
Road trip guide: Conquering Prislop Pass
Romania, europe
43.7 km
1,416 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, road trip fans, buckle up for Pasul Prislop in Romania! This one's a high-altitude treat, perched way up at 1,416m (4,646ft) where Maramureș, Bistrița-Năsăud, and Suceava counties all shake hands.
Think northern Romania, connecting the historical regions of Maramureş and Bukovina across the epic Rodna Mountains. The scenery? Totally Instagrammable, especially in late spring and early summer.
The road itself, that's DN18, is all paved. Keep an eye out for potholes on the eastern side though. It gets a bit steep in sections, maxing out at a 6.6% gradient so be ready for some climbs!
Stretching 43.7km (27.15 miles) from Borșa to Fluturica, this East-West route through the Eastern Carpathians is one you won't forget. Get ready for incredible views and an unforgettable drive!
Where is it?
Road trip guide: Conquering Prislop Pass is located in Romania (europe). Coordinates: 46.5888, 25.4514
Road Details
- Country
- Romania
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 43.7 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,416 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 46.5888, 25.4514
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