Carpathian Mountains and Castles - self-guided walk

Our agent will meet you in Bucharest city centre or at Bucharest North Train Station, to give you your documents (road book, maps etc.). The trip therefore starts at Bucharest North Station (or at Bucharest OTP Airport, changing trains at Bucharest North) with a train Bucharest - Brasov (2:45 hours), followed by a private transfer to Magura (1:00 hour). There are several train options depending on the arrival flight and if the clients want to stop in Brasov to visit this beautiful medieval city, but the main option is Bucuresti Nord 15:15 – Brasov 17:37 followed by the private transfer to Magura. Dinner and accommodation in Magura. (D)

Walk in Piatra Craiului (“King’s Stone”) mountains to the authentic mountain hut of Curmatura. Breath-taking views of the mountain ridge and the valley around the hut. The clients can enjoy the host’s unique recipe, special lunch, local soup and a delicious pie! On the way back to the guesthouse, the clients will cross the mesmerizing Zarnesti gorges with 200m high vertical walls (around 5h, 13km, +800m, -800m). (B,L,D). Possibility for an extension.

Today’s walk goes on a small ridge leading to Bran castle. This castle was built in the 14th century and had a role of defence against the migratory people. Later it protected Transylvania from the Ottoman invasions. The castle was also associated with the fictional character of Dracula, who was based on Vlad Tepes, Prince of Wallachia. Private transfer to the same guesthouse the night before, (around 4.5h, 12km, +300m, -600m). (B,L,D)

Trek in the National Park of Piatra Craiului taking in pastures, sheepfolds, woods and scattered villages. The customers will cross traditional villages where time seems to have stopped, and they will end the day in a beautiful and traditional mountain village. (around 5.5h, 16km, +/-750m or shorter option available: around 5h, 14km, +/-600m). (B,L,D)

This morning the route leaves Piatra Craiului Mountains, with an easy walk with picture perfect landscapes through lovely villages sheltering small and olden houses, at the foot of Bucegi Mountains. The locals are livestock breeders, therefore the village has a long standing tradition of cheese making. (around 4h, 13 km, +250m, -350m). (B,L,D). Possibility for a longer walk.

Trek towards the Bucegi massif. A long hike that you will not forget: impressive landscapes and sights of the impressive Strunga Wall, crossing two passes, the Strunga and the Strungulita and passing by a mountain shelter upon the former Transylvanian – Wallachian border (around 6h, 18km, +900m, -900m). (B,L,D)

The hike continues in Bucegi Mountains, going up to Gutanu Clearing with excellent views towards the dramatic cliffs above. Starting with June, you can encounter shepherds alongside their flocks, and even ask to taste the cheese they prepare themselves. Take your time and enjoy these remarkable landscapes (around 6h, 18km, +750m, -850m). (B,L,D)

Note: if you do this trip late April or beginning of May, in some of the years, the snow could melt late. In this case we will replace it with a transfer to Brasov and overnight in Brasov (small extra cost if you want an upgraded hotel). Same for October if the snow arrives earlier.

Private transfer from Simon to Brasov and then travel by train to Bucharest. End of the journey. (B)