Travel Guide to Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania

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Ra's Travel Guide to Transfăgărășan Highway

Named one of the most beautiful roads in the world, learn how to make the most of your trip on this winding road in Romania; the ultimate travel guide to Transfagarasan highway.

Table of Contents

Experience the captivating Transfăgărășan Highway, also known as National Road 7C, renowned for its stunning mountainous route through the Făgărăș Mountains in Transylvania, Romania. Construction of this iconic road commenced in 1969 during the communist era, and it was completed in 1974, with paving finished in 1980. The ambitious project required the use of over 6000 tons of TNT to clear the rocky terrain. Stretching 152 km in length, with 90 km weaving through the mountains, the highway reaches its highest point near Bâlea Chalet, boasting an altitude of 2042 meters. Continue below for my complete travel guide to Transfagarasan Highway.

Visiting the Transfăgărășan Highway in Romania: Transportation Options and Travel Tips

The highway is open for travel between June 30th and November 1st, from 6 am to 10 pm. However, please note that the section between Piscu Negru (South) and Balea Cascada (North) remains closed during winter due to avalanche risks and heavy snowfall. For detailed information about openings, closures, and visitation, please visit the official Transfăgărășan Highway website.

Driving the complete length of the highway takes approximately 4 hours without extended stops. However, if you plan to indulge in a picnic, embark on hikes, or make multiple stops along the way, it is advisable to commence your adventure early in the morning (around 8 am) and allocate approximately 7 hours.

Where to Stay Along the Transfăgărășan Highway in Romania?

Immerse yourself in the fresh mountain air, breathtaking views, and hiking opportunities by considering accommodation options near the entrance of the Transfăgărășan Highway. Numerous hotels and Airbnbs cater to both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking luxurious stays. Notably, the hotel by Bâlea Lake transforms into an ice hotel during winter, offering a unique and refreshing experience.

During my visit to the Transfăgărășan Highway, I stayed at an Airbnb in Brașov while embarking on a day trip. For more information about my travel to Brașov or if you plan to visit Brașov, please refer to my Brașov Travel Guide.

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Tour Guide Vs. Driving It Yourself

The Transfăgărășan highway offers a well-paved and meticulously maintained route, ensuring a smooth and exhilarating driving experience. Driving independently allows you the freedom to select picturesque spots and pause for scenic hikes along the way. Although the road features numerous narrow twists and turns that may seem daunting, confident drivers can navigate them successfully. When choosing between an automatic or manual transmission, personal preference and comfort are key factors. Considering the potential traffic and challenging curves, an automatic transmission may be preferable, although both options are viable on the Transfăgărășan highway.

For those seeking a more relaxed journey, tour guides and local companies offer guided tours of the highway, allowing you to unwind while gaining insights into its history and discovering optimal photo locations.

It is essential to note that there are no gas stations along the route. If you opt for a self-driven adventure, ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas before embarking on the Transfăgărășan highway.

What to Do on the Transfăgărășan Highway in Romania?

Cable Car

For a captivating aerial perspective of the Transfăgărășan Highway, opt for a cable car ride from Bâlea Waterfall to Bâlea Lake. Operating throughout the year (except during extremely windy conditions), the cable car route spans 3700 meters, offering breathtaking views for a fee of 30 RON.

Bâlea Lake

Situated at an altitude of 2,034 meters, Bâlea Lake provides a picturesque setting and serves as the source for creating Romania's only Ice Hotel. Capture stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains in the lake, providing excellent opportunities for memorable Instagram photos.

Hiking

The Transfăgărășan Highway presents a range of hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. Below, you will find a selection of recommended trails and destinations:

Bâlea Waterfall: Frequently the first stop on many Transfăgărășan Highway trips, this waterfall can be accessed via a cable car or by hiking. Various trail options are available, with the shortest taking approximately an hour round trip. Note that some trails can be steep, so caution is advised.
Vidraru Dam and Lake: Constructed in the 1960s for hydroelectric power generation, the imposing Vidraru Dam stands at a towering height of 166 meters. Explore different sides of the dam to capture unique photos and relish in the awe-inspiring mountain vistas.

Food and Shopping

Several small markets dot the highway, offering souvenirs, food, and artisanal crafts. Notably, larger markets can be found near the entrance to Bâlea Waterfall and at the top near Bâlea Lake.

Transfăgărășan Highway Monument

Situated at an altitude of 1600 meters, a monument commemorating the unification of the highway's construction is located on the north side of the mountain. This symbol of engineering accomplishment signifies the joining of the two parts of the highway on August 16th, 1971.

Capra Tunnel

To traverse to the south side of the highway, travelers must pass through the longest tunnel in Romania, spanning 887 meters.

Poenari Citadel

Embark on a visit to the authentic Dracula Castle, perched atop a hill. Although now in ruins, this castle opens during the summer, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. Be prepared to climb 1462 steps to reach the summit.

Hiking the Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania

During my trip to the Transfăgărășan Highway, I did not engage in hiking activities as I was on a day trip. Nonetheless, our tour guide provided hiking trail suggestions for future visits. Bâlea Lake serves as the starting point for many trails, with the two longest hikes to Moldoveanu Peak and Negoiu Peak spanning approximately two days, depending on your hiking abilities. If you prefer hiking without camping, You Could Travel recommends the following trail options:

From Bâlea Lake to Capra Lake: 31 minutes (1.6 km) one way.
From Bâlea Lake to Vf. Laita: 56 minutes (2.4 km) one way.
From Bâlea Lake to Vânătarea lui Buteanu: 48 minutes (2.2 km) one way.
From Bâlea Lake to Peak Moldoveanu: 4 hours 12 minutes (12.6 km) one way.

For those interested in creating their own hiking route, Komoot provides a planning tool to tailor the perfect itinerary. With this travel guide to Tranfagarasan Highway, you're sure to have a memorable experience.