Făgăraș Ridge Trek: Peaks, Lakes & Valleys

The second day begins at Suru Chalet as the trail continues deeper into the wild highlands of the Făgăraș Mountains. The route gradually climbs above the tree line, revealing vast alpine landscapes and long mountain ridges stretching across the horizon.

One of the highlights of the day is reaching the beautiful glacial Avrig Lake, located high in a dramatic cirque beneath steep rocky slopes. The lake’s clear waters and remote setting make it a perfect place to pause and enjoy the raw beauty of the Carpathian mountains.

From there, the trail continues along alpine paths toward Negoiu Chalet, where the day’s trek comes to an end. After a long but rewarding hike, the evening is spent resting in the mountains with overnight accommodation in tents or the chalet depending on weather conditions.

Trek details

• Hiking time: around 9 hours
• Distance: around 30 km
• Elevation gain: around 600 m
• Altitudes: 1425 m (Suru Chalet) – 2011 m (Avrig Lake) – 1540 m (Negoiu Chalet)

Start your day at Negoiu Chalet and climb into the high alpine terrain of the Făgăraș Mountains. Explore the dramatic Shepherd’s Gorge and feel the thrill of narrow mountain paths surrounded by towering rocks.

Pause at Călțun Refuge and admire the glacial lake beneath majestic peaks. Follow the ridge to Lăițel Peak and take in panoramic views stretching across the central Carpathians.

Descend toward Bâlea Lake and enjoy the serene alpine basin. Settle in at Bâlea Chalet and rest after a challenging but unforgettable trek, sleeping in tents or the chalet depending on weather conditions.

Trek details

• Hiking time: around 8 hours
• Distance: around 25 km
• Elevation gain: around 1000 m
• Altitudes: 1450 m (Negoiu Chalet) – 2151 m (Călțun Refuge) – 2510 m (Lăițel Peak) – 2040 m (Bâlea Lake)

Take it easy today and enjoy a relaxed morning by Bâlea Lake. Ride the telecabin and admire the stunning views as you reach Bâlea Waterfall, where you can pause, take photos, and breathe in the crisp mountain air.

Return via the telecabin and spend the afternoon exploring the surroundings or simply resting by the lake. Recharge for the days ahead while enjoying the peaceful alpine scenery.

Trek details

• Activity: sightseeing and easy walking
• Distance: covered by telecabin
• Elevation: minimal
• Overnight: same location at Bâlea Lake

Set off from Bâlea Lake and follow the trail through high alpine meadows toward Capra Chalet. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and take in the sweeping views as you descend through scenic valleys and past glacial streams.

Reach Capra Chalet and pause to appreciate the peaceful surroundings before returning to Bâlea Lake. Spend the evening resting, reflecting on the day’s adventure, and preparing for the next stage of your journey.

Trek details

• Hiking time: around 5 hours
• Distance: around 20 km
• Elevation gain/loss: around 600 m
• Altitudes: 2041 m (Bâlea Lake) – 1541 m (Capra Chalet)
• Overnight: same location at Bâlea Lake

Start your day at Bâlea Lake and trek toward Lake Capra, following scenic mountain trails. Push on to Dragon's Pane and take in the dramatic alpine views that surround this high plateau.

Descend gradually into Podragului Valley, enjoying the tranquility of the valley and the crisp mountain air. Arrive at Chalet Podragu, settle in, and rest for the night after a rewarding 15 km trek.

Trek details

• Hiking time: around 6 hours
• Distance: around 15 km
• Elevation gain/loss: around 300 m
• Altitudes: 2041 m (Bâlea Lake) – 2175 m (Dragon's Pane) – 2307 m (Podragului Valley) – 2136 m (Chalet Podragu)
• Overnight: Chalet Podragu

Rise early at Chalet Podragu and tackle one of the most challenging yet rewarding days of the trek. Ascend toward Viştea Mare and then reach the summit of Moldoveanu Peak, the highest point in the Făgăraș Mountains, and marvel at the breathtaking 360° views.

Descend along high ridges toward Ucea Mare and continue to the small Galaseșcu Mic Peak before heading to the spectacular Simbata Window. Take in the natural rock formations and the dramatic panorama of the surrounding peaks.

Finish the day at Chalet Simbata, where you can relax and recover after an intense 25 km hike with 1,100 m of elevation change. Overnight accommodation is in tents or the chalet depending on weather conditions.

Trek details

• Hiking time: around 9 hours
• Distance: around 25 km
• Elevation gain: around 1,100 m
• Altitudes: 2136 m (Chalet Podragu) – 2527 m (Viştea Mare) – 2543 m (Moldoveanu) – 2434 m (Ucea Mare) – 2433 m (Galaseșcu Mic) – 1401 m (Chalet Simbata)
• Overnight: tents or Chalet Simbata depending on weather

Take a well-deserved rest and soak in the serene alpine surroundings at Chalet Simbata. Enjoy a leisurely morning, stroll around the area, and breathe in the fresh mountain air while reflecting on the adventures of the past week.

Gather around the campfire in the evening, share stories with fellow trekkers, and celebrate the journey with a relaxed alpine party under the stars. Let the laughter, warmth, and camaraderie recharge your energy for the final day.

• Overnight: tents or Chalet Simbata depending on weather

Begin your final day by descending through the scenic Simbata Valley, enjoying the gentle trails and peaceful surroundings. Take your time to appreciate the last moments in the mountains and capture final photos of the stunning alpine scenery.

Continue your descent toward Sibiu, concluding the trek where the adventure first began. Celebrate your accomplishment and reflect on the incredible experiences, friendships, and memories created over the past nine days.