Tour Overview
Embark on the Romania Cycle Explorer and pedal through the heart of Transylvania, discovering charming villages and medieval towns like Sighisoara. This self-guided cycling adventure takes you to unique sights such as the UNESCO-listed village of Biertan and the fortified church in Viscri. Enjoy homemade regional meals and stay in traditional rural pensions, offering a genuine cultural experience. The journey begins and ends in Bucharest, with scenic routes through the Fagaras Mountains, ancient monasteries, and picturesque landscapes. With a 21-speed hybrid bike and detailed route maps, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Romania's rich heritage and natural beauty. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Join Bucharest, Transfer By Train To Zarnesti Via Brasov
Location: Zarnesti
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse in Zarnesti
Meals Included: Dinner
The trip begins at Bucharest North train station. From here you will take the train to Brasov (approx 3hrs), and another to Zarnesti (approx 40mins). Note that you can request a private transfer from Brasov direct to your guesthouse in Zarnesti - supplement applies.
Zarnesti is a mountain village and the main gateway to the Piatra Craiului National Park. On arrival at the guesthouse you will receive your printed maps and route book, together with your rental bike and accessories. Overnight and dinner at your guesthouse. Alternatively, there is a lovely restaurant in town, Casa Rustica, which is great for dinner and drinks. No discount applies if you forgo dinner at the guesthouse. ...more ...less
Day 2 : Cycle Via Ohaba At The Foot Of The Fagaras Mountains To Bucium (50Km/31Mi)
Location: Fagaras Mountains
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse in Bucium
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today you will ride north to a typical village at the foot of the Fagaras mountains, the highest mountains in Romania. Along the way you can take a 7km detour on a gravel road to visit the famous Bear Sanctuary in Zarnesti. From there you head to Ohaba, where you can visit the oldest flour mill in the country, powered by water and with a fascinating history from the communist period. Dinner and accommodation in an authentic guest house located in the beautiful mountain environment of Bucium.
(+250m/820ft, -400m/1312ft).
Day 3 : Pass Ancient Monasteries & Traditional Villages En Route To Carta (60Km/37Mi) - Optional Extensions
Location: Carta
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse in Carta
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
You will start the day's cycle at the foot of the Fagaras mountains, pass over Bucium river and by the original village of Lisa, where a 100+ year old machine still operates and produces thick woollen blankets. Then you will pass by Sambata de Sus and its impressive Brancovenesc monastery dating from 1696. Continue and cross Victoria town, an old communist workers' residence, and via Cartisoara to the small village of Carta, where you can visit the spectacular ruins of the local Cistercian monastery. With luck you will meet the pastor and hear his insightful stories. Dinner and overnight at an old stone guesthouse in Carta village.
(+300m/984ft, -450m/1476ft)
** 3 options are possible from Carta (each involves an extra night) - must be requested at time of booking and a supplement applies:
*Visit Sibiu by train (travel time is approx 1hr15min each way). Sibiu is one of the most beautiful medieval towns in Romania. Developed on a Roman village, Sibiu was the largest and wealthiest of the Saxon's seven-walled 12th century citadels and later the residence of the Austrian government in Transylvania.
option 1 - return day trip to Sibiu, overnight in Carta - included is dinner and breakfast plus return train ticket to Sibiu.
option 2 - as above but stay overnight in Sibiu - included is accommodation in a centrally located simple hotel with breakfast (own arrangements for lunch and dinner) plus train ticket Carta/Sibiu/Carta
*Or cycle the Transfagarasan Road - only available on a Mon, Wed & Fri from 01 July:
option 3 - includes extra night accommodation in Carta with dinner and breakfast, bus ticket (bus takes approx 45mins) up to Balea Lake (2050m) and additional day of bike rental. The cycle is a steep and long descent of approx 30km, and needs attention and experience with going downhill on mountain roads. The road surface is not always smooth. Part of this road, from the village to approx. 1250m (to Balea Falls) is available starting with mid-May. From Balea Waterfall you can take a cable car up to Balea Lake (2000m), but in May and June the road might be blocked by snow between Balea Lake and Balea Waterfall
Day 4 : To The Unesco Village Of Biertan With Its Enormous Fortified Church (65Km/40.5Mi)
Location: Biertan
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse in Biertan
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning you leave the village of Carta and cycle through Transylvania towards Biertan. On the way you cycle along country roads and can enjoy the postcard-landscapes and fortified church of Richis. In Biertan you can visit its church, built between 1493 and 1522, with well preserved Renaissance artwork, an intricately carved pulpit and mosaic door. The church and its majestic fortifications, along with the medieval core of Biertan village, are UNESCO World Heritage listed. Dinner and accommodation in Biertan village.
(+600m/1968ft, -650m/2133ft)
Day 5 : Cycle To The Inhabited Medieval Citadel Of Sighisoara (40Km/25Mi)
Location: Sighisoara
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse in Sighisoara
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
The cycling today will allow you to discover other treasures of Transylvania. You move on to the UNESCO World heritage listed town of Sighisoara, one of the few medieval cities in Europe that is still fully inhabited. Discover the Old Town, with its famous clock tower, the covered stairs and medieval streets. Visit the house where Vlad Dracul, the father of Vlad the Impaler known as Dracula, was born. You can make a small detour to Dumbraveni, another lovely town with an important Armenian Catholic Church and a witness to the region's glorious past. Own dinner arrangements. Overnight in Sighisoara.
(+380m/1246ft, -400/1312ft)
Day 6 : Cycle Through The Transylvanian Hills To Soars (48Km/30Mi)
Location: Soars
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse in Soars
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today you will cycle through the Transylvanian hills to Apold village, which also has a lovely fortified church. Continue to peaceful Soars village, where you will spend the night. The country road you follow today takes you to remote areas where you will surely meet shepherds watching over their herds. Overnight Soars.
(+600m/1969ft, -500/1640ft)
Day 7 : Cycle To Viscri With Its Impressive Fortified Church (35Km/22Mi)
Location: Viscri
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse in Viscri
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
From Soars you will cycle to one of the highlights of the trip, Viscri, a properly restored Saxon village where King Charles owns property and has helped the villagers bring back to life their authentic past. You can visit Viscri's fortified church, restored with the help of the Prince of Wales' foundation. Cycling through these old but beautiful villages will have you meditating at the passing of time and the necessary connection with nature. You can stroll through the village and visit the local blacksmiths. Overnight Viscri.
(+300m/984ft, -250m/820ft)
Day 8 : Transfer To Brasov, Train To Bucharest & Trip Concludes
Location: Bucharest
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast a private transfer will take you to Brasov (around 1.5hrs), where you'll have time to explore before taking the train to Bucharest (approx. 3hrs).
The trip concludes on arrival in Bucharest. We are happy to book additional nights in Bucharest on request and transfers to the airport.
Optional extras, highly recommended:
1 - spend a night in Brasov to see more of this wonderful town - supplement applies.
2 - visit Bran Castle en route to Brasov - supplement applies.
What's Included
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Accommodation
7 nights rural pensions -
7 breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches, 6 dinners
Continental breakfasts are served and will often consist of breads, spreads, tea, coffee & juices. Picnic lunches will include fresh produce such as bread, spreads, salad and meats sourced from local hosts. Dinners are included.
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7 nights rural pensions
Accommodation in rural pensions usually twin share with ensuite facilities (shared facilities also possible on occasion).
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21 speed hybrid bike
Includes repair kit, pump, map holder, and lock. E-bike available on request (supplement applies).
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Information pack
Includes route notes and maps per room.
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Luggage Transfer
1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess.
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Train from Bucharest to Zarnesti via Brasov (Day 1)
Includes private transfer Viscri to Brasov train station and train Brasov to Bucharest (Day 8).
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Emergency hotline
Access to an emergency hotline for assistance.
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Travel to and from Bucharest train station
Includes travel arrangements to and from Bucharest train station.
What's Not Included
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Meals not listed as included, drinks
Any meals and drinks not specifically listed as included are excluded.
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Travel insurance - mandatory
Travel insurance is mandatory and not included.
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Helmet
Helmets can be provided locally on a request basis.
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E-bike
E-bike is available on request, supplement applies.
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Guide
This is a self-guided cycling holiday, no guide is included.
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Solo traveler supplement
A supplement will apply if you are traveling solo or book a single room.
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Entrance fees not listed as included
Any entrance fees not specifically listed as included are excluded.
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Transfers not listed as included
Any transfers not specifically listed as included are excluded.
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Transfers if you need to skip a stage
Transfers required to skip a stage are not included.
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Excess Luggage
Supplement applies for excess luggage.
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Hotel taxes if applicable
Hotel taxes, if applicable, are payable directly to the hotel.
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Carta village extra night options
Extra night options in Carta village are available at a supplement.
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Bucharest airport to city transfers
Transfers from Bucharest airport to the city are available on request, supplement applies.
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Private transfer Day 1 Brasov to Zarnesti
Available on request, supplement applies.
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Extra transfer to Bran
Available on request, supplement applies. Requires an extra night in Brasov or Bucharest or a very late flight out, after 7 PM.
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Items of a personal nature
Any items of a personal nature are not included.
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Breakfast and lunch on day 1, dinner on day 5, all drinks
Breakfast and lunch on day 1, dinner on day 5, and all drinks are excluded.
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Tour guide
This is a self-guided walking trip, no tour guide is included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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Entrance fees
Entrance fees are not included.
Accommodation
7 nights rural pensions. During the trip you will be accommodated in rural pensions which are rated as 3 stars in Romania, however would be closer to 2 stars when compared to similar properties in western Europe. These are traditional guesthouses which while simple, provide a unique dimension to the cultural experience of travelling in Romania. Usually you will have a private bathroom, however there may be one night where you will need to share a bathroom. ...more ...less
Grading
GRADE 4 - During the 6 days of cycling you will cycle between 35 to 65km/22 to 40.5mi per day. There are some more demanding stages during the cycle with steep uphills, descents, and some sections which require more care. Traffic is likely when entering and exiting the towns and cities. The accent is on keeping a steady pace, to have time to stop and take photos (subject to weather conditions). You will need experience cycling in traffic and a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. ...more ...less
What You Carry
During the cycle day you will carry your daily requirements in the pannier provided with the bike. This may include your lunch, wet weather gear, mobile phone and water. A small daypack which can be kept inside the pannier is useful for sightseeing.
Mode of Transport
The trip begins at Bucharest North train station with a train to Brasov and another to Zarnesti. Private transfers are available on request. The tour concludes with a private transfer to Brasov and a train back to Bucharest.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the Romania Cycle Explorer tour?
During the trip, you will be accommodated in rural pensions which are rated as 3 stars in Romania, but would be closer to 2 stars when compared to similar properties in western Europe. These are traditional guesthouses that provide a unique cultural experience. Usually, you will have a private bathroom, but there may be one night where you will need to share a bathroom. ...more ...less
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What meals are included in the Romania Cycle Explorer tour?
The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches, and 6 dinners. Continental breakfasts are served and will often consist of breads, spreads, tea, coffee, and juices. Picnic lunches will include fresh produce such as bread, spreads, salad, and meats sourced from local hosts. Dinners are typically homemade meals that are typical of the region. ...more ...less
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What kind of bike is provided for the tour?
A 21-speed hybrid bike with a repair kit, pump, map holder, and lock is provided. An e-bike is available on request for an additional supplement.
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Is there an option for luggage transfer during the tour?
Yes, luggage transfer is included with a maximum of one piece weighing up to 20kg. A supplement applies for excess luggage.
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What happens if I need to skip a stage during the cycling tour?
Transfers are available if you need to skip a stage, but this is not included in the tour price and will incur an additional cost.
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Are there any optional activities or extensions available during the tour?
Yes, there are several optional activities and extensions available. For example, you can visit Sibiu by train, cycle the Transfagarasan Road, or visit Bran Castle. Each of these options involves an extra night and must be requested at the time of booking, with a supplement applying.
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What should I carry during the cycling day?
During the cycling day, you will carry your daily requirements in the pannier provided with the bike. This may include your lunch, wet weather gear, mobile phone, and water. A small daypack that can be kept inside the pannier is useful for sightseeing.
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Is travel insurance mandatory for this tour?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for the Romania Cycle Explorer tour.
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What is the difficulty level of the Romania Cycle Explorer tour?
The tour is graded as moderate to challenging. During the 6 days of cycling, you will cycle between 35 to 65km per day. There are some more demanding stages with steep uphills, descents, and sections that require more care. You will need experience cycling in traffic and a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure.
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How fit do I have to be?
Our adventures are first and foremost holidays and can be undertaken by anyone in a reasonable state of health and fitness - however, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions when booking and view the trip grading. We rank our trips according to our honest Trip Grading System. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with our grading system by reading our detailed trip notes (which you can order through this site) and to speak with us about the physical requirements of your chosen trip.
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What happens if something goes wrong?
On our guided tours, you travel in small groups with a local multi-lingual guide whose knowledge of the terrain, flora, fauna and history of the region is exemplary. Our self guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace - but they're not unsupported. We provide detailed route notes and maps and our local partners are on hand throughout the day in the unlikely event that something goes wrong. All we request is that you select a program that matches your level of fitness to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.
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I'm travelling solo on a self-guided trip. Do I pay the single supplement or the single traveller surcharge?
Most of our self guided trips are priced based on twinshare. If you are travelling solo the single traveller surcharge will apply. The single supplement would apply if you were travelling in a party with others and you had chosen to book a single room. You would never pay a single traveller surcharge and a single supplement.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
UTracks allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform utracks, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
UTracks requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Romania Cycle Explorer
8 Days Starting and ending in Bucharest, Romania
Visiting: Zarnesti, Fagaras Mountains, Carta, Biertan, Sighisoara, Soars, Viscri, Bucharest
Tour operator:
Tour code:
RCE
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
