Driving a Romanian classic road to Tihuta Pass

Driving a Romanian classic road to Tihuta Pass

Romania, europe

Length

17.5 km

Elevation

1,201 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, picture this: you're cruising through Transylvania, Romania, heading towards a seriously epic mountain pass called Pasul Tihuţa – or as Dracula fans might know it, the Borgo Pass! We're talking 1,201 meters (almost 4,000 feet) up, right in the heart of the Bârgău Mountains.

The road? Paved, thankfully! It’s the DN17, part of the E58 highway, snaking for about 17.5 km (almost 11 miles) between Piatra Fântânele and Poiana Stampei. Hold on tight, though, because this baby gets STEEP. We're talking up to a 12% gradient in places!

The views? Absolutely insane. This used to be the border between Moldavia and Transylvania, steeped in history and legend. Speaking of legends, you might have heard that a hotel called "Castel Dracula" was built near here, claiming to be the exact spot from Bram Stoker's novel. It's now closed for good, sadly. But don't despair, the Hotel Cota 1201 at the summit is still there.

Get ready for some serious curves, stunning scenery, and a healthy dose of vampire vibes. This is one Transylvanian road trip you won't forget!

Where is it?

Driving a Romanian classic road to Tihuta Pass is located in Romania (europe). Coordinates: 44.9872, 25.3366

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Road Details

Country
Romania
Continent
europe
Length
17.5 km
Max Elevation
1,201 m
Difficulty
moderate
Coordinates
44.9872, 25.3366

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