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The memories this journey will create for you will last a lifetime. There are so many facets to this week long experience which will ensure a good insight into Romanian rural life. Explore some of Romania's most stunning mountain landscapes and soak up the unique culture of Transylvania on this inspiring guided walk in the company of a like minded group. Piatra Craiului meaning royal stone, is a dramatic limestone ridge which rises sharply from the forests and plains below, offering one of the best ridge walks in Europe. En route to the Bucegi Mountains, explore the gorges and ridgetops of Piatra Craiului to experience exceptional views of the region. The Bucegi mountains are home to a diverse range of landscapes from pine and beech forests to flower laden meadows and high limestone cliffs. It is also where you can find Bran Castle, connected through folklore to the fictitious character, Dracula. Whilst the legends of Transylvania are an enticing reason to visit this region, the walking opportunities and the friendly atmosphere created by your hosts in the rural pensions guarantee this will be a unique and diverse adventure. The journey includes a visit to a Bear Sanctuary, whose work has been vital in rescuing bears and preserving habitats. Finally, visit Peles Castle enroute to the capital, Bucharest.
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28kg of CO2-e PP per day
(193kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Bucharest, early afternoon train to Brasov
Make your way to Bucharest North train station to meet your guide and group - the meeting time is usually at noon (12pm). From here we take the train to Brasov (approx 1pm and travel time 2hrs 40mins), enjoying stunning views along the way of the Prahova Valley where the Prahova river winds its way between the Bucegi and Baiului Mountains along the Carpathian Mountain range. Check in to our centrally located hotel and later there is an orientation walking tour to discover the history of this beautiful medieval town. Dinner at leisure.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Bear Sanctuary visit, walk in Piatra Craiului National Park (5.5hrs)
After a short transfer, we will visit the Bear Sanctuary, where you will hear interesting stories about the bears that you will see. We then venture (1hr transfer) into Piatra Craiului National Park. Our walk begins with a gentle ascent along scenic woodland trails resonating with melodious birdsong. Our destination is Cabana Curmatura, a delightful lunch spot offering panoramic views of the valley and canyon. Lunch promises a treat with local soup and a delectable apple pie. We descend through open hills, traverse a sizable wooded area by the river, and follow an ancient path to the Jurassic Zarnesti Canyon. Our final climb leads to the enchanting village of Magura. Our base for the next two nights is in a charming, traditional guesthouse. 15km/9.3mi, +890m/2920ft, -600m/1969ft
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
Walk to Bran Castle, home to the origin of the character known as 'Dracula' (4.5hrs)
Walking from Magura, we have a gradual ascent through lush pastures and traditional farmland. Progressing along a shaded forest track, we continue our ascent until the woodland unveils a breathtaking hilltop vista. This serves as a perfect pause for marveling at the splendid views below. Our leisurely walk leads to a hillside lunch spot, offering picturesque views of a remote farmhouse owned by a charming local farmer tending to his cattle, oblivious to modern amenities. Post-lunch, we traverse favorable terrain before descending a very steep 500m hill, with Bran Castle in sight. Renowned as "Dracula's Castle," its Gothic architecture provides an immersive experience into 14th-century Transylvanian life. After exploring the castle, a private transfer (35mins) takes us back to our guesthouse, concluding a day rich in historical and scenic wonders. (Castle admission fee not included). 12km/7.5mi, +350m/1148ft, -600m/1969ft
Day 4
Pass by shepherds huts enroute to a traditional mountain village (5.5hrs)
Our walk today takes us beneath the majestic Piatra Craiului Mountains, amidst a picturesque panorama of pastures, sheepfolds, and woodlands. The day ends in a quaint village seemingly unaffected by the passage of time. Revel in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains before retiring to a charming guesthouse nestled in an enchanting village setting. 14.5km/9mi, +645m/2116ft, -500m/1640ft
Day 5
Scenic walk to the Bucegi mountains through picturesque landscapes (4hrs)
After a hearty breakfast we head out on the trail. We traverse a tapestry of charming villages, where time-honoured customs endure. Stroll past a nearly two-century-old dwelling, a testament to the region's history, and stop at a lovely local residence housing a small museum showcasing the heritage of the traversed villages. Depending on the hour, we can visit two local Orthodox Churches, then unwind in a snug guesthouse owned by a renowned cook. Meals are home-cooked using produce from the owner's farm and are full of authenticity and flavour. 13km/8.07mi, +250m/820ft, -350m/1148ft
Day 6
Ascend the Bucegi Mountains with stunning views (5.5 hrs or 3.5 hrs)
This morning we ascend gradually to a ridge's summit, passing numerous shepherds huts en route to La Bisericuta. At this vantage point, breathtaking views of the Bucegi Mountains and the Bangaleasa Valley unfold, offering ample photo opportunities. A gentle descent leads us into the serene Bucegi National Park. From here a longer walk is possible to a second ridge, culminating in a well-deserved break at Poiana Gutanu Meadows. We'll recharge with a packed lunch, surrounded by the beauty of the landscape that stretches out before us. 18km/11mi, +/-850m/2788ft or 12 km/7.4mi, +/-350m/1,148ft
Day 7
Visit Church of Vulcan and Peles Castle, transfer (4hrs) to Bucharest
After a short transfer, we visit the fortified church of Vulcan, a remarkable testament to Saxon heritage dating back to their colonisation of Transylvania in the 13th century. In the village, we will enjoy a delightful encounter with the priest of this historic church—an enthusiastic and insightful person who will share the story of the site and offer us a tasting of local specialties. From here we will transfer back to Bucharest (4hrs), with a small stop to see the magnificent Peles Castle in Sinaia. In Bucharest, check in at our comfortable centrally located hotel and the evening is at leisure. With our recommendations, you’ll be sure to enjoy your time in the capital.
Meals: B,L
Day 8
Trip concludes in Bucharest
Trip concludes after breakfast. Bucharest is an eclectic city, where influences from the medieval era and Ottoman occupation blend with those of the modern period, marked by French neoclassical architecture and the imposing legacy of the communist era. We can assist with booking extra nights on request, also an airport transfer - please ask for our rates.
Meals: B
What's included
What's not included
GRADE 3 - The walking is moderate (3) grade with daily walks of around 4-6 hours. There are some more demanding stages during the walk with steep uphills, descents, and some sections of the trail require more care. The accent is on keeping a steady pace to with time to stop and take photos (subject to weather conditions). You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. Note some walks may change depending on group fitness or the weather conditions.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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