Refugiul Viștea Mare: A Hiker's Paradise in the Heart of the Carpathians
Explore Refugiul Viștea Mare in the Carpathians: Stunning views, challenging trails, and the perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Nestled in the breathtaking Carpathian Mountains, Refugiul Viștea Mare is a hiker's haven that offers stunning vistas, challenging trails, and a chance to connect with nature. Ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike, this refuge is a must-visit destination for tourists exploring Romania's mountainous terrain.
A brief summary to Refugiul Viștea Mare
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Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water, as the trails can be challenging.
- Consider spending the night at the refuge to fully experience the beauty of the mountains.
- Don't forget your camera; the views are breathtaking and perfect for capturing memories.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start from the town of Făgăraș. Drive along DN1 (E68) towards Sibiu for approximately 25 kilometers. Look for the sign indicating the direction to 'Transfăgărășan' (DN7C). Turn onto DN7C and follow it for about 30 kilometers until you reach Bâlea Cascadă. From Bâlea Cascadă, park your car in the designated parking area (note that there is a parking fee of approximately 10 RON per day). After parking, begin your hike on the marked trail towards Refugiul Viștea Mare, which is approximately a 2-hour hike uphill.
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Public Transportation
To reach Refugiul Viștea Mare using public transportation, take a train from Bucharest to Făgăraș. Once you arrive in Făgăraș, you can take a local bus or taxi to Bâlea Cascadă. Bus schedules may vary, so check local transport websites for the most current times. Once you arrive at Bâlea Cascadă, there is a parking area where you will need to either pay a fee (about 10 RON per day) or start your hike directly from there. Follow the marked hiking trail towards Refugiul Viștea Mare, which is about a 2-hour trek.
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Hiking
For those who are already in the Fagaras Mountains and wish to hike to Refugiul Viștea Mare, start at the closest hiking trailhead, which is located at Bâlea Cascadă. Follow the well-marked trail signs towards Refugiul Viștea Mare. The hike is moderately challenging and will take approximately 2 hours. Make sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring enough water, and check the weather conditions before heading out.
Discover more about Refugiul Viștea Mare
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Start Fereastra Zmeilor
8.5 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Start Fereastra Zmeilor on the Transfăgărășan highway, a hiker's paradise with stunning mountain views and diverse trails.
Vedere Panoramică Transfăgărășan
10.0 km
Experience breathtaking views at Vedere Panoramică Transfăgărășan, the ultimate observation deck in the Carpathian Mountains.
Poarta Genistilor
10.7 km
Explore the stunning Poarta Genistilor, a monument of engineering brilliance nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of the Transfagarasan region.
Casa Ada
14.2 km
Discover the charm of Casa Ada, your serene indoor lodging in Arpașu de Sus, surrounded by nature’s beauty and rich Romanian culture.
Transfagarasan Treehouse Village
23.6 km
Experience the best of Romanian barbecue in a treehouse setting, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Transfagarasan mountains.
Vidraru Dam
28.0 km
Discover the captivating Vidraru Dam, a stunning engineering marvel set against the dramatic backdrop of Romania's Carpathian Mountains.
Belvedere Viaduct Cascada Călugărița
28.1 km
Discover the breathtaking views and natural beauty at Belvedere Viaduct Cascada Călugărița, a must-see attraction along Romania's Transfagarasan highway.
Poenari Citadel
29.3 km
Explore the hauntingly beautiful Poenari Citadel, a historical landmark steeped in the legends of Vlad the Impaler amidst the stunning Carpathian landscapes.
Spell Hotels
31.6 km
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Cetatea Făgărașului
32.0 km
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Stone Ravens Monastery
37.1 km
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"Piatra Craiului" National Park
39.6 km
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Cheile Brusturetului
40.5 km
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Dambovicioara Cave
41.3 km
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Tourist Information Center Dâmbovicioara
41.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Frigul Moldoveanu
1.0 km
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Moldoveanu Peak
1.0 km
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Vf. Roșu
1.2 km
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Lacul Viștișoara
1.7 km
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Făgăraș Mountains
2.5 km
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Fereastra Mică a Sâmbetei
3.3 km
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Cascada Regina Sâmbetei
3.4 km
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Saturday's Great Window
3.8 km
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Crucea Eroilor Rezistenței Anticomuniste din Fagaras
3.9 km
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Vf. Tărâța
3.9 km
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Muchia Drăgușului
4.4 km
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Cabana Vânătoare Muchia Dragușului
4.9 km
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Peak Arpaşu Mare
5.4 km
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Piatra Caprei
5.5 km
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Monumentul Nerlinger
6.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Balea Lac Restaurant
9.9 km
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Gheretă
10.0 km
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Cabana Paltinu
10.2 km
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Fast food Transfagarasan
10.3 km
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Chalet Bear Manor
11.2 km
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Cabana Bâlea Cascadă
11.4 km
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Complex Bâlea
11.4 km
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Hotel Piscul Negru
12.6 km
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Complex Cazare Balea Transfagarasan
15.5 km
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Grill Barbara
16.1 km
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La Savulica
17.2 km
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Bâlea Lac Pensiune
18.8 km
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Restaurant Pensiune Suzy & Roxy
21.8 km
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Alexandru's Royal
22.2 km
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Bârlogul din Vidraru
23.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Popas cu bunătăți
9.0 km
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Albota, Trout Farm
14.7 km
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CANOE T’URS
25.5 km
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Riovirg - Depozit
30.8 km
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Merti Marimatt
31.2 km
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AV Tools Fagaras
31.3 km
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Riovirg S.R.L.
31.3 km
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Prăvălie Sergiana
31.3 km
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Relax Therapy Fagaras
31.4 km
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Librăria Birotex
31.5 km
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Regalo Glacial
31.5 km
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OLMEDO
31.5 km
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Cofetăria Happy Pie Făgăraș
31.6 km
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Computer' Shop Făgăraș
31.6 km
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Wito's - Magazin Chinezesc
31.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
andreisorinnn pe insta
10.2 km
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Mosia Pub
11.6 km
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Terasa
12.5 km
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Saga Victoria
13.7 km
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Bar local central
18.9 km
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The Tiny House Transylvania & Chocolate Barn
28.7 km
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Das Erste Biergarten
29.3 km
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Complexul Turistic Fântânița Crăiesei
29.3 km
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Salonul Belvedere
30.8 km
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Cafe Bar Ana
30.9 km
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Casandra Restaurant
31.4 km
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Casa Terra
31.6 km
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Vintage Pub Făgăraș
31.6 km
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Folio Bistro By Paul Novac
31.7 km
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Bistro Story Caffe
31.8 km
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