Transfagarasan Road
The Transfagarasan road is one of the most spectacular roads in Europe, but despite being among the major attractions in Romanian it stays open only 5 months a year. Finding information about the opening date and road conditions every new season can be really difficult due to a lack of official online tourist information. Read on for the 2024 opening date and how to stay safe from adverse weather conditions or how to behave during brown bear encounters on the Transfagarasan road.
Short History
Constructed between 1970 and 1974 as a strategic military route, the Transfagarasan road, also known as DN7C, stretches for approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) and connects the historical regions of Transylvania and Wallachia. The road climbs to an elevation of 2,042 meters (6,699 feet) at its highest point, making it the second-highest paved road in Romania.
The Operating Months
The official operating period is July to October, but each year the opening date changes based on how quickly the road agency manages to remove the snow from the alpine sections and the risk of avalanche disappears.
Some people decide to cross this mountain pass as early as June, but if the road is blocked with a concrete barrier it is a sign that the section ahead of you is dangerous and not ready for proper riding or driving conditions.
This year in 2024 the Transfagarasan road was officially opened on June 7th, and if there’s a long autumn it could stay open till mid November. Nevertheless, the best period to experience the Transfagarasan are the summer months.
To find out real time information about the road conditions from people that are using the road this year follow this Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/share/T4Wa8MCgTfPKNE2e/
And look for the official opening date here on the roads agency website entering the word transfagarasan in the search bar - http://www.cnadnr.ro/ro/comunicare/comunicate-de-presa
Planning Your Route
If you are coming from Poland, Czech Republic or Slovakia you will most likely enter Romania at Satu Mare (Csengersima - Petea border crossing). And if you are looking for a safe and quiet place to rest after a full day’s journey, Casa Irinella (bed & breakfast) offers secure gated parking for motorcycles, fresh beer on arrival and a delicious breakfast the following morning, to get you ready for the next leg of your trip towards Transfagarasan.
The road from Satu Mare to Transfagarasan takes about 5 hours and if you leave our accommodation at 8am in the morning you could start enjoying the fabulous mountain road at 2pm lunch time.
As you ascend the mountain, the scenery transforms from lush forests to rugged alpine terrain. You'll pass through tunnels, cross viaducts, and cruise alongside glacial lakes, with each turn revealing a new vista more stunning than the last. The highlight of the journey is undoubtedly Bâlea Lake, a picturesque glacial lake located near the highest point of the road.
The Transfagarasan road plays a crucial role in promoting tourism in the region. It attracts not only motorists but also cyclists, hikers, and nature lovers. The influx of visitors has spurred local businesses, contributing significantly to the local economy.
There are several hotels, guesthouses, and campsites along the Transfagarasan, catering to different budgets and preferences. Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
Key Features Of The Transfagarasan Road
Bâlea Waterfall - a spectacular cascade located a few kilometers below the highest point of Transfagarasan;
Bâlea Lake - a glacial lake situated at the road's highest point, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. It's a popular spot for hiking, photography, and even ice hotels in the winter.
The Tunnel - The longest road tunnel in Romania, at 884 meters (2,900 feet), cuts through the mountain near Bâlea Lake.
Vidraru Dam - one of the largest hydroelectric dams in Romania, creating the stunning Vidraru Lake, which lies to the south of the Transfagarasan.
Poenari Castle - often associated with Vlad the Impaler (Dracula), this fortress offers a glimpse into the region's medieval history and is accessible via a steep climb of 1,480 steps.
Friendly Advice
Best time to ride - the Transfagarasan is typically open from late June to October, depending on weather conditions. The ideal time to ride is during the summer months when the weather is warmer and the road is clear of snow.
Fuel up - If you are low on fuel it would be wise to stop at a petrol station before entering the village of Cârțișoara (on the Trasnylvanian side), or at Curtea De Arges if you are approaching the Transfagarasan road from southern Romania.
Don’t Feed The Bears - they might look cute and no bigger than your shepherd dog, but they are wild beasts and they are not sitting on the roadside for a selfie - most of them are pushed out of the forest by the stronger specimens, and to avoid starvation prefer to feed from the hotel dumpsters or beg for food from the passing tourists. STOPPING NEARBY OR FEEDING THEM IS DANGEROUS!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a comprehensive guide. Always research and plan your trip carefully.
If you are looking for a longer route through Romanian mountains make sure to check our article about Transalpina.