Where is Piatra Craiului National Park, and what makes it special?
Nestled in the Southern Carpathians, just 40km southwest of Brașov (about the same distance as Dracula’s Castle in neighbouring Bran), Piatra Craiului National Park is named after its majestic centrepiece – the Piatra Craiului Massif, Romania’s longest and highest limestone ridge, stretching some 25km and soaring to almost 2,200 metres.
Designated a National Park in 1990, Piatra Craiului is not just scenic; it’s also an ecological treasure trove. The park is home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife, from 200 species of butterflies and more than 100 bird species to deer, chamois, wild boar, badgers, foxes, brown bears, wolves and even the elusive lynx.
Piatra Craiului National Park is home to over 100 bird species | Image courtesy of Charles J. Sharp on Wikimedia Commons
Map of Accommodation, Points of Interest, Eateries and Transport
Below is a map of the recommended accommodations, points of interest, eateries and transport terminals/stops mentioned in this article.
When is the best time for hikes at Piatra Craiului?
Some trails are closed during Winter, and the National Park can get busy during the Summer holidays. Thus, Spring (April/May), early Summer (June) and Autumn (September/October) are the best times of the year to hike at Piatra Craiului. During those times, temperatures are also more pleasant, and the landscapes are at their most colourful. For year-round climate information, head to WeatherSpark.
Information boards along the trail showcase the National Park's flora, fauna and geology
How much is the entry fee for Piatra Craiului National Park?
Visiting Piatra Craiului National Park requires a 7-day access pass, which costs RON10 per person. It is best to purchase your pass before your hike from the National Park website, as there is no mobile reception inside the park. When booking, manually enter the date of your visit, as the system sometimes displays errors. Alternatively, if you arrive by bus, there is also a vending machine in front of the Post Office (next to the Tourist Information Centre) in Zărnești.
Hiking in Piatra Craiului National Park requires payment of a small access fee
How to reach Piatra Craiului National Park without a car?
Getting to Zărnești
The main access point to the Park is the small town of Zărnești (zərˈneʃtʲ), an easy trip from Brașov by public transport:
- By train: Zărnești is the final stop on a direct train line from Brașov (via Râșnov) [Google Maps location]. Trains run roughly hourly (less frequent on weekends) and take 40-50 minutes.
- By bus: Buses between Brașov and Zărnești also operate every hour (less frequent on weekends) but take a little longer than the train. Take the #140 bus from the Municipal Bus Terminal to the final stop [Google Maps location].
The bus and train schedules are on Google Maps. Alternatively, check the train schedule on the Romanian Railway website; the bus timetables can be found on the RATBV website:
• Bus to Zărnești
• Bus from Zărnești.
You can purchase your train ticket from the conductor on board. For your bus ticket, head to the small tobacconist between the platforms at the municipal bus terminal (you can change from the city buses to the #140 bus to Râșnov and Zărnești).
With direct train and bus connections from Brașov to Zărnești, it's easy to get to Piatra Craiului by public transport
Getting to the trailhead
The trailhead in the National Park is about 5km outside of Zărnești, at the Fântâna lui Botorog [Google Maps location]. While you could walk it (and we did on the way back), I recommend taking a taxi to the trailhead (to save your energy for the hike).
If you arrive by train, head to the small taxi kiosk outside the train station [Google Maps location]. It’s just a door with the name TUR TAXI on it. They will call a taxi for you. Alternatively, call the taxi company yourself (though don’t expect the drivers to speak English): +40 744 505 880 OR +40 727 515 880.
If you take the bus, you’ll be dropped off in the town centre near the Tourist Office, where you can find free tourist maps of the area or purchase trail maps for the Piatra Craiului hiking routes. If no taxis are waiting around the bus stop, call the taxi company (or ask the Tourism Office or a friendly local to call one for you).
Once in Zărnești, the gateway for the National Park, it's best to take a taxi to the trailhead
The buses and trains between Brașov and Zărnești are usually on time, so you could even arrange the taxi the evening before and ask your accommodation host to help you with it.
Part of the access road into the National Park is a dirt track, so drivers typically don’t use the meter. Expect to pay about RON30 one way.
If you want your taxi to pick you up after your hike, arrange for them to meet you at the Fountain (at least) 6 hours after you start your hike. Alternatively, you can walk back to the bus or train station in Zărnești at the end of your hike. The walk back into Zărnești is all downhill but takes (at least) an hour.
Okay. Now, with all the logistics out of the way, let’s walk you through the actual hike.
Your hike starts at the Botorog Fountain - make sure to fill up your water bottle before you set off
Loop Day Hike to Zărnești Gorge and Cabana Curmătura
Hike at a Glance
First, a quick breakdown of key details of the trail:
- Trail Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 14-19km/8.6-11.8 miles (depending on your chosen end point)
- Elevation Gain: 629m/2064 feet (highest point: 1,430m/4692 feet)
- Duration: approximately 5 hours (plus rest stops)
The trail is well-marked, but you can also find our route on Strava. Route Highlights include:
- Zărnești Gorge (Prăpăstiile Zărneștiului) – A dramatic canyon with towering limestone walls and a paradise for bird watchers.
- Cabana Curmătura – A rustic mountain hut serving food and drinks, perfect for a well-earned break with gorgeous views.
- Alpine meadows offer spectacular vistas of the Piatra Craiului Massif and the surrounding Carpathian Mountains.
Before you set off, (re)fill your water bottle at Botorog Fountain, the natural spring at the trailhead.
This boomgate is the starting point of Zărnești Gorge
1. Fountain to (and through) Zărnești Gorge
From the fountain, you first follow the forest road (in the direction your taxi travelled). About 1km into your hike, you’ll reach a boom gate – the official entrance to the Zărnești Gorge (Prăpăstiile Zărneștiului – Google Maps location). From here, the trail gradually ascends through a dramatic limestone canyon, offering a breathtaking start to your journey.
The first section of the trail is marked with
With towering limestone walls and full of birdsong, the Zărnești Canyon is one of the highlights of this hike
2. Forest Road to Cabana Curmătura
As you continue the hike, the trail gradually ascends into the mountains.
Following the forest road, you’ll notice the mountain stream merging with another to your right. Shortly after (at about 4.5km), the road takes a sharp left turn. The white/blue/white-marked trail branches off to the right, climbing steeply into the cliffside. Avoid this trail unless you’re looking for a more technical ascent.
When the (white-blue-white marked) trail turns off and up into the cliffside, continue along the forest road
Instead, stay on the meandering forest road, following MTB trail #9 (the overlapping hiking trails are marked with yellow and red triangles) as it gradually gains elevation towards Curmătura. As you’re sharing this trail with mountain-bikers (including those who are on the descent from Curmătura), do pay attention and give way to cyclists.
Continue along the forest road, which enters a dense forest for the last stretch to the hut. Before long, you’ll arrive at Cabana Curmătura [Google Maps location], where a well-deserved break awaits.
Catch a glimpse of Cabana Curmătura as you enter the (first) alpine meadow - the white-blue-white marked trail can be seen as a thin line below
3. Cabana Curmătura
Arriving at Cabana Curmătura is the perfect opportunity to pause, take in the mountain views and refuel before continuing your hike.
The hut serves simple but hearty meals, including warming soups and sausages with sauerkraut, as well as drinks to enjoy while soaking up the fresh alpine air – inside in the small restaurant or outside on the terrace.
Enjoy the views and a delicious home-cooked lunch at Cabana Curmătura before continuing your hike
You may even spot a resident fox roaming the terrace. As tempting as it may be, please avoid feeding her, no matter how cute and persistent she is.
Relax on the terrace, but please don't feed any wildlife
4. Cabana Curmătura to Poiana Zănoaga
After your lunch break, pick up the trail behind the hut, heading opposite from where you arrived (towards Poiana Zănoaga). This is the trail marker you’re now going to look for:
The path initially winds through dense forest, passing a wooden cross and familiar explanatory signs, similar to those seen earlier on the hike. The trail remains well-marked, guiding you through the shaded woodland.
After about 10.5km (total distance), the trees begin to thin, and the trail opens into a vast alpine meadow. While sightings of wild boars are rare, their presence is unmistakable – you’ll notice areas of upturned earth where they forage for food.
Alternative route Cabana Curmătura to Zărnești
If you would like to include the interactive Visitor Center of the Piatra Craiului National Park at the end of your hike, return from Cabana Curmătura to Zărnești via a different route:
- As you are leaving Cabana Curmătura, follow instead the white/yellow/white-marked trail up (towards Valea Crăpăturii and the saddle/Șaua Crăpăturii above the hut). It’s a steep 30 minute climb, but you’re rewarded with stunning panoramic views.
- From the saddle/Șaua Crăpăturii, continue to follow the white/yellow/white-marked trail downhill through the gorge/Valea Crăpăturii, and on to the Visitor Centre on Strada Toplița [Google Maps location] – a total of ~5km from the hut.
Note: The Visitor Centre is open Tuesday-Thursday 10:00-16:00, Friday 10:00-14:00 and Saturday 11:00-15:00 (closed Sunday/Monday). The entry fee is included in your National Park pass.
From the Visitor Centre, follow Strada Toplița back into town – a flat 2km to the bus stop (or 3.5km to the train station).
Passing through a dark forest, you'll reach an(other) alpine meadow - with signs of wild boar activity
5. Poiana Zănoaga to Botorog Fountain
As you leave the open alpine meadow, the trail narrows into a single-track path and begins a steep descent back into the forest.
The further you descend, the rockier and more uneven the terrain becomes, so take your time and watch your footing carefully. Some hikers have attempted to create shortcuts between the switchbacks, but it’s essential to stay on the marked trail for your safety and to help prevent further erosion of the fragile mountainside.
After about 14km (in total), you will reconnect with the forest road from the start of your hike. Turn left, and within a few minutes, you’ll find yourself back at Botorog Fountain, where you began your journey.
After the meadow, the trail descends steeply back down to Botorog Fountain
6. Botorog Fountain to Zărnești (Optional)
From Botorog Fountain, you have two options to return to Zărnești:
- Walk back – The route is a gradual 5km descent, making for an easy return on foot.
- Take a taxi – If you arrange a return pickup with your original driver, they can drop you off at the bus or train station. However, remember: You must confirm your return time in advance, as there’s no phone reception in the Park. Drivers don’t tend to speak English, so write things down to avoid misunderstandings.
Bus and train services from Zărnești to Brașov are infrequent, so check the schedule in advance.
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What else to consider for your hike?
Proper preparation ensures a safe and enjoyable experience in Piatra Craiului National Park. Here are a few key things to keep in mind.
Gear and Clothing
- Check the weather forecast before setting off, and dress appropriately. Conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, as some sections of the trail can be rocky or slippery.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent to stay protected from the sun and bugs, especially in Summer.
Responsible Hiking
- Leave no trace – pack out all rubbish and respect nature by staying on marked trails.
- Encounters with bears are rare, but do be cautious, keep an eye out for recent bear activity, make your presence known by talking loudly (or blowing a whistle) at intervals to avoid surprising them, and never hike alone.
- As mentioned, please do not feed the little fox at Cabana Curmătura (or any other wild creature you may encounter on your hike).
Encounters with bears are rare, but if you're concerned, speak loudly or whistle from time to time
Where to stay in Brașov?
If you’re planning to stay in Brașov (for a few days before/after your hike), here are our top accommodation picks:
| Name | Property Features | Type | Price Indicator | Book Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1910 Boutique | A charming boutique hotel with a historic touch, ideal for those who appreciate unique stays. | Hotel | $$$ | Book Now |
| PEAK Aparthotel | A stylish, modern stay with well-equipped apartments, perfect for a comfortable base. | Apartment | $$$ | Book Now |
| Trend Residence | A great balance of affordability and convenience, offering spacious and well-furnished rooms. | Hotel | $$$ | Book Now |
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What else to do in/around Brașov (without a car)?
Libearty Bear Sanctuary, Zărnești
While we’re glad to have missed out on encountering bears in the Piatra Craiului National Park, the Carpathian Mountains are their natural habitat. If you want to see bears (from a safe distance), consider visiting the Libearty Bear Sanctuary, a rescue centre for formerly captive bears. This ethical sanctuary offers a secure, natural environment for bears rescued from mistreatment, and your visit helps support their care.
Booking your ticket
Book your tickets online well in advance via the official website. English tours are limited (there are only two-morning tours per day, increasing to four from 20 June to 11 September), and each tour has a maximum of 40 participants.
Getting there (without a car)
Take the train to Zărnești (as described above), then take a TUR Taxi to the sanctuary (RON 50–60). After the tour, walk to Stația Strada Mare bus stop [Google Maps location] or Tohanu Vechi train stop [Google Maps location]. The walk back is 4km and 5km (respectively) – largely downhill. You could also hitch a ride back to the 73A road with a fellow tour visitor and walk the final bit.
Sounds all too hard? You can also visit the sanctuary, observe bears from a hide or visit the National Park on small-group tours from Brașov:
To see bears in the wild (and support a good cause), head to the Libearty Bear Sanctuary | Image courtesy of Nicolas Vollmer on Wikimedia Commons
Fortified Church of Prejmer
If you haven’t yet visited one of Transylvania’s fortified churches, the Fortified Church of Prejmer is a must-see. Built in the 13th century, it is one of seven on the UNESCO World Heritage list for its historical and architectural significance. The church is located in the village of the same name, around 16km northeast of Brașov.
Visitor Information
The church is open daily from 09:00 to 18:00. Entry fees are RON30 per person. Tickets are available from vending machines outside the complex.
Getting there (without a car)
Take the #520 bus from the Bus Terminal outside Brașov Train Station and get off at Biserica Fortificată. Check the bus schedule on the RATBV website. The journey takes 30–40 minutes, pending traffic.
Home to one of seven UNESCO-listed Fortified Churches in Romania, Prejmer is a short bus ride away from Brașov | Image courtesy of Anton Darius on Unsplash
Explore Brașov on a Free Walking Tour
Join a guided walking tour to learn about Brașov’s medieval history. Tours start at 10:30 from Piața Sfatului, next to the fountain (look for the orange umbrella), and take about two hours. For more information, head to Brașov GuruWalk.
Learn more about the history of Brașov and Transylvania on a guided walking tour of the Old Town
Experience an Organ Concert at the Black Church
If you’re visiting between mid-May and mid-October and happen to be in Brașov on a Saturday evening, don’t miss the organ concert at Brașov’s iconic Black Church (Biserica Neagră). The one-hour concert starts at 18:00. Tickets are RON25 per person and are available via the church’s website.
For a special experience, attend one of the Organ Concerts held at the Black Church in Brașov | Photo by Josep Renalias on Wikimedia Commons
Hike or take the cable car up Tâmpa Hill
You can’t miss the giant Brașov sign when you arrive in town. That’s Tâmpa Hill, an excellent spot for breathtaking panoramic views of Brașov. Hike or take the cable car up. The trailhead for the hike is to the left of the cable car station [Google Maps location].
The cable car operates
- Monday–Friday: 09:30–17:00 (last ascent at 16:00).
- Weekends and Public Holidays: 09:30–18:00 (last ascent at 17:00).
Ticket prices are RON20 one-way / RON35 return.
Note: If planning to take the Tâmpa cable car, make sure to check the website, as it was closed for modernisation at the time of publishing this article.
For stunning views over Brașov head up Tâmpa Hill - on foot or by cable car
Are you planning a trip to Brașov?
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