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Hiking in the Southern Carpathians

RegionSouthern Carpathians Duration7 days · 6 nights GroupMax 10 people

The Făgăraș range is the backbone of the Southern Carpathians — a ridge walk above 2,400 metres that stays in the clouds for days. These are the highest, wildest trails in Romania, connecting glacial lakes, granite ridgelines, and mountain huts that still serve soup from midday. This seven-day traverse crosses the range from east to west, finishing at Bâlea Lac beneath the Transfăgărășan road.

Programme

Arrival in Sibiu. Transfer to base guesthouse. Equipment check, route briefing, and welcome dinner. Overnight in Sibiu.

Drive to the eastern trailhead at Plaiul Foii. First ascent through beech forest to the alpine zone. Camp at Curmătura Zărnești hut.

  • Ascent: 900 m · Distance: 12 km
  • First views of the Piatra Craiului ridge

Full day on the Piatra Craiului limestone ridge — a narrow crest walk with sheer drops on both sides. One of the most dramatic ridgelines in Romania. Overnight at Refugiu Spirtul Muntelui.

Descend and transfer to the Făgăraș trailhead. Climb to the main ridge at Fereastra Mare a Sâmbetei. Overnight at Cabana Sâmbăta.

  • Entry to the Făgăraș ridge proper
  • Glacial cirques and high-altitude lakes

The highest section of the traverse. Summit of Moldoveanu (2,544 m) — the highest point in Romania. Demanding day; exceptional views across Transylvania and Wallachia. Overnight at Cabana Negoiu.

Final ridge section to Bâlea Lac glacial lake, at 2,034 m beneath the Transfăgărășan road. Farewell dinner at the lake-side cabin.

  • Bâlea Lac — glacial lake at 2,034 m
  • Transfăgărășan viewpoint

Cable car or trail descent from Bâlea Lac. Transfer to Sibiu or Bucharest for onward travel. End of programme.