Walking in the Carpathian Mountains

Walking in the Carpathian Mountains

9 Views
8 Days From

$1865

Walking in the Carpathian Mountains

8 Days Starting and ending in Bucharest, Romania

Visiting: Brașov, Păltiniș, Rășinari, Sibiu, Piatra Craiului National Park, Bucharest

Tour operator:

The Natural Adventure

Tour code:

962

Specialist Group:

Singles Solo

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Moderate

Tour operated in:

English
From: $1865

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

An eight day, small group tour, walking in the Carpathian Mountains, with a perfect mix of both natural and cultural heritage. The tour starts and ends in the Saxon town of Bra?ov, and then explores the dramatic landscapes of the Fagara? Mountains, the highest in the Southern Carpathian range. They're also known as the Transylvanian Mountains, as they are in the beating heart of this historic central Romanian region. As well as some spectacular guided hikes, of between 10-22km, you get to visit the ancient heritage highlights of Sibiu and Bran Castle. This tour is on a half board basis

Highlights

  • Explore the historic city of Bra?ov, including the Black Church and Catherine’s Gate.

  • Hike to Bâlea Lake, a stunning glacial lake in the Fagara? Mountains.

  • Visit the highest resort in Romania, Paltini?, after a scenic hike.

  • Experience a horse and carriage ride through the picturesque Romanian countryside.

  • Tour the famous Dracula Castle in Bran.

  • Enjoy breathtaking views of the Bucegi and Piatra Craiului Mountains from the village of Magura.

  • Discover the natural beauty of Piatra Craiului National Park.

  • Challenge yourself with a hike to Piatra Craiului Mica, offering panoramic views.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Bucharest – Brașov

Location: Brașov

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Brașov

Meals Included: Dinner

You are transferred from Bucharest Airport to Brașov. If time allows, take a stroll around the city, one of the Siebenburgen (seven-walled citadels) which were built by the Transylvanian Saxons. Overnight in the heart of Brașov’s Old Town.

Day 2 : Brașov – Rașinari 10Km

Location: Brașov

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Rașinari

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, explore Brașov on a guided city tour, taking in the biggest church in Romania, the Black Church, as well as Strada Sforii and Catherine’s Gate. Afterwards, you are transferred to Fagaraș Mountains for a 2.5h hike to Bâlea Lake, a glacial lake located at 2,034m. After a lunch break at Bâlea waterfall, continue on to Rașinar for the evening, where dinner and a glass of Romanian Schnapps, or tuica, is served.

Walking for the day: 10km, 2-3h, ↑470m ↓470m

Day 3 : Rașinari – Paltiniș 18Km

Location: Păltiniș

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Rașinari

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After a 25km drive, hike along a forest road towards Mount Oncești (1,713m). Continue on through the forest on a hiking trail, before reaching the base of Mount Surdu (1,970m). Finally a relatively easy return path leads back to the starting point, Paltiniș, the highest resort in Romania. You are transferred back to the guesthouse.

Walking for the day: 18km, 5.5h, ↑720m ↓530m

Day 4 : Ra?Inari Circular Walk 22Km

Location: Rășinari

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Ra?inari

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

The day begins with an easy hike from Ra?inari through the Roma village of Prislop to Rosegarden. From here, there is the option to climb up Magura Cisnadiei (1,304m) with views across Sadu Valley and the Transylvanian Alps the other name given to the Carpathian Mountains in this region. Descend through Silvercreek Valley to Cisnadioara. End the day with a horse and carriage ride back to the guesthouse.

Walking for the day: 22km, 6.5h, ?610m ?560m

Day 5 : Ra?Inari – Bran – Magura 10Km

Location: Sibiu

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Magura

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Start the day with a transfer and a guided tour to explore the city of Sibiu. Learn about the Bridge of Lies and the Great Square, and visit the main church of this ancient city. Continue by transfer on to Bran, with a visit to the famous Dracula Castle. Then, hike from Bran to the guesthouse in the village of Magura. The village is located at 1,100m and offers views of the Bucegi and Piatra Craiului Mountains.

Walking for the day: 10km, 3h ?360m ?360m

Day 6 : Magura – Zarne?Ti 15Km

Location: Piatra Craiului National Park

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Magura

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Start on an easy hiking trail in the village of Magura, passing by dairies to reach a nearby peak with views of Piatra Craiului National Park. After a well deserved lunch break, follow the path down to Zarne?ti Ravine. The last part of the hike goes uphill, back to the guesthouse.

Walking for the day: 15km, 5-6h, ?590m ?850m

Day 7 : Magura – Bra?Ov 16.5Km

Location: Brașov

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Bra?ov

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Head back down into Zarne?ti Ravine, before continuing uphill to Cabana Curmatura, a great place to stop for lunch as fresh soups are prepared here for hikers. If you are up for the challenge, the route continues up an additional 350m to Piatra Craiului Mica. Please note that some places are exposed and require climbing on this route. Alternatively, continue along the route at the same altitude as Cabana Curmatura. Finally, transfer to Bra?ov for a farewell dinner.

Walking for the day: 16.5km, 5h, ?430m ?540m

Day 8 : Departure

Location: Brașov, Bucharest

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, you are transferred to Bucharest Airport.

Meals: breakfast and dinner
Complimentary transfer from Bra?ov to Bucharest Airport

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided in Bra?ov, Ra?inari, and Magura throughout the tour.

  • Meals

    Breakfast and dinner are included each day of the tour.

  • Transfers

    Transfers are provided from Bucharest Airport to Bra?ov and from Bra?ov to Bucharest Airport.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided city tours are included in Bra?ov and Sibiu.

  • Horse and Carriage Ride

    A horse and carriage ride is included on Day 4 back to the guesthouse.

What's Not Included

  • Lunch

    Lunch is not included in the tour package.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional snacks are not covered.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights to and from Bucharest are not included.

Mode of Transport

Transfers are provided from Bucharest Airport to Bra?ov, and between various locations including Ra?inari, Paltini?, Bran, and Magura, ensuring a seamless travel experience throughout the Carpathian Mountains.

Accommodation

Enjoy comfortable stays in the heart of Bra?ov’s Old Town, the charming village of Ra?inari, and the picturesque village of Magura, with accommodations offering a cozy and authentic Romanian experience.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes breakfast and dinner each day. Lunch is not included, so participants will need to arrange their own midday meals.

  • Are transfers included in the tour package?

    Yes, transfers are included from Bucharest Airport to Brașov and between various locations such as Rășinari, Păltiniș, Bran, and Măgura.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    The tour provides comfortable accommodations in Brașov, Rășinari, and Măgura, offering a cozy and authentic Romanian experience.

  • Is there a guided tour included in the itinerary?

    Yes, guided city tours are included in Brașov and Sibiu, allowing participants to explore historical sites and learn about the local culture.

  • What activities are included in the tour?

    The tour includes hiking in the Carpathian Mountains, a horse and carriage ride, and visits to historical sites such as Dracula Castle in Bran.

  • Is travel insurance included in the tour package?

    No, travel insurance is not included in the tour package. It is recommended that participants purchase travel insurance separately.

  • What is the difficulty level of the hikes during the tour?

    The tour includes various hikes, some of which are challenging, such as the hike to Piatra Craiului Mica, which involves exposed areas and climbing.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Natural Adventure was founded by people who love hiking and cycling in wild and wonderful places. Places that we want to keep that way. Responsible tourism has, therefore, been at the heart of what we do since the get go.

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    In April 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 crisis, we launched the Support Local Communities Initiative. We have enabled an option when booking a tour for customers to make a donation to support our local partners. 100% of the donations go directly to our local suppliers.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Whether you’re travelling on your own, as a couple, a group of friends, or a family, our self-guided holidays allow you the freedom to choose your own holiday companions.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our self guided walking and cycling holidays typically include: Accommodation, Breakfasts, Luggage transfers, Detailed holiday information pack including GPS-checked and regularly updated route descriptions, road notes and maps, 24/7 phone assistance by our local representative and/or our central office

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We are part of the 'Safe Travels' initiative.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, as long as you can reach the next location.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Accommodations in double or twin rooms (solo travellers are usually accommodated in single rooms at an extra cost; we never mix and match)

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If possible, and entirely at the discretion of the Tour Operator, a change of the dates may be possible without charging an amendment fee, provided that it is requested at least 30 days before the departure date. In some cases, we will still have to pass to you any non-refundable charges imposed by our suppliers. In all other cases, change of dates will normally be treated as a cancellation.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    All places have been carefully checked by us and their quality is regularly monitored. We have selected accommodations that offer friendly service, clean and comfortable rooms and local flavour.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    The Natural Adventure was founded in the UK in 2009, by Peter Duncan, former UK Chief Scout and BBC Blue Peter presenter, and Alex Pazderski, an avid hiker and acclaimed expedition kayaker. Both natural adventurers and keen explorers of wild places and trails, remote communities and responsible tourism partners, Peter and Alex founded our company inspired by the responsible travel values t

Reviews of this operator

Kicki Neely  

Walking Fishermens trail in western…

19-Sep-2022

Walking Fishermens trail in western Portugal will be a memory for life. We loved every minute of our week. All arrangements worked perfectly, from accommodation to luggage transport to questions we had before setting off. Our local agent met with us before we started the walk and we felt very reassured by his local knowledge and support. All accommodation was different, local, clean, friendly and easy to find. Very good value for money. I can really recommend Natural Adventure company and we will be back for more adventures. Many thanks Kicki Neely and friends

Marian Wilkins (Google Reviewer)  

A friend and I did...

25-Jan-2024

A friend and I did the Alps to the Riviera walk in France at the end of 2021 and it was the best holiday experience either of us has ever had. It’s an amazing way of immersing oneself in the countryside and getting the full flavour of the country away from the tourist attractions. The Natural Adventure Company made perfect arrangements for us, gave us clear directions and was just a call away, to sort out any issues. The walk gave us incredible memories that will enrich us for a lifetime. I am in the process of booking my next wonderful adventure and I can’t wait to get started!

Cathy O'Connor (Google Reviewer)  

I recently hiked, with a...

26-Jul-2024

I recently hiked, with a friend in the Italian Alps (the Val D'Aosta) and can highly recommend the region, and the Natural Adventure company. We were very pleased with the accommodation and the food was excellent most of the time- generous portions of excellent local dishes. The resources we were sent were excellent and very thorough. It was very easy to follow the routes as we were given so much detail- which we printed out and took each day's instructions with us, and the App helped to keep us on track. Sadly, we couldn't stay at the last location because there was a storm one night and the village we were due to stay in was flooded and cut off. The Natural Adventure did all they could to support us immediately, and help us find an alternative and we ended up staying where we were, as we were so pleased with that hotel and knew we could continue our hikes from there. We were very pleased with the holiday, the walks, the info and all our dealings with them. I would highly recommend them

Amanda Daly (Google Reviewer)  

We booked our self-guided Kumano...

15-Jul-2024

We booked our self-guided Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trip in Japan with The Natural Adventure (known locally as Oku Japan). The experience was top notch from beginning to end. The information packet was thorough and helpful, and details regarding trains and local buses (timetables, pricing, etc) were consistently accurate. Each and every accommodation was unique, charming, and welcoming. When there was an issue checking into our final hotel, the local office was quick to respond and the problem was solved within the hour (it was also a Sunday, so extra points). We weren’t expecting this to be a gourmet food tour of the region, but it was that as well! On top of it all, we found the price very reasonable for everything that is included. We had a wonderful experience thanks to The Natural Adventure, and would certainly travel with them again.

Cynthia Shinn (Google Reviewer)  

I have been working with...

26-Feb-2024

I have been working with The Natural Adventure for a few years now and it's been a flawless experience. I have now booked 4 different trips (4th to happen in April 2023). Accomodations have been great and local operators (bikes, hiking guides and boats) have all been great. The rates are very fair and trip selections are great. Hoping to see some boat bike options in Greece and Turkey!

Ellen Taylor-Powell  

Great communications, customized trip

20-Aug-2022

This is our first time using Natural Adventure to plan a hiking trip in Europe. I wanted an 8-day hike to start on a certain date to explore a northern region of Portugal. They were so accommodating - customized our trip to meet our needs with responsive communications and full itinerary; everything has been taken care of. We look forward to the trip!!

Linda Giovine (Google Reviewer)  

We hiked the Kerry Way...

02-Jun-2022

We hiked the Kerry Way with Natural Adventure and it was terrific. Outstanding views and good Irish weather. Some days were longer than expected due to placement of Bed and Breakfasts. Hosts were warm and helpful even dried our gear and shared local secrets. Irish hospitality in high gear.

Tim Fuhs (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I booked...

14-Sep-2023

My wife and I booked the Lechweg short break hike with the natural adventure company this Fall and we’re very happy with our experience. I noticed one of the reviews questioning what they (natural adventure co) provide. That’s a fair question and from my perspective as a USA citizen, they provided a very important liaison/conduit role into the EU that would be prohibitive or downright impossible for a non EU citizen hiking/biking in Europe. In addition, I have found that in dealing directly with a few European companies directly, information does not always flow as smoothly as we like. The natural adventure company’s communication style fit our liking perfectly in that we receive a fast and thorough response with every question. They are prompt and helpful. They did subcontract with another company for boots on the ground support but the hotel reservations and itinerary were in house. We would definitely use the natural adventure company again no question.

Beverley Young  

Highly Recommended

03-Aug-2022

All the way through from booking, correspondence afterwards and now a wonderful holiday. The Natural Adventure have been helpful and have provided a brilliant holiday. The hikes each day are cracking, maps & routes are detailed and easy to follow. The hotels are great too. Completely love our holiday! Would definitely use The Natural Adventure again and recommend.

Jeanna Janssen (Google Reviewer)  

Really poor experience with my...

30-Jul-2024

Really poor experience with my recent Tour Du Mont Blanc trip. Our company contact Pierre was so unprofessional and did not care about the safety of travelers. On the second day he left to do a hike and we didn’t hear back until multiple days later. I experienced multiple travel delays which meant the loss of the prepaid travel arrangements and their solution was a 250 euro taxi to the hotel. Do not recommend.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    The Natural Adventure requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 42 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of the natural adventure charges.

    Up to 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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