Outdoor & Trails · Codlea
Trail: Ștrandul Codlea – Vârful Măgura Codlei – Cetatea Neagră (red dot)
Red dot from Ștrandul Codlea to Cetatea Neagră, on Măgura Codlei. 5.4 km, 5 h – 5 h 30 min, medium.
Official websiteWhatsAppFoto: Neighbor's goat / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
At a glance
Distance from MAX 5 h – 5 h 30 min · 5 h – 5 h 30 min Travel time 5 h – 5 h 30 min Time to spend 5 h – 5 h 30 min Difficulty medium Town CodleaThe route
Length ≈ 5.3 km Total ascent ≈ 690 m Total descent ≈ 340 m Lowest – highest point ≈ 600–1290 m Elevation profile startfinishValues marked ≈ are calculated by MAX from the OpenStreetMap route and the EU-DEM terrain model (25 m): approximate, they may differ from the ground by tens of metres.
Route: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL)
Download GPXFile for navigation apps (Komoot, Strava, Garmin, OsmAnd), from the OpenStreetMap route. On the ground, follow the waymarks and check the weather; mountain rescue: 0SALVAMONT / 112.
About the place
In short (checked 15 October 2026)
Waymark: red dot. Distance: 5.4 km (Brașov Tourism); OSM: 5.3 km. Elevation: +670 m (Brașov Tourism). Duration: 5 h – 5 h 30 min (Brașov Tourism). Difficulty: medium, ridge trail (Brașov Tourism). It is one of the six trails on Măgura Codlei officially approved in 2021; the official figures come from the trail's page in the Brașov Tourism app of Brașov County Council, and the OpenStreetMap length is given for comparison.
Where it goes
This is the ridge trail of Măgura Codlei. It starts at the lido car park (about 600 m) and takes the path on the right side of Lake 1, between the lakes, towards signpost 2 of the yellow-dot trail. It then climbs the northern flank to the Măgura Codlei summit (1,292 m) and descends the southern flank to the ruins of the Black Fortress (about 980 m).
Safety
Bear risk, water sources and any shelters are not published in our sources. codlea-info.ro lists it as a dry-season-only trail. In an emergency call 112 or 0SALVAMONT (0725 826 668). Salvamont Brașov, the county service, for information: 0736 628 948.
Getting to the start
From MAX International in Râșnov, drive towards Cristian and then along the DN1, heading for Sibiu, to Codlea. You start from the Codlea lido (Ștrandul Codlea). Brașov Tourism points to the car park on the left side of the lido, at about 600 m. The trail is not a loop, 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
Search on the mapWazeApple MapsUber from MAXWhatsAppOpening hours and prices are confirmed by the site’s management, not by MAX.
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