Brașov: Transfagarasan Highway – Balea Lake – Carta Monastery

Brașov serves as a gateway to the stunning Transfagarasan Highway, where travelers can experience breathtaking views and thrilling drives through the Carpathian Mountains. Along this scenic route, visitors can explore the serene Balea Lake, a glacial gem surrounded by rugged peaks, and discover the historic Carta Cistercian Monastery with its well-preserved Gothic architecture. Whether you’re seeking natural wonders or cultural insights, this unforgettable journey promises an unforgettable experience.

Key Points

• Explore the Carta Cistercian Monastery, a 13th-century Gothic-style site providing insights into Romania’s religious history and the Cistercian order.
• Experience the thrilling Transfagarasan Highway, known for its scenic vistas, sharp hairpin turns, and engineering marvels through the Carpathian Mountains.
• Visit the Balea Lake, a serene glacial lake surrounded by rugged peaks, offering opportunities for exploration, photography, and dining at the Balea Lake Chalet.
• Enjoy the dining experience at the Balea Lake Chalet, savoring local dishes like shepherd’s pie and traditional Romanian sarmale with breathtaking lake views.
• Plan your visit during the recommended mid-May timeframe to experience optimal weather conditions for exploring the Transfagarasan Highway and surrounding attractions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Carta Cistercian Monastery

After leaving Brașov, the tour makes its first stop at the Carta Cistercian Monastery. Built in the 13th century, this Gothic-style monastery offers a glimpse into Romania’s rich religious history.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved structures, including the church and cloisters. The guide provides insights into the monastery’s architectural features and the Cistercian order that founded it.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved structures, including the church and cloisters. The guide provides insights into the monastery’s architectural features and the Cistercian order that founded it.

Though the monastery is no longer an active religious site, its serene atmosphere and historical significance make it a worthwhile addition to the tour’s itinerary.

The stop allows travelers to stretch their legs and prepare for the scenic drive ahead.

Traversing the Transfagarasan Highway

The tour now heads to the renowned Transfagarasan Highway, one of the most scenic and thrilling drives in Romania.

Winding through the Carpathian Mountains, the highway features:

• Breathtaking vistas of rugged peaks and deep valleys

• Sharp hairpin turns that challenge drivers

• Bridges spanning cascading waterfalls

• Tunnels carved through solid rock

• The awe-inspiring Bâlea Lake at the highest point

Guests can stop for photo opportunities and enjoy the exhilarating ride.

The guide provides insightful commentary, ensuring travelers appreciate the engineering marvel and natural beauty of this iconic Romanian route.

Marveling at the Balea Lake Scenic Viewpoint

Visitors marvel at the breathtaking Balea Lake, a glacial lake nestled high in the Carpathian Mountains at an altitude of 2,034 meters.

After navigating the winding Transfagarasan Highway, travelers arrive at the serene lake, surrounded by rugged peaks. Many opt for the cable car ride from the Hotel Balea Waterfall to the lake during the winter months, offering panoramic views.

Guests can explore the area, take photographs, and enjoy lunch at the Lake Balea Chalet. The shimmering waters and dramatic landscapes make Balea Lake a highlight of the Transfagarasan Highway tour, providing a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Dining at the Balea Lake Chalet

Lunch at the Lake Balea Chalet provides visitors with a delightful culinary experience amidst the stunning natural surroundings.

The chalet offers a variety of local dishes, including:

Hearty shepherd’s pie, traditional Romanian sarmale, grilled trout, homemade apple strudel, and warming mulled wine await visitors at the Lake Balea Chalet.

• Hearty shepherd’s pie made with tender lamb and fresh vegetables

• Traditional Romanian sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) in a savory tomato sauce

• Grilled trout caught from nearby streams, served with roasted potatoes

• Homemade apple strudel, a flaky pastry filled with sweet, spiced apples

• Warming mulled wine to sip while enjoying the breathtaking views of Balea Lake and the Fagaras Mountains.

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Riding the Cable Car to Balea Lake (Winter Option)

When the Transfagarasan Highway is closed during the winter months, visitors can opt to reach Balea Lake via the scenic cable car ride. This option allows adventurers to ascend to the lake’s alpine setting and soak in the breathtaking mountain views. The cable car journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes one-way.

| Cost | Duration | Frequency | Capacity | Accessibility |

|——|———-|———–|———-|—————|

| 100 lei / 24 euros | 10-15 minutes | Every 30 minutes | 8 passengers | Wheelchair accessible |

The cable car runs daily, weather permitting, and provides a convenient alternative to explore the stunning Balea Lake during the winter season.

Spotting Wildlife on the Journey

As travelers journey along the Transfagarasan Highway, they may be fortunate enough to spot some of the region’s elusive wildlife.

This rugged, mountainous route offers a chance to glimpse the following creatures:

• Majestic brown bears foraging for food in the lush forests

• Nimble Carpathian chamois, or black goats, scaling the rocky cliffs

• Soaring golden eagles riding the thermals high above the valleys

• Sleek red deer gracefully bounding through the undergrowth

• Curious marmots popping out of their burrows to survey the scene

While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the natural splendor of the Transylvania landscape provides ample opportunity for wildlife viewing.

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

The Transfagarasan Highway, a renowned road through the Carpathian Mountains, is typically open from July 1 to November 1 each year. During this period, travelers can enjoy the stunning scenery and explore the region. However, outside of these months, weather conditions can make the highway inaccessible by car.

| Season | Accessibility | Recommended Gear |

|——–|—————|——————-|

| Summer | Open | Lightweight, breathable clothing |

| Fall | Open | Warm layers, weatherproof jacket |

| Winter | Closed | Warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy boots |

| Spring | Closed | Layers, weatherproof gear |

For those visiting during the winter, the cable car ride from Hotel Balea Waterfall to Balea Lake provides an alternative way to access the region and its breathtaking views.

Customer Testimonials and Travel Tips

What do past travelers have to say about this tour? The 5-star reviews speak for themselves. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides who tailored the experience, and the comfortable transportation that made the scenic drive enjoyable.

The highlights were:

• "The views from the Transfagarasan Highway were breathtaking."

• "Lunch at the Balea Lake Chalet was delicious and the setting was incredible."

• "The Carta Monastery was a fascinating historical stop."

• "The cable car ride up to Balea Lake was a thrilling addition."

• "We saw several brown bears and black goats – a real treat!"

For the best weather, visit from mid-May. Bring warm, waterproof boots to fully experience this stunning region.

Common Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Customers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The vehicle is equipped with a refrigerator to store any perishable items. However, a hearty lunch is provided at the Balea Lake Chalet during the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers can discuss extending the tour with the provider, who may be able to accommodate a longer itinerary for an additional fee. The provider offers flexibility to suit individual needs.

Do You Offer Private or Customized Tour Options?

Yes, the tour company offers private and customized tour options. Clients can tailor the itinerary, duration, and group size to their preferences. Pricing for these personalized tours is available upon request.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the tour company offers student and senior discounts. Customers can save 10% on the tour price by presenting valid student or senior identification at the time of booking. This discount is available year-round.

Can I Book the Tour With a Different Pickup Location?

Yes, the tour allows for pickup from any hotel or accommodation in Brașov. Just let the tour provider know your preferred pickup location when booking. Flexible pickup options are available to suit your needs.

The Sum Up

Brașov and the surrounding Carpathian region offer a captivating blend of natural wonders and historic sites. Travelers can traverse the thrilling Transfagarasan Highway, marvel at the serene Balea Lake, and explore the well-preserved Carta Cistercian Monastery, making this an unforgettable journey through Romania’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: