Mount Tâmpa, known locally as «Tâmpa Mountain,» is a natural treasure located right on the edge of Brașov city in Romania. This imposing hill, standing at an altitude of 960 meters, provides a stunning backdrop to the city’s historic center and is a beloved symbol of the region.
The origin of its name comes from the Cuman language, in which «tâmpa» means «rock» or «stone». The mountain’s steep cliffs, covered with a mix of oak and beech trees, do indeed present an impressive rock face over the city.
An iconic attraction on Mount Tâmpa is the «Brașov» sign, inspired by the famous «Hollywood» sign in Los Angeles. It’s one of the largest signs in Europe and at night it is beautifully lit, creating a striking feature against the night sky.
Visitors to Mount Tâmpa can also explore the remains of the medieval «Brasov Citadel,» a fortress built in the 16th century. While little of the original structure remains, it’s an interesting spot to delve into the region’s history.
Hiking Route to Mount Tâmpa
For those who love outdoor activities, Mount Tâmpa offers several hiking trails of varying difficulty. The most popular trail starts from the base, near the city center, and winds its way up to the summit. The hike can be challenging but it’s worth it, as once at the top, you are rewarded with an amazing panoramic view of Brașov and the surrounding Carpathian Mountains.
We followed this route with a three-year-old child, ascended up the serpentine, walked around at the top, and descended down along the cable car route.
Hiking to the summit of Mount Tâmpa is a popular activity in Brașov, offering stunning views of the city and its surroundings. Here’s a simple guide to the trail:
Starting Point: The trail begins at the base of the Tâmpa Mountain, close to the city center. Look for the red triangle trail marker located near the Tampa Cable Car station.
Trail Route: The trail is approximately 1.5 kilometers long and consists of a series of switchbacks up the mountain. It’s well marked and relatively straightforward to follow. The path is a combination of forest trails and paved paths, with steps in steeper sections.
Duration: The hike typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach the summit, depending on your fitness level and pace.
Difficulty: The trail is moderately challenging with a steady incline. It’s suitable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness. Keep in mind that the path can be slippery in wet weather, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
At the Summit: Once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Brașov and the surrounding Carpathian Mountains. There’s also a restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink, as well as the «Brasov» sign and the remains of the Brasov Citadel to explore.
Return: You can return the way you came, or for a more relaxing descent, consider taking the Tampa Cable Car back down to the city. Also, you can descend down the serpentine (along the cable car route).
Remember to take water, wear comfortable shoes, and check the weather conditions before you set off. Enjoy the hike and the stunning views it offers!
Ascent to Mount Tâmpa by Cable Car
If hiking isn’t for you, don’t worry! You can still enjoy the view by taking the cable car to the top. The Tâmpa Cable Car, or «telecabina», offers a quick and comfortable ride to the summit. The cable car runs daily, with increased frequency during the summer months, and the journey takes around 2-3 minutes. At the top, there is a restaurant and several viewpoints where you can admire the scenery.
The Tâmpa Cable Car is a popular way to reach the summit of Mount Tâmpa, situated 900 meters above the city of Brașov. It offers passengers a stunning panoramic view of the city and surrounding landscape without the effort of hiking.
Location: The cable car station is conveniently located near the city center, just a short walk from the Council Square (Piața Sfatului). The address is Aleea Tiberiu Brediceanu 2, Brașov.
Schedule: the Tâmpa Cable Car operates from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM during the weekdays, and from 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM on the weekends. However, the schedule may vary depending on the season and weather conditions, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest information before planning your visit.
Ticket Prices: The cost for a round-trip ticket was around 18 RON for adults and 9 RON for children.
Remember, the cable car may not operate in adverse weather conditions, so it’s recommended to check the forecast before planning your trip.
Riding the Tâmpa Cable Car is an experience not to miss when visiting Brașov, offering you a unique perspective of the city and the surrounding Carpathian Mountains.
Whether you’re an adventurer at heart, a history buff, or simply a lover of stunning views, Mount Tâmpa is a must-visit on any trip to Brașov.
