The Transfăgărășan is not open all year. The high section, between Bâlea Waterfall and Piscul Negru, closes in winter and usually reopens at the end of June, staying passable until around 1 November. The exact date is announced every year by the road administrator, depending on the snow and the condition of the road surface.
When it is open, in short
| Period | What happens |
|---|---|
| winter – June | the alpine section is closed; you can only drive as far as Bâlea Waterfall |
| end of June | it reopens, usually in the last week |
| July – October | fully open, daytime access only |
| around 1 November | the high section closes again |
Even in high season, traffic on the alpine section is allowed only during the day — as a rule between sunrise and nightfall. At night it closes, for safety.
How to reach the Transfăgărășan from Sibiu
The northern entrance is at Cârțișoara, about 15 km from us. From Arpașu de Sus it takes you about 20 minutes to get to the start of the climb, which means you can set off early in the morning without driving for an hour just to reach the starting point.
From Cârțișoara up to Bâlea Lake there are another 25 km or so of hairpin bends. Take your time — the road is spectacular, but it has tight curves and weekend traffic.
If the road is closed
Bâlea Lake stays accessible all year round with the cable car from Bâlea Waterfall. In winter it is the only option, and in summer it is a good alternative if you would rather not drive the hairpins.
Good to know
What is worth having with you
- A sweater, even in August. At 2,000 m it is often 10–12 degrees cooler than down in the valley.
- A full tank. There are no petrol stations on the alpine section.
- Patience at the weekend. The car park at Bâlea Lake fills up early; on Saturdays, before 9 in the morning is easiest.
- A look at the weather on the day. Fog climbs quickly and changes the road completely.
Where to sleep so you can set off early
The biggest advantage is not having to drive in the morning. From Complex Albota you set off rested and reach the entrance to the Transfăgărășan before it gets crowded — and in the evening you come back to a warm meal, not to another two hours on the road.
If you are coming with a tent or a caravan, we also have camping pitches with utilities, 20 minutes from the start.
