🧭 Practical Info
Everything to know before visiting the Jiu Valley: getting here, emergency numbers, weather, webcams and seasonal tips.
🚗 Getting here
By car
Via DN66 (E79): from the north via Deva/Simeria through Hațeg, from the south via Târgu Jiu through the spectacular Jiu Gorge. DN66A continues west to Uricani and Câmpu lui Neag. From Vâlcea, DN7A descends from Obârșia Lotrului to Petroșani.
By train
Petroșani station sits on the Simeria – Petroșani – Târgu Jiu railway, with connections from Deva/Arad and Craiova. From the station, the valley towns are 10–25 minutes by taxi or local bus.
By bus
Regular minibus and coach services link Petroșani with Deva, Târgu Jiu, Hunedoara and the rest of the country. Frequent local lines connect the six towns of the valley.
🆘 Emergencies & Mountain Rescue
General emergency number: 112
Salvamont (mountain rescue) dispatch: 0725 826 668
For mountain accidents call 112 first; the national Salvamont dispatch (0725 826 668) handles mountain rescue calls.
Before you hike
- Tell someone your route and expected return time.
- Check the mountain weather forecast before setting out.
- Stay on marked trails and start early.
- Carry water, rain gear and a warm layer even in summer.
🌦️ Weather & Webcams
Mountain weather changes fast — check before you go:
- meteoromania.ro ↗Official ANM forecast, including warnings
- skistraja.ro ↗Live webcams and slope conditions at Straja
- mountain-forecast.com ↗Altitude forecast for Parângul Mare (2,519 m)
💡 Seasonal tips
❄️ Winter
Winter tyres are mandatory on mountain roads; chains recommended towards Straja and Parâng after snowfall. Ski gear can be rented in both resorts. Do not leave groomed slopes — avalanche risk.
☀️ Summer
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in Retezat and Parâng — start hikes early in the morning. Sun protection and at least 2 litres of water on long trails.
🐻 Wildlife
This is brown bear country: keep your distance, never feed them, store food sealed and make noise on forested trails. Heed RO-Alert messages.
🧳 Plan your stay
Find local accommodation and restaurants, see the valley essentials and pick your trails.