Transfagarasan – A Unique Highway

Transfagarasan is proof that there’s much more to Romania than the famous Transylvania. To see the beauty of this charming European destination, you’ll have to pass through the major mountain range. Flying is a great option, but you’ll miss all the beautiful sights along the route.

To enjoy every bit of your vacation, take time to plan a road trip. The road that crosses the route, known as Transfagarasan, will take your breath away. It is probably the world’s most scenic road.

Transfagarasan is unarguably a tour that you shouldn’t miss out on, considering the fact that the road is open at specific times annually. As you approach the top, the road transforms into a snake, making it look like a race track. Weather conditions keep the road closed from November to June. Equally impressive is the fact that this scenic road drive offers more than just a remarkable driving experience. There is plenty of things to see and do along the road.

Stretching 90km long with an altitude of 2,042 meters, Transfagarasan connects the south of Romania with Transylvania. This unique highway is a popular attraction that draws tourists from all over to see the charming side of Romania.

Attractions along Transfagarasan Road

For sure, you may take this trip to see the stunning views from the top. But there are a few impressive sites along the road worth a detour. Here are some of the things to see on this road trip.

Poenari Castle Ruins

On the southern side of Transfagarasan lies Poenari Castle ruin. It’s quite hard to see the ruins from the road. Stunning views await when you hike up this ruin. Keep in mind that this fortress was once home to Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

Vidaru Lake & Dam

The lake’s turquoise water is impressively gorgeous. It’s a great place to relax and unwind on the Transfagarasan Highway. This dam was built even before Ceausescu ascended the throne.  Featuring 42 km of underground galleries and standing at 166 meters above ground level with a surface of 900 hectares, a small village, Cumpana, had to give way for the dam.

Balea Lake

Yet, another reason to take this road trip. Balea Lake is not just any lake. Balea was formed when a glacier swept through and took over the land. The streak of snow atop and the reflection of the lake makes it quite irresistible.  A one hour hike from this glacier lake takes you to Capra Lake, another glacial lake that will take your breath away.

Tunnels and Viaducts

No other road in Romania has more tunnels or viaducts than the Transfagarasan Highway. The longest tunnel of the 5 stretches nearly 900 meters.  Be sure to see at least one of the tunnels as you enjoy this scenic drive.

Travel Tips

• Transfagarasan is accessible by the public from July to November every year.
• Road tripping on a summer weekend can be busy and chaotic, due to the high number of cars plying the road.
• The road is covered in snow during winter making it inaccessible
• Be prepared for the freezing temperature with a few extra layers
• No car is allowed on the road between 9 pm and 7 am.