Published on August 22, 2021 by Zoltan Nyaradi
A few days after exploring the charming Transylvanian city of Sibiu, I decided to drive towards Balea Waterfall, located in the stunning Fagaras Mountains. The journey was filled with scenic views, making it an exciting road trip.
The Balea Waterfall or Cascada Balea in Romanian, is a popular waterfall located in the Fagaras Mountains at an altitude over 1200 m. In order to reach this place, you will have to drive on the famous Transfagarasan road until Hotel Balea Cascada which is about 18 km away from the village of Cartisoara, this village is actually the last one before the Fagaras Mountains. If you plan on hiking to the waterfall, there’s convenient parking available right behind the Balea Cascada Hotel, which is a great starting point for your adventure.
Once you will arrive to Hotel Balea Cascada, you will find a marked trail which will take you next to the waterfall. Usually this hike will take you approximately 50 minutes.
Besides Balea Waterfall, you can visit Balea lake as well which is located at an altitude of over 2000 m. In order to visit the lake, you have two options:
- You can drive on the Transfagarasan road up to the lake. Keep in mind that the road has many curves but in exchange the scenery is truly breathtaking.
- You can take the cable car from hotel Balea Waterfall. The ride takes about 12 minutes until the final destination. Keep in mind, the cable care is not working in bad weather conditions.
The Balea Cascada Cabin
This spot tends to get quite busy, especially during the summer months when it attracts a lot of tourists. On a warm, sunny day, you’ll see people coming here to enjoy the beautiful scenery, go hiking, or visit the nearby attractions. Because of its popularity, finding a parking space can sometimes be a bit tricky. The small parking areas quickly fill up, so it’s a good idea to arrive early if you want to avoid the crowds.
Other Must-See Attractions in Southern Transylvania:
- Carta Monastery: As you make your way down from Balea Waterfall, your first stop should be the Carta Monastery. This historical site is one of the oldest Gothic-style monasteries in Romania and offers a peaceful atmosphere and fascinating architecture.
- Clay Castle, Porumbacu de Sus: Just a short drive from the village of Carta, you’ll find the fairy-tale-like Clay Castle. Nestled near the village of Porumbacu de Sus, this unique building, made entirely from natural materials, looks like something out of a storybook and is definitely worth a visit.
- Brukenthal Summer Palace: If you’re feeling hungry, make a stop at the Brukenthal Summer Palace. This elegant estate features a lovely restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious meal before continuing your journey through the southern Transylvania.
- Sibiu Old Town: Lastly, no visit to Southern Transylvania would be complete without exploring the historic city of Sibiu. Its charming old town, with narrow cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and lively squares, is one of my favorite spots in the region. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply taking in the sights, Sibiu offers something for everyone.
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