When it comes to epic road trips, few journeys rival the breathtaking experience of driving through what is called the most beautiful road in the world – Transfagarasan. Nestled in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains in Romania, this iconic roadway has earned its reputation as “the most beautiful road in the world.”
As I embarked on my journey along Transfagarasan, I was immediately struck by the serenity that enveloped me. The road winds through pristine landscapes, revealing views that seem straight out of a fairytale. The landscape’s pristine beauty and untouched tranquility cast a spell that transported me far from the mundane. The scent of pine trees and the crisp mountain air create an atmosphere of tranquility, allowing me to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
From hairpin bends to panoramic vistas, every twist and turn promises an adventure that lingers in the memory long after the tires have left the pavement. Navigating these curves required both skill and patience, but the reward was well worth it. As I climbed higher, each turn unveiled a new layer of the landscape. Verdant valleys, crystal-clear lakes and mountain tops painted a picture that words could hardly capture.
Tip: it is easier and suggested to drive through Transfagarasan road 7C from south to north. By doing so, we didn’t have to be stuck in the traffic on the steep road, as we saw others, when we were already going down. And traffic is quite important to mention – as this is the most beautiful road in the world, and probably the main attraction in Romania, expect really heavy traffic. It would be great to drive through the road as early as possible, and not on the weekend.
At the peak of the road – Balea lake
Before going to the fun stuff, there are some practicalities to take care, such as parking. There is a huge parking lot at the top of the mountain, though it still isn’t enough for all the cars that come. I saw many people parking on the side road and then walking up the mountain by foot. Though the parking is cheap – 10 lei per hour, and you will not spend more than 1-2 hours there. Just there will be the line to wait for others to drive out and free the place.
One of the highlights of the journey is the ethereal Balea Lake. Nestled at an altitude of over 2,000 meters, this glacial lake shimmers like a sapphire amidst the rugged terrain. During my visit, I couldn’t resist stopping to capture the stunning reflection of the surrounding mountains mirrored in the calm waters.
There are so many places to eat real Romanian food around the Balea lake and buy Romanian souvenirs. But the views are incredible, I would say, this is my second favorite and most beautiful spot on earth after the Lofoten, Norway.
The real home of Vlad the Impaler – Poenari Citadel
First of all, don’t trust Google Maps here, and don’t miss the turn to Poenari castle – ruins of a fortress once inhabited by Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration behind the Dracula legend. If you drive from south to north, the castle is on the way going up, before the top of the mountain. Why it’s important? As I have missed the turn, and ended up not seeing this important historical landmark.
Despite haven’t visited it, I feel I have to bout it. It is actually a ruins of the castle reaching back to the middle ages. It is located at the top of the hill and can be reached by climbing many stairs (different sources say from 999 to 1400, so didn’t climb myself to tell which is correct). Also the road to the castle is also breathtaking through the tunnel. The tunnel’s dark ambiance serves as a stark contrast to the breathtaking beauty of the road, offering a glimpse into Romania’s rich and layered history.
Bears along the most beautiful road in the world
Although bears should have a separate post, as Romania is home to one of Europe’s most captivating wildlife spectacles: its bear population. The dense forests of the Carpathian Mountains provide the perfect habitat for these majestic creatures.
While venturing along the Transfagarasan road, travelers may even encounter these bears in their natural habitat. It’s a high high chance that few of the bears “beggers” will come on the road to ask for food. I have seen 5! These encounters are a testament to Romania’s commitment to wildlife conservation, as the country has made significant efforts to protect its bear population.
Witnessing a bear amid the breathtaking backdrop of Transfagarasan serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between nature and human presence, urging us to cherish and preserve the pristine wilderness that is their home. And even though it’s exciting to see the bear in the wild, by giving them food there is more harm done than good.
Panoramic views at every turn
Perhaps the most unforgettable aspect of Transfagarasan is the constant interplay between the road and the landscape. Countless viewpoints dot the route, beckoning travelers to pause and take in the grandeur. From the towering Vidraru Dam to the sweeping Carpathian vistas, these moments of contemplation are what make the journey truly special.
Driving through Transfagarasan is a symphony of natural beauty and engineering marvels. The road challenges your driving skills while rewarding you with unparalleled vistas that leave a mark on your soul. As I reluctantly descended from the heights of the Carpathian Mountains, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to conquer what truly is the most beautiful road in the world. If you’re seeking an adventure that combines adrenaline, wonder, and the raw beauty of nature, Transfagarasan should undoubtedly be on everyone’s bucket list.