Quick ride by bicycle from Cârţa to Cârţişoara

This ride takes you from the peaceful village of Cârţa, known for its atmospheric Cistercian abbey ruins, down to the foothills village of Cârţişoara—the gateway to the famed Transfăgărășan road. At about 10 km long, the route is mostly gentle, with a total climb of just over 100 meters.

You’ll kick off pedaling along farm tracks and quiet roads where the Carpathian scenery opens up around you. Be ready for a mix of surfaces: some unpaved and gravel stretches, a bit of rough ground, and calmer paved sections, so a trekking or gravel bike is your friend here. The ride is rarely busy, but you’ll cross some quiet villages and open fields, and if you time it right, you might spot shepherds and their flocks grazing nearby.

Arriving in Cârţişoara, you’re at the doorstep of one of Romania’s most scenic drives—but for today, savor the rustic charm and mountain views. It’s a great warmup for bigger adventures!