Southern Carpathians

The Southern Carpathians are a major mountain system in Romania, often called the Transylvanian Alps, and include several high ranges such as the Făgăraș, Retezat and Parâng. They host most of Romania’s highest summits and represent the core alpine area of the country.

Landscape highlights include sharp alpine ridges, glacial lakes and extensive forested slopes, with protected areas and national parks preserving mountain ecosystems. The ranges are used for hiking, mountaineering, winter sports and pastoral activities, with established trails and mountain refuges.

These mountains formed during the Carpathian orogeny and have a long history of pastoralism and, more recently, tourism and conservation efforts. Many areas contain traditional mountain settlements and routes that have been used for centuries.

Geographically the Southern Carpathians run across central-southern Romania; they separate the Transylvanian Plateau to the north from lowlands to the south and are traversed by regional roads and mountain passes linking Transylvania with Wallachia.

• High peaks and parks: The Southern Carpathians contain Romania's highest summits, multiple national parks and a variety of alpine habitats important for biodiversity and mountain recreation.

What to See #

• Făgăraș Mountains: The Făgăraș Mountains contain Romania's highest peaks, including Moldoveanu (2,544 m) and Negoiu, and are noted for high alpine ridges and glacial lakes.
• Retezat Mountains: The Retezat Mountains are known for glacial cirques and numerous mountain lakes; the area contains Romania's first national park and protected alpine habitat.
• Parâng Mountains: The Parâng Mountains form a central segment of the range with rounded peaks, pastures and traditional mountain villages.