Day two of our Danube Delta escapade kicked off from Calin's house in Crisan. My wife and I hopped into an open boat on the Sulina Branch, where the calm waters were basically having a staring contest with the sky. Oh, and there was this epic lattice-structured electrical transmission tower that totally looked like it belonged in a sci-fi movie, blending right in with nature’s greatest hits.
As we zigzagged through the Magearu Channel, Bogdaproste Channel, Bogdaproste Lake, La Amiaza Lake, Trei Iezere Lake, Radacinos Lake, and Eracle Channel, the tall reeds swayed like they were jamming to some invisible beat, adding a touch of whimsy to our wild ride.
Our journey took us to Letea Village, where the riverside haven greeted us with lush reeds and trees lining the water’s edge, along with quaint structures playing peekaboo from behind the greenery. The simple yet profound beauty of the village felt like the calm after the storm.
We climbed into an open truck, feeling the breeze against our faces as we set off to explore the mesmerizing Salt Lake and the Letea Forest. As the truck rumbled along, anticipation and excitement filled the air, knowing that we were about to witness the beauty of these natural wonders. On the edge of the serene Letea Forest, Salt Lake rested as a hidden gem with its water's surface shimmering like glass, reflecting the azure skies and the delicate dance of sunlight filtering through the canopy. Venturing deeper into the enchanting Letea Forest, we found ourselves in a sanctuary of wild beauty and biodiversity. The Letea Forest is growing on sand dunes, a unique natural reserve where desert strips of land with vegetation typical of such environments alternate with forest strips of meadow oak trees. The Letea Forest's unique blend of lush greenery and sand dunes is truly a sight to behold. The forest has adapted to grow on a thin layer of fertile soil covering the salty sands of the former sea bottom. This creates a fascinating landscape where the forest and sand dunes coexist. Strolling through grassy fields adorned with scattered bushes and small trees, the sight of wild horses grazing freely was like watching a live-action nature documentary. So beautiful, the 'Letea’s Wild Horses'! The dense canopy of tall, leafy trees provided shade, keeping us cool and refreshed. Observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat made us feel like guests in their untamed wilderness.
We returned to the village of Letea for lunch at Aunt Viorica's guesthouse. We savored sturgeon soup, served separately from the bowl accompanied by fish boiled in vegetables on a plate filled with our chosen meat, Next, we enjoyed warm polenta with pieces of carp and fried catfish, generously sprinkled with lemon and garlic paste. For dessert, we indulged in “gogosi” dusted with powdered sugar. It was the finest fish luncheon we’ve ever had, and the memory of it shall be cherished for the rest of our lives.
Back in the boat, continuing along the Old Danube, the river’s timeless beauty unfolded before us. We stood in quiet awe, watching the wild horses roam, their sleek forms silhouetted against the golden sand dunes that stretched along the water's edge. Their hooves danced on the shifting sands, a symphony of freedom, as the gentle breeze whispered secrets of untamed beauty and ancient spirits. The calm waters reflected the azure sky, offering a perfect backdrop for some serious contemplation and relaxation.
Arriving at Mile 23, we immersed ourselves in the local culture and history. The village buzzed with life, its vibrant exterior and welcoming atmosphere reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
As we made our way back to Crisan, our journey came full circle, leaving us with memories of awe-inspiring landscapes, tranquil moments, and the harmonious coexistence of nature and human presence. This unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Danube Delta via the Sulina Branch was a testament to the enduring beauty of this unique and...
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