Europe's Best Drives

If there is one route which will totally take your breath away then this will be it. Zigzagging and hairpinning through the Fagaras Mountains in Romania, this 100km drive is a truly unforgettable experience. Not for the fainthearted, the route climbs up to an altitude of 2034 meters and links Transylvania with it’s neighbouring province Muntenia passing through dramatic scenery and offering spectacular views, particularly from the highest peak in Romania, Moldoveanu.

The Transfagarasan Route ©Coco_ro

Looking back at the history of the road, it dates back to 1970 as a response to when the Soviet Union invaded Czechoslovakia in 1968. Former Romanian dictator Ceausescu ordered the construction of a route which would allow their military to easily cross the mountainous area should they need to protect the borders of Romania to a similar threat in the future. The Transfagarasan route was then built (also known as the DN7C), to this day still one of the highest roads in Europe.

Driving the route either by car or motorbike can be driven either from north to south or vice versa. The route is divided by a tunnel through the mountains which is almost 890 meters long and completely unlit. Not only does the tunnel divide valleys, the scenery is strikingly different on each side also. On the northern side the view is barren and snowy, whereas the southern is lush and green and noticeably warmer. With 27 viaducts and bridges, tight corners, and narrow roads it is no surprise that 40 km/hour is the average speed for the road, and driving this highway at speed is not an option.

The Vidraru Dam which the Transfagarasan Route passes ©bortescristian

Notable highlights of the route include the Poienari fortress, whose former resident Vlad III the Impaler was Bram Stoker’s inspiration for the character of Dracula.  Balea Waterfall and Glaciar Lake, and the Vidraru Lake and Dam are also wonderful sights.

It is best to plan carefully when to take on this drive as it usually closes from October until June, although it’s not uncommon for it to close for some time over the summer months also due to snowfall! At times the drive can seem a little isolated and remote, so best to carry out all the checks to make sure the car is up to the challenge before you set off, and no matter what the season, warm clothing is a must. It may sound like quite a bit of planning, however once you get going you will be rewarded with one of the most amazing and unforgettable drives you can experience.