of the circle, which was both fascinating and unsettling. Although we did not see ghosts or UFOs, we both felt a strange sensation of being watched.

We have never encountered such an anxious sensation anywhere else!

We actually starting feeling relieved when going outside the forest and soaking up the amazing view over Cluj from the top of the hill.

All in all, it was an unforgettable experience and I truly recommend it!

Hoia Baciu is perfect for:

• Paranormal seekers who want to explore ghost stories and UFO myths.
• Adventurers looking for unusual hiking experiences.
• Families interested in folklore, provided they are comfortable with spooky tales.
• Photographers who want to capture the strange shapes of the Hoia Baciu Forest trees and the mysterious circle.

Located west of Cluj-Napoca, the Hoia Baciu woods Romania are only a 30-minute drive from the city center. You can reach the main entrance near Strada Tăietura Turcului or follow Donath Street for direct access to the hiking trail leading to the circle.

You can either take an Uber or book a guided tour (highly recommended if you want to learn more about paranormal activity here!)

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If you want to explore more mysterious or atmospheric places in Romania:

1. Corvin Castle (Hunedoara Castle) – A scenic Gothic fortress where the father of Vlad the Impaler (Dracula) lived. The fortress served as filming location for several Hollywood movies such as Ghost Rider or The Nun.
2. Poenari Fortress – The real castle of Vlad Dracula, perched on a dramatic mountain ridge in the middle of the Carpathians.
3. Sighisoara – A UNESCO medieval town and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler.

Where is Hoia Baciu Forest located?
It is located west of Cluj-Napoca, in Transylvania, Romania, about 30 minutes from the city center.

Why is Hoia Baciu Forest haunted?
Local legends tell of ghosts, UFOs, and strange disappearances, especially around the Hoia Baciu Forest circle. Visitors often report lights, apparitions, or malfunctioning devices.

What is the Hoia Baciu circle?
A perfect clearing in the middle of the forest where no plants grow. It is believed to be either a UFO landing site or a paranormal hotspot.

Is Hoia Baciu Forest safe?
Yes, thousands of people visit every year without issues. Stick to marked trails, bring a flashlight, and consider joining a Hoia Baciu Forest tour for extra safety.

Can I take pictures in Hoia Baciu Forest?
Absolutely—many visitors aim to capture Hoia Baciu Forest ghost photos or the unusual trees. Just be prepared for possible electronic glitches.

🤩 Check Prices and Availability of Hoia Baciu Forest Tours!

Definetly! Hoia Baciu Forest is a must-visit for anyone intrigued by the paranormal, fascinated by natural mysteries, or simply looking for a unique adventure near Cluj-Napoca.

If you’re hoping to spot a Hoia Baciu Forest ghost, capture eerie Hoia Baciu Forest photos, or just enjoy a hike among some of Europe’s strangest trees, the forest promises an unforgettable experience.

For the full story, consider joining a Hoia Baciu Forest tour-local guides can share chilling legends, help you find the Poiana Rotunda, and maybe even help you spot something otherworldly.

👉 If you are planning your trip to Cluj-Napoca, also check out my guides to the best hotels in Cluj, day trips by car, and local restaurants to make the most of your adventure in Transylvania.

Drum bun! (Have a nice trip!)