The Transalpina (DN 67C) crosses Novaci from south to north for about 30 kilometers. At Pasul Urdele, the same road reaches an elevation of 2,145 meters. These are two different ways to orient yourself: a crossing through the town and the elevation at the mountain pass. If you include the Transalpina in your travel plans, bear in mind that seasonal road conditions can change, and check them before setting out.
Transalpina and Hiking
The Novaci–Rânca mountain area is used for hiking; conditions vary depending on the season. Near Novaci, Lacul Gâlcescu can only be reached on foot. For planning purposes, the two topics are distinct: the mountain area provides general hiking orientation, while the lake is a specific destination accessible only on foot. Those interested in hiking can therefore consider regional orientation and a specific natural attraction separately.
The season matters for both, but in different ways: road conditions on the Transalpina can change, while conditions in the mountain area vary depending on the season. So consider driving and hiking plans as separate decisions.
Rânca is a developing mountain resort in the Parâng Mountains and lies within the territories of the city of Novaci and the commune of Baia de Fier in Gorj County. Rânca is 18 kilometers from the center of Novaci.
A protected area includes parts of Novaci and covers 873 hectares. Within the area, it encompasses about 3.5 kilometers of the Galbenu River, a tributary of the Gilort. The 873 hectares refer to the protected area, while the kilometer figure refers to the stretch of river. The river and protected area thus add another landscape perspective to the road and mountain connections.
Wooden Churches, Tradition and Museum
The wooden church in Novaci-Români was built in 1740. Its nave is rectangular, and its apse is a five-sided polygon. In February 2024, four wooden churches and a wooden church route were mentioned in Novaci. If you plan to visit individual buildings, please check current visiting arrangements.
The “Urcatul oilor la munte” shepherding folklore festival focuses on an old tradition marking the beginning of transhumance. Transhumance refers to the seasonal movement between grazing areas. In 2025, the festival reached its 58th edition, held on May 24 and 25. The program for that edition also included a parade of traditional costumes. If you choose the festival as a reason to travel, check the dates and program for the relevant edition: the dates given are for 2025, and future program items may differ.
The Gorj Museum of Mountain Civilization is located in Casa Obştii „Cerbul” in Rânca, Novaci. If you plan a visit, please check current visiting arrangements in advance.
Discover more destinations: Muşeteşti, Polovragi, Arcani, Săcelu, Țicleni, Aninoasa, Runcu, Baia De Fier
For the broader travel overview: Gorj.
