Transfăgărășan

Transfagarasan

Transfagarasan-north

Transfagarasan in 1974

Transfagarasan twisty road

Transfagarasan, Arges

Wide view over the northern Transfagarasan

Transfăgărășan (also known as DN7C) is a paved mountain road crossing the Southern Carpathians of Romania. It runs through the Făgăraș Mountains, which are part of the Carpathian Mountains. The road connects the historic regions of Transylvania and Wallachia, and the cities of Sibiu and Pitești.

History[edit | edit source]

The Transfăgărășan was constructed between 1970 and 1974 during the rule of Nicolae Ceaușescu. The road was built as a strategic military route, intended to ensure quick military access across the mountains in case of a Soviet invasion. The construction involved significant human labor and resources, with many soldiers and workers losing their lives due to the harsh conditions and dangerous work environment.

Route[edit | edit source]

The Transfăgărășan stretches for approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles). It starts near the village of Bascov and ends at the intersection with the DN1 road between Sibiu and Brașov. The road reaches an altitude of 2,042 meters (6,699 feet) at the Bâlea Lake, making it the second-highest paved road in Romania after the Transalpina.

Features[edit | edit source]

The Transfăgărășan is renowned for its stunning scenery and challenging driving conditions. It includes numerous hairpin turns, long S-curves, and steep descents. Key features along the route include:

Vidraru Dam and Vidraru Lake: A large dam and artificial lake created for hydroelectric power.
Poenari Castle: A ruined castle associated with Vlad the Impaler, also known as Dracula.
Bâlea Lake: A glacial lake situated at the highest point of the road.
Bâlea Tunnel: The longest road tunnel in Romania, measuring 884 meters (2,900 feet).

Tourism[edit | edit source]

The Transfăgărășan is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors for its breathtaking views and challenging driving experience. It is often featured in travel guides and has been highlighted in various media, including an episode of the television show Top Gear, where it was described as one of the best driving roads in the world.

Seasonal Accessibility[edit | edit source]

Due to heavy snowfall and the risk of avalanches, the Transfăgărășan is typically open only from late June to early October. During the winter months, the road is closed to traffic, and access is limited to the lower sections.