Discover Transylvanian Carpathian Villages in Romania

Begin your journey with a transfer from Otopeni Airport to Brasov, a renowned tourist city. Check into a 3-star guesthouse or hotel near the historic city center. Depending on your flight, enjoy an evening tour through Brasov with its stunning Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architectural splendor. A traditional Romanian dinner awaits, welcoming you to a city rich in medieval ambiance, also touted as a favored backdrop for period films. Established by the Teutonic Knights in 1211, Brasov's legacy as a Saxon fortress city makes it a historical gem. With Baboo, nearly 87% of your trip costs nurture local communities.

After breakfast, a scenic 40-minute drive takes you to Bran Village. Visit Bran Castle, famously dubbed "Dracula's Castle". This Gothic fortress springs to life with tales of Bram Stoker's legendary vampire. Following your castle visit, proceed to Magura Village, perched amidst the heart of Piatra Craiului National Park. Delight in panoramic views while walking the path connecting Bucegi Mountains. Enjoy a packed lunch amid forested tranquility before a homemade dinner at your guesthouse in Magura. Expect a medium terrain walk, covering 8 km over 4-6 hours, with elevation changes rising 750 m and descending 450 m.

Begin with breakfast, then head deep into Piatra Craiului National Park, renowned for its breathtaking limestone ridges and biodiversity. Traverse the stunning Zarnesti Gorges, perfect for capturing scenic photos. Continue your hike through towering cliffs to Curmatura Hut at 1470 meters, an essential stop for adventurers. This 14 km trek takes you through diverse landscapes in 5-6 hours with a 700 m elevation gain. A picnic lunch enriches your outdoor experience, with dinner served at your guesthouse. The park's distinctive flora and fauna make each step a delight for nature lovers.

Savor breakfast before walking through picturesque villages like Pestera, Sirnea, and Ciocanu, each offering a peek into rural Carpathian life. Your journey includes indulging in local customs fostered by events like Sirnea's "Winter at Sirnea," featuring ski races and traditional feasts. Today's journey is an immersive, 15 km hike, categorized as easy to medium, with an elevation gain and loss of approximately 1083 m and 890 m. Relish your lunch packed with local flavors and enjoy a homemade dinner with three nights in a cozy village hotel.

About Sirnea village: in order to develop the village and attract as many tourists as possible, Professor Nicolae Fruntes initiated two feasts: "The measure of milk and the meeting of the village sons" held every June and "Winter at Sirnea", aimed at presenting the customs of the villagers, both during summer and winter. Launched in 1969, the feast "Winter at Sirnea" entails a skiing race with torches in hands, sleigh rides and parties organized at the Cultural Centre.

Continue exploring with a leisurely breakfast followed by a walk through the serene villages of Fundata and Fundatica. Revere the panoramic vistas of Bucegi and Piatra Craiului mountain ranges, over 10 km of easy to medium terrain, and a 300 m elevation change both up and down. Sample regional flavors over a packed lunch and indulge in a hearty home-cooked meal at your guesthouse. Learn about Fundata's historical significance during the 1916 Romanian Army incursion into Austria-Hungary.

Fundata is a picturesque village surrounded by lush meadows, dense forests, and offers panoramic views of the Bucegi and Piatra Craiului mountain ranges. It is often referred to as the highest-altitude village in the country. Fundata is known for its stunning landscapes, traditional architecture, and the serene atmosphere of a mountain retreat. In August 1916, when troops from the Romanian Old Kingdom entered Austria-Hungary, the first village they took was Fundata, also capturing their first prisoners there and suffering their first battle death.

Following breakfast, transfer to Simon village to embark on a full day of hiking through the lesser-trod paths of Bucegi Natural Park. Witness the marvel of landscapes like the Devil's Mill Waterfall and explore a shepherd's farm (seasonal access). This 14 km hike delivers medium terrain challenges with a pleasing 800 m elevation gain. Recharge with a packed lunch, then savor a tasty evening meal back at the guesthouse. Enjoy uncovering the park's diverse ecological tapestry and geological formations.

Start your day with breakfast, followed by a 1.5-hour journey leading to the 7 Ladders Canyon through Piatra Mare Mountain. Expect adventures on metal staircases against seven waterfalls, the longest dropping 15 meters. After conquering this Jurassic limestone wonder over 8 km, relax during your transfer back to Brasov, where you’ll spend the night in a comfortable 3-star guesthouse. A hearty farewell dinner wraps up your penultimate day in this charismatic region.

Savor your final breakfast before departure. Transfer to Bucharest airport (approximately 3 hours) or Brasov airport (20-30 minutes) for your onward journey.

OPTIONAL: Enhance your experience with an optional additional night in Bucharest that includes a panoramic city tour for just 140 euros per person with a minimum group of two.