Winter Sports in Romania: A Ski Holiday Worth Considering
Why Choose Romania for Skiing?
Many people opt for skiing holidays in Austria, often overlooking the equally appealing and more affordable options available in Romania. Thanks to the continental climate of Eastern Europe, winters in Romania are consistently cold, providing ample snow for winter sports enthusiasts. Spending your winter holiday in Romania can be an unforgettable experience, with breathtaking landscapes and a variety of ski slopes catering to everyone, from beginners to advanced skiers.
In addition to skiing, you can also enjoy activities such as snowboarding, tubing, and cross-country skiing. Some of the most renowned ski resorts in Romania include Sinaia, Predeal, and the well-known (though pricier) Poiana Brașov.
Getting There
Traveling to Romania is convenient, with major airports in Bucharest and Sibiu. From there, you can rent a car or take a train to Brașov, where buses depart hourly for the ski resorts of Poiana Brașov, Predeal, and Sinaia. If you wish to explore other ski areas, consider visiting Azuga, Vatra Dornei, Izvoare, Vidra, or Păltiniș. The Carpathian mountain range offers a substantial number of ski slopes, stretching from the west to the east and north of the country. However, be prepared for potential travel challenges during winter months, as reaching some resorts may be tricky.
Highlighting the Ski Resorts
Poiana Brașov
Poiana Brașov is Romania's premier ski resort, featuring ten ski slopes, a ski jump, and an ice skating rink. The resort is equipped with two lifts, one chairlift, and six surface lifts, accommodating both beginners and experienced skiers. The highest lift reaches 1,775 meters, and snowboarding is also popular here. With excellent snow conditions from December to April, the average snow depth is around 50-60 cm, and winter temperatures average -3 degrees Celsius.
Other Notable Resorts
- Izvoare: Located in Maramureș, Izvoare offers a rural skiing experience with two lifts and a chairlift. It’s situated 25 kilometers northeast of Baia Mare.
- Borșa: A picturesque resort village east of Borșa, featuring a ski lift for a slope that stretches over 2,000 meters in length and has a height difference of 500 meters. However, skiing opportunities here can be limited.
Tips for Driving in Romania
When driving in Romania during winter, it’s crucial to stick to the main roads. Most roads are sprinkled with sand rather than salt, which helps maintain the snow rather than melting it. All car rental companies in Romania equip their vehicles with winter tires, and we recommend you do the same if using a personal car. Additionally, it’s mandatory to have your vehicle winter-ready starting November 1st; failing to comply may result in a ticket if you’re stopped by the police in snowy conditions.
Accommodation Tips
To ensure a pleasant stay, book your accommodation at least 3-4 months in advance, as many hotels fill up quickly during the winter season.
With all this information at your fingertips, all you need to do is pack your skiing equipment (or rent some upon arrival) and get ready for an incredible skiing adventure in Romania!
Free slope!!!