The Transfagarasan Road: A Journey of Picturesque Beauty
Nestled in the heart of the Făgăraș Mountains of Romania lies an incredible feat of engineering – The Transfagarasan Road. Spanning over 90 kilometres, it is one of the most stunning drives in the world. With its winding curves, steep ascents, and magnificent views, the Transfagarasan Road is the perfect destination for any road tripper.
About The Transfagarasan Road
The Transfagarasan Road is a winding mountain highway that connects the cities of Curtea de Arges and Cartisoara, running through the Carpathian Mountains in Romania. It was constructed between 1970 and 1974 by Romanian forces during the reign of Nicolae Ceaușescu and was completed in the record time of four years. The road is renowned for its spectacular views, thrilling ascents, and hairpin curves, making it a popular destination for tourists and motorcyclists.
The road is also known as the ‘Ceausescu Highway’ as it was built during his rule. It was constructed as a strategic military route, allowing the military to pass through the mountains quickly and easily. The road was closed to commercial traffic until 2009, when it was opened to the public.
Exploring The Transfagarasan Road
The Transfagarasan Road is an incredible journey, spanning over 90 kilometres through the Fagaras Mountains. It is not for the faint-hearted, with numerous hairpin curves and steep ascents. But the rewards for the brave are many, with stunning views of the mountains and nature that will take your breath away.
There are several places of interest along the way, such as the Vidraru Dam, which is the highest dam in Romania. It is a popular spot for tourists, and is the perfect place to take a break and admire the view.
The drive also offers glimpses of the traditional Romanian villages, which are nestled in the mountains. One of the most famous villages is Balea Lac, which is located at the highest point of the road at 2,042 metres. Here, visitors can enjoy a range of activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and fishing.
The drive is also home to several castles, including the famous Bran Castle, also known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’. This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Romania and is a must-visit for any road tripper on the Transfagarasan Road.
Safety on The Transfagarasan Road
The Transfagarasan Road is an incredible journey, but it is important to remember that it is a mountain highway and can be dangerous if not driven carefully. The road is subject to snowfall and ice in the winter months, making it treacherous to drive. It is also important to note that the road is not well-lit at night, so it is best to travel during the day.
It is also important to remember that the road is very popular with tourists and motorcyclists, so it is important to drive safely and courteously.
Conclusion
The Transfagarasan Road is a remarkable feat of engineering and a stunning journey through the mountains of Romania. With its winding curves, steep ascents, and spectacular views, it is the perfect destination for any road tripper. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, then the Transfagarasan Road is the place to go.