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3
moderate

Traveller Rating

 

Activities
  • self guided walk
Accommodation
  • 5 nights rural pensions
Meals
  • 5 Dinners
  • 4 Lunches
  • 5 Breakfasts

6 Days£720GBP

Overview

Trip Code: TCM

Trip highlights


  • Exploring Bran Castle and the legends of Dracula
  • Discovering unique villages
  • Walking along limestone ridges to take in the stunning landscapes of Piatra Craiului
  • Experience genuine cultural exchange with the local people

Explore some of Romania's most stunning mountain landscapes and soak up the unique culture of Transylvania on this inspiring self guided walk. 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.

Countries:

Romania

Starting Point:

Bucharest

Finishing Point:

Bucharest


Make your way to Bucharest North train station to take the train to Brasov (included), a journey of around 2.5 hours. At Brasov, you will be met and transferred by taxi to your guesthouse, set in a traditional village at the foot of Piatra Craiului National Park. This transfer takes around 1 hour. Overnight in Magura. It is also possible to visit Brasov for a few hours today - ie leave your luggage at the 'left luggage' office at the train station in Brasov then take a bus or taxi (own arrangements) to the centre to explore this charming town on foot. Return to the train station for your transfer to the first accommodation. You can also break your journey and stay overnight in Brasov - at the start or end of the trip (extra night rate applies - must be requested at time of booking). We highly recommend at least a short visit of Brasov. Trains operate throughout the day, you can choose a departure to suit your arrangements.

Meals:  D

Walk along a small ridge and through flower filled meadows to Bran Castle at the foot of the Bucegi mountains. The castle, which was built as a gift from Ludovic d'Anjou in the 14th century to the inhabitants of the region, had a defensive role against the migratory peoples and later it protected Transylvania from the Ottoman invasions. The castle was also associated with the prince Vlad Tepes of Walachia whom it is widely thought the fictional character 'Dracula' was based upon. Entry into the castle is optional (long queues are possible in peak season). Transfer back to your guesthouse in Magura for overnight accommodation. (12km/7.5mi, +350m/1148ft, -600m/1969ft).

Meals:  B,L,D

The walk continues at the base of the Piatra Craiului Mountains. It's an interesting contrast to the landscape of the previous day, as you traverse pastures, sheepfolds and woods. Scattered villages which seem to have not changed for centuries break up the landscape, while the surrounding mountains are a constant companion. Overnight Ciocanu. (14km/8.7mi, +550m/1804ft, -550m/1804ft).

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning you leave the Piatra Craiului mountains and walk to the Bucegi Mountains. An easy walk with “picture postcard” landscapes to a traditional Romanian mountain village with small and ancient houses, at the foot of the Bucegi mountains. The inhabitants are livestock breeders and the village has a long tradition in cheese making. Overnight in Moeciu de Sus. (14km/8.7mi, -150m/492ft, +250m/820ft)

Meals:  B,L,D

A more strenuous day today as you ascend trails into the Bucegi mountains. A longer walk is possible along the meadow of Gutana and the vertical walls of the Bucegi’s ridge, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes and over Piatra Craiului ridge. Overnight in Moeciu de Sus. (Approx 18km/11.2mi, +650m/2133ft, -900m/2953ft, or shorter).

Meals:  B,L,D

Transfer to Brasov where you take the train (included) to Bucharest. Trip concludes on arrival in Bucharest. There are a number of trains from Brasov to Bucharest, and you can choose a time that best suits your onward travel plans. Eg, you can take a later train so that you have time to explore Brasov, if you did not do this on the first day (luggage can be left at the station in the left luggage office). Brasov was founded by the Teutonic Knights and with its Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture is an alluring destination, one of Romania's most beautiful. We can also arrange a night in Brasov, on request - please ask our office for details.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 5 breakfasts, 4 picnic lunches, 5 dinners - Continental breakfasts are served and will often consist of breads, spreads, tea, coffee & juices. Picnic lunches will include fresh produce such as bread, spreads, salad and meats sourced from local hosts. Dinner is generally 3 courses consisting of entrée or soup, a main dish and dessert, including local and international dishes. Occasionally dinner is only 2 courses.
  • 5 nights rural pensions on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities (shared facilities on one night - Ciocanu)
  • Information pack including route notes and maps
  • Luggage transfer (note: you carry your luggage with you on the trains)
  • Train from Bucharest to Brasov and return and private transfer from Brasov train station to Magura and from Moeciu de Sus to Brasov train station
  • GPX Files
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to and from Bucharest train station
  • Breakfast and lunch on day 1 and lunch and dinner on day 6, all drinks
  • Travel insurance
  • Tour guide – this is a self guided walking trip
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Entrance fees
  • Meet and greet in Bucharest - either at the train station or at your pre tour hotel - our representative will go through the information pack with you and answer any questions you may have - supplement applies.
  • Items of a personal nature

Suitability

moderate

3

MODERATE – 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.


Departure dates

Daily from 18 Apr to 15 Oct

Notes

Note:
For departures in April, early May and October, shorter walks are available if there is snow.
Note:
This trip is suitable for solo travellers who are very experienced map readers only.
Note:
A guided trip for groups of 6 or more people can be arranged on request.

Priceper person from

£720GBP

Options & Supplements*
  • Meet and Greet in Bucharest - personal trip briefingGBP£40
  • Single SupplementGBP£110
  • Solo Traveller SupplementGBP£230
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Personal Experience

We've been walking and cycling the planet for over four decades and are passionate about delivering exceptional service. Combined, we’ve travelled to virtually every corner of Europe, and are eager to share the many benefits of travelling on foot or by bike.

Great Value & Quality

Our well priced trips offer great value for money. Included in your package are comprehensive route notes, maps & guide books along with bag transfers and locally run accommodation. We take the stress out of organising your holiday.

Self-Guided Specialists

We have been operating active self guided holidays since 1973. We handle all the necessary logistics so that you can relax and explore your destination at your own pace. Many of our tours depart daily, giving you even greater flexibility.