If you ever thought you had to travel all the way to Austria or Switzerland for an Alpine Coaster experience, here’s a little secret: Romania has its very own gem on rails, right in the heart of Harghita, in Toplita. And not only does it exist, but it’s also the longest bob track in the country, with nearly 2 kilometers of pure fun, blending fairytale scenery with the kind of speed that puts a huge smile on your face.
What’s the experience like?
It all starts calmly. You settle into your modern sled, strap in, and slowly ride up the track, almost like taking a scenic lift through a pine forest. You have time to breathe in the crisp mountain air, snap a quick photo, and wonder: “How fast will I go down?”
And then… the magic begins! The descent is the perfect mix of adrenaline and control. Tight curves get your heart racing, loops make you feel like you’re flying, and slope changes give you that little “butterflies in the stomach” moment. You can reach speeds of up to 45 km/h (28 mph), but here’s the best part—you’re in control. Want a relaxed ride? Just brake lightly and enjoy the view. Want to feel the wind in your hair? Release the brake and let the track take you.
Prices and schedule
Prices are more than friendly:
- Children (3–14 years old): 25 RON (~€5) per ride
- Adults: 30 RON (~€6) per ride
The schedule varies depending on the season, but the track is generally open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and on weekends it may stay open later.
Pro tip: check the live webcam on the official website before you go – you’ll instantly see if it’s crowded or if the weather is perfect for a ride.
How to get to Toplița
From Bucharest, the drive takes about 6 hours (roughly 340–355 km / 210–220 miles), passing through stunning Transylvanian landscapes.
You can also take the train – it’s a longer trip, but the scenery is worth it. If you’re coming in winter, check the road conditions and bring snow chains if the forecast calls for snow.
What else to do in the area
Toplița isn’t just about bob rides. In winter, you can ski on three different slopes with varying difficulty levels. In summer, combine the coaster thrill with a hike to the Mezothermal Waterfall or a relaxing session at the nearby thermal baths.
If you’re into hiking, the nearby Călimani and Gurghiu Mountains offer trails that lead to breathtaking and lesser-known viewpoints.
How it compares to tracks abroad
I’ve tried bob tracks in Austria and Germany, and honestly, Toplita holds its own. Sure, in the Alps you might find tracks stretching over 3.5 km, but prices are almost double and you’ll spend half your budget just getting there.
Here, you get an authentic experience, fair prices, and perhaps most importantly, Romanian hospitality—locals are genuinely happy to have you there and will share tips on what else you can explore.
Travel tips
-
Arrive early on weekends, especially in summer – lines get longer after noon.
-
Wear comfortable clothes and avoid scarves or loose items – safety first.
-
If you’re bringing kids, check height and age restrictions beforehand.
-
Bring your camera or GoPro – the ride is worth recording!
The Toplita bob track is proof that you don’t need to leave Romania for a world-class thrill. It’s fast, it’s beautiful, it’s affordable, and it’s 100% Romanian. Next time you’re craving a dose of adrenaline mixed with pure nature, put Harghita on your map and ride the rails. Who knows? It might just become your new weekend tradition.