Piatra Craiului Mountains
FAQFrequently asked questions
What are Piatra Kraiului mountains and where are they?
This is a narrow limestone ridge in the Southern Carpathians on the territory of Romania (Brasov and Arges counties). The ridge stretches for about 25 km and resembles a saw blade - hence the glory of one of the most beautiful places in the Carpathians.
What is the highest point here?
Whirlful La Om peak, 2238 meters. The classic ridge traverse is not a half-day affair: the full passage is usually divided into two days.
How to get here?
The starting point is the town of Zarnest, 28 km from Brasov, which can be reached by road, bus or train. It is another 11 km from the city to the Plaiul Foy shelter, from which most routes start.
When is the best time to go and what to see?
The most convenient season is from June to September. In addition to the ridge, it is worth looking into the Zarnešt Gorge, popular with rock climbers, and the water here has eaten into the limestone of the cave over the millennia. The flora is generous: more than 1,100 species of plants, i.e. a third of the entire Romanian list.
What interesting facts should you know?
Wolves, brown bears and lynxes live in the mountains, as well as two species of spiders that are found nowhere else in the world. The entire territory is a national park, founded in 1938. And part of the film Cold Mountain was once filmed in the Zarnešt Gorge.
