Transfăgărășan: the best and the most beautiful road in the world + video and views
Posted: Tue Jan 20, 2026 10:21 pm
Hey everyone,
I just got back from an absolutely incredible road trip, and I had to share it with all of you – I finally drove the legendary Transfagarasan Road in Romania! If you're a fan of stunning scenery, epic twists and turns, and an unforgettable driving experience, then this is an absolute must-do.
For those who haven't heard of it, the Transfagarasan (DN7C) is a spectacular high-altitude road that winds through the Fagaras Mountains (Click HERE to see more) , part of the Southern Carpathians. It was built in the 1970s as a military route, and it's famous for its dramatic hairpin bends, long S-curves, and breathtaking views. Jeremy Clarkson from Top Gear famously called it "the best road in the world," and after driving it, I can totally see why!
The road is usually open only from July to October due due to heavy snow, so planning your trip for late summer or early autumn is ideal. I went in late August, and the weather was perfect – clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
Here are a few highlights from my journey:
Starting the Ascent: The drive starts off relatively gentle, but you quickly begin to gain altitude and the views become more and more dramatic.
The Famous Hairpins: This is what the Transfagarasan is all about! The series of tight hairpin turns as you approach the highest point are truly exhilarating. You'll want to stop at every available viewpoint to take it all in.
And now lets detail Transfagarasan a little bit:
1. A History Written in Dynamite
Built between 1970 and 1974 during the communist regime of Nicolae Ceaușescu, the road had a strategic military purpose. Following the 1968 invasion of Czechoslovakia by the USSR, Romania wanted a quick way to move troops across the mountains in case of a similar threat.
The Toll: It was built primarily by the military in extreme conditions. Over 6,000 tons of dynamite were used to blast through the granite rock.
Human Sacrifice: Officially, 40 soldiers died during construction, though unofficial estimates suggest the number was much higher due to the sheer danger of working at such altitudes.
A video with Top Gear and Jeremy Clarkson on Transfagarasan (they said "is the best road in the world"), so, what is your opinion?:
2. Technical Specs & Records
Peak Altitude: It reaches 2,042 meters (6,699 feet) at Bâlea Lake (Click HERE to see more), making it the second-highest paved road in Romania (after the Transalpina).
The Tunnel: It features the Capra-Bâlea Tunnel, the longest road tunnel in Romania at 887 meters, which stays pitch black even during the day.
The Curves: With over 80 sharp hairpins, 27 bridges, and dozens of viaducts, it is a playground for drivers and cyclists alike.
3. Key Landmarks Along the Route
Vidraru Dam: One of the tallest arch dams in Europe. The view from the top of the dam looking down is dizzying!
Poenari Castle: (Click HERE to see more) Perched on a cliff, this was the real fortress of Vlad the Impaler (the inspiration for Dracula). You have to climb 1,480 steps to reach it.
Bâlea Lake & Bâlea Waterfall(Click HERE to see more): A stunning glacial lake at the summit. In winter, when the road is closed, you can take a cable car up to see the Hotel of Ice.
4. The "Roadside Residents": Brown Bears
One of the most unique (and cautious) highlights of the road today is the frequent sighting of Wild Brown Bears.
Critical Safety Note: While they may look "tame" sitting by the road, they are apex predators. Feeding them is illegal and extremely dangerous. Keep your windows rolled up and do not get out of your car for selfies!
5. Essential Travel Tips
Season: The full road is typically only open from July 1st to October 31st. Heavy snow blocks the high-altitude pass for the rest of the year.
Fuel: Fill up your tank before you start. There are no gas stations once you begin the steep ascent.
Brakes: On the way down, use engine braking (lower gears) to avoid overheating your brakes.
And now, video who present Transfagarasan:
Frequently Asked Questions: Driving the Transfăgărășan (DN7C)
1. What is the Transfăgărășan?
The Transfăgărășan is a spectacular mountain paved road crossing the southern section of the Carpathian Mountains (Făgăraș Mountains). Built in the 1970s as a strategic military route, it climbs to an altitude of 2,042 meters, making it the second-highest paved road in Romania after Transalpina.
2. Is the Transfăgărășan open year-round?
No. The high-altitude section (between Piscu Negru and Bâlea Cascadă) is typically open only from July 1st to October 31st. For the rest of the year, this section is closed due to heavy snow and avalanche risks.
The road is approximately 151 km long, connecting the regions of Muntenia (Curtea de Argeș) and Transylvania (Cârțișoara).
-Without stops, the drive takes about 3 to 4 hours.
-However, with stops for photos, Bâlea Lake, and Vidraru Dam, you should plan for a full day trip.
4. Which side is more scenic: North or South?
-The North Side (Transylvania): Features the famous dramatic "S" curves and serpentines seen in all the iconic photos. It’s steeper and offers more "open" views.
-The South Side (Muntenia): Offers a longer drive through dense forests, running along the massive Vidraru Lake and passing near Poenari Castle.
5. Can I see bears on the Transfăgărășan?
Yes, it is extremely common to see brown bears by the side of the road, especially on the Southern section.
Crucial Rule: Do not stop the car to feed them or take "selfies." These are wild animals. Keeping them fed by humans leads to their removal or death as they lose their natural hunting instincts.
6. Is it safe to drive for tourists?
The road is well-paved but very demanding. It has countless hairpins, steep descents, and unlit tunnels (including the Bâlea Tunnel, the longest in Romania at 887 m).
-Tips: Use engine braking to avoid overheating your brakes. Be prepared for thick fog and sudden temperature drops, even in August.
7. What are the top attractions along the road?
-Vidraru Dam (Click HERE to see more) : A 166m tall arch dam.
-Poenari Castle: The real "Dracula's Castle" (accessible via 1,480 stairs).
-Bâlea Waterfall: A stunning 60m cascade.
-Bâlea Lake: The glacial lake at the highest point of the road.
Extra info:
Highest Point: 2,042 meters
Max Speed Limit: 40 km/h (due to sharp curves)
Best Time to Start: Before 09:00 AM (to avoid summer crowds)
Counties: Argeș and Sibiu
I just got back from an absolutely incredible road trip, and I had to share it with all of you – I finally drove the legendary Transfagarasan Road in Romania! If you're a fan of stunning scenery, epic twists and turns, and an unforgettable driving experience, then this is an absolute must-do.
For those who haven't heard of it, the Transfagarasan (DN7C) is a spectacular high-altitude road that winds through the Fagaras Mountains (Click HERE to see more) , part of the Southern Carpathians. It was built in the 1970s as a military route, and it's famous for its dramatic hairpin bends, long S-curves, and breathtaking views. Jeremy Clarkson from Top Gear famously called it "the best road in the world," and after driving it, I can totally see why!
The road is usually open only from July to October due due to heavy snow, so planning your trip for late summer or early autumn is ideal. I went in late August, and the weather was perfect – clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
Here are a few highlights from my journey:
Starting the Ascent: The drive starts off relatively gentle, but you quickly begin to gain altitude and the views become more and more dramatic.
Transfagarasan section in the autumn
Transfagarasan , autumn landscape
1. A History Written in Dynamite
Built between 1970 and 1974 during the communist regime of Nicolae Ceaușescu, the road had a strategic military purpose. Following the 1968 invasion of Czechoslovakia by the USSR, Romania wanted a quick way to move troops across the mountains in case of a similar threat.
The Toll: It was built primarily by the military in extreme conditions. Over 6,000 tons of dynamite were used to blast through the granite rock.
Human Sacrifice: Officially, 40 soldiers died during construction, though unofficial estimates suggest the number was much higher due to the sheer danger of working at such altitudes.
A video with Top Gear and Jeremy Clarkson on Transfagarasan (they said "is the best road in the world"), so, what is your opinion?:
2. Technical Specs & Records
Peak Altitude: It reaches 2,042 meters (6,699 feet) at Bâlea Lake (Click HERE to see more), making it the second-highest paved road in Romania (after the Transalpina).
The Tunnel: It features the Capra-Bâlea Tunnel, the longest road tunnel in Romania at 887 meters, which stays pitch black even during the day.
The Curves: With over 80 sharp hairpins, 27 bridges, and dozens of viaducts, it is a playground for drivers and cyclists alike.
3. Key Landmarks Along the Route
Vidraru Dam: One of the tallest arch dams in Europe. The view from the top of the dam looking down is dizzying!
Poenari Castle: (Click HERE to see more) Perched on a cliff, this was the real fortress of Vlad the Impaler (the inspiration for Dracula). You have to climb 1,480 steps to reach it.
Bâlea Lake & Bâlea Waterfall(Click HERE to see more): A stunning glacial lake at the summit. In winter, when the road is closed, you can take a cable car up to see the Hotel of Ice.
4. The "Roadside Residents": Brown Bears
One of the most unique (and cautious) highlights of the road today is the frequent sighting of Wild Brown Bears.
Critical Safety Note: While they may look "tame" sitting by the road, they are apex predators. Feeding them is illegal and extremely dangerous. Keep your windows rolled up and do not get out of your car for selfies!5. Essential Travel Tips
Season: The full road is typically only open from July 1st to October 31st. Heavy snow blocks the high-altitude pass for the rest of the year.
Fuel: Fill up your tank before you start. There are no gas stations once you begin the steep ascent.
Brakes: On the way down, use engine braking (lower gears) to avoid overheating your brakes.
And now, video who present Transfagarasan:
Frequently Asked Questions: Driving the Transfăgărășan (DN7C)1. What is the Transfăgărășan?
The Transfăgărășan is a spectacular mountain paved road crossing the southern section of the Carpathian Mountains (Făgăraș Mountains). Built in the 1970s as a strategic military route, it climbs to an altitude of 2,042 meters, making it the second-highest paved road in Romania after Transalpina.
2. Is the Transfăgărășan open year-round?
No. The high-altitude section (between Piscu Negru and Bâlea Cascadă) is typically open only from July 1st to October 31st. For the rest of the year, this section is closed due to heavy snow and avalanche risks.
- Note: During winter, you can still reach Bâlea Lake by taking the cable car from Bâlea Cascadă.
The road is approximately 151 km long, connecting the regions of Muntenia (Curtea de Argeș) and Transylvania (Cârțișoara).
-Without stops, the drive takes about 3 to 4 hours.
-However, with stops for photos, Bâlea Lake, and Vidraru Dam, you should plan for a full day trip.
4. Which side is more scenic: North or South?
-The North Side (Transylvania): Features the famous dramatic "S" curves and serpentines seen in all the iconic photos. It’s steeper and offers more "open" views.
-The South Side (Muntenia): Offers a longer drive through dense forests, running along the massive Vidraru Lake and passing near Poenari Castle.
5. Can I see bears on the Transfăgărășan?
Yes, it is extremely common to see brown bears by the side of the road, especially on the Southern section.
Crucial Rule: Do not stop the car to feed them or take "selfies." These are wild animals. Keeping them fed by humans leads to their removal or death as they lose their natural hunting instincts.6. Is it safe to drive for tourists?
The road is well-paved but very demanding. It has countless hairpins, steep descents, and unlit tunnels (including the Bâlea Tunnel, the longest in Romania at 887 m).
-Tips: Use engine braking to avoid overheating your brakes. Be prepared for thick fog and sudden temperature drops, even in August.
7. What are the top attractions along the road?
-Vidraru Dam (Click HERE to see more) : A 166m tall arch dam.
-Poenari Castle: The real "Dracula's Castle" (accessible via 1,480 stairs).
-Bâlea Waterfall: A stunning 60m cascade.
-Bâlea Lake: The glacial lake at the highest point of the road.
Extra info:
Highest Point: 2,042 meters
Max Speed Limit: 40 km/h (due to sharp curves)
Best Time to Start: Before 09:00 AM (to avoid summer crowds)
Counties: Argeș and Sibiu