Transalpina: All You Need to Know About Romania’s Highest Road

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We drove Romania’s Transalpina as part of our overland travels through the country, tackling the hairpins and high mountain passes of the DN67C and stopping at viewpoints along the route. At 2,145 metres, it’s the highest paved road in Romania and one of our favourite mountain drives in Europe.

In this guide, we share our route from Novaci to Sebeș, the stops we think are worth making, how long to allow, what it’s really like to drive and the practical things we learned along the way to help you plan your own Transalpina road trip.

Getting to and Driving the Transalpina

The Transalpina runs for 148km between Novaci in the south and Sebeș in the north. You can drive it in either direction, although we travelled south to north from Novaci towards Sebeș.

Flying to Romania

Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport is the most convenient major airport if you want to start at the southern end of the Transalpina. Novaci is around 280km from the airport, so allow roughly four hours to reach the start of the DN67C by car.

If you’re planning a longer Romanian road trip, you could also incorporate the Transalpina into a circular route and combine it with the nearby Transfăgărășan Highway.

Driving to Romania

If you’re travelling in your own car, motorcycle, campervan or motorhome, Romania is straightforward to reach overland from elsewhere in Europe.

From Western and Northern Europe, the most common route is through Austria and Hungary. From the western Balkans, you can enter Romania from Serbia, while travellers coming north from Greece or Turkey will usually approach through Bulgaria.

We travelled through Romania as part of a longer overland journey, and having your own vehicle is by far the best way to experience the Transalpina.

Driving the Transalpina

The DN67C is made for a self-drive road trip. Having your own vehicle means you can stop at the viewpoints, take short hikes, explore places along the route and simply pull over when the scenery demands it, which happens quite a lot.

You can drive the Transalpina in a car, motorcycle, campervan, motorhome or overland truck. We’ve included more detailed advice about driving larger vehicles further down the guide.

Although the road itself is only 148km long, don’t plan it as an ordinary A-to-B journey. Allow at least five to six hours for the drive, and preferably most of the day, so you have plenty of time for stops and viewpoints.

Transalpina Road Tours

If you don’t want to drive yourself, there is no public transport along the Transalpina, but you can visit on an organised day trip or multi-day tour from Bucharest.

A guided tour is a good option if you’re short on time or would rather concentrate on the scenery while someone else tackles the mountain roads.

These are our top picks of highly rated Transalpina tours.

Transalpina Map and Route

Route: Novaci to Sebeș via the DN67C Transalpina
Distance: 148 km (92 miles)
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Best time to go: June to September
Best for: Mountain scenery, epic driving, motorhomes, motorcycles and road trips

Driving the Transalpina

Novaci

The start point of the DN67C Transalpina road, Novaci is a town in Gorj County and is known for its beautiful natural scenery. Nearby you can visit the Cozia National Park, home to the Olteț Gorge, and the ancient Peștera Polovragi and Peștera Muierilor caves.

The nearby 17th Horezu Monastery built in the Brâncovenesc style is well worth a visit, and the Endless Column and Gate of The Kiss, both war memorials in Târgu Jiu, should be on your itinerary.

Lone Man’s Rock

Lone Man’s Rock is the first viewpoint on the Transalpina heading north and is the perfect place to step out, take some photos and truly grasp the enormity of the mountains and sky.

There’s nothing to really mark this point other than a hillock to the left of the road, with a well-worn path to the top. From the top you can look east and north and see the road snaking through the mountains ahead.

Popas & Rânca Viewpoints

As you continue driving the Transalpina, don’t miss a chance to stop at the viewpoints at Popas and Rânca. Both lookouts have plenty of space to park and offer majestic panoramas of the Parâng Mountains and the road twisting through the landscape below.

If you can, time your visit to coincide with sunrise or sunset for an unparalleled visual experience, as the golden hues cast their glow across the rugged terrain.

Urdele Pass

Located on the boundary of Valcea and Gorj Counties, the Urdele Pass or Pasul Urdele is the highest point on the Transalpina at 7,037 feet / 2,145 meters and offers breathtaking views to those daring enough to venture along the road.

This is the most spectacular section of Romania’s highest road, and so much more than just the highest point. The road up includes many serpentines, switchbacks, and inclines as well as some descents before you arrive at the ridge, which the road follows for around 12 miles / 20km.

It’s a fantastic drive through the mostly barren mountain steppe and you’ll pass the mighty peaks of Dengheru, Păpușa, Urdele, Iezer, and Muntinu, all of which top 6562 feet / 2,000 meters.

This is also a great spot from which to hike, with locations like Lake Gâlcescu, Curmătura Olteţului, and Traseul de Creastă being reachable on foot from the Urdele Pass.

Voineasa Center

The Voineasa Center is a good opportunity to stop for a drink with a scenic view. Adjacent there is a souvenir market that showcases an array of traditional handcrafted products made by locals.

A little further on is Stâna Ștefanu, a ranch that is popular for its cute donkeys and delicious Romanian cuisine that comes at an affordable price.

Try sarmale, a better-than-it-sounds cabbage roll stuffed with minced meat, spices, onions, and rice. Papanași is another favorite, a sweet cheese donut served with a warm fruit compote, a touch of sour cream, and icing sugar.

DN7A Side Trip

If you’re looking for more adventure, consider taking a detour on the DN7A side trip while exploring the Transalpina. This alternate route adds an exciting twist to your journey, diving deeper into the heart of the Southern Carpathians to the east, passing the gorgeous Vidra Lake and the Transalpina Ski Resort which are surrounded by pine-covered mountains.

Tărtărău Pass

Pasul Tărtărău is the second high mountain pass on the Transalpina, at an altitude of 5,636 feet / 1,718 meters above sea level. This pass is much more wooded and not quite as picturesque as its bigger brother to the south.

Oașa Dam

As you come down from the Tărtărău Pass, the road wraps around the Oașa Dam on the River Sebeș. From much of the road, you can’t actually see the Oașa Lake, as its steep banks are covered in tall pines which block the view, but there are road bridges that span the deep inlets, where you can see the water and opposite shore.

When you cross the actual 299 feet / 91 meter concrete dam, you’ll get a far-reaching view south of the turquoise lake, and you can stop for photos.

Sebeș

Sebeș lies in the Mureș River valley and is known for its rich history, with several important landmarks such as the Evangelical Lutheran Church, a monumental work of Romanesque and Gothic architecture completed over a period of two centuries.

Nearby is Râpa Roșie, a protected area and natural monument of national interest. A geological and botanical reserve situated in the extreme southwest of the Secașelor Plateau, the Râpa Roșie area covers approximately 10 hectares and was declared a natural monument in 1950.

Known for its unique and impressive geological formations, which were created by the erosion of the red sandstone cliffs over thousands of years, Râpa Roșie is characterized by steep cliffs, deep gorges, narrow canyons, and unusual rock formations that make it a popular destination for hikers, rock climbers, and nature enthusiasts.

Other Nearby Road Trips

Best Places to Stay on the Transalpina?

Novaci

Pensiunea Valea Măgurii is a great choice for a relaxing stay before or after driving the Transalpina, with a heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi and sauna. There’s also a children’s play area, making it a good option for families.

Cazare Nely is small, highly rated place to stay on Strada Rânca in Novaci, conveniently located for reaching the southern end of the Transalpina.

Pensiunea Adrian Novaci is another good option if you want a little more than somewhere to sleep, with a swimming pool, hot tub and sauna. Its location outside the centre of Novaci works well for an early start on the Transalpina.

Along the Route

Cabana Transalpina, Rânca is a mountain lodge at 1,756 metres on the slopes of Păpușa Peak, just off the DN67C. Rooms have private bathrooms and there’s a shared kitchen, large terrace and panoramic mountain views.

Hanul Haiducilor is a traditional mountain hotel in Obârșia Lotrului with an on-site restaurant, bar and free parking. Rooms have private bathrooms and balconies with mountain views, making this a particularly convenient overnight stop on the route.

Pensiunea Bradul, Obârșia Lotrului is a simple mountain guesthouse directly on the DN7A, well placed if you want to break the journey around Obârșia Lotrului rather than completing the Transalpina in one day.

Sebeș

Hotel Leul de Aur is a historic hotel in central Sebeș with a choice of standard, deluxe and individually styled boutique rooms. There’s also an on-site restaurant, and its central location makes it a convenient and more upmarket choice at the northern end of the Transalpina.

Karlhof Restaurant și Cazare is small hotel with just 11 individually styled rooms inspired by the 19th century, plus an on-site restaurant. A good choice if you’d prefer something with more character than a conventional hotel.

Palm Rezidential is a quieter guesthouse-style option with a garden and terrace. Rooms have private bathrooms, with some also offering balconies, mountain views and kitchen facilities.

Tips for Driving in Romania

Road conditions in Romania can be variable, particularly on rural and mountain roads, where potholes, damaged surfaces, livestock and other hazards can slow your progress.

Before travelling, check the latest UK government travel advice for Romania and official Romanian sources, as entry and driving requirements can change.

If you’re travelling on a British passport, Romania follows Schengen entry rules. Your passport must have been issued less than ten years before your arrival date and expire at least three months after the date you plan to leave the Schengen area.

• If you’re travelling on a British passport, Romania follows Schengen entry rules. Your passport must have been issued less than ten years before your arrival date and expire at least three months after the date you plan to leave the Schengen area.

• You may need a visa to enter Romania, you can find out more on the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle when you road trip in Romania.

• You can drive in Romania using a UK photocard driving licence. If you still have a paper licence, check the current requirements before travelling as you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an International Driving Permit (IDP). You can check here.

• Motorists are also legally required to carry the following items when driving in Romania: reflective jackets for drivers and passengers; a warning triangle, a fire extinguisher, and a first aid box.

• Romania uses an electronic road tax system to collect tolls. The tax or vignette is payable at border crossing points, post offices, and online. It’s easiest to buy your Romanian vignette in this way, and our recommended website is authorized by the Romanian Government. You don’t need a sticker or device, just select your vehicle and the amount of time you need and pay online with Roviniete.ro. If you’re hiring, check whether a vignette is included with your car rental company.

• In Romania, motorists drive on the right and overtake on the left. As a general rule, priority must be given to vehicles coming from the right unless indicated

• The alcohol limit for drivers of private vehicles is 0.00%. Penalties for drink driving can be severe.

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe: Everything You Need to Know

Transalpina Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Transalpina?

The Transalpina is approximately 92 miles / 148 kilometers long, crossing four counties: Gorj, Valcea, Sibiu, and Alba. The road offers breathtaking views and is popular among road trip enthusiasts.

How long does it take to drive the Transalpina road in Romania?

The Transalpina Road is 92 miles / 148 kilometers long and takes, according to Google Maps, just 3 to 4 hours to drive. But this is a simple equation of miles divided by speed and doesn’t take into account the topography of the road and its varying elevation, twists, bends, and livestock on the road, which all add to the driving time.

To truly enjoy the incredible scenery and the road itself, and have plenty of time to stop to explore and take photos, we recommend that you set off early and allow 5 to 6 hours to fully enjoy the Transalpina drive and experience.

Is the Transalpina a dangerous road?

Although Transalpina is Romania’s highest route it is not an inherently dangerous road. But, drivers should exercise caution, particularly during poor weather conditions or if they are inexperienced with mountain driving.

The Transalpina is narrow in parts and speed is limited to 30km/h between 7am and 8pm. To be honest, you won’t want to go any faster because you’ll be so busy admiring the scenery and landscape around you.

There are no safety barriers here and no road markings either, and it’s highly likely that you’ll come across cyclists and livestock on the road. But it’s all part of the experience!

Just take it slow, follow the traffic signs, give yourself enough time, and you’ll be able to relax and enjoy driving this incredible road.

When is the Transalpina open?

The Transalpina usually opens in late spring or early summer, typically around May or June, and remains open until late fall. The opening and closing dates change each year according to weather and road conditions, so always check the current road status before setting out.

During July and August, the road is at its busiest. We think the best time is June for perfect weather before the crowds and September and early October when you’ll be able to enjoy the late summer weather, the vibrant fall colors, and the quieter stretches without the visitors.

Always check the weather conditions before heading out, even in the height of summer, when it has been known to snow, and be aware that the top of the route is often shrouded in clouds or mist and fog.

Whenever you decide to travel the Transalpina, it’s best done between Monday and Thursday, avoiding the always busy weekends and bank holidays.

How do I get to Transalpina?

The Transalpina is accessible from two main points. On the south side, travelers can reach the road via Novaci, which is connected to Târgu Jiu, a city with train and bus connections to Bucharest and other Romanian cities.

On the north side, travelers can access Transalpina from Sebeș, connected to major cities via the A1 motorway and national roads.

Can I drive the Transalpina in a motorhome?

Yes, it is possible to take a motorhome, campervan, RV, or overland truck along the Transalpina. Regular-size tour coaches and trucks use the road on a daily basis and there are no tunnels, so length and height are not an issue. There are even some cool off-grid spots to stay overnight.

Can I drive the Transalpina & Transfăgărășan in one day?

The more famous Transfagarasan Highway is also open between June and October and is another epic Romanian road.

The Transfagarasan stretches for 56 miles / 90 kilometers through the Carpathian Mountains between Cârțișoara and Bascov and runs almost parallel to the Transalpina.

The route boasts 80 hairpin curves, five tunnels, and over 500 small bridges, topping out at 6,699ft / 2,042 meters above sea level at the Pasul Bâlea.

Both roads offer incredibly scenic drives, but if we had to pick one it would be the Transfăgărășan due to its history and variety of landscapes and attractions.

It is possible to do both of these incredible driving roads, although not in one day.

You’ll need two days to drive both these roads. Tackle Transalpina first, then head southeast to Sibiu on the E81 for an overnight stop. From there take the E68 to the crossroad with Transfăgărășan before heading south to Piteşti.

RELATED POST: Transfagarasan: The Ultimate Guide to Romania’s Famous Road

What is the Transalpina Road in Romania?

Transalpina or Transalpina útvonal is a stunning destination for road trip enthusiasts. The highest paved road in Romania since 2009, the Transalpina reaches an altitude of 7,037 feet / 2,145 meters above sea level at the Urdele Pass.

The road spans 92 miles / 148km between Novaci in the south and Sebeș in the north as it winds its way through the majestic Parâng Mountains in the Southern Carpathians.

Officially designated as the DN67C, this remarkable mountain road is also known as the ‘Devil’s Pass’ and the ‘King’s Road’, reflecting its historical status as a strategically important route in the region with origins dating back to ancient times. Over the centuries, it has served significant purposes for trade, communication, and transportation.

Today, this picturesque and exhilarating journey attracts travelers worldwide, as they come to experience the incredible scenery, drive the breathtaking route or simply enjoy the peace and tranquillity provided by the stunning Carpathian landscape.

What is the Transalpina Road in Romania?

Transalpina or Transalpina útvonal is a stunning destination for road trip enthusiasts. The highest paved road in Romania since 2009, the Transalpina reaches an altitude of 7,037 feet / 2,145 meters above sea level at the Urdele Pass.

The road spans 92 miles / 148km between Novaci in the south and Sebeș in the north as it winds its way through the majestic Parâng Mountains in the Southern Carpathians.

Officially designated as the DN67C, this remarkable mountain road is also known as the ‘Devil’s Pass’ and the ‘King’s Road’, reflecting its historical status as a strategically important route in the region with origins dating back to ancient times. Over the centuries, it has served significant purposes for trade, communication, and transportation.

Today, this picturesque and exhilarating journey attracts travelers worldwide, as they come to experience the incredible scenery, drive the breathtaking route or simply enjoy the peace and tranquillity provided by the stunning Carpathian landscape.

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