Transfagarasan Road Trip from Bucharest

Start at 07:30 AM

Your Bucharest travel adventure commences bright and early as your tour guide picks you up from your hotel, marking the beginning of an exhilarating journey through the majestic Făgăraș Mountains, the tallest mountains in Romania. 

As we leave Bucharest, the Transfagarasan Highway greets us, leading us north through the heart of the Transylvanian Alps. Prepare to be enthralled by the unexpected change in landscape as we gradually ascend, leaving behind the bustling city and entering a region of towering peaks, verdant valleys, and flowing waterfalls. This one-of-a-kind Transfagarasan trip promises an extraordinary road trip experience, with breathtaking views and the opportunity to fully connect with the raw beauty of Romania's countryside.

The expedition begins with a visit to the enchanted Curtea de Argeș Monastery, which is steeped in legends of sacrifice and architectural magnificence. Next, we face the challenge of climbing Poenari Citadel, which is traditionally connected with Vlad the Impaler himself. As we continue our drive, keep an eye out for the breathtaking Vidraru Dam and the stunning vista it provides. Then, prepare to be amazed by the famed Transfagarasan Highway, which winds through the gorgeous Făgăraș Mountains, featuring over 20 peaks that exceed 2,000 meters! Keep your cameras ready and your eyes peeled for wildlife; you might even see some courageous black goats or elusive bears!

Important Information for your Transfagarasan trip:

Seasonal Access: The awe-inspiring Transfagarasan Highway is typically open from late June to the end of October, as winter weather can make it impassable.

Weather Conditions: Mountain weather can be unpredictable, and sometimes, fog may obscure the breathtaking views of Balea Lake. Be prepared for the possibility of limited visibility during your visit.

Balea Waterfall: While not included in this specific itinerary due to time constraints, the majestic Balea Waterfall remains accessible. You can choose to explore it on your own time, either by taking the scenic route to Sibiu or by enjoying a thrilling hike in Romania.

Curtea de Arges Monastery

Our first stop is the renowned Curtea de Arges Monastery, which is filled with legend and history. According to the local myth, the monastery's splendour stems from a terrible tale of sacrifice, with master craftsman Manole burying his beloved wife within its walls as an offering to God. After five gruelling years of building, the monastery was completed in 1517 and today serves as the final resting place for members of the Romanian royal family.
 

Vidraru Dam

The phenomenal Vidraru Dam, located near the castle, is a towering engineering marvel that dominates the area. The dam, which rises over 160 meters, provides a stunning view of its surroundings. The dam's massive size creates a stunning contrast with the natural beauty of the mountains. Take some time to capture some breathtaking photos here, where the force of human creativity complements the grandeur of nature.

Transfagarasan Highway: The Ultimate Road Trip

Prepare for the highlight of our Bucharest travel itinerary—the legendary Transfagarasan Highway celebrated as one of the world's most spectacular roads. 

The Top Gear team, led by Jeremy Clarkson, was the first to award this recognition after driving down this road in 2009. That year, the Transfagarasan became "the best road in the world." The Transfagarasan Way was forged with 20 tonnes of dynamite and is now the most spectacular piece of road in the known world, connecting Curtea de Arges and Cartisoara.

Constructed with startling ambition and strategic significance, this engineering masterpiece traverses the rocky terrain between Curtea de Arges and Cartisoara, thanks to the Romanian army's arduous efforts and Nicolae Ceausescu's visionary leadership.

The road was built between 1970 and 1974 with logistical backing from the army, with the goal of connecting the ancient regions of Transylvania and Wallachia via a previously inaccessible path. The project's cost to the country was considerable, especially given how many lives were sacrificed during its completion. 

Under the government of Nicolae Ceausescu, the road was portrayed as one of communism's greatest successes, despite the fact that its economic worth was unjustified and its role was mainly strategic military.

Immerse yourself in the Transfagarasan's breathtaking beauty as we make our way through its serpentine twists and towering peaks. Whether you're a thrill-seeking enthusiast, a photography lover enthralled by nature's beauty, or simply an inquisitive traveller looking for adventure, the Transfagarasan road guarantees an unforgettable time.

Balea Lake

Descending from the dizzying heights of the Transfagarasan, we arrive at the peaceful shores of Balea Lake, tucked in the beautiful alpine scenery. During the winter months, guests can marvel at Romania's only ice hotel, which is built from the crystalline waters of Balea Lake.

End your Transfagarasan journey with a leisurely stroll around the glacier-fed lake, taking in the tranquillity of this lonely mountain sanctuary. As the sun sets over the Făgăraș Mountains, we bid farewell to this stunning landscape and retrace our steps across the Carpathians' scenic grandeur.

Our Transfagarasan trip closes when we return to Bucharest at about 8 p.m., packed with memories of an unforgettable journey across Romania's natural treasures.

Explore More with Rolandia

Your journey across Romania does not need to finish here! Rolandia is your one-stop destination for creating memorable experiences in Romania. From exploring Transylvania's medieval beauty to discovering Bucovina's hidden beauties, our wide tour selection caters to every taste and interest.

Allow our local experts to plan the ideal Romanian itinerary for you. Rolandia Travel has something for everyone, whether you love history and nature or just want to experience authentic Romanian culture. Contact us to begin arranging your next Romanian vacation!