Whether you visit during the vibrant green summer or the frozen silence of winter, Bâlea Lake is a destination that stays with you forever.
Bâlea Lake (Lacul Bâlea) landscape
"Once upon a time, there was a young shepherd named Bâlea. He was famous throughout the Făgăraș Mountains not only for his kindness but for his incredible bravery.
One day, while tending to his flock high on the ridges, Bâlea was cornered by a massive, ferocious bear. Instead of running, he stood his ground and fought the beast, eventually emerging victorious. His fame reached the ears of the Emperor, who summoned the young man to his court. Impressed by Bâlea’s courage and noble spirit, the Emperor offered him his daughter’s hand in marriage.
The legend says that on their wedding day, while the couple was celebrating on the mountain heights, a violent and sudden storm broke out. A massive rockfall and an avalanche swept the two lovers away, burying them beneath the snow and stone.
The glacial lake that stands there today is said to have formed from the mountain's tears, and it was named Bâlea to honor the memory of the brave shepherd and his lost love."
1. A Masterpiece of Nature
Bâlea Lake was formed thousands of years ago when glaciers carved deep into the rocky heart of the Făgăraș range. Today, the lake covers over 4.6 hectares and reaches depths of 11 meters.
Surrounded by jagged ridges that resemble a natural amphitheater, the lake offers some of the most photographed views in Eastern Europe. On a clear day, the reflection of the sky and the surrounding peaks in the still water creates a perfect, mirror-like symmetry.
2. The Gateway to the Transfăgărășan
Bâlea Lake is the highest point of the famous Transfăgărășan Highway, the road Jeremy Clarkson once called "the best driving road in the world."
In Summer: You can drive all the way to the lake’s edge, navigating through tunnels and dramatic hairpin turns.
In Winter: The road is closed due to heavy snow. Access is only possible via a scenic cable car ride from Bâlea Cascadă, offering a bird's-eye view of the frozen waterfall and the winding road below.
3. Romania’s Famous Ice Hotel
One of the most unique attractions at Bâlea Lake is the Hotel of Ice. Every winter, local craftsmen use huge blocks of ice cut directly from the lake to build a completely new hotel.
The Experience: You can dine at ice tables, drink from ice glasses, and even sleep in a room where the bed frame, decor, and sculptures are made entirely of frozen water.
The Church of Ice: Beside the hotel, an ice chapel is often built, where visitors can find a moment of peace or even hold a sub-zero wedding ceremony.
4. A Hub for Adventure Seekers
For those who want more than just a beautiful view, Bâlea Lake serves as the perfect base camp for high-altitude exploration:
Hiking: Several world-class trails start here, leading to Vânătarea lui Buteanu (2,507m) for a panoramic view or toward the challenging Negoiu Peak.
Winter Sports: The area becomes a playground for off-piste skiing, snowboarding, and ice climbing.
Wildlife: Keep your eyes peeled for the agile Chamois (black goats) leaping across the cliffs or marmots sunning themselves on the rocks.
A 4K video with the amazing Balea Lake:
Travel EssentialsBest Time to Visit: July to September for hiking and driving; January to March for the Ice Hotel and snow activities.
What to Pack: Even in summer, temperatures at 2,000 meters can drop rapidly. Bring layers and windproof clothing.
Stay: You can stay at the Bâlea Lac Chalet, which sits on a small peninsula extending into the water, providing an immersive mountain experience.
How to Reach Bâlea Lake
Bâlea Lake is the crown jewel of the Transfăgărășan (DN7C), located at the highest point of this world-famous mountain pass. However, depending on the time of year you visit, the way you reach the lake changes significantly.
1 By Car: The Summer Experience
From approximately July 1st to October 31st, the Transfăgărășan highway is fully open to traffic. During these months, you can drive your car directly to the shores of Bâlea Lake.
The Route: The most popular approach is from the north (Sibiu side), driving past the Bâlea Waterfall and climbing the iconic hairpin turns.
Parking: There are paid parking lots available right next to the lake and the mountain chalets.
2 By Cable Car: The Winter Experience
Between November and late June, the high-altitude section of the Transfăgărășan is closed to cars due to heavy snow and avalanche risks. During this time, the only way to reach the lake is by air!
The Starting Point: You must drive to Bâlea Cascadă (Bâlea Waterfall) Chalet, which remains accessible by car year-round.
The Ride: From there, you take the Bâlea Cable Car (Telecabina Bâlea). It is a 3.7 km scenic ride that glides over the snowy valley, offering spectacular views of the frozen waterfall and the serpentines buried in white.
Traveler’s Tip: Always check the weather forecast and the official status of the DN7C road before your trip, as early snowfalls or late thaws can change the opening dates of the highway.
A short video with cable car of Bâlea Lake:
Frequently Asked Questions: Bâlea Lake (The Heart of the Făgăraș)1. What is Bâlea Lake?
Bâlea Lake is a spectacular glacial lake situated at an altitude of 2,034 meters in the Făgăraș Mountains. It is famous for its easy access (via the Transfăgărășan road) and for being the site of the first Hotel of Ice in Eastern Europe.
2. How can I get to Bâlea Lake?
Access depends entirely on the season:
In Summer (July – October): You can drive directly to the lake via the Transfăgărășan (DN7C) road from either the North (Sibiu) or the South (Argeș).
In Winter (November – June): The road is closed between Bâlea Cascadă and Bâlea Lac. The only way to reach the lake is by taking the cable car (telecabina) from Bâlea Cascadă.
3. When does the Hotel of Ice open?
The famous Hotel of Ice is usually built every year using blocks of ice carved directly from the lake. It typically opens in late December and remains open until April, depending on weather conditions. It features a bar, a restaurant, and individual rooms where you can actually sleep on ice beds.
4. Can I hike from Bâlea Lake to Romania's highest peak?
Yes! Bâlea Lake is a popular starting point for reaching Moldoveanu Peak (2544 m). However, be aware that it is a very long and demanding hike (approx. 9–12 hours round trip) along the main ridge. A more accessible hike is to Vânătarea lui Buteanu (2507 m), which takes about 1.5 – 2 hours and offers a stunning view of the lake from above.
5. Are there places to eat or sleep at the lake?
There are two main year-round chalets at the lake: Cabana Bâlea Lac (located on the small peninsula) and Cabana Paltinu (the former hunting lodge of Nicolae Ceaușescu). Both offer accommodation and traditional Romanian restaurants serving hot soups, trout, and "papanăși."
6. Do I need to pay a fee to visit?
There is no entrance fee for the lake itself. However, if you arrive by car, you will have to pay for parking, which can be quite expensive and limited during peak summer weekends. If you take the cable car, you will need to purchase a ticket (round-trip or one-way).
7. What is the weather like at 2,000 meters?
Even in July or August, the temperature at Bâlea Lake can drop to 5–10°C. Snow patches can persist until mid-summer. Always bring a windbreaker and a warm layer, as the weather changes instantly due to the high-altitude alpine environment.
Final Thoughts
Bâlea Lake is more than just a stop on a map; it is the heart of the "Transylvanian Alps." It’s a place where the air is thin, the silence is profound, and the landscape reminds you of the raw power of nature.
