Transfagaras: what is it, the most beautiful yet dangerous road in Europe?

In season, thousands of travelers from all over the world come here to enjoy the dizzying scenery and tickle their nerves. Therefore, in this article we have collected the necessary information that we advise you to familiarize yourself with before you set off on a trip to the "Roof of Romania".

What will surprise travelers with the Transfagaras road and what is definitely worth seeing?

The Transfagaras highway has an international number 7C and is 152 km long, of which about 92 km is a high mountain serpentine. This highway passes through the highest mountain range in Romania, the Fegeras mountain range. And the maximum height where this route passes is 2042m, which is only 19 meters lower than Hoverla.

Besides the picturesque scenery that accompanies you along the whole route, there are many points on and near the route that we recommend you to visit.

Telecabina Balea Lac cable car

Lake Balea can be reached not only by car, but also by cable car. You can shorten a significant part of the route and enjoy a bird's-eye view of the winding paths of Transfagaras, feeling their scale. The cost of such an expierience is 8 euros for a one-way trip.

You can leave your car at the free parking lot at the lower station of the cable car. From here you have a view of the powerful Balea waterfall and there is a trail leading through the forest to the waterfall and up the mountain.

Lake Balea

In fact, at the final point of the cable car journey you will be surprised by the high-mountainous Lake Belea. By the way, it is here that the Transfagaras route reaches its highest point (2042m above sea level). But apart from this fact, the lake deserves attention simply because it is amazingly beautiful and surrounded by mountain ranges from everywhere. Tourists usually stop here to have a snack, walk around the lake or trek to one of the surrounding peaks. For example, on the mountain Iezerul Caprei (2417 m) or Vânătarea lui Buteanu (2507).

By the way, there are stores, a civilized toilet and a small market with local gifts near the lake.

Dracula's Fortress

Near the small town of Brasov, on the territory of Transylvania, there is a unique architectural monument — the medieval castle of Bran, which, according to legend, is considered to be the residence of Vlad Tepes himself — Count Dracula, popularly known as the leader of vampires.

It is still unknown whether Count Dracula actually existedoval and, accordingly, whether these properties belonged to him. However, Barn Castle, executed in the Gothic style and steeped in hundreds of mystical legends, is definitely worth a visit when traveling nearby.

The cost of visiting the castle is 55 LEI (about 450 UAH) per adult. There are also discounts for children, students and seniors. You can check out the opening hours here.

You can book a hotel in Romania with a discount of up to -65% on the website.

Vidraru Lake and Reservoir

Lake Vedrara, also encountered on the Transfagarasem travel route, is essentially a picturesque reservoir formed by a giant dam. Here you can take beautiful photos, see the statue of Prometheus or have lunch at the Forest House Restaurant.

Capra Waterfall

Along the Transfagaras highway you can see several waterfalls. They are called Capra Waterfalls after the lake from which they flow. There is a parking lot nearby where you can park your car and admire the natural objects.

What should I know when going on a Transfagarasz road trip?

Since Transfagaras is primarily a road, the most popular mode of travel among travelers here is by car. However, going on such a trip, you should remember that this road, because of the winding serpentine, sharp chasms and snow cover, which does not come down here most of the year, is recognized as one of the most dangerous roads in Europe! But by following a few simple recommendations, your journey will be successful and safe.

• There are no gas stations on the Transfagaras highway! So, be sure to replenish your gasoline before your trip. Food and water can be bought in some places along the way, but we advise you to take some with you so that you always have something to eat.
• The recommended driving speed on the Transfagaras highway is 40 km/h.
• If you get "lulled", be sure to have some pills for this ailment, as most of the road is winding serpentines.
• Leave as early as possible to avoid tourist buses and large crowds of people near the sights along the route.
• Since Romania is home to about 50% of the entire European brown bear population, encounters with this furry beauty are likely. However, it does not pose a threat to the person in the car. Just admire it and drive past in peace.

When can I drive on the Transfagaras highway?

The Transfagaras highway is only open a few months of the year due to the long snowmelt in this region.

How to get to Transfagaras without a car?

If you don't have the opportunity to go to Transfagaras without a car, but you still want to see the charms of the most prominent road in Europe, you can use the services of transfers or excursions.

• A transfer from Sibiu is the most budget-friendly option. You will be brought to the lower station of the Balea Waterfall cable car, and then you can take the cable car to the Balea Lake and see Transfagaras from above. Such a transfer costs from 70€ and you can book it here.
• You can also book a transfer from Bucharest. It will cost from 195€ and you can book it here.
• Excursions accompanied by a local guide are also available here, and the cost of such a pleasure will start from 219€.

Enjoy your travels and beautiful views!