Transylvania Castles & Mountains

As the first day includes taking the train (included) from Bucharest to Brasov, it is recommended you arrive in Bucharest in the morning or book a pre tour night. We can assist with your hotel booking in Bucharest on request. Today you make your way to Bucharest North train station to take the train to Brasov (takes approx 2.5 hours). At Brasov, you will be met and transferred by taxi to your guesthouse (takes approx 1hr) in Magura (Zarnesti), a traditional village at the foot of Piatra Craiului National Park. NOTE: Trains operate throughout the day, you can choose a departure to suit your arrangements. The latest train departure from Bucharest we recommend is around 3pm. If your flight arrives in Bucharest after 1pm an extra night there will be required. We can assist with an arrival transfer from Bucharest airport to Bucharest North station on request - supplement applies.

Today you will 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, upon whom it is widely thought the fictional character 'Dracula' was based. Entry into the castle is optional (it is busy in peak season and on weekends, we suggest buying tickets online). In the late afternoon transfer back to your guesthouse in Magura. There are 2 options today, both approx 10km/6.5mi: Less steep: +400m/1312ft, -620m/2034ft Steep (descent): +400m/1312ft, -650m/2132ft

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 unchanged for centuries dot the landscape, while the surrounding mountains are a constant companion. Overnight Ciocanu. Walking via the villages: 15km/9.4mi, +600m/1968ft, -450m/1477ft There is also a shorter but more challenging variant - not recommended in poor weather.

This morning you leave the Piatra Craiului mountains and walk to Bucegi's mountains. It's 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. Walking: 13km/8mi, +500m/1640ft, -620m/2035ft

A strenuous day today as you ascend trails into the Bucegi mountains. A longer walk is possible along the meadow of Gutanu 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. There are 3 walking options for today and you can decide on the spot: Long loop with extension: 17km/10.6mi, +900m/2953ft, -1000m/3280ft Long loop: 15km/9.4mi, +720m/2362ft, -850m/2789ft Short loop: 9km/5.6mi, +450m/1476ft, -560m/1837ft

After breakfast, transfer Moieciu to Brasov (1hr). Drop your luggage at the hotel and the remainder of the day is free to explore. One of the seven cities founded by the Saxons in the 12th century when they were invited to Transylvania to guard the mountain passes, Brasov has a rich Saxon, Hungarian and Romanian heritage, manifested in a lot of sights to visit: the White and the Black Towers, the Black Church, the Council place with the Council House, St Nicholas Church, the first Romanian school, narrow streets and coloured houses, all very well preserved within the old city walls and towers. You may wish to walk through the woods surrounding the city to the top of the Tampa Hill (960m) for great views or you can choose to go by cable car. Stay overnight in a central, cosy hotel. Optional walk from 1 to 3 hrs, +/-300m. There is also the opportunity to visit the Libearty Bear Sanctuary outside Brasov. Ask for details, must prebook. Extra nights in Brasov can be booked on request.

Make your own way to Brasov station to take the train to Bucharest, where the trip concludes. If you take eg the 9.15am train you'll arrive in Bucharest at approx. 11.45am. Do not book a flight departing until at least 3hrs after your arrival at Bucharest station to allow time to reach the airport and check-in. We can assist with a transfer to the airport on request - supplement applies. We can also assist with booking extra nights in Bucharest on request, please ask our team.