Carpathian switchbacks to glacial Bâlea Lake. That is what Transfăgărășan promises, and it delivers. At about 56 miles (90 km), it is a drive best taken slowly, over 1 day, with time to pull over whenever the view demands it on the way from Curtea de Argeș to Cârțișoara.
Open this route in XCRSNSetting out from Curtea de Argeș
Start early, with a full tank and a loose plan. Curtea de Argeș is where the road begins, and the first miles set the rhythm for everything that follows.
The first big moment is Vidraru Dam. Give it the time it deserves; it is why many people make this trip at all.
Along the way
The road strings together Vidraru Dam and Bâlea Lake. Each one makes a natural break, and Bâlea Lake sits close to the middle if you want to split the drive with a night's sleep.
Do not miss Bâlea Lake.
Arriving in Cârțișoara
Save energy for the final stretch: Poenari Citadel is still ahead.
By the end you will have seen Vidraru Dam, Bâlea Lake and Poenari Citadel, and you will understand why Transfăgărășan belongs on any list of great drives.
When to go and how to pace it
The best time to drive it is July–October. Plan on 1 day so the drive never feels rushed.
Usually open only July–October.
XCRSN prices fuel for every leg in the local currency, finds stops along the way and books overnights near each town.
