Brașov: Transfăgărășan Highway – Bâlea Lake – Carta Monastery

Nestled in the heart of Romania’s Carpathian Mountains, Brașov beckons travelers with its captivating blend of natural wonders and historic allure. This 8-hour tour promises an unforgettable journey along the renowned Transfăgărășan Highway, renowned for its breathtaking alpine vistas. Visitors will explore the 13th-century Gothic splendor of Carta Monastery and discover the picturesque Bâlea Lake, situated at an impressive elevation. Whether seeking to immerse in Romania’s rich heritage or marvel at its untamed landscapes, this tour offers a chance to uncover the region’s hidden gems. Prepare to be captivated by the sheer beauty that awaits beyond the city limits.

Key Points

• The 8-hour tour features the scenic Transfăgărășan Highway, the historic Carta Monastery, and the glacial Bâlea Lake at 2,034 meters elevation.
• Pricing starts at €128.18 per person and includes luxury transportation, maps, water, WiFi, and lunch, with optional cable car tickets to Bâlea Lake.
• The tour caters to small groups of up to 7 participants, with pickup service from Brașov hotels and an English-speaking guide for clear communication.
• Highlights include the Transfăgărășan Highway’s breathtaking vistas, the Carta Monastery’s Gothic architecture and history, and the serene Bâlea Lake.
• Seasonal activities and amenities vary, with winter offering ice hotel and church exploration, as well as skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating options.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Destination Overview

The tour takes travelers on an 8-hour journey through the stunning landscapes of Brașov, starting with the world-renowned Transfăgărășan Highway.

Known as one of the most spectacular roads in Europe, it’s featured on Top Gear and winds through the breathtaking Făgăraș Mountains.

Next, the tour visits the historic Carta Monastery, a 13th-century Gothic-style Cistercian abbey.

The final destination is the serene Bâlea Lake, a glacial lake situated at an altitude of 2,034 meters.

Depending on the season, travelers may have the opportunity to see brown bears and black goats, as well as explore an ice hotel and church during the winter months.

Tour Duration and Pricing

Spanning 8 hours, the tour’s duration provides ample time for a comprehensive exploration of the region’s highlights.

Priced from €128.18 per person, the tour offers excellent value given the range of inclusions and limited group size of 7 participants.

The tour package includes the following:

• Luxury Mercedes V-Klass or similar transportation

• Maps, cold water, WiFi, and assistance throughout the tour

• Lunch during the excursion

• Cable car tickets to Bâlea Lake (100 lei or €24 round-trip) applicable from November 1 to July 1

With its competitive pricing and carefully curated offerings, this tour is an appealing option for those seeking an in-depth discovery of Brașov and the surrounding natural wonders.

Group Size and Pickup

A limited group size of 7 participants ensures an intimate and personalized experience for travelers on this tour.

Pickup is available from all hotels in Brașov, providing convenient access to the tour’s starting point.

This small group size allows the guide to give each traveler more attention and ensures a comfortable, uncrowded atmosphere throughout the journey.

The pickup service further enhances the convenience of the tour, as guests don’t need to worry about transportation to the starting location.

With these thoughtful considerations, the tour organizers have created an experience that caters to the needs and preferences of a discerning group of travelers.

Language and Cancellation

An English-speaking guide leads the tour, ensuring participants can fully engage with and understand the historical and cultural significance of the sites visited.

On top of that, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing travelers with the flexibility to adjust their plans if necessary. This comprehensive cancellation policy allows for peace of mind, as travelers can book with confidence knowing they have the option to receive a full refund if their plans change.

Key features of the tour’s language and cancellation policy include:

1. English-speaking guide for seamless communication

2. Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to tour

3. Full refund available for cancelled bookings

4. Flexibility to accommodate last-minute schedule changes

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Spectacular Transfăgărășan Highway

The Transfăgărășan Highway is recognized as one of the most spectacular roads in Europe, featuring breathtaking vistas and challenging terrain that have earned it acclaim, including a top billing on the popular BBC series Top Gear.

Winding through the Southern Carpathian Mountains, the road offers panoramic views of alpine landscapes, deep gorges, and historic towns.

Drivers must navigate steep inclines, sharp turns, and high altitudes, making the journey an exhilarating experience.

This iconic route is a highlight of the tour, allowing visitors to witness Romania’s natural beauty and engineering prowess.

Whether you’re an avid driver or seeking a scenic adventure, the Transfăgărășan Highway delivers an unforgettable experience.

Historic Carta Monastery

After exploring the captivating Transfăgărășan Highway, the tour continues to the historic Carta Monastery, a Gothic-style Cistercian monastery built in the 13th century. This impressive site offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history and religious heritage.

Highlights of the visit include:

1. Admiring the stunning architectural features, such as the ornate façade and intricate stone carvings.

2. Learning about the monastery’s role in the local community and its significance in the Transylvanian region.

3. Exploring the serene cloisters and the tranquil gardens that surround the monastery.

4. Discovering the monastery’s collection of religious artifacts and manuscripts, which provide insight into the lives of the Cistercian monks who once resided there.

Picturesque Bâlea Lake

Nestled high in the Făgăraș Mountains, the picturesque Bâlea Lake beckons visitors with its serene glacial waters and stunning alpine scenery. At an elevation of 2,034 meters, the lake is a highlight of the Transfăgărășan Highway tour.

Visitors can explore the lake’s shores, enjoy a lakeside lunch, or take a cable car to reach the area during the off-season. The lake’s crystal-clear waters and dramatic mountain backdrop make for breathtaking views.

Depending on the season, travelers may also spot wildlife like brown bears and black goats roaming nearby. With its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Bâlea Lake offers a peaceful respite from the bustle of everyday life.

Seasonal Activities and Amenities

Transfăgărășan Highway’s operational period varies seasonally, with the road open from July 1 to November 1 each year.

During the winter months, visitors can’t drive the full highway, but they can take a cable car to reach Bâlea Lake at 1,446 meters. Here, they’ll find:

1. An ice hotel and ice church, open from December to March.

2. Opportunities for winter activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating.

3. The chance to warm up with a hot meal at the Hotel Cascada Bâlea.

4. Stunning views of the frozen lake and surrounding Făgăraș Mountains.

Regardless of the season, the tour provides essential amenities like transportation, maps, and on-board assistance to ensure a comfortable and memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Accessible Is the Tour for Travelers With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be highly accessible for travelers with mobility issues. The hike around Bâlea Lake and the rugged terrain of the Transfăgărășan Highway could pose challenges. However, the tour operator likely offers alternatives or accommodations upon request.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Meal Options Available?

The tour offers a standard lunch, but the provider can accommodate special dietary needs with prior notice. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request.

What Is the Level of Difficulty for the Walking Activities at Bâlea Lake?

The walking activities at Bâlea Lake are generally considered easy, with flat terrain and well-maintained pathways. Travelers can explore the lake and its surroundings at their own pace without major physical difficulty.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Sights or Activities?

The tour can be customized to include additional sights or activities. The tour operator is flexible and willing to tailor the itinerary to accommodate the interests and needs of each group or individual participant.

What Is the Best Time of Day to Visit the Carta Monastery?

The best time to visit Carta Monastery is in the morning, when it’s less crowded and the lighting is optimal for capturing the Gothic-style architecture and serene surroundings. This allows visitors to explore the monastery at a leisurely pace.

Recap

The Brașov tour offers a remarkable journey through Romania’s breathtaking landscapes.

From the scenic Transfăgărășan Highway to the historic Carta Monastery and the serene Bâlea Lake, this experience showcases the country’s natural and cultural wonders.

With seasonal activities and stunning vistas, it’s an unforgettable adventure for travelers seeking to explore Romania’s hidden gems.

You can check if your dates are available here: