Having appeared on maps only a few years ago, under the prosaic name of DJ 107I, the new road through the Apuseni Mountains is now commonly known as the Transalpina de Apuseni or Transapuseana.
Although less well known than the famous Transfăgărășan, it has quickly become famous, thanks to articles in the press and blogs of passionate travelers, especially because it offers an authentic experience for those who want to discover the less explored part of Romania. The route crosses diverse landscapes, from dense deciduous and coniferous forests to high plateaus with alpine meadows, all with traditional settlements here and there, sadly depopulated.
For those in love with escapes in the middle of nature, as well as for those who prefer less crowded routes, the Transalpina de Apuseni offers peace and reconnection with nature, the possibility to enjoy local traditions, the specific gastronomy of the area and the genuine hospitality of the locals. Transapuseana is not just a road, but a complete experience, combining adventure, culture and relaxation in an exceptional natural setting.
Find out more about the Transalpina de Apuseni below and plan your next vacation in this wonderful place.
- How the new Apuseni Transalpine started and developed
- Some facts about Transapuseana
- Transapusean access and when the road is passable
- Discover Trasapuseana – cultural, natural landmarks and tourist activities
How the new Apuseni Transalpine started and developed
The road was originally conceived as a land route between Transylvania and Banat and was built in the 1930s. It was given the name Transalpina de Apuseni by comparison with another similar road, the Transalpina of Parâng.
In recent years, the road has started to be modernized, and the project is a recent effort to systematize the infrastructure in this mountainous area, which aims to improve the connection of remote localities and promote tourism. In addition to its immediate usefulness, the Transalpina de Apuseni offers travelers the opportunity to enjoy scenic landscapes and wild nature, filled with tranquillity and beauty.
Construction of the new road was also started to facilitate access to some of the most remote and beautiful places in Alba County. The project involves the rehabilitation and modernization of old roads, as well as the construction of new stretches, which are intended to ensure smooth and safe traffic in mountainous conditions. Works include widening the road, installing safety railings and reinforcing slopes to prevent landslides.
Being the second largest route crossing a mountain range, after the Transfăgărășan, the road crosses regions of outstanding beauty, with numerous serpentines going up and down through the Trascău and Metaliferi Mountains, two of the most attractive subunits of the Apuseni Mountains. The route is ideal for adventure enthusiasts who want a memorable experience in the midst of nature, all the more so as the summit reaches over 1,000 meters above sea level.
Although the Transapuseana is already partially accessible, work is continuing on some sections, with further completion needed to meet all safety and comfort standards. Once fully completed, this road will become one of the most important tourist attractions in the Apuseni area, offering tourists the unique opportunity to discover the authentic beauty of the region in an unspoiled natural setting.
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Some facts about Transapuseana
The Transapuseana has a total length of 78 kilometers and connects the municipality of Aiud and the Bucium – Abrud area, both located in Alba County. This road connects the A10 highway to the national road DN74, crossing one of the most picturesque and wild areas of the Apuseni Mountains, where spectacular landscapes and biodiversity make this route a great destination for all those who love nature and adventure.
Where the Transalpina de Apuseni starts and its route
The road starts in Aiud and gradually climbs up towards the Apuseni Mountains, passing through four municipalities representative for this region: Râmeț, Ponor, Mogoș and Bucium. The route passes through a series of picturesque villages such as Râmeț, Brădești, Geogel, Măcărești, Bârlești Cătun, Cojocani, Valea Barnii, Bârlești, Valea Albă, Ciuculești, Izbita and Bucium Sat. Along the way, the road climbs up the hills offering incredible views of the surrounding valleys and forests.
Construction of the Apuseni Transalpine started in 2019, but gained considerable momentum in 2023, after the contract with the old builder was terminated. Once resumed, work accelerated, bringing the project closer to completion, much to the delight of locals and tourists eager to explore the region.
As the road winds through dense forests and through deep valleys, tourists discover that the Transapuseana is not just a simple link between towns and villages, but a destination in itself. With each winding turn, the road reveals new mountain views that stretch as far as the eye can see, making the route a special attraction, especially in summer. This unique combination of modern infrastructure and pristine natural landscapes promises to attract a large number of visitors eager to experience the charms of the Apus Mountains.
Transapusean access and when the road is passable
The road is divided into two main sections. The first section, with a length of 43 kilometers, connects the municipality of Aiud to the commune of Bucium. It is completed and was handed over on December 15. The two layers of asphalt have already been poured on this section, which is 45.5 kilometers long, up to beyond Ponor commune, and bus stops have been installed.
Work on Lot 1 included major consolidation, construction of bridges and culverts, installation of storm water drainage swales and road markings outside the Aiud area. Work crews also completed the installation of road signs, mile markers and access bridges.
Lot 2 of the 35-kilometer-long road, which connects Ponor to Bucium, is in the final stages of construction. It was due to be finished in the first half of 2024, but due to some delayed works, the final acceptance is to be made later this year. The road can be traveled by any two- or four-wheeled vehicle and public access will be allowed all year round, with special and punctual warnings for the winter period.
The county road DJ 107I, already popularly known as the “Transalpina de Apuseni”, will officially receive the name “Transapuseana” and all the necessary steps have been taken to protect this brand.
Transapuseana is currently one of the most ambitious road infrastructure projects in Romania. The modernization of the DJ 107I is the biggest investment made on a county road in the country, with a total value of more than 73 million euro, most of this amount being covered by European funds. This grandiose project is designed to improve access to the Apuseni Mountains, thus promoting tourism and facilitating the region’s economic development.
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Discover Trasapuseana – cultural, natural landmarks and tourist activities
Transapuseana offers the adventure-seeking and peace-loving traveler the opportunity to explore and enjoy the diversity of the mountain landscape, from gentle hills covered with coniferous forests to steep peaks that disappear into the sky. Every kilometer gives you the opportunity to connect with nature and tradition, whether you and your family are passionate about culture, hiking, photography or just want to relax in the midst of dream landscapes.
We’ve picked out some fairytale places you can explore along the way, in a vacation that’s both active and educational for parents and younger family members alike.
Commune of Râmeț
An ancient settlement of monks, Râmeț is a place where wild nature meets tradition. The whole family can enjoy mountain hikes or the beauty of quiet moments in the famous monastic settlement here.
The Rhine Gorges
For hiking lovers, the Glets Râmețului is a true paradise. The trails lead you through the beautiful scenery, where you can discover the beauty of the Pravului and Balti Stone Gorges, two of the most impressive geological formations of the region, and the villages of Boțani and Geogelului Gorges complete the picture of this varied landscape.
For photographers, the Rhine Gorges are an inexhaustible source of inspiration. The spectacular scenery, with towering cliffs, crystal-clear waterfalls and lush vegetation, offers perfect opportunities to capture collectable images. With the right equipment and, preferably with the guidance of a knowledgeable guide, adventurers can scale the steep cliffs of the gorge, an adrenaline-pumping and rewarding experience.
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Râmeț Monastery
Situated in a place of outstanding beauty known as the “Monastery Valley“, the monastery church, dedicated to the Fountain of Healing, is often described as the “Garden of Eden in the Apuseni Mountains“. This sacred place serves not only as a religious center, but also has a special national and cultural role as a place of preservation of the cultural and historical values of the region.
Here you can admire icons on wood and glass, old books of great importance, as well as ethnographic and cult objects and exhibitions of traditional clothing, reflecting the folk costumes of the region.
Commune of Ponor
Situated on flat peaks and deep valleys, the locality is well known to hiking enthusiasts for its karst formations, which can be visited in the surroundings.
The Ponor’s Vanishings Reserve
Hidden in the south-west of the Bedeleu ridge, in the Trascăului Mountains, the Vânătările Ponorului reserve is one of the most fascinating natural destinations in Alba County.
One of the most appealing features of the reserve is the Ponorului Falls, with a length of about 100 meters and a waterfall of 92 meters. Near the waterfall, visitors can discover Snail Hill, a surprising paleontological reserve. Here, snail-shaped remains have been encrusted in stone for millions of years. This strange form of mollusc preservation is a real geological curiosity, providing evidence of the ecological and climatic changes that have shaped the region over the ages.
Traditional houses in Mogoș commune
The village, stretching for about 25-30 km along the valley, is the purest example of old rural life, with clusters of houses at regular intervals of 3-4 km.
The old houses, thatched with thatch, have a roof, room and porch at ground level, often supplemented by stone cellars and porches supported on pilasters. These buildings are an example of adaptation to local conditions and community needs, reflecting a traditional and functional way of life. Although deserted, they are a real delight for photographers.
Another remarkable feature of the local architecture are the rectangular and efficiently compartmentalized sheds, which, despite the passage of time, have remained extremely resistant.
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Commune of Bucium
The last stop on the spectacular Transapusene route is Bucium, a village located in the heart of the ethnographic area of the Metaliferous.
The locality is renowned for its mining tradition, an activity that has profoundly shaped the history and development of this region. Among the elements that mark this past are the numerous stone crosses, six of which are considered historical monuments. These crosses are the silent witnesses of times gone by, reflecting the traditions and beliefs of the community.
Another important symbol of the commune is the Memorial House of Ecaterina Varga, a place of great significance for the local history. Ecaterina Varga was a prominent figure in the struggle for freedom of the serfs in the Apuseni Mountains, and her memorial house keeps alive the memory of her heroic contributions.
In addition, the commune of Bucium boasts three outstanding nature reserves: the Loose Detunata, the Hollow Detunata and the Negrileasa Daffodil Glade. Detunata Flocoasă and Detunata Goală offer breathtaking panoramic views, while the five-hectare Narcissus Glade delights visitors with its rare natural beauty. These protected areas are an attraction for nature lovers and offer a special retreat amid the mountain landscape.
Crossing the impressive heights and picturesque valleys of the Transapusene, the traveler embarks on an unforgettable journey, where nature and history intertwine in a fascinating picture. This spectacular road is not just an access route between the picturesque localities of Alba County, but a true trail of discovery, offering sights that delight the senses and activities that enrich the travel experience.
Photo Sources: Shutterstock, Shutterstock, Valea Verde Retreat, Shutterstock, Valea Verde Retreat, Shutterstock, Valea Verde Retreat, Shutterstock, Shutterstock, Shutterstock.
