Excursion to Transfagarasan: A Journey Through Nature's Splendor
Do you like what you see? I find myself asking: Where is it? How can we get there? Is it really worth the hype?
As a simple tourist who has wandered through these breathtaking lands, I can confidently say YES, it’s worth every minute spent in this beautiful area. The joy of experiencing every blade of grass, every ridge, and every corner of nature is unparalleled. You might even find remnants of snow at the top, which adds to the charm.
The Transfagarasan Road is a great escape for nature lovers, allowing you to disconnect from everyday life, the noise of the city, and modern chaos. It perfectly combines adrenaline with stunning natural beauty. I can assure you that I felt the most profound connection to nature, marveling at the harmony of the terrain and the breathtaking scenery.
What You Need to Know About Transfagarasan
Transfagarasan is not just any road; it’s a surprising journey that connects the two main regions of Romania—Transylvania and Wallachia. Here are some key details:
- Altitude: Transfagarasan boasts one of the highest altitudes in Europe, reaching the Balea Glacial Lake at 2024 meters.
- Length: The road stretches over 92 km and includes 27 viaducts and bridges.
- Tunnel: Between Capra and Balea lies Romania's longest tunnel at 887 meters, which crosses Mount Paltinul.
If you're still on the fence about making this trip, let me share my own experiences. Starting from Brașov, you’ll encounter several attractions along the way. The journey through
Transfagarasan is awe-inspiring. It's fascinating how you can experience spring at the foot of the mountain, only to find snow at the summit. I recommend visiting in early July when you’re likely to encounter both.
When I reached the summit, the weather was gloomy and cloudy. However, stepping out of the tunnel felt like entering a new world. It was as if we had arrived in heaven. The sun was shining brighter than ever, warming every part of me, while the scenery was spectacular. Everything was a light shade of green, adorned with blooming spring flowers along the ridges and valleys. In that moment, all I could do was admire the beauty around me and imprint it in my memory.
Is It Worth It?
To answer the question, “Is it worth the interest?”—absolutely! I am sure that anyone who embarks on this journey will be as amazed as I was.
Whether you’re a local tourist traveling by car or a foreign visitor renting a vehicle from EuroCars in Brașov or Bucharest, Transfagarasan is a destination you don’t want to miss. Access roads are well-maintained, and I recommend the route from Argeș to Sibiu. However, for a more fulfilling experience, consider the itinerary: Bucharest → Sinaia → Predeal → Brașov →
Făgăraș → Argeș. This route will allow you to explore some of the most beautiful areas of our country, with plenty of other treasures waiting to be discovered.
If you find yourself on the road at night, consider staying at the Cabana Bâlea Lac. Surrounded by the glacial Bâlea Lake, this guesthouse is located at an altitude of 2034 meters. It offers soundproofed rooms with balconies overlooking the Făgăraș Mountains.
Location: Cabana Bâlea Lac is situated 77 km from Sibiu, making it a perfect stopover for those traveling along Transfagarasan. It serves as an excellent starting point for hiking to the peaks of Negoiu (2535 meters) and Moldoveanu (2544 meters).
Finally, don’t forget to Explore the Carpathian Garden and let nature fill your heart with joy!