Explore Romania: Transfagarasan's Epic Ascent to 2,034 Meters - Conquering the Carpathians

Tour Summary:

Transfăgărășan is a legendary road winding through the Făgăraș Mountains in Romania, renowned for its stunning scenery and engineering marvels. Often dubbed "the best road in the world" by enthusiasts, it stretches over 90 kilometres, reaching an altitude of 2,042 meters at its highest point. Built as a strategic military route in the early 1970s, it was opened to the public in 1974, offering unparalleled views and access to remarkable attractions like Bâlea Lake and Waterfall. Its steep inclines, sharp bends, and breathtaking landscapes have made it an iconic destination for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Tour Name:  Explore Romania: Transfagarasan's Epic Ascent to 2,034 Meters - Conquering the Carpathians

Short Description: Ready to turn your world upside down? Welcome to the Transfagarasan Pass, where the road takes more twists and turns than a telenovela plot! Join us for the ultimate adventure in Romania as we embark on a rollercoaster ride through jaw-dropping scenery and heart-pounding excitement. Get ready to buckle up and hold onto your hats as we navigate this iconic mountain road, where every twist and turn is an invitation to embrace the thrill of the journey. Let's rev up those engines and dive headfirst into an unforgettable escapade along the Transfagarasan Pass!

Travel Itinerary:

Total driving distance: ~850km

Road Type: Well-paved national and regional roads, winding roads over small passes, passing through villages. Some portions can be done on highways.

Start Point: The southern end of Transfăgărășan begins at Capataneni village Meanwhile, the northern terminus is located in Cartisoara village.

Arriving in Romania: By air, by car or by train via Vienna, Budapest then enter via Oradea in Romania.

Recommended Start Point: Cluj (Cluj Napoca) - International Airport (IATA code for the airport is CLJ) (Served recently by Swiss directly from Zurich, Lufthansa from Munchen etc and for a long time by Wizzair via Basel) or Bucharest

Interests: Special mountain driving on winding mountain roads with villages and unspoiled ancient forests, rivers, and panoramic mountains. Hike the Carpathian mountains at Bâlea Lake.

Tour Type: Driving Touring, Nature Views, Hiking

Recommended Duration: 2+ Days

Transport Type: Car rental/self-driving car

Physical Effort: Easy

Adventure Type: Kid-Friendly Escape

Introduction Transfagarasan

Ah, the Transfagarasan – where adventure and hairpin turn go hand in hand, leaving hikers, cyclists, drivers, and motorcycle maniacs equally exhilarated and exhausted. Thanks to its twisty terrain, you'll find yourself cruising at a 'whopping' average speed of around 40 km/h. But hey, slow and steady wins the race, right? And let's not forget the sweet rewards waiting at the end of the road – Bâlea Lake and Bâlea Waterfall, just begging to be explored.

Transfagarasan - is the second-highest paved road in Romania after Transalpina.

If you're looking for a breathtaking mountain adventure, the Fagaras Mountains, also known as the "Transylvanian Alps," should be at the top of your list. With unique wildlife and scenic hiking and biking trails, these mountains offer a one-of-a-kind experience in Romania.

One of the highlights of the Fagaras Mountains is the Transfagarasan, a winding road that was built in response to the Soviet Union's 1968 invasion of Czechoslovakia. The road climbs to an altitude of 2,034 meters, making it the second-highest mountain pass in Romania after Transalpina. The most spectacular route is from the North to the South, with steep hairpin turns, long S-curves, and sharp descents. It's an attraction and a challenge for hikers, cyclists, drivers, and motorcycle enthusiasts alike.

The Transfagarasan also provides access to Bâlea Lake and Bâlea Waterfall, two of the most stunning natural landmarks in the area. At Bâlea Lake, you can take a cable car to the top of the mountain for a panoramic view of the surroundings, or rent a boat to explore the lake itself. Bâlea Waterfall, on the other hand, offers a refreshing mist and a picturesque setting for a picnic or a photo op.

For hikers and nature enthusiasts, the Fagaras Mountains offer a variety of trails with different levels of difficulty. The most popular one is the Transfagarasan Trail, which follows the road and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Other popular trails include the Negoiu Peak Trail, which takes you to the second-highest peak in Romania, and the Podragu Lake Trail, which leads to a picturesque mountain lake.

Whether you're an experienced hiker or a casual traveller, the Fagaras Mountains and the Transfagarasan Road are must-see destinations in Romania. Just make sure to bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and plenty of water, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains. Happy travels!

Getting to the Transfagarasan Road

Getting to the Transfagarasan Road Pass is an adventure in itself, promising stunning views and unforgettable experiences. Situated in the heart of Romania, the Transfagarasan Road winds its way through the breathtaking landscapes of the Southern Carpathian Mountains, offering travellers a scenic route unlike any other.

The southern end of Transfăgărășan begins at Capataneni village Meanwhile, the northern terminus is located in Cartisoara village.

Attention: If you search on Google when the road is closed during the winter season, you will find alternative routes. Make sure you go on Road 7C via Bâlea Lac (Lake Bâlea)

Google Maps Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9Y1kk5aBEGYA2fnE9

For those travelling by car, the road is accessible via well-maintained highways and local roads, with signage directing you towards the Transfagarasan. Alternatively, you can opt for guided tours or public transportation options available from major cities to nearby towns, where you can then arrange for transportation to the starting point of the Transfagarasan Road Pass.

Interesting Facts about Transfagarasan

Have a look at the TopGear (BBC) videos on Transfagarasan mountain road -Transfagarasan Highway in Romania is renowned for its stunning mountain scenery and challenging twists and turns, earning it a top spot among Europe's best driving roads. Built as a strategic military route, it offers breathtaking views, climbs to 2,034 meters, and features unique attractions like tunnels under waterfalls and Bâlea Lake. While road conditions can vary, the journey through Romania's exotic landscapes makes Transfagarasan a must-drive road, best enjoyed during the quieter times of the year or early morning and late evening to avoid crowds.

Our collection of pictures of Transfagarasan

Our curated Transfagarasan photo album from 4B Travel Guide beckons you to explore the mesmerizing allure of Transfagarasan Road through our captivating images. Traverse its winding mountain routes and behold the breathtaking panoramas that unfold along this scenic journey through the Southern Carpathians of Romania.

Join us on a visual adventure as we unveil the rugged beauty and timeless charm of this iconic route..

Click to see our  4B Travel Guide pictures album of Transfagarasan: 

https://photos.app.goo.gl/uwkxsGaXxyYoHQHo7

Accommodation

Bâlea Lake Mountain Chalet: Nestled amidst the stunning Romanian Carpathians, the Bâlea Lake Mountain Chalet stands beside a picturesque glacial lake. Perched at an elevation of 2034 meters above sea level, it's conveniently located along the renowned Transfăgărășan mountain road, offering accommodations that meet international standards. Each room boasts wooden furnishings, modern amenities including showers, toilets, and televisions, and boasts mesmerizing views of the 4.6-hectare Bâlea Lake and the surrounding mountain vistas.