Rising to 1,799 meters at its highest point (Cristianul Mare Peak), Postăvaru is more than just a mountain; it is a bridge between the medieval charm of Brașov city (Click HERE to see more) and the wild heart of the Carpathians.
Why "Postăvaru"? A Name Woven in History
The name itself tells a story of the city’s industrious past. "Postăvaru" is derived from "Postăvari"—the guild of cloth makers or fullers from Brașov.
Centuries ago, the mountain’s vast forests and pastures were owned by the cloth-making guilds. They used the mountain's resources for their trade, and over time, the "Mountain of the Cloth Makers" simply became Postăvaru. It is a rare example of a mountain named not after a god or a giant, but after the hard-working craftsmen who built the city below.
A stunning winter panorama of the Postăvaru Massif summit in Romania. The image shows the iconic red cable car ascending towards the snow-covered peak, with the communication tower and the cable car station surrounded by frosted pine trees under a clear blue sky.
At the foot of the massif, where the city ends and the forest begins, lie the spectacular cliffs known as Solomon’s Rocks. Local folklore is divided on who this "Solomon" actually was, but the most popular tale is cinematic:
The Leap of the King: > Legend has it that a Hungarian King named Solomon was fleeing his enemies (or, in some versions, his overbearing mother). Trapped at the edge of a deep ravine on his horse, he spurred the beast into a miraculous jump across the chasm. Solomon survived, but his crown fell into the valley below—where it was later found by a shepherd near the roots of a tree. This is said to be the origin of Brașov’s coat of arms: a crown resting on a tree trunk.
To this day, the area is a favorite spot for rock climbers and picnickers, standing as a stony gateway to the higher trails of the massif.
A 360-Degree Playground
Postăvaru is famous for being home to Poiana Brașov (Click HERE to see more), Romania’s premier ski resort. But even when the snow melts, the massif remains a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts:
- The Summit View: From the top of Cristianul Mare (reachable by a scenic cable car ride or a vigorous hike), you get a breathtaking 360-degree panorama. On clear days, you can see the jagged peaks of Piatra Craiului, the sprawling Bucegi plateau, and the entire Bârsa Country laid out like a map.
- The Haunted Forests: The deep woods of Postăvaru are part of a vital biological corridor for wolves, lynx, and brown bears. Locals often speak of the "spirit of the mountain," a silent presence felt in the thick fog that frequently rolls through the fir trees.
- The Julius Römer Cabin: Built in 1883, this is the oldest mountain hut in Romania that is still in use. Stopping here for a hot tea or a traditional soup is a rite of passage for any hiker.
An aerial drone view of the entire Postăvaru Massif during winter. The snow-covered summit of Cristianul Mare with its communication tower is in the foreground, with ski slopes carving through pine forests and the city of Brașov visible in the valley background under a clear sky.
- Easy Access: You can take the cable car from Poiana Brașov to the top in just a few minutes.
- Classic Hike: For a rewarding climb, take the "Drumul Roșu" (Red Road)—it’s wide, well-marked, and offers great views along the way.
- Tâmpa Mountain: Don’t forget that the famous Tâmpa (the hill with the "BRAȘOV" sign) is actually a smaller spur of the Postăvaru Massif!
Whether you come for the adrenaline of the ski slopes or the quiet whispers of its ancient legends, Postăvaru never fails to inspire. It is a mountain that doesn't just watch over Brașov—it protects its history.
A superb video witch present Postăvaru Massif (Masivul Postăvaru):
FAQ: Planning Your Visit to the Postăvaru Massif
1. Where is the Postăvaru Massif located? The massif is located in the Bârsa Mountains (part of the Southern Carpathians), immediately south of Brașov. Its most famous landmark is the mountain resort of Poiana Brașov, which sits on its western slopes.
2. What is the highest point of Postăvaru? The highest point is Cristianul Mare Peak, reaching an altitude of 1,799 meters. From here, you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding mountain ranges and the city of Brașov.
3. How can I reach the summit? There are two main ways to reach the top:
By Cable Car: You can take the "Capra Neagră" or "Kanzel" cable cars from Poiana Brașov. It’s the fastest way (about 10 minutes) and offers stunning views.
On Foot: There are several well-marked trails. The most popular is "Drumul Roșu" (The Red Road), which is an easy-to-moderate hike starting from Poiana Brașov.
4. Is Postăvaru suitable for beginner hikers? Yes! Many of the trails starting from Poiana Brașov are wide and have a gentle incline, making them perfect for families and beginners. However, if you hike from Brașov city (e.g., via Pietrele lui Solomon), the trails are longer and require a better fitness level.
5. What is the best season to visit? Postăvaru is a year-round destination:
- Winter: It is Romania’s top destination for skiing and snowboarding.
- Summer & Autumn: Ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding. The autumn colors in these forests are legendary.
7. Are there bears in the Postăvaru Massif? Yes, the Carpathian Mountains are home to a large population of brown bears. While attacks are rare, it is important to stay on marked trails, make noise while walking, and never leave food behind.
