Hiking to the Sâmbetei Valley Hut in the Făgăraș Mountains

Nestled within the breathtaking Făgăraș Mountains of Romania, Sâmbetei Valley (Valea Sâmbetei) awaits in the scenic Brașov municipality. This captivating hiking destination beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its easily accessible trail, ideal for all skill levels. Moreover, the prime time to explore this scenic route is when the crocus flowers emerge from beneath the glistening snow, creating a stunning spectacle. Plan your visit accordingly to witness this natural marvel and be captivated by the harmonious blend of rugged landscapes and delicate floral beauty. This article provides information on how to reach the destination, the optimal timing for your visit, and more.

NOTE: As of March 2024, there is ongoing construction near the hut area as a new hut is being constructed. Despite this, hiking to the Sâmbetei Valley is still possible, although the construction area won’t be very pleasing. It’s recommended to pass the hut for improved views along the trail.

The wildflowers are legally protected, so please refrain from picking or pulling them out. Feel free to admire and capture them on camera as you walk among them cautiously, ensuring that others who follow can also enjoy their beauty.

Where is the Sâmbetei Valley and how to get there?

Sâmbetei Valley Hut (Cabana Valea Sâmbetei) is situated in the Făgăraș Mountains of Romania. It would be best if you reached the village of Stațiunea Climaterică Sâmbăta, which is the nearest to the starting point. From there, take road DC79 towards the mountains. At the intersection with road DJ102G, continue straight ahead onto a forest road. Numerous signals will be noticeable at the onset of the forest road. Accessing this location is possible by car or public transportation, although the latter option is more complex.

BY CAR

Getting to the starting point is easiest by car, given the limited or nonexistent public transportation in the area. Moreover, arriving by car grants you the flexibility to choose how far you’d like to drive on the 4km long forest road, leading you toward the Sâmbetei Valley.

Nearest cities to Stațiunea Climaterică Sâmbăta

Făgăraș: 28 km / 17 mi – 31 min

Sibiu: 76 km / 47 mi – 1h 13 min

Brașov: 89 km / 55 mi – 1h 26 min

Târgu Mureș: 145 km / 90 mi – 2h 26 min

Cluj-Napoca: 247 km / 153 mi – 3h

Bucharest: 256 km / 159 mi – 4h

BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

When considering public transportation, the choices are limited. Opting for a train from larger cities such as Sibiu, Brașov, or others to Făgăraș is advisable. However, this is 28 km away from the starting point. Nonetheless, taking a taxi from here is a viable option (just remember to save some taxi numbers for the return trip). Please consult this website for available train and bus routes to Făgăraș.

I travelled from Târgu Mureș and can attest that the scenery is already impressive from Sâmbăta de Jos, becoming even more breathtaking after departing from Sâmbăta de Sus. The towering snowy peaks juxtaposed with the lush green fields below create a stunning contrast, almost like experiencing two seasons simultaneously—spring along the road and winter atop the peaks.

Sâmbetei Valley Hut hiking details

Leaving the Stațiunea Climaterică Sâmbăta on the DC79 towards the mountains this will be the forest road you have to enter. The forest road is ca. 4 km long, you can decide how far you want to drive with your car on that road, but as getting closer to the barrier you would need a higher car. We entered the forest road and drove ca. 1 km then started the hike from there.

Trekking from Sâmbăta Touristic Complex  (670 m) to Sâmbetei Valley Hut (1401 m)

Trekking from Sâmbăta Touristic Complex (Complex Turistic Sâmbăta) to Sâmbetei Valley Hut (Cabana Valea Sâmbetei) is a rewarding journey through the scenic landscapes of the Făgăraș Mountains in Transylvania, Romania. Starting at an elevation of 670 meters, the trail ascends to 1401 meters, offering hikers a moderate challenge and breathtaking views along the way. As you embark on this adventure, the journey begins amidst thick forests and winding trails, gradually leading you up into the mountains. Along the way, you’ll encounter diverse terrain, including rocky hills, grassy fields, and flowing streams. Keep your eyes peeled for plants and animals native to the area, enhancing the beauty of the scenery. Moreover, the trail is easily identifiable by the red triangles, serving as clear markers for the route you should take.

The hiking details are for an out-and-back trip:

Distance

~ 17 km / 10 mi

Duration

4-5 hours

Difficulty

Easy to moderate

Ascent

~ 700

Passionate hikers will find a wealth of hiking trails to discover in the Făgăraș Mountains, offering a variety of routes from leisurely walks to demanding treks. With its diverse landscape and breathtaking scenery, this area guarantees an unforgettable hiking adventure surrounded by the beauty of nature. Additionally, there are various points of interest to explore, such as the Fereastra Mare a Sâmbetei or Romania’s highest peak, Moldoveanu Peak, as well as other peaks like Iezerului Peak and Dara Peak. However, it’s important to consider the level of difficulty and the time required for these hikes.

When to hike to see the crocus flowers?

The hike to Cabana Valea Sâmbetei can be done all year round; however, depending on your preferences, if you are not an experienced hiker, then choose the warmer months like May to September. Additionally, if you want to see the beautiful crocus flowers, visit the place somewhere between the second part of April and the first weeks of May, depending on the weather conditions. As for my visit, it was on the last day of April, which I am glad I did as I also encountered the beautiful purple flowers and the snowy peaks, giving a great view.

Where to stay before the Sâmbetei Valley hike?

Typically, you can secure a booking directly at Cabana Valea Sâmbetei. However, currently (as of March 2024), construction for the new hut is underway. Therefore, I recommend reserving accommodation in Stațiunea Climaterică Sâmbăta instead. This is where I stayed during my visit and embarked on the stunning valley hike. Alternatively, other options are viable if you have access to a car, such as Făgăraș, Sibiu, or Brașov, as they are relatively nearby.

What should you bring on your hike?

When preparing for a hike, it’s crucial to pack essentials to ensure your safety, comfort, and enjoyment. Here’s a general list of items you should consider bringing on your hike:

• Backpack
• Rain jacket
• Hiking shoes
• Warm clothes
• Water
• Food
• Sunscreen/sunglasses
• Camera
• Headlight/flashlight
• Knife or multi-tool
• Bear spray

In conclusion, the Sâmbetei Valley in Romania’s Făgăraș Mountains offers an enchanting hiking experience despite ongoing construction near the hut area. With its accessible trail and breathtaking views, this destination is a must-visit for nature lovers. Remember to admire but not disturb the protected wildflowers and pack essential hiking gear. Whether you arrive by car or public transport, prepare for an unforgettable journey through Transylvania’s pristine wilderness. So, plan your trip, capture the beauty, and embark on an adventure to remember in Sâmbetei Valley.