The Transfagarasan: Romania’s Most Scenic Drive
Driving the Transfagarasan: Everything You Need to Know About Romania’s Iconic Route
Our recent trip to Romania was truly wonderful, filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich history and unforgettable adventures. After landing at Bucharest Airport, we spent two delightful days at the Vienna House Easy by Wyndham, a lovely hotel perfectly located for exploring the vibrant capital city of Bucharest.
From there, we drove to Brașov, a charming town where we set up base for a couple of days. Brașov enchanted us with its medieval streets and nearby attractions, including the legendary Dracula Castle. As much as we loved our time there, it was soon time to bid farewell and embark on our next adventure: driving the famous Transfăgărășan. Our journey began with a stop at Curtea de Argeș, where we visited its stunning monastery and then we were off, ready to experience one of the most spectacular roads in the world.
Having driven the stunning Grossglockner High Alpine Road in Austria, we knew just how magical mountain routes could be and we were eager to see how the Transfăgărășan would compare. The Grossglockner had left us in awe with its towering peaks and pristine alpine views, and we couldn’t wait to experience the unique beauty of Romania’s famed highway. As we began our journey, it was clear that the Transfăgărășan offered its own kind of magic, with a raw, untamed charm that captivated us from the very first turn.
The Transfăgărășan Route
The Transfăgărășan, often called "the best road in the world", is a winding highway that cuts through the dramatic Făgăraș Mountains in Romania. Built in the 1970s as a strategic military route, it’s now a must-visit for travellers, offering breathtaking views, hairpin turns, and an unforgettable driving experience. We had read so much about this iconic road before our trip, but nothing could have prepared us for the sheer beauty and grandeur of it in person. From the moment we started the route, it exceeded all our expectations. The towering peaks, lush forests and small cascading waterfalls were like something out of a postcard, making us eager to see what lay ahead at every turn. And the bears! Read on for more about our experience.
The Vidaru Dam
Our first stop on the Transfăgărășan was Vidaru Dam and it was an impressive sight to behold.
The dam is one of the largest in Romania and a key part of the country’s hydroelectric system. Standing at over 160 meters high and stretching across the Argeș River, it’s a remarkable piece of engineering that blends into the rugged mountain landscape. We had read about its scale, but seeing it in person was something else entirely—it felt massive and powerful, yet serene at the same time.
We took some time to walk along the dam and soak in the views. On one side, the calm, expansive waters of Vidaru Lake sparkled under the sun, while on the other, the dam dropped steeply into the valley below. The contrast was breathtaking! We enjoyed taking photos and just pausing to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. For those looking for a little more adventure, there are sometimes boat tours on the lake or opportunities to hike nearby, though we decided to save our energy for the rest of the route. Vidaru Dam was a fantastic first stop and set the tone for the incredible journey ahead.
One thing that stood out at Vidaru Dam was the number of friendly stray dogs wandering around. They seemed so at ease with tourists and many of them happily approached us, wagging their tails. We couldn’t resist petting a few of them—they were gentle and loved the attention.
Bear Spotting Along the Way
One of the most exciting parts of our journey along the Transfăgărășan was spotting wild bears along the route. We had heard that this area is home to a large population of brown bears, but seeing them in person was an unforgettable experience. As we drove through the winding mountain roads, we noticed a bear by the roadside, calmly wandering near the trees. It was incredible to see such a magnificent creature up close, though we made sure to stay inside the car and admire it from a safe distance.
Throughout the drive, we spotted many more bears, some with their cubs. It was both thrilling and humbling to witness these animals in their natural habitat. Many other travellers had pulled over to take pictures, but it’s important to remember that these are wild animals and feeding them or getting too close can be dangerous for both people and the bears. We felt lucky to catch these glimpses of wildlife, and it added a sense of wonder to our journey through this spectacular landscape.
Vidaru Lake Viewpoint
Vidaru Lake is an artificial lake, created by the Vidaru Dam, and stretches for over 10 kilometers through the mountains. The calm, glassy water reflected the surrounding peaks, making it look like a scene from a postcard. We could see how much the lake meant to the region—it not only provides hydroelectric power but also adds so much beauty to the landscape.
We stopped at a viewing point along the highway that gave us a perfect look at the lake. Standing there, surrounded by the mountains and gazing at the vast expanse of water, we felt so peaceful. It’s a great spot to take photos, breathe in the fresh mountain air and just enjoy nature.
Waterfalls
As we continued along the Transfăgărășan, we were amazed by the number of small waterfalls cascading down the rocky cliffs. They seemed to pop up around every corner, each one adding to the charm of the route. Some were tiny streams trickling down, while others were a little more powerful, rushing over the rocks with energy. We stopped at a few spots to admire them up close, enjoying the cool mist and the soothing sound of water.
We could imagine how stunning these waterfalls must be during the rainy season when they’re at their fullest. Even during our visit, they were beautiful, but we could tell that heavier rains would turn them into even more dramatic sights.
Bâlea Lac (Lake Bâlea)
Bâlea Lac was one of the most beautiful stops on our journey. The lake is nestled between the mountains, its calm, clear water reflecting the stunning scenery around it. We decided to make a pit stop here and were glad we did! There were plenty of wooden chalet-style shops near the parking area, selling all sorts of things—souvenirs, snacks and warm drinks. The smell of fresh food wafting from the stalls made it hard to resist grabbing a quick bite.
After parking the car, we took a short walk to the lake. The views were absolutely breathtaking, with the mountains towering above and the crisp air making it feel so peaceful. We spent some time just soaking in the natural beauty, snapping photos and enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Taking in the Transfăgărășan Viewpoint
The Transfăgărășan Viewpoint was undoubtedly the highlight of our drive. Almost every vehicle on the highway seemed to stop here and it was easy to see why. From this spot, we could see the famous zig-zagging roads winding their way through the mountains. It was incredible to get a bird's eye of the winding path and admire the skill and effort it must have taken to build such an amazing road.
Standing there, surrounded by the towering peaks and endless views, we felt so small yet so connected to nature. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking, with the winding road below and the mountains stretching as far as the eye could see. We spent some time just taking it all in and snapping photos before heading back to the car to continue our journey. It was a moment we’ll never forget.
After enjoying the incredible views at the Transfăgărășan Viewpoint, we got back on the road, eager to see what lay ahead. The descent toward Cârțișoara was just as stunning as the earlier parts of the drive. The winding roads became gentler as we moved lower and the landscape began to change. The rugged mountain peaks gave way to rolling hills and open fields, offering a different but equally beautiful view. Before we knew it, we had reached Cârțișoara, marking the end of this iconic highway.
From Cârțișoara, we continued to Arpașu de Jos, where we had booked a stay at the Casa Suzy and Roxy homestay. It was a welcoming place and the perfect spot to relax after such an adventurous day. We spent the next couple of days here, exploring the nearby areas and attractions like the Cistercian Abbey of Cârța, a beautiful medieval gem nestled in the Transylvanian countryside. If you plan to do the Transfăgărășan drive, then Casa Suzy and Roxy homestay makes for a great base either before or after your drive.
Driving the Transfăgărășan was truly one of the most scenic and memorable experiences we’ve ever had. The stunning landscapes, thrilling roads, the bear spotting and the unforgettable stops along the way made it a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. It’s a journey that will stay with us for a long time, and we’d recommend it to anyone visiting Romania.
Driving tips for the Transfăgărășan route
Best Time to Drive
- The Transfăgărășan is open seasonally, typically from late June to October, depending on weather conditions. During winter, the route is closed due to heavy snow.
- Summer and early autumn are the best times to visit, offering clear roads and stunning views.
Driving Conditions
- The road is well-paved but very winding, with sharp turns and steep inclines.
- Drive cautiously, especially in areas with limited visibility due to fog or sharp bends.
Tips for Drivers
- Start Early: Begin your journey early in the day to avoid crowds and allow plenty of time for stops along the way.
- Be Prepared for Wildlife: Bears and other animals may appear near the road, so always stay alert and avoid feeding or approaching them.
- Use Low Gear on Descents: This helps maintain control and reduce wear on your brakes.
- Plan for Fuel: Ensure your tank is full before starting, as gas stations are scarce on the route.
- Bring Essentials: Carry water, snacks and warm clothing, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains.
- Respect Speed Limits: Stick to the posted limits to ensure safety on the sharp curves.
Parking and Stops
- There are many spots to pull over and enjoy the views, including the Vidaru Dam, Bâlea Lac and the Transfăgărășan Viewpoint. Be mindful of other drivers when parking.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your journey on this spectacular highway while staying safe and prepared!
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