Bucegi Mountains: A Guide to Hiking Romania's Sphinx and Babele

The Bucegi Mountains hold one of Romania's most surreal landscapes: a high plateau dotted with wind-sculpted rocks that look like something from another planet. Two of the most famous formations, the Sphinx and Babele, draw hikers from across the country and beyond, yet the journey to reach them is as rewarding as the destination.

Why Hike the Bucegi Plateau

Rising to around 2,200 metres, the Bucegi Plateau offers sweeping views over the Prahova Valley and the surrounding Carpathian peaks. On a clear day you can see for miles across ridges and forests. The plateau itself is relatively flat once you reach it, making it accessible to hikers with a moderate level of fitness, but the ascent from the valley floor is steep and requires preparation.

Trail Routes from Bușteni

The town of Bușteni, easily reached by train or car from Bucharest or Brașov, is the main gateway. Several marked trails lead to the plateau, with the most popular being the Jepii Mici and Jepii Mari routes. These are demanding but well-marked paths that climb through forest and then open onto rocky terrain. For a less strenuous option, a cable car operates from Bușteni to the plateau, though many hikers prefer to walk one way and ride the other.

What to See: Sphinx and Babele

The Sphinx is a natural rock formation that, from certain angles, resembles a human face gazing across the valley. It was shaped by wind and rain over millennia, not carved by hand. Nearby, Babele (meaning 'the old women') are a group of mushroom-shaped rocks that look like figures huddled together. Both formations are within a short walk of each other and are signposted from the plateau.

Practical Tips for a Day Hike

• Start early – weather in the mountains can change quickly, and afternoon storms are common in summer.
• Wear sturdy footwear – the trails are rocky and can be slippery, especially after rain.
• Bring layers – even in summer, temperatures on the plateau are much cooler than in the valley.
• Carry water and snacks – there are no shops on the plateau, though a few mountain huts sell basic supplies.
• Check trail conditions – some routes may be closed in early season due to snow or rockfall.

Whether you hike up through the forest or take the cable car, the Bucegi Plateau offers a memorable day in the Romanian mountains with scenery that feels far removed from the busy resorts below.