Outdoor & Trails · Zărnești

Trail: Cabana Gura Râului – below Măgura Mare – Bran (red stripe)

Red stripe, from Cabana Gura Râului over the Măgura ridge, below Măgura Mare, to Bran. 10.5 km, medium/difficult.

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Foto: Agent-garak (Marc) / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

At a glance

Distance from MAX 15 km Travel time 5–6 h Time to spend 5–6 h Difficulty medium/difficult Town Zărnești

About the place

In short (checked 15 October 2026)

Waymark: red stripe (code 02MN22). Distance: 10.5 km (OSM). Elevation: not published in P2; Munții Noștri gives 760 m of ascent and 770 m of descent, with the highest point at 1,356 m. Duration: not published in P2; Munții Noștri: 5–6 h. Difficulty: medium/difficult (Munții Noștri).

Where it goes

According to Munții Noștri, the route links Cabana Gura Râului (750 m), near Zărnești, with Bran Castle, over the Măgura ridge. At first it follows the road towards Fântâna lui Botorog, then climbs steeply through the forest, past Gălbinarea, to Șaua Măgura, where it meets routes 26 and 37, and passes below Măgura Mare before descending towards Bran. Munții Noștri describes it as an endurance hike with no technical difficulty, suited to people used to elevation changes of more than 800 m. The route is little used, the path is easy to lose and there is not yet a signpost towards Bran.

Safety

Winter conditions, water sources, shelters and bear risk are not published in our sources. Because the path is easy to lose, carry a map or the track loaded on your phone. The route crosses Piatra Craiului National Park. The visitor ticket costs 10 lei per person and is valid for 7 days; children under 14 go free (pcrai.ro/bilete, 2026 prices, read on 7 October 2026). Park rules and any restrictions are on pcrai.ro. In an emergency call 112 or 0SALVAMONT (0725 826 668). Salvamont Zărnești, for information: 0733 008 323.

Getting to the start

From MAX International in Râșnov, drive to Zărnești and on towards Cabana Gura Râului. Parking at the start is not published in our sources. The route ends in Bran, far from the start, so plan in advance how you will get back to the car. You can see the distance and driving time with the navigation buttons on this page.

Before you set out

Brown bear country. Keep food out of sight, never feed the animals and do not approach them.
Stay on marked trails and carry proper mountain gear.
Check the forecast before you leave; the weather changes fast at altitude.

Emergencies: 112
Mountain rescue (Salvamont), national dispatch: 0725 826 668

Frequently asked questions

What is the MAX International Local Guide?

A guide to attractions, trails and events in the Râșnov–Brașov–Bran area, designed as an information point for MAX International guests. Each attraction shows the distance from MAX, a map and access details.

How far are the attractions from MAX International?

It varies: some attractions are right in Râșnov (Râșnov Citadel, Valea Cetății Cave), others are further away, in the Prahova Valley (Bușteni, Sinaia). The distance and driving time from MAX are on each attraction's page, calculated by road.

Is the guide's information verified?

Yes. Every published attraction has a confirmed official source and map. Opening hours and prices can change seasonally, so please check the official link before your visit.

Can I ask for recommendations at the MAX International reception?

Yes. The MAX International reception and concierge can help with recommendations, transfers and bookings, based on the season and your preferences.

How do I reach the attractions without a car?

The MAX reception can help with a private transfer or transport information. Nearby attractions (Râșnov Citadel, Râșnov town centre) are easily reachable on foot.

What is the best time to visit the area?

The area is attractive year-round: summer for trails and caves, winter for slopes and cable cars. Each attraction indicates its recommended season.

Can I book accommodation near these attractions?

Yes — MAX International Râșnov is a central base for exploring the area. See the accommodation section or message us on WhatsApp for availability.

Getting there

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Opening hours and prices are confirmed by the site’s management, not by MAX.

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