Balea Lake is a glacial lake high in the Fagaras mountains, sitting in a bowl of steep ridges at roughly two thousand metres. The scenery is pure alpine, with rock walls, a few mountain huts and, in the warmer months, hikers heading out along the ridges. There are two ways up. The Transfagarasan road climbs to the lake in the open season, but the high section is usually closed from about November to June because of snow and fog. The other way is the cable car from Balea Waterfall, which the operator says runs daily, with set departures, as long as the weather is suitable, and it is 3.7 kilometres long. In winter the lake area is cold and snowy, and the surrounding peaks look especially fine under snow.
From Sibiu, the route runs through the Olt valley and up toward Balea Waterfall, where there is a car park, a few cabins and the lower cable car station. The cable car climbs from about 1,200 to 2,040 metres. According to the operator, services depart at fixed times through the day, and the car needs a minimum number of passengers, so you may pay for a minimum group if you travel alone.
It does not run in strong wind, low temperatures, frost or lightning, so winter trips can be cancelled at short notice. Telephone the operator or ask your hotel before you go.
At the top the lake is a short walk from the station. In summer there is a small cluster of huts and cafes, and the shore path is easy. In winter conditions are serious, with snow, ice and strong winds, and you should only go with proper clothing and, ideally, a guide.
The paid link here is a bus and visit product that combines a panoramic mountain ride with a stop at Porumbacu de Sus, and it is mainly a summer outing, so check current dates before you buy. If it is not running, the cable car and a guided trip are the realistic options.
If you do go, bring warm layers, a hat, gloves, sunglasses and waterproof shoes, because the temperature at the top is far lower than in Sibiu. Carry cash for the cable car and snacks, and allow a full day from Sibiu with the road time. Weather is the deciding factor, so choose a clear day and be ready to change plans. If the lake is out of reach, the villages along the Olt valley and a day around Sibiu make a good alternative.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day trip from Sibiu to the glacial lake, by road in the open season or by cable car from Balea Waterfall.
Best time
Summer for the road and hiking, or a clear winter day for the cable car and snow.
How long
A full day including travel.
Tips
Check the cable car and road status before leaving, dress for alpine weather and expect cancellations in wind or frost.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Mountain lovers and photographers who want alpine scenery without a long hike.
- Families
- Fine for older children in good weather, but cold and exposed in winter.
- Couples
- A dramatic landscape for a clear-day outing, with a cable car for the final climb.
- Pair with
- The Transfagarasan road in summer, or Sibiu's old town for a gentler day.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Can I drive to Balea Lake in winter?+
No, the high Transfagarasan road is normally closed from about November to June. Use the cable car if it is running, or wait for the road to reopen, usually around June.
How does the cable car work?+
It runs from Balea Waterfall up to the lake, 3.7 kilometres long and climbing from about 1,200 to 2,040 metres. It runs on set departures and stops in unfavourable weather.
How far is it from Sibiu?+
Allow well over an hour each way by road, as the final stretch winds up the mountain.
What should I wear?+
Warm layers, waterproof shoes, gloves and a hat, since the lake is far colder than Sibiu. In winter wear proper winter gear.
Is it a good winter trip?+
It can be spectacular in clear conditions, but weather closes the cable car at short notice, so keep your plans flexible.
