Sadului River

Introduction to Râu Sadului

Located in Sibiu County in Transylvania, the village of Râu Sadului is part of the commune that bears its name. To provide more information about the area, we will focus on the Râu Sadului commune, which, in 2011, had 571 officially declared residents. Compared to the 2002 census, there was a drastic decrease in the population, as at that time, 636 people were officially recorded.

Demographics

Demographically, the Râu Sadului commune is predominantly inhabited by Romanians (over 96%). The ethnic background of the remaining residents is unknown, despite a density of 12.21 inhabitants per square kilometer.

Over 95% of the residents of Râu Sadului commune are Orthodox. The present minority consists of Evangelical Christians, along with another, still unidentified group.

Historical Significance

Despite being a small commune, Râu Sadului is highlighted in several historical records that often draw attention to its significance. In 1896, along the distance between Sadu and Râu Sadului, the first mixed hydro-thermal power plant in present-day Romania was built, known as the Sadu V Hydropower Plant.

Tourist Attractions

A very important tourist attraction located within the territory of Râu Sadului commune is the "Holy Archangels" Church, built in 1848 using materials such as stone and brick. The need for such a church arose from the fact that as recently as 1768, the people of the commune were worshipping at a simple wooden cross. Since the church was built, it has been much easier for them to be closer to their fellow beings.

Trails and Exploration

For visitors and tourists from everywhere, Râu Sadului is recognized for the trails that traverse it. There are 4 such trails that attract more and more people each year eager to explore them, namely:

1. The 4-5 hour route that traverses Râu Sadului, Stâna Capra, Vârful Oncești, and Păltiniș begins at the hamlet of Fundu Râului, continuing with a path marked by the "red cross." Its endpoint is marked by the Păltiniș resort. To reach the destination, the traveler must cover approximately one kilometer along the Pinului valley, a forest road, at the end of which they arrive at Vârful Capra.
2. The 35-kilometer route that traverses Râu Sadului, Gâtu Berbecului, Roozdești, and Păltiniș is taken along an unpaved forest road, as it is essential to navigate it by car in order to admire all the treasures of nature.
3. The 5-hour trail that traverses Râu Sadului, Vârful Bran, and Cabana Prejba.
4. The route that traverses Râu Sadului and the Huts of Culmea Vârjoghii.