Borșa Resort

Borșa Resort, located in Maramureș County, has become an iconic tourist destination in northern Romania.

Strategically positioned where the cultural traditions of Maramureș meet spectacular natural landscapes, Borșa attracts visitors from all corners of the world.

The Horses' Waterfall

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This mountain resort is ideal for a wide range of tourist activities, as a four-season destination that offers unique experiences in every season.

Located at an altitude of over 850 meters, Borșa is framed by tall, spectacular peaks such as Pietrosul Rodnei, the highest peak in the Rodna Mountains, at 2,303 meters.

View of Pietrosul Rodnei

This privileged position makes Borșa an ideal starting point for exploring mountain landscapes of rare beauty, whether dense forests, alpine meadows, or glacial lakes.

Borșa stands out for its ability to offer recreational and sports activities at any time of year.

Borșa's popularity is closely tied to its spectacular scenery and its proximity to highly valuable natural sites.

The resort is a gateway to the Pietrosul Rodnei Nature Reserve, a UNESCO-listed site that is home to rare species of wildlife and plants, glacial lakes, and impressive mountain trails. The Horses' Waterfall, one of the tallest and most beautiful waterfalls in Romania, is another highlight that completes the charm of the area.

The Horses' Waterfall in the Rodna Mountains

In addition, Borșa has become a winter sports center thanks to its modern ski infrastructure and the sports events held every year.

Location and access

Borșa Resort is located in northern Romania, in the county of Maramureș, and is known for its strategic location at the foot of the Rodna Mountains, near the Maramureș Mountains.

The town of Borșa covers an impressive area of over 47,000 hectares, and the main road running through it, from Valea Hotarului to Gura Țibăului, is 52 km long, making it one of the most extensive settlements in Romania (Reșița and Petroșani are also known for how far they stretch).

It is made up of Băile Borșa and Borșa (the administrative seat).

The Rodna Mountains

The Borșa area is dominated by rugged mountain terrain, with steep slopes and considerable differences in altitude. The Rodna Mountains, the Maramureș Mountains, and the Țibău Mountains form a “natural wall” surrounding the depression in which the town lies.

• The Rodna Mountains mark the southern boundary and separate Borșa from Bistrița-Năsăud County. Their Pietrosul Rodnei Peak (2303 m) is the highest in the Eastern Carpathians. The Via Transilvanica runs along the foot of the Rodna Mountains.

• The Maramureș Mountains dominate the north, with Toroiaga Peak (1929 m), at whose foot lies the Băile Borșa district.

• The Țibău Mountains, to the east, form the border with Bukovina, while the Țibău River marks the boundary with Suceava County.

To the north, the town borders Ukraine; to the northwest, it borders Vișeu de Sus, separated from it by the Vaser Valley, and Moisei commune, with Izvorul lui Dragoș marking the boundary. See details

How do you get to Borșa?

By road, the town of Borșa is reached via the DN18, which connects it to Baia Mare, Sighetu Marmației, and Vișeu de Sus, and continues over the Prislop Pass toward Șesuri and the DN17, which links Suceava and Bistrița.

Other important connections include the DN17C, which links the town to Bistrița, Năsăud, and Dej.

By air, the nearest airports are in Baia Mare (150 km), Cluj-Napoca (170 km), and Suceava (200 km).

By rail, there is the Vișeu de Jos – Borșa line, connected to the Salva – Sighetu Marmației line, but passenger service on this route is currently suspended.

In addition, the narrow-gauge forest railway in the Vaser – Novat area provides access for tourism and industrial activities, with trains equipped to carry passengers.

From Cluj-Napoca, the recommended route is Cluj-Napoca – Dej – Beclean – Năsăud – Săcel – Borșa, a distance of about 200 km (around 4-5 hours of driving).

From Baia Mare, the route goes Baia Mare – Sighetu Marmației – Vișeu de Sus – Borșa, for a total of about 110 km (around 2-3 hours).

From Bucharest, you can take the DN1 to Cluj-Napoca and then continue on the routes described above, for a total of about 550 km.

The nearest train station is in Vișeu de Jos (on the main railway line linking Cluj-Napoca and Sighetu Marmației). From Vișeu de Jos, Borșa is only 40 km away, and the transfer can be made by taxi or local minibus.

Traveling by train is a comfortable option for those coming from cities such as Cluj-Napoca, Baia Mare, or Bucharest.

There are regular bus and minibus services connecting Borșa with the major cities in the region, such as Baia Mare, Sighetu Marmației, Cluj-Napoca, or Târgu Mureș. They run frequently and offer an affordable alternative for tourists.

The resort is a starting point for exploring Rodna Mountains National Park, known for its spectacular mountain scenery, remarkable biodiversity, and well-marked hiking trails.

A brief history

Borșa has a long history: its first documentary mention dates back to 1353, when the settlement was part of the Cuhea estate, owned by the Bogdănești family.

In 1365, King Louis I of Hungary confiscated these lands and granted them to the Drăgoșești family, and the donation was reconfirmed in the following years.

A remarkable moment in Borșa's history was the victory of the locals, led by archpriest Șandor Lupu, over the Tatars in 1717, in the area known today as Preluca Tătarilor. During this invasion, the local church was destroyed; it was rebuilt in 1800 and later replaced by a stone church in 1895.

During World War I, around 1915, the Austro-Hungarian Army built a railway between Borșa and Iacobeni. The project was carried out with the help of Russian prisoners of war, as part of the logistical effort to support military operations in the region.

In the 1940s, Borșa prepared intensively to host a possible Winter Olympics in 1948, investing the equivalent of 100 million euros in infrastructure.

Ski slopes, mountain lodges, restaurants, a power plant, cable transport facilities, and the “Tighina” ski jump, one of the largest in the region, were built. During this period, international skiing and ski jumping competitions were held, attracting athletes from several countries.

Because of World War II, the work was halted, the Eastern Front ran through the Prislop Pass, and the Olympic project was never resumed after 1945.

Research carried out in 1977 and 2006 on the mineral waters of Maramureș County identified and analyzed 64 mineral water springs within Borșa. These studies confirmed the area's wealth of natural resources and their therapeutic potential.

Borșa ski resort

Borșa Resort in Maramureș stands out for its modern ski area, with varied slopes, state-of-the-art facilities, and spectacular scenery.

The Rodna Mountains – winter view

Borșa Resort is organized into three main areas, each with its own management and tourist profile:

• Prislop Slope – Located in the Prislop Pass area, it offers options for skiing and other winter sports.

• Horses' Waterfall Chairlift Slopes (Runc-Știol slope) – Located near the chairlift that leads to the attraction, this area is popular for winter sports.

• Borșa Gondola Complex – Includes the modern gondola and related facilities, such as ski slopes of varying difficulty.

Prislop Slope. 2025-2026 hours

Altitude: Located at 1,400 m, the slope offers ideal skiing conditions in the cold season.

Length: At 1,100 m long, it is suitable for both beginners and intermediate skiers.

Facilities: It has a two-seat chairlift, night lighting (the only slope in Borșa with night skiing) for evening skiing, as well as accommodation and restaurants nearby.

Additional services: An equipment rental center is available for tourists.

Hours: 10:00-17:00 Monday to Friday and 9:00-18:00 on weekends. Source here

Horses' Waterfall Chairlift Slopes or Runc-Știol Slope. 2025-2026 prices and hours

The slopes are served by a chairlift and are accessible to visitors of all levels. The spectacular scenery and quality snow attract many visitors every year.

The Borșa Chairlift Slopes area, also known as “Cascada Cailor” (Horses' Waterfall), offers access to four slopes served by the chairlift, ideal for intermediate skiers and beginners. They are:

Slope 1: An intermediate slope with a length of 1,925 m.
Slope 1a: Another intermediate slope, with an extended length of 2,430 m.
Slope 1b: Also intermediate, this slope stretches for 2,400 m.
Slope 2: An easy slope, ideal for beginners or for a relaxed run, with a length of 680 m.

The ski complex served by the Borșa Chairlift includes two cable transport installations, providing access to four slopes suited to different difficulty levels.

Borșa Chairlift (Horses' Waterfall) or Runc-Știol Ski Slope hours, 2025-2026. Source here:
Daily, Monday through Sunday, 09:00 – 17:00 (winter).

Chairlift prices:

One way, up or down:

• Adults: 35 lei.

• Children (5-12 years): 25 lei.

• Children under 5: Free.

Round trip, up and down:

• Adults: 50 lei.

• Children (5-12 years): 35 lei.

• Children under 5: Free.

The chairlift at the Borșa Tourist Complex offers a remarkable panoramic experience, connecting the base of the complex to the top of the slope in a ride of about 17 minutes.

From the upper station, visitors can continue to the Horses' Waterfall, one of the most spectacular natural attractions in the area. Reaching the waterfall requires a 20-30 minute hike on an accessible path through impressive mountain scenery.

The Borșa Chairlift provides access to both the slopes and the natural attraction.

Borșa Gondola Complex. Hours and prices

The Borșa Gondola ski area, part of the Borșa Tourist Complex, stands out for having the only Olympic slope in Romania, offering a unique experience for winter sports enthusiasts.

The gondola covers a distance of 2.6 km and has 56 cabins, each seating 8 people.

The lift starts at an altitude of 847 m and climbs to 1633 m, with an intermediate station at 1308 m.

The ski area has two main slopes, one red and one blue, each about 3 km long. They are equipped with a snowmaking system that ensures optimal skiing conditions for 4 months a year.

The slope is open, according to its page on Facebook

Borșa Ski pass prices – 2025–2026 season

For the 2025–2026 winter season, the Borșa Ski ski area offers visitors a wide range of ski passes, suited both to occasional skiers and to those who want extended access over several days. Prices differ for adults and children aged 6 to 12.

Borșa ski pass 2025-2026

• 1-day ski pass: 200 lei adults / 150 lei children

• 2-hour ski pass: 90 lei adults / 70 lei children

• 4-hour ski pass: 120 lei adults / 90 lei children

• 6-hour ski pass: 150 lei adults / 110 lei children

Multi-day ski passes

• 2-day ski pass: 340 lei adults / 240 lei children

• 3-day ski pass: 470 lei adults / 320 lei children

Point-based ski passes

(1 ride up = 4 points; point passes are for skiers only)

• 40 points: 160 lei adults / 130 lei children

• 80 points: 270 lei adults / 220 lei children

• 120 points: 380 lei adults / 320 lei children

Single ride prices

• Ride up: 40 lei adults / 35 lei children

• Ride down: 35 lei adults / 30 lei children

• Ride up + down: 70 lei adults / 60 lei children

Important information

• The 1-day ski pass is valid during the hours of 08:30 – 16:30

• Prices are in lei

• Tickets and passes are non-transferable

• People with severe or significant disabilities ride free of charge, with supporting documents

• Point passes are intended for skiers only

More info about the Olympic slope, prices, and hours here

Accommodation in Borșa

Borșa offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets, from traditional guesthouses to modern tourist complexes. Each property stands out for its facilities and unique location, contributing to an unforgettable experience in the heart of Maramureș.

The Nest

A modern and elegant concept, The Nest offers accommodation in a welcoming setting. It is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet, as it is located in a secluded area near the forest. Facilities include spacious rooms, a common area with a fireplace, and an outdoor relaxation area.

Pensiunea Ioana

Pensiunea Ioana

This traditional guesthouse offers an authentic Maramureș atmosphere with rustic touches. Pensiunea Ioana has comfortable rooms, a fully equipped kitchen for guests, and a terrace with spectacular mountain views. It also has a seasonal swimming pool.

Panoramic Residence

Panoramic Residence

Set in a prime location, Panoramic Residence offers impressive views of the mountain landscape. The units are equipped with modern amenities, Wi-Fi, and private balconies.

Pensiunea Galileo

Pensiunea Galileo

This guesthouse in Borșa is a comfortable place to stay in a picturesque setting, about 23 km from the Horses' Waterfall and 48 km from the Wooden Church of Ieud. Facilities include free WiFi, a restaurant serving international cuisine, and a bar, and pets are allowed.

Popasul lui Vodă

POPASUL LU’ VODĂ

Popasul lui Vodă offers family rooms decorated with traditional Maramureș elements. It has a children's playground, and the location is ideal for those who want to explore nearby attractions.

Hotel Ina

Hotel Ina

For those who prefer to stay in a hotel, Hotel Ina is a 3-star property in Borșa. The hotel has modern rooms and includes a restaurant.

Complex Bosco

Complex Bosco

Complex Bosco stands out for its leisure facilities, making it a choice for families and large groups. It has a restaurant serving local dishes and is located in a quiet area, yet with easy access to the ski slopes.

Complex Pescăresc Gura Repezii Borșa

Complex Pescăresc Gura Repezii Borșa

The complex has comfortable rooms, some with river views, a restaurant, and facilities for outdoor recreational activities.

The resort offers a wide range of places to stay, suited to all budgets and preferences.

Tourist attractions

Borșa Resort and its surroundings are rich in natural and cultural attractions:

The Horses' Waterfall in Rodna Mountains National Park

The Horses' Waterfall, the tallest waterfall in Romania, is a natural gem located at an altitude of about 1,300 meters. Water from melting snow and rain on the northern slope of the Rodna Mountains (Piatra Rea) plunges spectacularly from a height of 90 meters, creating an impressive sight. More details in the article

Pietrosul Rodnei Nature Reserve

Part of Rodna Mountains National Park, the reserve is home to some of the most valuable mountain ecosystems in Romania. With its impressive biodiversity, it includes rare species of plants and animals.

Iezer Lake

A glacial lake at an altitude of 1,825 meters, considered a symbol of the reserve.
Recommended trail: starting from Borșa – a 4-5 hour hike with spectacular mountain scenery.

Iezer Lake (2)

Pietrosul Rodnei Peak

It is the highest peak in the Eastern Carpathians (2,303 meters). The route to the summit is a challenging trail that requires proper preparation, but the rewards are worth it, and the view that opens over the Maramureș Mountains and the Bistrița Valley is truly unique.

Pietrosul Rodnei

The wooden churches of Maramureș

Borșa is close to the famous wooden churches of Maramureș, listed as UNESCO World Heritage for their unique architectural style and cultural value.

• The wooden church in Poienile Izei: Built in the 17th century, the church is famous for its well-preserved interior frescoes.

• The wooden church in Ieud Deal: One of the oldest churches in Maramureș, dating from the 14th century. Built entirely of wood, it is a symbol of the skill of local craftsmen.

Pietroasa Monastery

The skete, renowned for its setting, lies at the foot of Pietrosu Peak. Its peaceful, contemplative atmosphere is complemented by traditional architecture that reflects the style of Maramureș churches. Inside, the monastery houses handmade icons and frescoes, and visitors can attend services or explore the surrounding nature.

The Root Museum

Located in Borșa, this unique museum is an open-air exhibition showcasing shaped roots and tree trunks. Each exhibit is a work of art, sculpted by nature or with minimal intervention from the artist.

Moisei Monastery

The monastery dates from the 17th century and is built in the traditional wooden style typical of Maramureș. The old church is decorated with valuable murals, and the monastic ensemble also includes a newer masonry church. Its location offers picturesque scenery, and every year the monastery is an important pilgrimage site.

Știol Lake (or Izvorul Bistriței Aurii Lake)

The glacial lake, also called Tăul Știol, located at an altitude of about 1800 m, stands out among the lakes of Borșa and can be reached via a mountain trail (the last part is steeper). This is the source of the Bistrița Aurie (Golden Bistrița) River.

The “Holy Archangels” Wooden Church in Borșa

The wooden church, built in the 18th century, is an example of traditional Maramureș craftsmanship. Its tall roof and slender tower are characteristic of local architecture.

The church interior preserves old paintings and iconostases, making it a place where spirituality and the history of the region come together. It is listed as part of the national cultural heritage and attracts tourists and pilgrims alike.

The Maramureș Mocănița

The Maramureș Mocănița, a world-renowned symbol of local tradition and history, is a steam train that runs through the Vaser Valley. It operates on a narrow-gauge railway originally built in 1932 to transport timber.

Its unique route includes stops in remote areas, where tourists can explore nature, enjoy traditional dishes, and discover rural life. The Mocănița is one of the last forest railways still operating in Europe, used both for timber transport and for tourist excursions.

Other nearby attractions:

• The Vișeu Valley is a scenic route where rivers and vegetation create a fairy-tale setting.

• Prislop Pass, at an altitude of 1,416 m, offers unforgettable panoramic views and access to the Maramureș Mountains.

• The Merry Cemetery of Săpânța (about 2 hours away) is famous for its colorful crosses and humorous inscriptions that celebrate life.

• Cavnic Resort, about 100 km away, is also a snow paradise in winter.

• The resort of Vatra Dornei is about 90 km away, and Gura Humorului is 130 km away.

Activities and experiences all year round

Borșa Resort offers a variety of activities and experiences tailored to each season, making it a suitable destination for tourists at any time of year.

Iezer Lake

The warm season turns Borșa into a paradise for nature and adventure lovers:

• Mountain hiking: Spectacular trails to Iezer Lake, the Horses' Waterfall, or Pietrosul Rodnei Peak; opportunities to explore the Pietrosul Rodnei Nature Reserve, known for its biodiversity.

• Mountain biking: Varied routes for cyclists, from easy forest paths to challenging alpine routes.

• Visiting waterfalls and glacial lakes: relaxing and reconnecting with nature at iconic spots such as the Horses' Waterfall or Iezer Lake.

Autumn brings an explosion of color and a peaceful atmosphere. The Rodna Mountains and the surrounding forests are covered in shades of gold, red, and copper.

In the cold season, Borșa becomes a top destination for winter sports:

• Skiing and snowboarding on well-groomed slopes, including the Olympic Slope and Runc-Știol. Dedicated areas for beginners and children, as well as intermediate and advanced slopes.

• Horse-drawn sleigh rides: A traditional experience offering relaxing moments in an idyllic winter landscape.

Weather in Borșa

The weather in Borșa brings long, cold winters with abundant snow, ideal for winter sports, and cool summers, perfect for hiking and exploring nature.

Winter temperatures can drop below -10°C, and the snow cover usually lasts from December to March.

In summer, temperatures provide comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. Precipitation is frequent throughout the year, and fog and wind are common at higher elevations. That is why tourists are advised to be well equipped for any change in the weather, especially on alpine hikes.

Current weather in Borșa and the forecast for the next 7 days:

Conclusion

Strategically located at the foot of the Rodna Mountains, Borșa Resort in Maramureș gives visitors the chance to explore nature, enjoy winter sports in excellent conditions, and discover the authentic traditions of Maramureș.

Each season reveals a different side of the region: spring and summer attract hikers and cycling enthusiasts, autumn delights with its spectacular colors, and winter turns the resort into a skier's paradise.

Add to this the hospitality of the locals, the traditional cuisine, and the cultural events that make Borșa a destination you'll want to come back to.

With its varied offerings, Borșa is cementing its status as a four-season destination, suitable for adventurers as well as for those seeking the tranquility of nature or the charm of local traditions.

Also visit other resorts in the area: Cavnic, Gura Humorului, Vatra Dornei, The cheapest ski resorts in Romania

If you're in Maramureș, also visit the Merry Cemetery of Săpânța.