Transalpina – The King’s Road, the Highest Road in Romania, Just 32 km from ZAN Hotel
Transalpina, the famous “King’s Road” and the highest road in Romania, is one of those places that impress you every time, even if you have visited before. From ZAN Hotel, it is practically just around the mountain corner — only 32 km away from a landscape that feels like it belongs to another world.
The Ascent Begins at Obârșia Lotrului – Just Minutes from the Hotel
The journey toward Transalpina starts quickly and easily. From Obârșia Lotrului, located very close to the hotel, the road begins a bold climb toward the mountain ridge. Within minutes, the forest opens up and the view becomes wider, more open, and increasingly spectacular.
A Truly Special Alpine Road
Transalpina crosses four counties — Gorj, Vâlcea, Sibiu, and Alba — drawing a beautiful line across the Parâng Mountains. Around you stretch deep valleys, cool forests, and peaks that give you the feeling that the mountains have their own rhythm. Among them:
- Păpușa Peak (2,136 m)
- Dengheru Peak (2,084 m)
There are sections where you may feel as if the road is floating along a suspended ridge. It is no surprise that it is sometimes called “The Road Among the Clouds” — here you can truly see them at eye level.
The King’s Road – History and Authenticity
Although Transalpina was fully modernized after 2009, it has preserved its raw, wild, and authentic atmosphere. It is a road that blends practicality with adventure.
During winter, the Rânca – Obârșia Lotrului section is closed, and access remains possible only for those equipped for winter conditions or vehicles suitable for difficult terrain.
A Region to Explore at Your Own Pace
Around Transalpina there are many beautiful places waiting to be discovered:
- alpine lakes such as Muntinu Lake
- hiking trails through glacial cirques
- Gâlcescu Lake, a true alpine landmark
- Obârșia Lotrului Monastery
- Lotru Valley
- scenic reservoir lakes
Whether you choose to explore by bicycle, motorcycle, car, or on foot, the route is spectacular from beginning to end.
Urdele Pass – Where the Mountains Touch the Sky
One of the most photographed places along Transalpina is Urdele Pass, the highest point of the road. Here the sky feels closer, the air is cold and pure, and the view opens toward mountain ridges that seem endless. On a clear day, the scenery is simply unforgettable.
Transalpina from the Perspective of ZAN Hotel Guests
From ZAN Hotel, access is very simple: leave in the morning, reach Obârșia Lotrului quickly, and the adventure begins. You can stop for photos, drive all the way to the ridge, or catch the sunset from above — each option offers a different experience.
And when you return to the hotel after a day on Transalpina, you will be welcomed by the quiet of the mountains, fresh air, good food, and a warm atmosphere — exactly what you need after a journey that stays in your memory for a long time.