Moara Dracului Waterfall: the Complete Guide for Visitors

In the heart of the Bucegi Mountains, amidst spectacular valleys and hidden trails, lies Moara Dracului Waterfall, a natural gem situated at an altitude of 1,575 meters. This impressive waterfall, with a drop of approximately 20 meters, is located in a cool and picturesque area, perfect for an unforgettable getaway. The trail to the waterfall is a true adventure. From the beginning, the wide and well-defined path introduces you to a fairytale landscape. As you advance, the trails become narrower, weaving among the tall and dense trees of the forest, and the sound of rushing water accompanies you throughout the journey.

Whether you’re an avid adventurer or simply a lover of beauty, this place will offer you unforgettable memories and a dose of tranquility and reconnection with nature. Bring the appropriate equipment and enjoy every moment spent on this wonderful trail!

About the Trail

This trail offers a captivating experience for nature and adventure enthusiasts, with a length of approximately 17 km and an estimated duration of 5 hours and 30 minutes. Starting from the village of Șimon, your journey will begin with a blue stripe marker, followed by a yellow triangle and a red cross, guiding you through diverse and picturesque landscapes.

From the starting point, the trail will lead you to Poiana Gaura, where you can admire the natural beauty of coniferous forests and blooming mountain flowers in the appropriate season.

The trail’s difficulty can be considered easy to moderate, suitable for both beginners and those with more hiking experience. The elevation gain of approximately 900 meters adds a touch of challenge but also a reward in terms of the spectacular landscapes discovered along the way.

Trail Description

The trail starts from the village of Șimon, Bran commune, Brașov County. After passing through the village, you need to continue on a forest road, accessible for all types of vehicles, up to a barrier where you can park your car. From here, your journey will continue on foot, on a well-marked path with a white stripe, which will guide you through the beauty of the forest for approximately 3 kilometers. Along this section, you will encounter a monument dedicated to the tragic helicopter accident of 2010, which marks the loss of several Romanian and Israeli military personnel involved in joint military exercises.

After about an hour of walking on the forest road, you reach Poiana Gaura. Here, you will change the marker, following the red cross indicator that will guide you to the waterfall. The path is easy, with an estimated duration of 15 minutes to Moara Dracului Waterfall, where the Șimon River transforms into a spectacular 20-meter waterfall.

The trail, properly marked and easy to follow, offers you a pleasant experience in nature, perfect for exploring the Bucegi Mountains and discovering this hidden gem of Romanian nature.

Other Trails in Bran

Bran, located at the foot of the Bucegi Mountains, offers numerous hiking trails that lead you through impressive mountain landscapes. In addition to the classic trail to Omu Peak, there are other routes worth exploring to discover the natural beauties of the area:

• Bran Circuit: Poarta village – Gaura Valley – Hornurilor Saddle – Omu Peak – Hornurilor Saddle – Scara Peak – Ciubotea Valley – Poarta village.

This is a challenging trail, approximately 22 km long, with a positive elevation gain of 1,900 meters, recommended only for hikers in good physical condition. The ascent on Gaura Valley and descent on Ciubotea Valley require increased attention, preferably to be undertaken between June and October to avoid snow and avalanches.

• Bolboci Lake Trail – Strungă Saddle – Bângăleasa Valley – Moieciu de Sus – Guțanu Meadow – Gaura Meadow – Șimon.

This trail offers a different experience, passing through varied and surprising landscapes, where you can experience both winter and summer on the same day. It is less demanding and more accessible but still requires good orientation, as the paths can be easily lost. In both cases, you will discover the natural beauty of the Bucegi Mountains.

Places to Visit Nearby

Here’s what else you can explore while you’re in the Bran area:

• Bran Castle
• The villages of Măgura and Peștera
• The Bats’ Cave (Peștera Liliecilor)
• The Zărnești Gorges, from where you can follow an easy trail to the Curmătura Hut
• Râșnov Fortress
• Valea Cetății Cave in Râșnov
• A gentle hiking route through the 7 Ladders Canyon, starting from the village of Dâmbul Morii
• Cheile Grădiștei resort area
• The summer bobsled track at Cheile Grădiștei
• A trail starting from Râșnov leading to the Mălăiești Hut – considered moderately easy
• Amfiteatrul Transilvania (The Transylvanian Amphitheater)
• The Dâmbovicioara and Brusturetului Gorges.

Conclusions about Moara Dracului Waterfall Trail

The trail to Moara Dracului Waterfall is a great choice for anyone who enjoys spending time in nature. While there is a slightly more demanding uphill section along the way, the rest of the route offers a pleasant walk through the forest. Once you reach the Gaura Valley, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking landscape. It’s an ideal spot to escape the crowds, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and take in the peaceful sounds of nature.

Where to Stay? Choose Transylvanian Inn for Stunning Views, Complete Comfort, and Exquisite Culinary Delights

If you’re looking for a genuine and relaxing stay in the heart of Transylvania, consider booking a room at Transylvanian Inn. It is a place where you can fully enjoy the charm of the mountains, unwind in cozy surroundings, and treat yourself to carefully prepared dishes. The panoramic views over Bran Castles and the Bucegi Mountains add to the experience, making every moment here truly memorable.

Created with the intention of offering guests the comforting feeling of being “at home”, this villa is designed as a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature and the region’s unspoiled beauty. More than just a place to sleep, it serves as a true haven for the mind, body, and soul. With spacious areas for relaxation and thoughtfully arranged interiors, Transylvanian Inn provides the perfect setting to reconnect with yourself and enjoy the tranquility of the landscape.

Whether you want to unwind on the open-air terrace, savor a delicious meal made with local ingredients, or explore the stunning surroundings, the villa is a great choice for an unforgettable experience in Transylvania.