Area: Căpățânii Mountains, Buila-Vanturarita,  Cozia massive.
Level rate: Moderate (with few difficult points)
Dates of departure: June – October 2010, on demand
Nr. of team members: 2 – 12
Trip duration (days): 7
Required gear: Backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, spot light (preferably frontlamp), good mountain boots, waterproof and warm changing clothes, water can, sweets.

1^ST DAY. Welcoming you at the International Airport Bucuresti – Otopeni. Introduction, short presentation of the trip and leaving the airport, heading for Căpățânii Mountains.

• Difficulty: easy hike
• Hiking time: 3 h
• Transfer time: 4 h

Schedule of the day:

10:00: Leaving Bucharest heading NV on A1 highway across the Romanian Plain (Câmpia Română). We keep NV through Pitesti (the city of tulips). Pitesti , also known as the city of tulips is seated in the high part of the Romanian Plain at 300m ( 984ft) on the terraces of Arges river at 116km ( 72mi ) northwest of Bucharest . The road takes us in the pre-mountain hills of the Arges county (Subcarpati / Muscelele Argesului). Crossing “Dealul Negru” (The Black Hill) we are almost in Râmnicu Valcea (ancient roman fortress) on the banks of Olt river.
12:30: A short break in Ramnicu Valcea to eat and to visit the first typography in the country.
13:30: Leaving and heading towards Cheia village(20 km dist,6 km length).From hear the trip takes us on a forestry road on the banks of Cheia river.
14:00: We stop at an old monastery (Ezer nunnery) from XVII century.Near by is the holly cave of an ancient monk.
14:30: Leaving.
15:00: After a while we make a little detour to visit Pahomie monastery, situated under a protective rock wall.We take a two hour tour (hiking) to Patrunsa monastery. As the name in Romanian suggests, it is located deep in the mountain.
17:00: From Pahomie we leave for the final destination of Cheia chalet situated on the right side of the river with the same name.
17.40: Arriving at the spot and preparing our accommodation.

Highlights of the day:

Râmnicu Valcea, situated in a beautiful area near by Olt river, well known in Romania as a clean quiet city. The town’s development was secured by the flourish commerce exchange between Transylvania and Walachia on the Olt’s transversal valley.

Capatanii Mts, Buila-Vanturarita Masiff , are spectacular limestone mountains, +2000m ( +6500ft ) , cut by beautiful gorges ( Bistrita, Oltet, ). Along with Parang Mts, Lotu Mts, Latoritei Mts, Cindrel Mts, Sureanu Mts, those mountains makes the Parang group of The South Romanian Carpathians ( Carpatii Meridionali ), that lies between Olt and Jiu rivers as the eastern and western borders, and Transylvania and Walachia in the north and south. A lot of the most valuable historical and cultural sites are situated on the south end of those magnificent mountains.

Pahomie monastery, build in 1520 near a spring that comes out directly from a lie wall. It is a beautiful place filled with history of forgotten times.

Ezer monastery, build by Radu the Great and his son Mircea the Old in late XIV century is a immaculate site and a delight for the eye.

Patrunsa monastery, a beautiful church build in 1740 is now surrounded by a prosper little cleric community.From here you can see the whole mountain and the valley beneath.

From “Cheia chalet” location, a very spectacular view of big walls with tough climbing routes and lots of caves to explore, wild river and undisturbed forests.

Accommodation: Cheia Chalet – 900m

2^ND DAY. Hiking in Buila-Vânturarita Mountains

• Difficulty: demanding hike
• Hiking time: 8,5 h

Schedule of the day:

• 8:00: wake up, breakfast and briefing
• 9:00: living Cheia location and easy ascending up a little affluent of cheia river in to the forest
• 10:30: a little break at Comarnice abandoned sheep farm. We are steel in the woods so it is a good opportunity for those who like nature to observe the fauna and flora of these dense and wild Carpathians forests.
• 12:00: we get to the alpine area and the slopes are steeper. The whitnes of the limestones is pleasing we began the first portion of the Buila-Vanturarita ridge at it`s highest point, Vânturarita peak, 1885 m. From now on the hike is alpine and hard.
• 14:00: we arrive at a sheep farm in what is called Curmatura Builei. It is a low point in the ridge and a little peak is separated fro m the rest – Tucla peak. From the top of this peak you have the fealing you are a top of a layng dino. We will have the opportunity to see how the cheese is made and taste the final product directly at the shepherd.
• 14:20: we continue the trip on a large high plateau until we get on the end of the ridge. At this end is the valey of Bistrita river
• 15.30: we are living Curmatura Builei, after getting back from the last part of the ridge, on a trail that goes under the ridge and then crosses the meadows we saw from the top. In a while we will enter again in the forest.
• 17:30: arrive back in Cheia Chalet

Highlights of the day:

Buila-Vanturarita ridge, with a length of almost 14 km, with spectacular views and strong sensation to offer.

3^RD DAY, MONDAY

Hiking on Buila-Vânturarita Mountains.

• Difficulty: hard hike
• Hiking time: 7 h.

Schedule of the day:

• 8:00: waking up, breakfast and briefing
• 9:00: leaving for the down stream of Cheia river. The entering point in the deep gorge is not far from the chalet. We enter the realm of limestone boulders fallen like pebbles and fast running waters with care. On the tour we will have to jump from boulder to boulder, walk thru cold water and put on climbing gear for short descents.
• 13:00: we get out of the gorge and we take a long break
• 13.30: we take-off to go back to the chalet. After a short walk on a forestry road, we climb a steep slope before getting to the first high point that dominate the gorge we just left. From here we have a very beautiful view of the trail hanging dangerously over the river below.
• 15:00: arriving at the starting point. The end of this part that is called The Goat Trail we might spot some black goats that live on the higher ground of the mountain.
• 16:00: easy activities like easy climbing on the nearby rock called Santinela Cheii

Highlights of the day:

Cheia Gorge, separating big walls and having lots of caves it is spectacular in its appearance. It is wild and fascinating.

4^TH DAY, Hiking: in Cozia Mts (~9 hours)

• Level rate: hard hike
• Hiking time: ~ 9 (nine) hours
• Height difference: + 1200 m

Schedule of the day:

8:00: waking up, breakfast and briefing
9:00: living the chalet and crossing the river we climb a steep slope that is a shortcut of the forestry road we came on at Cheia. We arrive at a tunnel and continue our trip until we enter the forest and had randomly towards Olanesti gorge
11:00: we arrive at Olanesti gorge and take a break for site seeing
11:30: we live the gorge and had to the bold mountains that can be seen in the background. They seem close but it will take a wile to get there. The slope will be moderate and the climb mostley thru the woods.
13:30: we get to the alpine zone.The hike takes us now on easy terrain even we are at over 2000 meters.
15:00: we begin descending slowly until we get to the forest and from there to the chalet

Highlights of the day:

The alpine area of the main Capatanii ridge, a calm terrain area that is very gets over 2000 m and has a beautiful panoramic view. Also on these area black berries grow in large quantities.

5^th DAY, Hiking in Cozia Mts

• Level rate: It’s a rather easy hike.
• Hiking time:~ 6 hours
• Transfer time:3 h
• Height difference: +600 m.
  

• Sightseeing objectives: Beautiful view over Parang, Retezat, Latoritei Mts. The glacial lakes of Parang.
  • Cozia mountains, a small but wild mountain.
  • Calimanesti, a little resort well known for its curative spring waters.
  • Stânisoara monastery, a monument from XVIII century
  • Turnu monastery, build in 1676 near hand carved caves of a monk that lived there long time ago

Day schedule:

• 8:00 waking up, breakfast and briefing
• 9:00 leaving by car. First we get on the way back to Cheia than Ramnicu Valcea and from here to Calimanesti – a little turistic town well known in the world for its “wonder” springs. From Calimanesti we had on a forestry road with the car to Stanisoara monastery.
• 12:00 from Stanisoara we begin the hike to the Cozia chalet. The trail takes us over some steep slopes and wild terrain. Spoting black goats and wild bores is not unusual.
• 15:00 arriving at Cozia chalet. We take a break for tea resting.
• 16:00 living Cozia chalet. We get down on Turneanu – a ridge that descend from Cozia peak (1668 m). The little towns below are a nice scene as well as the Buila-Vanturarita ridge that it just on the opposite bank of Olt river that flows between.
• 18:00 we arrive at Turnu monastery, our final destination.
  Accommodation: Guest-house Caciulata.

6^TH DAY

• Difficulty: easy hike
  

  

• Hiking time: 4h
• Transfer time: 3h

Schedule of the day:

• 8:00 waking up, breakfast and briefing
• 9:00 we live by car to Lotrisor gorge. The Lotrisor is a small river that flows into Olt river. Its gorge are at some points very high. Here are also climbing routes of all difficulties
• 9:30 we will leave the car at the entrence of the park an start hiking on the forestry road that takes us deeper in the hart of the mountain Basarab.
• 10:30 we arrive at Lotrisor waterfall. Here we take a break and prepare to do a little rockclimbing.
• 12:30 living the Lotrisor waterfall and heading for a tour of some very famous monasteries.
• 14:00 Cozia monastery
• 15:30 Ostrov monastery
• 16:30 Cornetu monastery
• 17:00 from Cornetu we will get on boat and descend on a few rapids of Olt river.
• 18:00 arriving at the hotel

Highlights of the day:

• Cozia monastery, build in 1387-1391 by Mircea cel Batran
• Ostrov monastery, build in 1521
• Cornetu monastery, build in 1666
• Lotrisor gorge and waterfall, a spectacular view of untamed nature
• Olt canyon, ancient trade route and bridge between two parts of Romania

Accommodation: Hotel in Cozia


7TH DAY SATURDAY
Return to Bucharest
Timing upon flight schedule.

Trip duration (days): 13
Required gear: sleeping bag, sleeping mattress, tent, camping stove and gas, backpack, trekking boots, waterproof and warm layers of clothes, frontlight, binoculars – you’ll have a complete list by email within 2 weeks of departure.
Accommodation: Tents and basic shelters. Chalets, guest houses and hotels may sometimes be an option (at your own expense).

1^ST DAY – Bucharest – Piatra Craiului Mountain

• Level rating: easy
• Highlights: – From Bucharest International Airport or Bucharest, by car, to Bran – visit of Bran Castle, then Râsnov Fortress and, in the evening, arriving at the foot of Piatra Craiului. The sunset on the limestone rock face is really impressive from this location. After setting up tent you will serve your first picnic-dinner (included) on the mountain.
• Accommodation: Tents near Plaiul Foii chalet, or Plaiul Foii chalet (should you want to book a room at Plaiul Foii, we should know as early as possible before in order to make the booking).

2^ND DAY – Plaiu Foii – Spirla shelter – chasing bears

• Level rating: easy to medium, 3-4 hours.
• Highlights: Wildlife observation from a good sighting spot (if we’ll get lucky, we may see some bears), and Zaplaz natural rock formation (if time permits).
• Accommodation: Spirla shelter (minimal conditions) or tents near Spirla shelter.

8:00 Breakfast (included)
09:00 Leaving our previous night’s camp site for Spirla Shelter
11:30 Pitching up the tents for the new camp site
12:00 Picnic lunch (included)

13:00 After lunch, we meet up with the park rangers to take us to a spotting place for the brown bears. (EUR 25,- photo tax for personal use or EUR50,- photo tax for commercial use are not included )
20:00 We’re back at camp and preparing our picnic dinner.

3^rd DAY –Spirla shelter – Ceardacu Stanciului – Funduri saddle

• Level rating: medium to difficult,  5-6 hours.
• Highlights: Piatra Craiului’s west walls, The Great Scree, Ceardacului Cave.
• Accommodation: Funduri shelter (minimal conditions) or tents near Funduri shelter

8:00 Breakfast (included)
09:00 Leaving our previous night’s camp site and heading towards the Great Scree
13:00 Picnic lunch (included) under the beautiful arcade near Stanciu’s Cave
16:00 Reaching Funduri’ Saddle the southmost extremety of the main ridge of Piatra Craiului
19:00 Dinner (included)

4^th DAY – Funduri saddle – ‘La table’ – Grind 1 shelter – Grind 2 shelter (on the main ridge) – optional return to sleep near Grind 1.

Grind Shelter

• Level rating: medium to difficult,  7-8 hours.
• Highlights: Piatra Craiului east walls, some sheepfolds, the main ridge.
• Accommodation: Grind 1 or 2 shelter (minimal conditions) or tents in the vicinity.

8:00 Breakfast (included)
09:00 Leaving our previous night’s camp site and heading towards “La table” area
13:00 Picnic lunch (included) in “La table” area
15:00 Reaching Grind I shelter and moving onwards to Grind II shelter located up on the ridge
17:00 Arrival at Grind II, located on the narrow ridge close to Piatra Craiului’s highest point “La om” peak.
19:00 Dinner (included)

5^TH DAY – Grind 1 (or 2, it depends on where we’ll choose to sleep) – Prăpăstiile Zărneștilor Gorge – Zărnești town – Sinaia mountain resort.

• Level rating: easy to medium,  4-5 hours easy hiking, then 2 hours by car.
• Highlights: Prăpăstiile Zărneștilor – spectacular gorge, arrival in Sinaia mountain resort in the evening.
• Accomodation: a guest house in Sinaia.

8:00 Breakfast (included)
09:00 Leaving our previous night’s camp site and heading towards the town of Zărnesti (4h) where we meet our driver who will take us to Sinaia
14:00 Lunch in Predeal (not included)
17:00 Reaching Sinaia and checking in to our accommodation
19:00 Dinner (not included)
Take the time in Sinaia to relax after the first trekking session

6^th DAY  – Sinaia – Peleș and Pelișor Royal Castles and transfer to Sighisoara

Peles

A day of relaxation visiting museums in Sinaia in the morning and exploring Sighisoara’s medieval center in the evening
• Highlights: Peles and Pelisor Castles, Sighisoara medieval city, the place where Vlad Tepes, who inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula fictional character was born.
• Accommodation: a guest house Sighisoara.
09:00 Breakfast (included)
10:00 We are going to visit the famous Peles and Pelisor castles, as well as the Sinaia monastery (entry fees not included).
14:00 Lunch in Sinaia (not included)
18:00 Arrival at Sighisoara and check in.
19:00 Dinner (not included)

7^th DAY – Sighișoara – Sibiu medieval city – Alba Iulia – Pietroasa

Sighisoara

Transfer by car from Sighisoara to Pietroasa
• Highlights: Visiting Sighisoara medieval city, with the clock tower, torture chamber and other interesting sites
Visiting the city of Sibiu, medieval city in the middle of Transylvania and European Cultural Capital in 2007.
• Accommodation: Tents near Pietroasa Village
09:00 Breakfast (included)
You will have the morning to visit Sighisoara’s historical sites and afterwards we move on to Sibiu where we will have lunch (not included)
14:00 Lunch (not included)
20:00 Arrival at Pietroasa
20:00 Picnic dinner (included) after
pitching up the tents.

8^th DAY – Hiking in Apuseni mountains

Apuseni Mountains

• Level rating: easy- 4-5 hours easy hiking.
• Highlights: Poiana Glăvoi area
• Accomodation: tents

09:00 Breakfast (included)
10:00 We pack the tents and start our easy hike up the mountain
14:00 Picnic lunch (included)
16:00 Arrival at Glăvoi area, where we will set up our camp.
17:00 Relaxation to recover form the long roadtrip
19:00 Picnic dinner. (included)

9^th DAY – Hiking  and caving in Apuseni Mountains – Ponor Fortresses, The Living Fire caves

Focul Viu Glacier

• Level rating: rating: 6-7 hours of moderately difficult hike, 250 m height difference
• Highlights: Focul Viu Cave Glacier, Cetățile Ponorului limestone formations.
• Accomodation: tents

09:00 Breakfast (included)
10:00 We leave camp and head down to Ponor Fortress cave system,
stopping to admire the view from the balconies on the way
14:00 Picnic lunch (included) and moving on to Focul viu cave (Living
Fire), it’s name coming from the fact that on sunny days light comes in
through a hole in the ceiling of the cave and lights up the remains of
the glacial ice inside.
17:00 Arrival at Glăvoi area where we spend the rest of the day relaxing.
19:00 Picnic dinner. (included)

10^th DAY -- Hiking and caving in Apuseni Mountains – The Lost World caves

Galbena Gorge

•Level rating: Moderately difficult
hike, 7-8 hours
• Highlights: The Galbena gorges, the finest gorge in the Western
Carpathians, made by the river Galbena which springs from an
interesting underground water system.
The Evantai waterfall (Fan Waterfall) with it’s superb crystal clear water
and system of pools.
• Accommodation: tents in Glăvoi area

09:00 Breakfast (included)
10:00 We leave the Glăvoi area and set out in the woods to find one of  the most superbe gorge system in the country Cheile Galbenei
14:00 Picnic lunch (included)
18:00 Arrival at Glăvoi area where we spend the rest of the day relaxing.
19:00 Picnic dinner. (included)

11^th DAY – Hiking  and caving in Apuseni Mountains – The Lost World caves

• Level rating: Easy to moderate hike, 5-6 hours
• Highlights: ‘Lumea Pierduta’ cave network the largest system of caves, holes, tunnels and other interesting features carved in limestone in the area
• Accommodation: tents in the vicinity of Padis chalet.

09:00 Breakfast (included)
10:00 We leave the Glăvoi after packing our tents and start our adventure to the Lost World. You’re not going to find Arthur Conan
Doyle’s plesiosaurs flying around, but you’re surely going to be astounded.
14:00 Picnic lunch (included)
18:00 Arrival at Glăvoi area where we spend the rest of the day relaxing.
19:00 Picnic dinner. (included)

12^th DAY – Hiking  and caving in Apuseni Mountains – Padiș – Scărișoara Cave Galcier

• Level rating: Moderate hike, 7-8 hours

Highlights: Padiş, Cheile Gârdişoarei, Casa de Piatră, Izbucul Tăuz, Peştera Scărişoara

• Accomodation: tents in the vicinity Scărișoara Cave Galcier.

13^th DAY – Transfer to Bucharest, by car

On every day spent on the mountains, we’ll have the breakfast at 8.00. The hike will begin at 9.00.

Subscribe now to this trip and choose your departure departure dates !

Area: Fagaras Mountains / Piatra Craiului Mountains
Level rate: Moderate
Date of departure: August, 3rd, 2010
Nr. of team members: 2-10
Trip duration (days): 12
Required gear: sleeping bag, backpack, boots, waterproof and warm changing cloths,
front-light and sweets.
Accommodation: tents & chalets

Day 1 – From the city to the wild
Transfer by minibus to the mountains

Road to Poienari Fortress

- pick-up at Bucharest international Henry Coanda Airport and transfer to Fagaras mountains
- depending on your arrival, on the way, if time allows it, we will visit Poienari Fortress and Vidraru Dam.
- picnic dinner (included)
Accommodation in tents (alt 1200m)
Poienari was erected around the beginning of the 13th century by the first Romanian rulers in the South region of Romania, known as Wallachia. In the 15th century, realizing the potential for a castle perched
high on a steep precipice of rock, Vlad III the Impaler, known also as Vlad Dracula, repaired and consolidated the structure, making it one of his main fortresses.
Although the castle was used for many years after Vlad’s death in 1476, it eventually was abandoned again in the first half of the 16th century and was in ruins by the 17th century. Due to its size and location, control
of the castle was difficult to take, even by natural forces. However, in 1888, a landslide brought down a portion of the castle which crashed into the river far below. Nonetheless, the castle was slightly repaired and
the walls and its towers still stand today. To reach the castle, visitors need to climb up from the valley 1500 steps.

Day 2 – Capra Lake (2505m)
Piscu Negru – Călţun Lake – Capra Lake

• Level rating: medium difficulty, about 8 hours of trekking
• Highlights: Călţun glacial lake, just under the Călţun Wall, the tallest north-face in Romania, trekking on the main ridge of Făgăras and Capra glacial lake.
• Accommodation: in tents near Capra Lake
• Short description:
- 07:00 Breakfast (included);
- 07:30 We leave our camping site and head up Paltinul stream towards CălŃun Lake;
- 11:00 Arrvial at CălţunLake, where we take a short rest before continuing;
- 13:00 Picnic lunch (included);
- 14:00 Arrival at Paltinul Saddle from which we continue for another hour to Capra Lake;
- 15:00 We arrive at lake Capra and after a rest we could do an optional hike up to Vânătoarea lui Buteanu peak for a wonderful panorama;
- 19:00 Dinner (included).

Day 3 – Approaching Podragu- the base for summiting Moldoveanu peak the next day
Capra Glacial Lake – Podragu Hut

Podragu Lake

• Level rating: medium difficulty, about 7 hours of trekking
• Highlights: Trekking on one of the most steep and difficult zones Făgăras has to offer, arriving
at Podragu hut where we will plan the next day’s ascent on Moldoveanu.
• Accommodation: in tents near Podragu Chalet
• Short description:
- 08:00 Breakfast (included);
- 08:30 We leave our camping site and start hiking towards Fereastra Zmeilor Shelter;
- 10:30 Arrival at Fereastra Zmeilor Shelter;
- 13:00 Picnic lunch (included);
- 15:00 Arrival at Podragu Hut , where we could do an optional hike to Podrăgel Lake;
- 19:00 Dinner (included).

Day 4 – Romania’s Roof – Moldoveanu Peak and down again
Podragu – Moldoveanu Peak (2545) – Fereastra
Sâmbetei
• Level rating: medium difficulty, about 8 hours of trekking
• Highlights: Reaching Moldoveanu Peak (2545)
– highest in Romania.
• Accommodation: in tents near Fereastra Zmeilor Saddle
• Short description:
- 07:00 Breakfast (included);
- 07:30 We leave Podragu and start hiking towards Viştea Mare peak;
- 11:00 Taking our final steps before reaching Moldoveanu peak;
- 11:30 Going down and starting the trail towards Fereastra Mare;
- 13:00 Picnic lunch;
- 14:30 Arrival at Fereastra Mare a Sambetei saddle
From this point, we could continue on with the trek and camp further on the
ridge if you are not to tired, otherwise we camp in Fereastra Mare saddle;
- 19:00 Dinner (included).

Day 5 – Entering Piatra Craiului Through Rudăriţa Canton
Fereastra Mare a Sâmbetei – Curmătura Zârnei – Vârful Comisu – Chaleta Rudăriţa
• Level rating: medium difficulty, about 8-9 hours of trekking (mostly descending)
• Highlights: Superb views over the massif, trekking through one of the wilder zones of Făgăras and our first view over Piatra Craiului Mountains.
• Accommodation: in tents near Rudărita Canton
• Short description:
- 07:00 Breakfast (included);
- 07:30 We leave our camping site and start the hike towards Rudăriţa Canton, the gate to Piatra Craiului;
- 10:00 Stop for a break at Curmătura Zârnei Canton;
- 13:00 Picnic lunch;
- 16:00 Arrival at Rudăriţa Canton ;
Here we have the option to go further (another 10 km) and camp near Plaiu Foii Chalet
- 19:00 Dinner (included).

Day 6 – Resting at Plaiu Foii Chalet
• Level rating: easy difficulty, about 2 hours of trekking (on a forest road)
• Highlights: Relaxing while admiring the west-walls of Piatra Craiului.
• Accommodation: Plaiu Foii Chalet
• Short description:
- 07:00 Breakfast (included);
- 07:30 We leave Rudăriţa Canton and follow the road to Plaiul Foii;
- 09:00 arrival at Plaiu Foii;
- 13:00 Lunch at Plaiu Foii Chalet(not included);
There is no program for the rest of the day, the guide will go to town for some
fresh supplies, while you enjoy the the time off, or join him on his way to Zărnesti
- 19:00 Dinner at Plaiu Foii Chalet(not included)

Day 7 – First Day of Wildlife Observation
Plaiu Foii – Spirla shelter – Zăplaz
• Level rating: medium difficulty, about 4-5
hours of trekking.
• Highlights: Spirla Shelter, Zăplaz, Wildlife
observation.
• Accommodation: Tents near Plaiu Foii Area
• Short description:
- 08:30 Breakfast (included);
- 09:00 Leaving our camping spot for Spirla
Shelter.
- 11:00 We arrive at Spirla shelter, place where an anti-aircraft cannon was placed in
World War II;
- 12:00 We visit the peculiar rock formation of Zaplaz;
- 14:00 We are back at our camping place and we serve a picnic lunch ;
- 17:00 We meet up with the park rangers who will take us for our first encounter with Piatra Craiului’s wildlife (EUR 25,- photo tax for personal use or EUR50,- photo tax for
commercial use are not included );
- 20:00-21:00 Picnic Dinner at our camping place.

Day 8 – Second Day of Wildlife Observation
Plaiu Foii – Spirla shelter – Zăplaz

Rupicapra Rupicapra

• Level rating: medium to difficult, 5-6 hours.
• Highlights: Diana Shelter, Colţii Chiliilor Monastery, second day wildlife observation.
• Accommodation: Tents near Plaiu Foii Area
• Short description:
- 08:00 Breakfast (included);
- 09:00 Leaving our camping spot for Diana Shelter.
- 11:00 We arrive at Diana shelter, one of the first shelters in Piatra Craiului was built here, but it’s been replaced with the new one we will visit.
- 12:00 We visit Colţii Chiliilor Monastery
- 14:00 We are back at our camping place and we serve a picnic lunch
- 17:00 We meet up with the park rangers that will take us for another encounter with Piatra Craiului’s wildlife.
- 20:00-21:00 Picnic Dinner at our camping place

Day 9 – Exploring the south ridge of mount Piatra Craiului
Plaiu Foii – Spirla shelter – Zăplaz – La Om – Saua Funduri – marele Grohotis – Plaiu Foii
• Level rating: medium to difficult, 10-11 hours.
• Highlights: La Lanțuri route, one of the most spectacular marked trails in Romania,
Piscu Baciului peak, the highest in Piatra
Craiului, the South ridge, offering a wonderful
opportunity to spot black mountain goats
climbing the rocky faces of Piatra Craiului .
• Accommodation: Tents near Plaiu Foii Area
• Short description:
- 07:00 Breakfast (included);
- 08:00 Leaving our camping spot and passing by Spirla shelter
- 12:00 We arrive at Grind II shelter, up on the
ridge and up to Piscu Baciului Peak.
- 12:30 We are back at Grind II and we will have a picnic lunch.
- 13:00 We head on the South ridge until we reach Funduri Saddle
- 16:00 From Funduri Saddle we return to Plaiu Foii on a route that goes beneath the
west faces of Piatra Craiului
- 19:00-20:00 Picnic Dinner at our camping place

Day 10 – Relaxation and the 3rd day of wildlife observation
• Level rating: easy
• Highlights Third day of wildlife observation
Accommodation: Tents near Plaiu Foii Area
• Short description:
- 09:00 Breakfast (included);
- 10:00 Today we relax, but we can find lots of
trails to walk around for those who wish to.
- 14:00 Lunch (included)
- 17:00 The rangers will come to pick us up for
our third evening of wildlife exploration
- 21:00 Picnic dinner at our camping place
DAY 11 – Popasul Craiului- “Hopes’ Shelter” – Wildlife observation
• Level rating: Medium
• Highlights An unmarked trail that will lead us to “Hopes’ Shelter”, placed in the heart
of the mountain, our last evening of wildlife observation
• Short description:
- 08:00 Breakfast (included);
- 9:00 We will head off into the mountain to find the Hopes’ Shelter, a spot where in the
early 50’s the cream of the romanian alpine community gathered and set up bases for the
exploration of the massif
- 14:00 Picnic lunch (included)
- 17:00 We will be accompanied by the park rangers into the forest for the last evening
of wildlife observation.
- 21:00 Picnic dinner at our camping place

DAY 12 – Going to Bucharest
09:00 Breakfast (included);
10:00 Start hiking back to Zărnesti – 12 km of forest
road;
12:00 Taking the public bus to Brasov;
13:00 Exploring Brasov or taking the first mini-bus to
Bucharest.

1ST DAY – Meeting in Brasov
• Level rating: easy
• Highlights: – Visit of Bran Castle, visiting the traditional villages of Măgura and Pestera, first view over Piatra Craiului mountains ridge.
• Accommodation: We will check in at “Casa Folea” chalet, one of the first agro-touristical pensions in Romania.
• Short program: – After meeting up in Brasov we go to the Bus station to Bran and wait for a bus there;
- We visit Bran Castle if time permits and then start hiking up towards Pestera village.
- this day’s breakfast, lunch and dinner are not included.
2ND DAY – Trekking around Piatra Craiului
• Level rating: easy to medium, 6 hours.
• Highlights: trekking through a sheep herding area and visiting (if possible at the time) a traditional shepard’s lodge, Piatra Mică chalet.
• Accommodation: Curmătura Chalet.
• Program schedule:
- 8:30 Breakfast (included);
- 09:30 Leaving our guesthouse and heading towards Table area;
- 12:00 We arrive at Table area, and stop for a talk with the local shepherds and even visit a traditional shepard’s hut;
- 13:00 Picnic lunch (included);
- 14:00 We arrive at Curmătura Chalet, a beautiful, old chalet guarded by two friendly St. Bernards;
- 16:00 After having a rest we will climb Piatra Mică peak a very specacular thin ridge that will give you an ideea about what’s about to come the next day on the main ridge;
- 19:00 We are back at the chalet and we serve dinner (not included)

3rd DAY – Hiking the main ridge of Piatra Craiului and it’s west face
• Level rating: medium to difficult, 6-7 hours.
• Highlights: Reaching the main ridge of Piatra Craiului, one of the most spectacular mountains in Romania, sunset over the west face of Piatra Craiului viewed.
• Accommodation: Plaiul Foii Chalet.
• Short program:
- 8:00 Breakfast (not included)
- 09:00 Leaving Curmătura Caban and going up the ridge through
from AscuŃit to La om peak
- 13:00 We stop for picnic lunch (included)
- 15:00 We arrive at La om peak, the highest point of the ridge at 2238.
- 18:00 We are at the Spirla shelter and not far from tonight’s
accommodation, the Plaiul Foii Chalet.
- 19:00 Serving dinner (not included)at Plaiu Foii Chalet

4th DAY – Wildlife observation
• Level rating: easy
• Highlights: An evening wildlife observation
• Accommodation: Plaiu foii chalet.
• Short program:
- 9:00 Breakfast (not included)
- 10:00 Today we relax a bit
in the first half but we can
find lots of trails to walk
around if you want to.
- 14:00 Lunch (not included)
- 18:00 The park rangers will come to pick us up for going to the
wildlife exploration post.
- 20:00 We will serve dinner (not included) at our Chalet

5TH DAY – Exploring Brasov
• Level rating: easy
• Highlights: Exploring Brasov old city centre
• Accommodation: Guest house in Brasov
• Short program:
- 9:00 Breakfast (not included)
- 10:00 We start the hike back to Zărnesti on the forest road.
- 12:00 We arrive at Zărnesti and take the bus to Brasov

- 13:00 Lunch (not included) in Brasov after we checked in at our guesthouse
- 14:00 Free time to explore Brasov
- 20:00 We will serve dinner (not included)

6th DAY – Back on the mountains – Piatra Mare
• Level rating: easy
• Highlights: The 7 Ladders Canion, carved in limestone.
• Accommodation: Piatra Mare chalet.
• Schedule:
- 8:00 Breakfast (not included)
- 9:00 We follow the national road towards the entrance of Piatra Mare
- 11:00 We will arrive at the 7 Ladder Canyon
- 13:00 Check in at Piatra Mare chalet and picnic lunch
(included)
- 14:00 We head off to trek up Piatra Mare peak and if weather
conditions will be good we will have a great view of the area

- 20:00 We will serve dinner (not included)

7th DAY – Visiting Sinaia
• Level rating: easy
• Highlights: Tamina Waterfall, Peles and Pelisor Castles and the Sinaia Monastery.
• Accommodation: a pension in Busteni
• Short program:
- 8:00 Breakfast (not included)
- 9:00 We traverse the Piatra Mare plateau and descent towards Tamina Waterfall
- 11:00 We are passing by the Tamina Waterfall
- 12:00 Go to the railroad station and wait for the train (this station is rather small so not many trains pass through it)
- 15:00 We visit Peles Palace and the Sinaia Monastery after having lunch (not included).
- 19:00 Transfer by public transportation to Busteni where we check in.
8th DAY – Going up on the Bucegi Plateau

• Level rating: easy – moderate
• Highlights: Going up the Bucegi mountains, the natural rock  formation that resembles the Sphinx.
• Accommodation: pension in Bucegi.
• Short program:
- 8:00 Breakfast (not included)
- 9:00 We start our way up the mountain either on an unmarked trail like “Valea Albă” (white valley), or on a touristic path that will lead us to the Bucegi Plateau.
- 13:00 We visit the peculiar rock formations around Babele chalet

- 14:00 We stop for a picnic lunch (included)
- 15:00 Starting our descent on a different path, or by cable car (not included)
- 18:00 We are back in Busteni and we serve dinner(not included)

9th DAY – “La revedere” – Good Bye!

After breakfast we will say good bye, wishing you all the best !
Prices:

Level rate: Moderate
Objectives: Medieval fortified strongholds of Râşnov, Feldioara, Rupea, Viscri, Apold. Medieval town of Sighişoara, Braşov historic center.
Accommodation: based on tents and guest-houses in rural Romania.
Guiding: English speaking, all over the tour
Who can attend: Anyone aged between 12 and 92. The only condition is to be able to ride a bike.

This cycling tour in Transylvania takes you back in time, in the medieval era.
You’ll not only learn about middle-ages history, while visiting castles, strongholds and fortifications of XIII-th – XV-th century, but also discover traditions, lifestyle and relax in the middle of a relaxing landscape.

DAY 1. Transfer by train/car from Bucharest to Predeal Mountain Resort

Cycling Predeal – Bran – Moeciu (30 Km)

Your cycling adventure in Romania starts in Predeal, a mountain resort famous for the ski facilities but also for being placed among four mountains: Bucegi, Baiului, Postăvaru and Piatra Mare.

From Predeal center, you descend quickly up to the road going to Pârâul Rece. You reach this one in about 15 minutes of continuous descending. Here, turn right and start climbing on the asphalted road through the fir-tree forest. The ascend is easy at the beginning, becoming more difficult for the final mile (one and a half km). A well-deserved pause at Pârâul Rece chalet, for a drink and relaxing, after which you continue down the serpentines towards Râşnov (9 km). Once in Râşnov you have passed from Wallachia to Transylvania, the welcoming land of your cycling trip. You have to be careful on the serpentines, but the road is nice, offering, in it’s final part, a nice perspective over Postăvaru Mountains.

From Cheia Hut (on the right), where the serpentine finishes, you follow the same road (still easily descending) for another 2 km up to the when reaching the Braşov – Bran road. Here you turn left for Bran. (Bran Castle is better-known as Dracula Castle, although, in respect to the historic truth it can barely be connected with Vlad Ţepes, from whom the legend of Dracula came. Despite this, Bran is a very nice and well preserved medieval castle, used by the people in Brasov to defend the territory and also as a border point.

There are another 5 km form the crossing point up to the Bran Castle. From Bran, there are another 10 km up to Moeciu, where you stay for the night.

Accommodation near Moeciu Village (also inside the village is weather conditions require)

• Cycling time :  4 hours;
• Level rating: easy – moderate
• Objectives : Bran Castle, the road in the fir-tree forest, nice view over Bucegi Mountains, and from Bran, over Piatra Craiului Mountains and the surrounding areas.

Day 2. Cycling in Bârsa county:

Moeciu – Bran – Râşnov – Braşov City

In the morning, come back to Bran, this time without stopping by. You’ll continue directly to Râşnov following the same road, this time towards Braşov City. You reach Râşnov in about 25 km and then climb up to the citadel on top of the hill. The Râşnov Fortress is a XIV century peasants’ fortification, built in order to defend the villagers in the surrounding depressions. It’s one of the best preserved strongholds in Transylvania and in Eastern Europe. To reach the citadel from the village a short but steep road must be followed.

The visit to Râşnov will take about two hours. Descending from the citadel you continue to Braşov, reaching the city after another hour of easy cycling. Go visit the main square, where the Black Church is the main attraction. This gothic cathedral hosts the biggest pipe organ in Eastern Europe.

Not far away from the Black Church you meet the rope’s street (Strada Sforii), the narrowest street in Europe, about 1 meter wide. In Scheii Brasovului you find St. Nicholas Church, with the first Romanian school.

• Cycling time :  4 hours;
• Level rating: moderate
• Objectives : Râşnov medieval stronghold, Braşov City, the view over Bucegi mountains and Bârsa County.

Accommodation in Braşov, *** guest-house / camping Dârste.

Day 3. Cycling in Braşov Area, looking for fortified churches

Cycling in Transylvania: Braşov – Feldioara – Hoghiz/Dopca /Rupea (65 km)

From Brasov, head right on the E60 or on a county road, up to Feldioara, the where the ruins another fortified church are to be seen. The view from the ruins goes far away over the Transylvanian plateau. Feldioara’s name in Magyar is Marienburg, the same as the city in Poland founded by the Teutonic knights. In fact Feldioara itself was built by Teutonic knights (XIV-th century). From Feldioara, continue on the slightly hilly road up to Rupea. In Rupea, a short demanding climb on a tractor road have to be followed to reach the fortress.

Optional: A longer trip will also pass by Prejmer, another nice stronghold in South-Eastern Transylvania.

• Cycling time :  5-6 hours;
• Level rating:  moderate
• Objectives : Feldioara fortress ruins, Rupea Fortress,

Accommodation :  Pitching the tents in Rupea area. Depending on your physical shape and the weather you can also choose to stay in a guest-house in Dopca or Hoghiz.

Day 4. Heading for Sighisoara Medieval Town.

Cycling day:  Rupea – Sighişoara (50 km)

The trip follows the main road for a while, passing by Transylvania’s villages and reaching Sighişoara by the end of the day.
Sighişoara is an outstanding testimony to the culture of the Transylvanian Saxons, a culture that is coming to a close after 850 years and will continue to exist only through its architectural and urban monuments.
Sighişoara is the only medieval citadel in Europe still inhabited (life goes on here like nothing has changed in the last four centuries). In the meantime Sighişoara is the place where Vlad Ţepes (a.k.a Dracula) was born.

Accommodation: *** guest-house in Sighişoara

• Cycling time :  5-6 hours;
• Level rating:  moderate
• Objectives : Rupea Fortress, Sighişoara Medieval Town, part of UNESCO world heritage.

Day 5. Leaving Sighişoara, heading for Făgăraş

Sighişoara – Apold – Soarş – Făgăraş (60 km)

Leaving Sighişoara, heading south toward Apold fortress

Terrain is again slightly hilly, going up and down for easy pants.

• Cycling time: 4 – 5 hours;
• Level rating:  moderate
• Objectives: Apold, Şoarş pe Târnave medieval fortresses. Făgăraş fortress

Accommodation in Făgăraş, or pitching the tents on the surrounding hills / in a nearby village.

Day 6. Făgăraş – Braşov (70 Km)

During the last day of our trip, we head towards Braşov, heaving a beautiful view of Făgăraş mountains.

• Cycling time :  ~5 hours;
• Level rating:  moderate
• Objectives : The view over Făgăraş Mountains and the sub-Carpathian hills
  

From Braşov, take the train back to Bucharest. On demand, we can provide the transfer by car.

View Directions to brasov, romania in a larger map

See you…when we’ll see you ! J

Level rate: Moderate – Demanding

Dates of departure: May – October, on demand

Nr. of team members: 2 – 10

Trip length (days): 11

Required gear: Backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, food, spot light (preferably front-lamp), good boots, waterproof and warm changing cloths, water can, sweets.We provide: the tents, trekking poles,

1^ST DAY, SATURDAY

Transfer by car from the Bucharest-Otopeni airport to Sinaia mountain resort (90 km.)If schedule allows (depending on your flight’s arrival), walking through Sinaia (visit Peleş museum, former residence of Romanian royal family).

Easy two hours hike up to Piscul Câinelui peak. Accommodation under Piscul Câinelui Peak (950 m).

• Very easy hike.
• Hiking time: ~ 1.5 hours
• Height difference: 200 m
• Sightseeing objectives: The Bucegi steep valleys, Sightseeing of Caraiman Massif in Bucegi Mountains

2^ND DAY, SUNDAY

Hiking on Baiului Mountains.

Packing and leaving Piscul Cainelui Hut. Reaching Piscul Cainelui Peak (1658 m), after passing the sheepfold and having a first contact with the pastoral life. Baiu Mare Peak (1908). Beautiful sightseeing of Bucegi Mts. Ridge Petru-Orgojoaia. Descend through Predeluş Pass (1298 m.) and camping here.

• Moderate to demanding hike.
• Hiking time – ~ 8-9 hours
• Height difference: 1.000 m
• Sightseeing objectives: The steep valleys of Bucegi Mountains, landscape over Grohotiş Mountains

3^RD DAY, MONDAY

Hiking: Grohotiş Mountains

Unpitching the tents and leaving Pasul Predelus. Heading for the “Sloeru-Marcusanu” Peak (1592) in Grohotis Mts., a wide wild zone. Crossing the Grohotis Mountains, descend through Cheia spa. Camping next to Cheia spa (~925 m.) and stay here over night.

Visit the Cheia Monastery, if time allows.

• A medium rated hike
• Hiking time – ~ 8 (eight) hours
• Height difference: + 650 m , – 625 m
• Sightseeing objectives: Landscape over Grohotiş Mountains, Siriu Mountains, Ciucaş Mountains

Ciucas Mountains, Romanian Carpathians

Hiking on Ciucas Mountains (~9-10 hours)

Unpitching the tents and leaving Cheia .

• A demanding hike
• Hiking time: ~ 9 (nine) hours
• Height difference: + 900 m , – 300 m
• Sightseeing objectives: The Bizarre Stones in Ciucas, Beautiful landscape over Grohotis, Siriu, Ciucaş.

Ciucas rocks

Hiking on Ciucaş Massif

Short descend for seeing “The devil’s hand” and “The twins of Ciucas” rocks then hike to “Saua Tigăilor” (Pan’s Saddle) (1745 m.) and to Bratocea Peak(1827 m.) going back to Ciucaş hut, stay here over night, in the tents.

• A medium rated hike
• Hiking time: ~6-7 (six – seven) hours
• Height difference: + 300 m , – 300 m
• Sightseeing objectives: the Beatiful panorama from the Ciucas Peak. The stones “The devil’s hand”, “The twins of Ciucaş”

Hiking on Romanian Mountains

Hiking on Ciucas Mts.

Unpitching the tents and leaving the campsite.

Hiking route: Leaving Ciucaş Mountains through south-east, heading towards Siriu Mountains; going to “Izvorul Hotului” (The Thief’s Spring); small rest and launch in the shepherd’s house here. Descend towards Valea Stânii (The Sheepfold’s Valley) river, passing thru “Cheile Văii Stânii” (The Shepard’s Valley Gorges) descend through “Poiana Valea Stânii” (Shepfold Valley’s Meadow) “Pastravarie”, eating fresh fish.

• A medium hike
• Hiking time – 6 (six) hours
• Height difference: – 300 m
• Sightseeing objectives: nice panorama over the Ciucaş massif, Zăganu Ridge. The Shepard’s Valley Gorges

7^TH DAY, FRIDAY

Hiking on Siriu Mountains

Un-pitching the tents and leaving Poiana Valea Stânii, heading through “Tabla Buţii” ; Start ascending in Siriu, passing by Tătarul Mare Peak (1476) then reaching Siriu Peak (1657 m.) Descend to Gura Siriului village

• It’s rather an easy – medium hike
• Hiking time : 6 (six) hours
• Height difference: + 500 m
• Sightseeing objectives: nice panorama over the Ciucaş massif, The Buzau’s Valley

8^TH DAY, SATURDAY

Hiking Penteleu Mountains

Unpitching the tents, leaving Gura Siriului and heading through Penteleu Mountains Reaching Penteleu Peak (1772 m.) after 4 hours of hike; Descend to Terca village

• An easy – medium hike
• Hiking time – 7 (seven) hours
• Height difference: ~ 900 m.
• Sightseeing objectives: nice forests in Penteleu Massif

9^TH DAY, SUNDAY

Hiking Buzău Mountains. Visit to “The Living Fire” (Focul Viu). Then heading thru Meledic.

Check the Salt Mountain in Meledic and the entrance to the salt cave (this cave is the biggest cave in Europe developed in salt and the second in the word) Easy walk on the plateau of Meledic. Visiting the entries in some caves.

Pitching the tents next to Meledic Lake. (accommodation in camping’s small houses also available, on demand)

• An easy hike
• Hiking time – 4 (four) hours
• Height difference: ~ 200 m.
• Sightseeing objectives: the carstic plateau Meledic, the salt mountain of Meledic, the entrance to the salt cave.

10^TH DAY, MONDAY

Walking on the Buzau Mts

Looking for the caves in Buzău Mountains. This are the first proves of Christianity in this territory, and also between the first proves in Europe.

Visiting the Agaton Cave and the other caves.

• An easy walk
• Hiking time – 5 (five) hours
• Height difference: ~ 200 m.
• Sightseeing objectives: the caves in Buzău Mts, the Buzău Valley .

11^TH DAY, THURSDAY

• Visiting the muddy volcanoes , unique geological phenomena, with a moon-like landscape
• Transfer by car from the muddy volcanoes to International Airport Bucharest Otopeni or Bucharest, according to your flight’s schedule

Our rates for 2010

• * EUR 299,-/pax (for full groups 9-10 attendees) – two guides/ transfers by mini-bus
• * EUR 340,-/pax (for groups of 7-8 attendees) – two guides/ transfers by mini-bus
• * EUR 399,-/pax (for groups of 5-6 attendees) – two guides/ transfers by mini-bus
• * EUR 415,-/pax (for groups of 3-4 attendees) – one guide only/transfers by van

Rates are per person per trip and include:

• Transfer from the Otopeni Airport to Sinaia resort,
• Rental of: tents, the gas cooking stove, sleeping mats, trekking poles.
• Guiding service – English speaker; all over the tour.
• Food on the mountains (3 meals/day)
• Transfer from Buzău to Bucharest Airport Otopeni

© Outdoor Holidays, 2001 – 2010

Subscribe now to this trip and choose your departure departure dates !

40 lakes, and 25 small water eyes, together with impressive mountain ridges, makes the beauty Parâng Mountains. The trip takes place in the world of Glacial Lakes, but also presents some of romaniaţs hidden mountains: Latoriţa, Cindrel, Lotru

1 ST DAY, SATURDAY

Transfer by car towards the Carpathian Mountains: Bucharest Airport OTOPENI – Râmnicu Vâlcea – Brezoi – Ciungetu (230 Km)

Pitching the tents in the Repedea Valley area. Stay over night (height: 1.000 m) (3281 feet)

2 ND DAY, SUNDAY

Taking a tour in the “Piatra Târnovului” Massif: Repedea Valley – Stânele (Sheep folds) “Piatra Târnovului” – The “Piatra Târnovului” ridge – back to Repedea Valley. Overnight in our camp.

• Medium to difficult hike.
• Hiking time – 8 (eight) hours
• Height difference: 900 m
• Sightseeing objectives: the beautiful wild limestone area on the “Piatra Târnovului” Ridge.

3 RD DAY, MONDAY

Unpitching the tents and leaving the campsite.

Hiking: Ciungetu – Petrimanu – The Galbenu Lake

• An easy to moderate hike
• Hiking time – 5 ½ (five and a half) hours
• Height difference: 250 m
• Sightseeing objectives: The Latorita Gorge; The Petrimanu Lake; The Galbenu Lake
• Optional: The Galbenu Lake – The Latorita Waterfall (accessible only on dry weather; there are waters to cross). Time: 3 (three) hours. Medium to difficult hike.
  Pitching the tents in the Galbenu Lake area (height: 1.250 m). Stay over night.

4 TH DAY, TUESDAY

Unpitching the tents and leaving the campsite.

Hiking route in the “Latorita Massif”: The “Galbenu Lake” – The “Stefanu Saddle” – The “Lotru’s Spring”.

• A rather moderate hike
• Hiking time – 6 ½ (six and a half) hours
• Height difference: 650 m
• Sightseeing objectives: Beautiful view over the “Latorita’s Pail”
• Pitching the tents in the “Lotru’s Bridge” area (4 Km away from the “Lotru’s Spring”). Height: 1.400 m. Stay over night

5 TH DAY, WEDNESDAY

Hiking tour in the Parâng Massif: Lotru’s Bridge – The Zanoaga Lake – The Setea Mare Peak – The “Bird’s Ridge” (Muchia Păsării) – The “Devil’s Pail” (Căldarea Dracului) – The “Bird’s Lakes” (Tăurile Păsărilor) – The “Câlcescu Lake” – Back to the Lotru’s Bridge.

• A medium-difficult hike
• Hiking time – 10 (ten) hours
• Height difference: -950 m
• Sightseeing objectives: The glacier lakes “Zãnoaga”, “Pãsãrile”, “Câlcescu”, “Muchia Pasarii” as well as the rocky structures in the “Cãldarea Dracului” (The Devil’s Pail)

Stay over night at the campsite (Lotru’s Bridge – 1.400 m).

6^TH DAY, THURSDAY

Unpitching the tents and leaving the campsite.

Hiking route in the Lotru and Cindrel Massifs: Lotru’s Bridge – Lotru’s Spring – The “Cristesti” Peak – The “Steflesti” Pass – Iujbea Cindrelului – Refugiul Cinaia (shelter).

• A medium-difficult hike
• Hiking time – 10 (ten) hours
• Height difference: 900 m
• Sightseeing objectives: Panorama view from the “Cristesti” Summit as well as the glacier lake of “Cindrel”

Stay over night in the “Cinaia” shelter at 1.750 m (rudimentary accommodation available).

7 TH DAY, FRIDAY

Hiking in the Cindrel Massif: The “Cânaia” shelter – The “Cindrel” Lakes – The “Serban” Saddle – Paltinis/Sibiu

• It’s rather a medium-easy hike
• Hiking time : 6 (six) hours
• Height difference : 500 m
• Sightseeing objectives: The glacier lakes of “Cindrel”.

Pitching the tents in Paltinis (1.100 m). Stay over night. Accommodation in bungalows also possible, upon demand.

8 TH DAY, SATURDAY

Unpitching the tents and leaving the campsite.

Transfer by car: Păltiniş – Bucharest Airport ‘Otopeni’. (330 Km).

Our rates fall 2010

• from EUR 265,-/person (valid for full groups 9-10 attendees) – two guides/ transfers by mini-bus

Rates are per trip and include:

• Transfer from the Otopeni Airport to Ciungetu (230 Km),
• Food (3 meals/day)
• Rental of camping gear: tents, camping gas stoves, sleeping mats, trekking poles,
• Guiding service allover the tour English speaker guide;
• Maps of the Massifs Parâng & Latoriţa,
• Transfer Păltiniş -> Bucharest Airport Otopeni

© Outdoor Holidays, 2010

We went for a short walk at near the forest, and in only two hours we identified:
1. Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes)
2. Long tailed tit (Aegithalos caudatus)
3. Coal tit (Parus ater)
4. Marsh tit (Parus palustris)
5. Blue tit (Parus caeruleus)
6. Great tit (Parus major)
7. Nuthatch (Sitta Europaea)
8. Willow warbler (Phylloscopus trochilus)
9. Black cap (Sylvia atricapilla) -  Female
10. Robin (Erithacus rubecula)
11. Black redstart (Phoenicurus ochruros)
12. House sparrow (Passer domesticus)
13. Chaffinch
14. Blackbird (Turdus merula)
15. Jay (Garrulus glandarius)
16. Collared dove
17. city pidgeon
18. buzzard (Buteo buteo)
19. falcon

Here are some pictures:

Although Danube Delta is by far the best place for birding in Romania, and one of the best in Europe, the Carpathians, are a place where you can see different bird (like the bullfinch for example) and enjoy a diverse and spectacular nature.

Please check our bird watching tours and our mountain hiking tours (some of them passing by Predeal)