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This road runs through the Somesul Mare valley along the southern and eastern edge of the Rodna Mountains. The mountains constitute one of Romania’s best hiking areas, and this road is part of a scenic loop.

The road starts in Nasaud. The town is not much to see, aside from its central square with quirky sculptures. It is, however, the center of a distinct ethnic and cultural area. The villagers around Nasaud still wear traditional clothing, hand-embroidered, as well as hats accented with peacock feathers.

The first 30 kilometers into Sangeorz-Bai are pleasant, except for the numerous railroad crossings. The road crosses the same railroad several times in its meanderings, and each time you have to stop, look both ways to insure there is no train approaching, before riding on. After the fourth crossing, you are ready for an overpass.

Sangeorz-Bai is an old and dusty spa town, mostly used as a jump-off point for hikes into the mountains. From here, the road becomes more engaging as it climbs into the mountains. The road still follows the river, but the valley gets narrower, the forests thicker, and after Valea Mare you get the surprise—the pavement ends! Yes, indeed, the remaining 25 kilometers of the road, practically its most dramatic section is deeply rutted dirt, which turns to slick mud during rains. The road here is incredible as it climbs toward the Rotunda Pass at 1271 meters. But on a muddy day, this section can be a handful, even for a dual-sport (unless it is sporting off-road tires).

DN17D

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DN17D

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