Vârful Moldoveanu

Moldoveanu Peak, at 2,544 metres, is the highest point in Romania, a narrow and precipitous summit in the central Făgăraș Mountains, in Argeș County. It belongs to the longest and wildest alpine ridge of the Southern Carpathians, a crest of granite and crystalline schist sculpted by Quaternary glaciers, with glacial cirques, sharp aretes and clear lakes at the foot of its walls. The climb is no trifle: the most common route starts from Valea Rea and passes the Moldoveanu refuge, demanding experience, proper gear and settled weather, for fog and storms roll in fast at altitude.

From the top, on a clear day, the panorama opens over dozens of ridges, over neighbouring Negoiu and over the whole spine of the Făgăraș. Practical note: check the mountain forecast, start early and avoid the ridge in storms; the route is best walked in summer and early autumn.