Transylvania Castles & Mountains Guided Walk

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.