The snow-covered Carpathian Mountains become a perfect playground for skiers and snowboarders during the cold months.

Romania’s mountain resorts are increasingly competing with those in Western Europe, offering modernized infrastructure, state-of-the-art cable transport facilities, and a variety of services for tourists. From the well-maintained slopes of renowned resorts like Poiana Brașov and Straja to lesser-known spots with breathtaking landscapes and excellent opportunities for winter sports, Romania has something to offer every adventurer.

Whether you're looking for an active getaway on the slopes or a more peaceful experience in the heart of nature, Romania boasts many spectacular locations where winter sports become more than just an activity—they turn into an unforgettable experience. Join us as we introduce you to some of the most beautiful destinations for an active holiday in the snow!

 

1. Poiana Brașov – The Iconic Winter Sports Resort

Poiana Brașov is undoubtedly the most famous winter sports destination in Romania, attracting both local tourists and visitors from abroad. Located just 12 kilometers from Brașov, this resort offers some of the best-maintained ski slopes in the country, along with modern infrastructure and top-notch facilities.

With a ski area of approximately 25 kilometers, Poiana Brașov provides winter sports enthusiasts with seven main slopes, catering to different skill levels. From the Bradul slope, perfect for beginners, to Lupului and Subteleferic, designed for more experienced skiers and snowboarders, the resort offers options for everyone. Additionally, the modern cable transport facilities, including the gondola lift and high-speed chairlifts, ensure quick and efficient access to the entire ski area.

(source: Libertatea)

Poiana Brașov offers more than just skiing and snowboarding. Those looking for alternatives to traditional winter sports can enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides, snow-covered mountain hikes, or ice skating on the specially designed rink. Additionally, the resort is well known for its ski and snowboard schools, where certified instructors help beginners improve their technique.

After an active day on the slopes, visitors can experience the resort’s vibrant atmosphere, where traditional restaurants and cozy lodges serve delicious dishes in a warm and inviting setting. From local specialties like "bulz" and "tochitura ardelenească" to hot drinks best enjoyed by rustic fireplaces, the culinary experience perfectly complements the snowy adventure.

Thanks to its excellent location, well-maintained slopes, and high-quality services, Poiana Brașov remains one of Romania’s top winter sports destinations, making it the ideal choice for those seeking a mix of adrenaline, breathtaking landscapes, and comfort.

(source: Trail Map Poiana Brașov)

2. Straja – The Hidden Gem of the Jiu Valley

For those seeking an authentic winter experience with excellent slopes and a quieter atmosphere than the more crowded resorts, Straja is an ideal choice. Nestled in the Vâlcan Mountains, in Hunedoara County, Straja has seen significant development in recent years, becoming a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts from all over Romania.

(source: Ski Straja)

Straja's ski area spans approximately 26 kilometers and features 12 ski slopes, many of which are equipped with night lighting, allowing winter sports enthusiasts to enjoy skiing even after sunset. The slopes are well-maintained and cater to both beginners and advanced skiers. For instance, the Straja slope is perfect for those taking their first steps on skis, while Canal and Mutu slopes offer challenges for more experienced skiers.

One of Straja’s biggest advantages is its natural snow, which remains on the slopes for an extended period due to the resort’s favorable geographical position. Additionally, the cable transport facilities have been recently modernized, ensuring quick and comfortable access to the ski areas.

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Straja offers various winter activities for those who want to explore the mountain landscapes differently. Snow-covered hiking trails, snowmobile rides, and sleighing are just a few options available. A unique attraction of the resort is the Straja Monastery, located at an altitude of 1,400 meters, where visitors can experience a serene atmosphere and learn more about the region’s history.

When it comes to accommodation and dining options, Straja offers numerous rustic lodges and guesthouses with authentic charm. After a day on the slopes, tourists can enjoy traditional dishes from the Hunedoara region, such as "ciorbă de burtă" (tripe soup), "tochitura haiducească", or homemade pastries.

Although less known than Poiana Brașov, Straja is gaining popularity by the day thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, high-quality slopes, and affordable prices. It is an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic winter experience away from the crowds of larger resorts.

 

3. Transalpina Ski Resort – The Highest Altitude Resort in Romania

For those seeking breathtaking landscapes and less crowded slopes, Transalpina Ski Resort is a must-visit destination. Located in the Parâng Mountains, near Vidra Lake, this winter resort stands out for its high altitude, long ski runs, and natural snow that lasts well into spring.

(source: TuristulLiber)

Transalpina Ski Resort is the newest mountain resort developed in Romania, located at an altitude between 1,350 and 2,100 meters, making it one of the highest ski areas in the country. Being less known than Poiana Brașov or even Straja, the resort offers a more peaceful and authentic experience, with breathtaking scenery and spacious slopes—perfect for those who want to avoid crowded ski areas.

The resort’s ski domain features a total of approximately 9 kilometers of slopes, with trails of varying difficulty levels, suitable for both beginners and advanced skiers. The Roșu slope, stretching 2,250 meters, is the most popular, offering a long and smooth descent—ideal for those who want to enjoy the spectacular landscapes of the Parâng Mountains. For more experienced skiers, the Black Slope presents technical challenges and steep sections for an adrenaline-filled descent.

(source: Valcea Turistica)

Another advantage of the resort is the excellent snow quality, thanks to both its high altitude and lower temperatures, which help maintain the snow in optimal conditions for skiing and snowboarding. Additionally, modern chairlifts and ski lifts ensure easy and quick access to all the slopes.

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Transalpina Ski Resort offers a variety of winter activities for adventure seekers. Mountain hikes and snowmobile rides are popular alternatives for those looking for a more thrilling experience. For visitors who prefer relaxation, Vidra Lake is a stunning spot even in winter, where the snow-covered mountain landscape creates a truly breathtaking backdrop.

(source: Valcea Turistica)

When it comes to accommodation, the resort doesn't yet feature large hotels, but there are numerous cabins and guesthouses in the area with a peaceful atmosphere, located near the lake or along the Transalpina route. Traditional dishes from Oltenia and the Jiu Valley complete the experience, offering delicious meals like sheep stew, balmoș (a traditional dish made with cornmeal and cheese), and cheese-filled pies.

Transalpina Ski Resort is the perfect destination for those seeking an authentic experience, away from commercial and crowded resorts, in a stunning natural setting where the peace of the mountains and the quality of the snow make all the difference.

 

4. Păltiniș – The Resort with the Oldest Tradition in Winter Sports

Păltiniș is one of the most picturesque and historically rich mountain resorts in Romania, being the oldest ski resort in the country. Located in the Cindrel Mountains, about 35 kilometers from Sibiu, Păltiniș sits at an altitude of 1,440 meters, making it one of the highest mountain resorts in Romania. This positioning ensures a consistent snow layer throughout the winter, making it a perfect destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

(source: Pensiunea Regina Maria Paltinis)

The ski domain in Păltiniș revolves around Arena Platoș, a modern resort offering excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding. The resort features well-maintained slopes, most of which are suitable for beginners and intermediate skiers. Among the most popular trails is the Oncești slope, perfect for those just starting out, as well as medium-difficulty slopes where skiers can refine their technique.

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Păltiniș is renowned for its freestyle park, designed for snowboarders and those passionate about tricks. The Arena Platoș Snowpark is one of the best-equipped in the country, attracting freestylers from all over Romania. Frequent competitions and themed events are held here, creating a dynamic and energetic atmosphere.

For those who do not practice traditional winter sports, the resort offers many recreational alternatives. Visitors can enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides, snowmobile tours, or even snowshoe hikes, allowing tourists to explore the beauty of the Cindrel Mountains in a unique way.

After an active day on the slopes, tourists can discover the charm of the area with a visit to Sibiu, where they can enjoy a walk through the historic center and savor traditional dishes in one of the many local restaurants.

Thanks to its spectacular landscapes, tradition in winter sports, and modern facilities, Păltiniș remains a top destination for winter lovers, being the perfect place for both families with children and those looking to combine relaxation with the adrenaline of mountain sports.

 

5. Rânca – The Spectacular Resort on Transalpina

For those who desire an authentic winter experience, surrounded by dreamy landscapes and the fresh mountain air, Rânca is one of the most spectacular destinations in Romania. Located in the Parâng Mountains at an altitude of 1,600 meters, on the famous Transalpina road, the Rânca resort offers a unique natural setting, perfect for winter sports and snow adventures.

The ski area in Rânca features six slopes of varying difficulty, making it a suitable choice for both beginners and more experienced skiers. The M1 slope, 860 meters long, is ideal for those just starting out, while the more technical and steeper M4 slope presents a challenge for those already experienced in skiing or snowboarding. All the slopes are equipped with cable transport facilities and are well-maintained throughout the entire winter season.

(source: Ranca.org)

One of the biggest advantages of the Rânca resort is the abundant snow, which falls early and lasts until spring. Being located at a high altitude, the resort offers excellent conditions for winter sports even in March and April. Additionally, thanks to its position on Transalpina, Rânca provides some of the most spectacular mountain panoramas in Romania, making every descent on the slopes a true visual experience.

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Rânca is an ideal destination for those who love winter adventures. The mountain trails in the area are perfect for snowshoe hikes, while thrill-seekers can opt for snowmobile tours on the alpine routes in Parâng. Sledding is also an extremely popular activity in the resort, attracting both children and adults who want to relive the joy of winter.

Accommodation in Rânca is varied, ranging from rustic cabins and mountain guesthouses to modern villas with panoramic views of the mountains. Moreover, the restaurants in the resort offer delicious traditional dishes such as bean soup with smoked meats, Oltenian stew, and the famous cheese pie with burduf cheese.

Being an accessible destination and less crowded than the major mountain resorts, Rânca is the ideal choice for those who want a peaceful vacation, with spectacular landscapes and excellent conditions for winter sports. It is the perfect place for both families and beginners, as well as for those who wish to explore less conventional trails in the heart of the mountains.

Conclusion

Romania offers an impressive variety of destinations for winter sports enthusiasts, each resort having its own charm and conditions suitable for all levels of experience. From well-known resorts such as Poiana Brașov and Straja, to less crowded but still spectacular alternatives like Transalpina Ski Resort, Păltiniș, or Rânca, each of these places promises an authentic snow experience amidst fairy-tale landscapes.

Whether you're passionate about skiing and snowboarding or prefer alternatives such as mountain hiking, snowmobile tours, or relaxing in a cozy cabin after an active day, the mountain resorts in Romania provide all the ingredients for a perfect winter vacation. Additionally, the local hospitality and traditional dishes contribute to the charm of these places, making each journey an unforgettable experience.

Regardless of the chosen destination, one thing is certain: Romania is a true winter sports paradise, and its snow-covered mountains are waiting for you to discover the magic of the cold season in a spectacular setting.