A mild winter and the flawless coordination of maintenance teams made it possible to clear the snow and install safety systems in record time, turning this legendary route into one of the first major attractions accessible at the very start of the summer season. For lovers of nature, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes, the news could not have come at a better time.

Dubbed “the most beautiful road in the world” by the Top Gear team, the Transfăgărășan is more than just an asphalt road — it is a travel experience that takes your breath away. Every turn reveals a new scene: dramatic switchbacks, waterfalls tumbling among rocks, tunnels carved into the mountains, and glacial lakes of rare purity. Bâlea Lake, guarded by towering peaks, the Vidraru Dam with its impressive panoramic view, the history-laden Poenari Fortress, and the numerous mountain trails in the Făgăraș Mountains all contribute to the continuous spectacle this route offers.

This summer, the Transfăgărășan becomes the perfect destination for a vacation in August. Travelers can opt for a one-day road trip, stopping at the most photogenic viewpoints, hikes that descend to alpine meadows with fresh air and absolute tranquility, or an entire weekend at mountain cabins, enjoying the coolness of high altitude. At a time when more and more tourists are seeking authentic experiences and a deep reconnection with nature, the Transfăgărășan offers exactly that — a perfect mix of adrenaline, pure beauty, and mountain serenity.

In August, when the greenery is at its peak and the sunset bathes the mountains in a warm glow, this legendary road invites you to discover Romania at its finest. Every kilometer traveled here becomes a memory that will stay with you forever.

Transfăgărășan – A Journey Through the Heart of the Carpathians

Situated at over 2,000 meters above sea level, the Transfăgărășan is not just a spectacular road but a symbol of Romanian engineering ambition and mastery. Built in the 1970s as part of a strategic project to connect Muntenia and Transylvania, the route was carved painstakingly into rock with dizzying switchbacks, offering travelers a unique visual spectacle. Stretching nearly 90 kilometers, the road starts from Bascov (Argeș), climbs through the peaks of the Făgăraș Mountains up to Bâlea Lake, and gently descends toward the picturesque village of Cârțișoara (Sibiu).

Every turn reveals a new perspective: waterfalls tumbling among rocks, alpine lakes with crystal-clear waters, green meadows, and towering peaks that seem to touch the sky. It is a road beloved by motorcyclists, driving enthusiasts, photographers, and families seeking a mountain adventure. In the summer of 2025, the early reopening brought a rare advantage — the chance to explore this iconic road before the peak season crowds set in.

It is no wonder that Top Gear called it “the most beautiful road in the world” — the Transfăgărășan is more than a transit route; it is an experience that stays in your heart, a perfect combination of adrenaline, tranquility, and pure beauty.

The Most Beautiful Stops Along the Transfăgărășan Route

Vidraru Dam – Nature’s Controlled Majesty

One of the first spectacular stops on the Transfăgărășan, coming from the south, is the Vidraru Dam, an engineering masterpiece built in the 1960s that transforms the landscape into a fascinating blend of natural power and human craftsmanship. Constructed for hydroelectric energy production, the dam rises to an impressive height of 166 meters and stretches 305 meters in length, taming the turbulent waters of the Argeș River and forming Vidraru Lake, a deep reservoir with emerald-hued waters.

(Source: Stirile ProTV ) 

Beyond its practical role, Vidraru has become a top tourist destination. The panorama from the dam’s crest is simply breathtaking — the mountains are reflected in the calm waters, and the view stretches across ridges and forests. Nearby, the imposing statue of Prometheus, symbolizing strength and sacrifice, watches over the entire landscape.

Visitors can explore the surroundings of the lake by car, bike, or even recreational boats, and the area is ideal for picnics and memorable photographs. Vidraru Dam is, without a doubt, a stop that reminds you just how impressive the meeting of technology and nature can be.

Poenari Fortress – Vlad Țepeș’s Legendary Stronghold

Just a few kilometers from Vidraru Dam, perched on a steep peak of the Făgăraș Mountains, lies Poenari Fortress, one of Romania’s most authentic and enigmatic medieval fortifications. Originally built in the 13th century by the Wallachian voivodes and reinforced in the 15th century by Vlad Țepeș, the fortress served as a strategic defense point against Ottoman invasions.

(Source: Transfăgărășan ) 

Access to the fortress is not for the faint of heart — 1,480 steps climb steeply through the forest, offering increasingly spectacular views of the Argeș Gorge and mountain ridges with every step. Once at the top, you are rewarded with dizzying panoramas and the mysterious atmosphere of the ancient walls, which still seem to echo the history and legends of Vlad Țepeș.

Although partially in ruins, Poenari Fortress exudes a unique charm, being less commercialized than other castles associated with the Dracula myth. Visiting here is both a journey back in time and a physical challenge, perfect for those seeking authentic history and adventure. It is a Transfăgărășan stop that perfectly blends medieval legends with the wild beauty of the mountains.

Capra Waterfall – The Natural Spectacle of the Transfăgărășan

As you ascend to the impressive altitudes of the Transfăgărășan, at around 1,690 meters above sea level, you will discover Capra Waterfall, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the Southern Carpathians. Fed by the cold, crystal-clear waters of melting snow from the Făgăraș Mountains, the waterfall plunges from over 40 meters in height, creating a storybook landscape and a natural soundtrack that accompanies hikers in the area.

(Source: Tripadvisor ) 

Access is relatively easy, as the waterfall is located right next to the road, making it a perfect stop for memorable photos or a short break to enjoy the fresh mountain air. On summer days, the cold mist from the waterfall is a welcome refreshment, while in winter it transforms into an impressive ice sculpture, although the road is then closed to vehicle traffic.

Capra Waterfall is not just a photogenic spot but also a starting point for mountain trails leading to Bâlea Lake or the high peaks of the Făgăraș Mountains. It is a destination that reminds you that the Transfăgărășan is not only about dizzying switchbacks but also a collection of hidden natural treasures, ready to be discovered at every step.

Capra–Bâlea Tunnel – Gateway Through the Heart of the Mountains

At the northern end of the ascent from the south and in close proximity to Bâlea Lake, the Capra–Bâlea Tunnel impresses not only with its length of over 880 meters but also as the longest road tunnel in Romania. Carved deep into the massive rock of the Făgăraș Mountains, this tunnel represents one of the Transfăgărășan’s most important engineering achievements, allowing passage across the mountain ridge at over 2,000 meters above sea level.

(Source: Biz Brasov )

The atmosphere inside the tunnel is unique — cool, mysterious, and slightly solemn, reminding you that you are literally in the heart of the mountains. At the northern exit, you are greeted by the spectacular view of Bâlea Lake and the switchbacks descending steeply toward Cârțișoara, one of the most photographed sections of the road.

Beyond its practical value, the Capra–Bâlea Tunnel is an experience in itself, symbolizing the ingenuity and ambition behind the construction of the Transfăgărășan. Passing through it feels like moving through a symbolic gateway from one world to another — from the wild, steep slopes of the south to the wide, green panoramas of the north.

Paltinu Viewpoint – A Breathtaking Panorama

Located on the northern slope of the Transfăgărășan, near Bâlea Lake, Paltinu Viewpoint is one of the most spectacular stops along this legendary road. From here, your gaze opens to a storybook landscape: the road winding through dizzying switchbacks, tall slopes covered in alpine meadows, and the steep ridges of the Făgăraș Mountains that seem to touch the sky.

(Source: La Taverna )  

The spot is extremely popular among photographers, motorcyclists, and nature lovers, making it ideal for capturing the essence of the Transfăgărășan in images. Early in the morning, the slowly rising mist from the valleys creates a mystical atmosphere, while on clear days, the intense colors of the vegetation and sky provide an impressive visual spectacle.

Beyond its natural beauty, Paltinu Viewpoint is also a perfect resting place to breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy the area’s tranquility before continuing your journey. It’s the kind of stop that makes you forget about time, put your phone aside, and immerse yourself in the grandeur of nature.

Bâlea Lake – The Glacial Jewel of the Transfăgărășan

Situated at over 2,000 meters above sea level, hidden among the imposing ridges of the Făgăraș Mountains, Bâlea Lake is one of the most emblematic stops along the Transfăgărășan and, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places in Romania. This glacial lake, formed by melting glaciers, spans approximately 4.6 hectares and reaches a maximum depth of 11 meters. In summer, its clear waters perfectly reflect the blue sky and mountain silhouettes, creating an almost unreal natural tableau.

(Source: Transfăgărășan ) 

Access to Bâlea Lake is an experience in itself. You can reach it either via the spectacular Transfăgărășan road or by the cable car from Bâlea Waterfall, an ideal option when the road is partially closed. The view that unfolds before your eyes, with the road’s switchbacks winding among the slopes and the alpine landscapes stretching to the horizon, is simply breathtaking.

A Place for Relaxation and Reconnection
Bâlea Lake is not just a tourist attraction; it is a place where time seems to stand still. The noise of the cities disappears, replaced by the quiet of the mountains and the cool breeze. It is the perfect spot for a walk along the shore, a photography session, a high-altitude picnic, or simply sitting on a rock, gazing at the water and breathing in the clean, oxygen-rich air.

A Cool Refuge in the Heart of Summer
On scorching summer days, when cities sizzle under the hot asphalt, Bâlea Lake becomes a true climatic refuge. Temperatures here rarely exceed 20°C, and the cool mornings and pleasant evenings make it ideal for anyone looking to escape the heat. It is an oasis of freshness for families, hikers, or motorcyclists seeking a stop in the heart of nature.

Authentic Alpine Atmosphere
The area around the lake is dotted with mountain huts where you can treat yourself to hot soups, blueberry pies, or aromatic honey tea. After a day of exploration, nothing compares to sitting at a wooden table, watching the sunset over the peaks, wrapped in a blanket, with stars preparing to appear in the sky.

Bâlea Lake, with its pure beauty and serene atmosphere, is not just a stop on the Transfăgărășan but a reason in itself to traverse this legendary road. It is a destination that will stay in your heart long after you leave.

The Transfăgărășan – Summer at High Altitude

In an increasingly fast-paced and hot world, the Transfăgărășan remains an oasis of coolness, freedom, and authentic beauty. It is not just a spectacular mountain road but an invitation to slow down, breathe the fresh air, and see the world from above, where worries feel smaller and the horizon wider.

Whether you choose to stop at Bâlea Lake, explore Poenari Fortress, admire Vidraru Dam, or get lost in the endless panoramas of switchbacks, every kilometer on this road offers a story and a memory. It is a place where nature, history, and adventure intertwine into a perfect tableau of Romanian summer.

So this summer, leave behind the scorching asphalt of the cities, climb toward the peaks of the Făgăraș Mountains, and experience Romania’s most beautiful road. The Transfăgărășan awaits — and promises to be more than a destination: a memory for a lifetime.