Christmas and New Year in Rânca – Snowy Holidays and Ski Adventures in the Parâng Mountains

Located at over 1,600 meters altitude, Rânca in Gorj County is one of the most beloved mountain resorts in southern Romania. Winter arrives early and stays late, offering the perfect setting for Christmas and New Year holidays. With crisp mountain air, stunning views, and plenty of snow, Rânca attracts tourists from all over the country.

For winter sports enthusiasts, Rânca offers several ski and snowboard slopes, including beginner-friendly ones (M1, M2) and more challenging slopes (M3, M4), all equipped with ski lifts or chairlifts. Equipment rentals are available locally, and ski instructors are ready to assist beginners of all ages.

The resort comes alive during the holiday season, with decorated cabins and guesthouses, the smell of freshly baked cozonac and mulled wine in the air, and festive dinners with traditional music and dancing to welcome the New Year.

Beyond winter sports, Rânca is perfect for relaxation. Walks through the fir tree forests, views toward Vârful Păpușa peak, and breathtaking sunsets over the Transalpina (DN67C) road make for unforgettable moments during your stay.

The Transalpina, also known as the "King’s Road," passes through Rânca and offers stunning panoramas in every season. While the high-altitude portion is closed in winter, the section leading to Rânca remains open and well maintained, accessible via Novaci.

Families will find Rânca especially appealing: there's a sledding slope, snow tubing, an adventure park nearby, and snowmobile excursions. Many accommodations offer family-friendly amenities like spas, hot tubs, and play areas for children.

Locals are warm and welcoming, and the regional cuisine will delight your taste buds with dishes like smoked meat soup, sarmale with polenta, and homemade pies. Most accommodations also accept holiday vouchers.

Rânca is a resort in continuous development, but it has retained its authentic mountain charm. Whether you come to ski, relax, or simply admire the snowy peaks, it’s a magical destination for Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Recommended Accommodation in Rânca and Novaci for Christmas, New Year's Eve and the Ski Season

Vila Dor de Munte Rânca

Located just 100 meters from the M3 ski slope in Rânca, Vila Dor de Munte is a cozy retreat for mountain lovers and winter sports fans. It offers 9 comfortable double rooms with private bathrooms, hot water, and TV.

The villa includes a 25-seat dining area, guest kitchen, Wi-Fi, private parking, coffee machine, and an outdoor gazebo with BBQ facilities — perfect for relaxing after a day in the snow.

Complex Veverița Rânca

At the foot of Vârful Păpușa, Complex Veverița offers spacious rooms, a panoramic terrace with hammocks, a restaurant, and a bar. Guests can pay using holiday vouchers and enjoy free parking and cable TV.

It’s the ideal spot for a peaceful and scenic holiday, with local dishes and warm hospitality to complete the experience.

Vila Share Rânca

Just 500 meters from the ski slope, Vila Share offers a warm and inviting stay. It features 4 bedrooms, two living rooms, a modern bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and central heating.

Located near the forest, with an outdoor terrace and BBQ area, it's ideal for nature lovers and small groups looking for privacy and comfort.

Cabana Carpatic Tour Rânca

This yellow lodge is located just 100 meters from the M1 ski lift and features a spacious living room, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen. Central heating ensures comfort on cold days.

Guests enjoy stunning views of the mountains, free Wi-Fi, and close access to both slopes and local restaurants. The lodge is rented exclusively as a whole unit.

Transalpina Spa Guesthouse Rânca

Located 300 meters from the ski slopes, this guesthouse features 4 modern rooms and a private SPA center with sauna, hot tub, and heated ergonomic bench.

Guests benefit from a spacious terrace, outdoor BBQ, fully equipped kitchen, free tea and coffee, and private parking — all in a luxurious mountain setting.

Cabana din Pădure Rânca

Hidden in the forest near Rânca’s entrance and close to the ski and sledding areas, this peaceful cabin has a living room with kitchen, 2 bedrooms, and a bathroom — ideal for families or couples.

Available for a minimum 2-night stay, the cabin offers privacy, great views, and a quiet mountain atmosphere.

Conacul de sub Munte Novaci

Located at the base of the Parâng Mountains, this traditional-style manor offers 10 rooms with private bathrooms, LED TVs, Wi-Fi, central heating, and delicious home-cooked meals.

Guests can enjoy a wine cellar, ping-pong, hammocks, a pool, and proximity to attractions like Transalpina, Gâlcescu Lake, and Peștera Muierii.

Transalpina Retreat Guesthouse Novaci

This luxury retreat spans 25,000 square meters at the foot of the Transalpina and accommodates up to 35 guests. Designed with high-end hospitality in mind, it combines elegant architecture with a stunning natural setting.

Perfect for group getaways, private events, or romantic escapes in nature, the retreat promises elegance and serenity in equal measure.

D & Ylan Guesthouse Novaci

This elegant guesthouse in Novaci offers 4 Deluxe Double Rooms and 2 Deluxe Triple Rooms, each with flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms with showers.

Guests have access to a fully equipped kitchen and a stylish event hall, making it ideal for both relaxation and celebrations.

Maria Alexandra Rooms Novaci

This guesthouse offers 4 elegant rooms, each with private bathroom, minibar, Wi-Fi, and TV. The fully equipped kitchen is available for guests' use.

Ideal for those looking for a cozy stop before heading up to Rânca, in a clean and welcoming atmosphere.