Borșa is a picturesque town located in Maramureș County, nestled in the heart of the Eastern Carpathians, known for its spectacular landscapes, authentic traditions, and excellent recreational opportunities. As one of the most beautiful mountain regions in Romania, Borșa attracts tourists year-round, whether for hiking, winter sports, or exploring the rich culture of Maramureș.
1. How to Get to Borșa
- By Car: Borșa is located on the DN18 national road, approximately 140 km from Baia Mare and 180 km from Cluj-Napoca. The road offers scenic views along the way.
- By Train/Bus: The nearest train station is in Vișeu de Sus, from where you can take a bus or taxi to Borșa.
- By Air: The closest airport is Cluj-Napoca International Airport, located 180 km from Borșa.
2. Main Tourist Attractions in Borșa
- Cascada Cailor (Horses’ Waterfall): One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Romania, with a drop of approximately 90 meters. You can reach the waterfall via a 30-minute easy hike from Borșa Resort or take the resort’s chairlift.
- Pietrosul Rodnei Peak: Part of the Rodnei Mountains National Park, Pietrosul Peak (2303 meters) is the highest in the Eastern Carpathians. The hiking trail to the peak is challenging but offers impressive views of the valley and the glacial Lake Iezer.
- Borșa Ski Resort: Known for its ski slopes, the resort offers modern facilities for winter sports. Borșa’s ski slope is equipped with a chairlift and provides slopes for all levels of difficulty.
- Wooden Churches of Maramureș: Near Borșa, you can visit some of the oldest wooden churches in Maramureș, part of the UNESCO World Heritage. These churches are famous for their unique architecture and ancient interior paintings.
3. Recommended Activities
- Hiking: Borșa is an ideal destination for mountain hiking, with trails of varying difficulty that take you through stunning landscapes. Popular routes include those to Pietrosul Peak, Lake Știol, and Horses' Waterfall.
- Winter Sports: Borșa Ski Resort is one of the best in northern Romania, offering well-maintained slopes and modern facilities. Additionally, in the cold season, tourists can enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides or snowboarding.
- Mocănița Steam Train on the Vaser Valley: Located near Borșa, the Mocănița is a steam train that travels the picturesque route of the Vaser Valley. This offers a unique experience, traveling along a narrow-gauge railway originally built for logging.
4. Where to Eat in Borșa
- Restaurant Central: Located in the center of Borșa, this restaurant serves traditional Maramureș dishes, including homemade soups, polenta with cheese and sour cream, as well as pork and lamb dishes.
- Pensiunea Dacii Liberi: Another renowned spot for authentic cuisine, where you can try local specialties like stuffed cabbage rolls (*sarmale*) and traditional desserts.
- Popasul Dragoș Vodă: Offers a rustic atmosphere and traditional Romanian food.
Some of our recommendations include: Pensiunea Alexis, Pensiunea Ada, Cabana Repedea, Pensiunea Vaduri, Hotel Victoria, Cabana Agroturistică Runc, Pensiunea Fântâna, Casa Odaia Bunicii.
6. Events and Festivals
- Winter Traditions Festival: Held in December, this festival showcases Maramureș traditions and customs, featuring parades with folk costumes, caroling, and traditional dances.
- Borșa Day: An annual celebration dedicated to the town, featuring cultural events, concerts, and local product fairs.
7. Tourist Tips
- Appropriate Clothing: Borșa is situated in the mountains, so the weather can be unpredictable. Be sure to bring warm clothes and comfortable footwear, especially if you plan to hike.
- Advance Booking: During the winter season and holiday periods, accommodations can be limited, so it is recommended to book in advance.
- Respect Nature: The mountains and forests surrounding Borșa are incredibly beautiful and rich in flora and fauna. It is important to respect the environment and avoid littering.
Borșa, Maramureș, is a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and those interested in traditional culture. Whether you want to relax in a mountain resort, enjoy spectacular hikes, or experience local hospitality, Borșa offers an authentic and memorable experience.