16/09/2021 ~ We were 6 pilots, most of us with high EN B wings and a 2-liner, taken off from Balea Lake (2044m take off) (5 pilots) and one of us (Imre) even done an Hike & Fly run to Vf Netedu(2351m). The overall midday temperatures were 13-16 'C with the pm cloudbase forecasted between 2500 - 3000 m. It was mainly sunshine with some part-cloudy cover over the main mid-ridge of the Fagaras mountains. All of us flew partially together between 2 and 4.5 hrs, managing to do even small XC's between 25 and 64 kms.
Even if it was not one of my longest flight in time or distance, I can assure you that it was definitely one of a kind in many ways: impressive height, incredible views over the Transfagarasan and a bit technical due to those deep valleys covered by the beautiful forests but with very limited landing options once you are out to North(this time) or South.
I must admit, being my first flight over there, my approach was occasionally a bit too cautiously and trying to stay as much as I could on the safe side most of the time. Nevertheless, it was a flight which I will not forget it anytime soon.
Fly high / Stay safe !!!

Technical data - Balea Lake:

Take off: N, S (both sides of the mountain tunnel)
Thermal and soaring flying site not suitable for beginners.
Take off N - coordinates: 45.604056, 24.615125. 2044m altitude
Balea Landing (N) - 1st option: 45.621028, 24.612456, 1616m altitude(428 m height difference)
Balea Landing (N) - 2nd option: next to Cartisoara village (higher height difference)
Take off S - coordinates: 45.589200, 24.625900

Balea Lake is situated at altitude of 2040m in the Fagaras mountains. This mountain is part of Meridional Carpathian range which also includes the highests peaks of Romania’s mountains. The take-off is near the famous road Transfagarasan (Top Gear) on the north face of the mountain. The area is suitable for soaring as behind the take-off there is a huge ridge up to 2400m.Thermal flying conditions might be calm, but there are many days with strong thermals. The ceiling here can reach over 3500m conditions on which is possible to fly over the main mountain range back and forth. On the second part of the day cross country flight can be made towards the Bucegi Massif and Postavaru mountains or even St. Ana Lake. The landscapes in the area are just breath-taking. Balea Lake is considered one of the best flying site from Romania.

Cloudbase: 09:34 [ Ссылка ]
My track on Ayvri: [ Ссылка ]

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