Transalpina (DN67C)

The Transalpina, or DN67C, holds the distinction of being Romania’s highest paved road, reaching 2,145 meters at Urdele Pass. Stretching approximately 135 kilometers through the Parâng Mountains, it connects the towns of Novaci in the south to Sebeș in the north, While its origins are debated, it was significantly rebuilt and inaugurated by King Carol II in 1935, earning it the moniker “The King’s Road.” Unlike the Transfăgărășan’s dramatic serpentine bends, the Transalpina offers a more open, alpine landscape, with sweeping curves and vast panoramic views. It’s a less crowded alternative for those seeking an equally breathtaking but perhaps more serene high-mountain driving experience. Some say Transalpina is the ultimate dream road for motorcyclists,

Twisted Romania > South Roads > Transalpina

Transalpina Facts

Information

  • Ussually open from late June to late October (depending on the weather)
  • Some sections of the road are closed at night, between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM
  • Asphalt quality: 9/10
  • Scenery: 10/10
  • Distance: 10/10 ( around 135 km)
  • Traffic 9/10*
  • Winding: 10/10

*traffic points
1 = very heavy traffic, 10 = no traffic at all.

Twisted Points:

Warnings:

Check the weather especially in spring and autumn

Route

North to South: Sebes – Obarsia Lotrului – Novaci.

The Transalpina road consists of two main sections: one from Sebeș to Obârșia Lotrului and another from Obârșia Lotrului to Novaci, which includes the high-altitude Urdele Pass.

Urdele Pass

Obarsia Lotrului – Sebes

Riding Transalpina: Frequently Asked Questions

  • When is the best time to ride Transalpina?

    The ideal season is between July and September. While the road officially opens in late May or early June, the weather at altitudes over 2,000m (especially at Urdele Pass) remains unpredictable until mid-summer. July and August offer the best chances for dry tarmac and optimal riding temperatures.

  • Is Transalpina dangerous for beginner riders?

    Transalpina is technically demanding in certain sections, particularly the Urdele Pass. The significant elevation changes and tight hairpins require focus.

    • Pro Tip: For beginners, we recommend riding from Novaci toward Sebeș (a smoother ascent) and avoiding crowded weekends when car traffic can be stressful.

    • Alternative: If you aren’t ready for the “King’s Road” peaks yet, ride the stretch from Sebeș to Obârșia Lotrului, then head toward Brezoi or Petroșani instead of climbing to the highest pass.

  • Are there gas stations on the road?

    No. There are no gas stations in the high mountain sector. It is essential to fuel up in Novaci (if coming from the South) or Sebeș (from the North). On the classic Novaci – Obârșia Lotrului – Sebeș route (including Urdele Pass), there are no refueling options between the Socar in Novaci and the Rompetrol Expres in Șugag. Start the climb with a full tank!

  • What gear should I pack?

    Mountain weather can shift radically in minutes. Even if it’s 30°C (86°F) in the valley, temperatures at Urdele Pass can drop to 10-12°C (50°F).

    • The Layering Rule: Wear a modular suit or bring a removable thermal liner.

    • Essentials: Always have a rain suit handy and be prepared for strong crosswinds on the alpine plateau.

  • Which section is the most spectacular?

    The most “Instagrammable” stretch is between Rânca and Obârșia Lotrului, specifically Urdele Pass (2,145m). This is the famous “Road Among the Clouds,” where you can see the serpentines disappearing into the valley below. The northern section (Obârșia Lotrului to Sebeș) offers a different vibe: faster, sweeping curves through dense forests and along the lake.

Off-Road:

  • The Strategica, a notable section of the Trans Euro Trail (TET) in Romania, connects the Transalpina road with the settlements of Valea Măceșului (near Voineasa) and Mălaia. While the route can be ridden in either direction, most riders begin at the Ștefanu Pass on the Transalpina. The finish is less defined and depends on the rider’s preference for difficulty. The “easier” exit leads to Mălaia via the Rudaresei Valley, while a more challenging descent takes you to Valea Măceșului. These two options at the end allow riders to choose a path that suits their skill level.

Quick Tips

  • Do you like cities? Sibiu is a medieval city located between Trasfagarasan and Transalpina, in their northern area. You can visit the historic center or stay overnight in this beautiful city
  • Do you like fish? “Păstrăvăria Transalpina La Mitică” is a popular location where you can eat fresh trout
  • Stâna Ștefanu: Nestled high on the Transalpina at an altitude of approximately 1,800 meters, between the resorts of Rânca and Obârșia Lotrului, Stâna Ștefanu is a celebrated stop for travelers. It offers a truly authentic glimpse into Romanian pastoral traditions, with delicious, rustic food prepared using age-old recipes. It has become a favorite spot for tourists seeking a genuine taste of mountain life and a break from the road.
  • The Transalpina Ski Resort is situated near the town of Obârșia Lotrului, right next to the scenic Vidra Lake. Its high-altitude location, ranging from 1,320 m to 1,949 m, ensures an extended ski season and consistently good snow conditions. The resort offers a total of 6.1 km of slopes for various skill levels. The longest and main slope, Mioarele, stretches for 2,257 m and is suitable for intermediate skiers. The ski area is served by a modern lift system, including a gondola, a chairlift, and surface lifts (teleski). During the winter months, the resort is accessible via the DN7A road, which connects Brezoi, Voineasa, and Petroșani.

A Brief History of the Transalpina Road

The Transalpina is a mountain pass that has been used for centuries by shepherds and locals. The tradition of transhumance played an important role in the history of the road, as shepherds would move their sheep to higher altitudes in the summer and bring them back down to warmer areas in the winter. Shepherds from the Sibiu area used this alpine road to cross with their sheep from Transylvania to Oltenia.

The first known attempt to build a road on the current route of the Transalpina took place in 1731, when Austrian authorities proposed the construction of a road on the old transhumance route. Modern construction of the Transalpina began in the early 1930s, when a strategic road was needed to move artillery between Transylvania and Wallachia. The road was inaugurated on October 6, 1935, with King Carol II, future King Michael, and Prime Minister Gheorghe Tătărăscu in attendance. After the inauguration, King Carol II personally drove a car from Săliște to Novaci, which is why the Transalpina is also known as “The King’s Road.”

The Transalpina was later rehabilitated during World War II for strategic reasons, but was subsequently abandoned in favor of more economically viable alternatives. In 2009, work began on rehabilitating the Transalpina as a tourist road, and traffic was fully opened on June 11, 2016.