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)

The Lost World

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.

14^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.

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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 peculliar 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 LanŃuri 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 – 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 frontlamp), good boots, waterproof and warm changing cloths, water can, sweets.We provide: the tents, trekking poles,

Hiking in Romania means encountering wild areas, where animals are still free in a habitat untouched by the humans. This hiking trip takes you in some of the least known areas of Southern Carpathians. While there are no technical difficulties involved, there are some long hiking days, so if you’re preparing for trekking in world’s highest mountain, this is a good training. Accommodation is based entirely on tents, with very few options for mountain chalets

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

4^TH DAY, TUESDAY

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.

5^TH DAY, WEDNESDAY

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”

6^TH DAY, THURSDAY

Hiking on Ciucas Mts.

Unpitching the tents and leaving the campsite.

Hiking route: Leaving Ciucas, going thru south-east, thru Siriu Mountains; going to “Izvorul Hotului” (The Thief’s Spring); small rest and launch in the sheperd’s house here. Descend towards Valea Stânii (The Sheepfold’s Valley) river, passing thru “Cheile Vaii Stanii” (The Shepard’s Valley Gorges) descend through “Poiana Valea Stanii” (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 Ciucas massif, Zaganu Ridge. The Shepard’s Valley Gorges

7^TH DAY, FRIDAY

Hiking on Siriu Mountains

Unpitching 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 Ciucas 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 289,-/pax (for full groups 9-10 attendees) – two guides/ transfers by mini-bus
• * EUR 325,-/pax (for groups of 7-8 attendees) – two guides/ transfers by mini-bus
• * EUR 385,-/pax (for groups of 5-6 attendees) – two guides/ transfers by mini-bus
• * EUR 399,-/pax (for micro-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

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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

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Area: Apuseni Mountains, the western part of Romanian Carpathians

Level rate: Moderate
Dates of departure: May – October, on demand
Nr. of team members: 2 – 12 + tour guides
Trip duration (days): 8 (7 nights)
Required gear: Backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, spot light, good mountain boots, waterproof and warm changing clothes, water can, sweets, first-aid kit.

Accommodation: tents, *** guest house

Summary : this adventure tour is presenting some of the caves out of more than 10 000 caves and natural cavities present in Romanian Mountains. Caving is one of the main activities but you’ll also encounter traditional life, amazing landscapes and a pristine nature.

Landscape of Apuseni Mts

1^ST DAY SATURDAY

Transfer by bus to Apuseni Mountains (500 km / 310 mi )

Schedule of the day :

Transfer by coach to Apuseni Mts. (500 km/310 ml)

Bucharest – Sibiu – Alba Iulia – Pietroasa

20:00 8 PM Pitching tents near by Pietroasa village

Highlights of the day: The city of Sibiu, medieval city in the middle of Transylvania.

Alba Iulia, Romanian historical city, where the first union of the Romanian states has been proclaimed.

2^ND DAY SUNDAY

Easy hiking in Carpathians

8:00 AM Having Breakfast

9:00 AM Leaving the camp ground

Easy hike to La Grajduri 3-4 hours

14:00 2 PM Pitching tents

19:00 7 PM Dinner

Accommodation in La grajduri meadow, a nice clearing in the middle of the mountains.

Highlights of the day:

La grajduri area

3^RD DAY MONDAY

Hiking Apuseni Mountains – Bihor Mts

• Level Rating: Moderate hike
• Height difference: 250 m
• Sightseeing objectives: Focul Viu Glacier, Cetatile Ponorului
• Schedule of the day:8:00 AM Breakfast9:00 AM Easy hike to Focul Viu Glacier and Cetatile Ponorului the largest limestone complex in SE Europe. Focul Viu (The Living Fire) is the finest cave glacier in Romania . The name came from the unique phenomena produced by a sun light ray that create a rainbow from the ice evaporation. The cave has 2 rooms, the first is a large one that hosts the glacier. The first room has a natural window on the top in the roof that allows the natural light to enter. By noon, on a sunny day the evaporating water can be seen rising from the glacier creating a unique phenomena, called “living fire”. The second room is smaller and has not natural light. In order to visit the second room you have to descend a few feet.The limestone complex Cetatile Ponorului (Ponor’s Castles) is situated in Bihor Mts. in the heart of Apuseni Mts. ( Western Carpathians ). Cetatile Ponorului is the largest limestone complex in Carpathians, being formed of three big holes, in a great geological depression of 300 m/1000 ft. deep cover in fir trees, the upper part having a diameter of over 1000 m/3000 ft. The path starts from a forestry road descending along Valea Cetăţilor (Castle’s Valley) in the first hole. The western wall is over 150 m/490 ft. tall and hosts a great portal of over 70 m/230 ft.The path take us through all the 3 holes the are connected by some natural tunnels, caves and arches. The holes 2 and 3 can be seen from 4 balconies situated on the ridge.19:00 7 PM Dinner

4^TH DAY TUESDAY

Hiking Western Romanian Mountains.

• Moderate hike
• Hiking time: 6-8 hours
• Sightseeing objectives: The Galbena Gorges

Schedule of the day:

8:00 AM Breakfast

9:00 AM Leaving for Galbena gorge. Galbena gorge are the finest gorge in Western Carpathians and are made by the river Galbena, river that has its spring into an interesting system of underground network.

19:00 7 PM Dinner

5^TH DAY WEDNESDAY

Hiking & Caving in Apuseni Mountains

• Easy to moderate hike
• Hiking time : 4-6 hours
• Sightseeing objectives:9:00 AM Leaving for Lumea Pierduta (The Lost World) complex. Lumea Pierduta complex is hosting the largest system of caves, holes, tunnels and other interesting features carved in limestone.
• 19:00 Dinner

6^TH DAY THURSDAY

Hiking & caving in Romanian Mountains

• A moderate hike
• Hiking time – 8- 10 hours
• Height difference: 200 m
• Highlights of the day:
  • Padis
  • Casa de Piatra.
  • Scarisoara.

Schedule of the day:

8:00 AM Breakfast

9:00 AM Transfer to Scarisoara village.

Leaving the camp ground for Padis, Casa de Piatra , Scarisoara.

20:00 8 PM camping at Scarisoara

7^TH DAY FRIDAY

Caving & Hiking in Apuseni Mountains

• Easy hike
• Hiking time: 4-6 hours
• Sightseeing objectives: Scarisoara Cave Glacier

9:00 AM Breakfast

10:00 AM Visit at Scarisoara cave glacier

Scarisoara cave hosts the largest glacier in Romania (an underground glacier), lasting from the last Ice Age that ended in Europe 10.000 years ago. Only the upper part of the glacier can be seen, the lower part being at the bottom levels of the cave. The entrance is situated at the bottom of a large hole 60m/200 ft. in diameter and 50m/150 ft. deep, a steel case leading the visitors down.

The glacier has 2 different parts: first is the floor of the cave, the second part is called ” The Church” and is made of columns of ice.

12:00 PM Leaving Scarisoara village for Gârda village

16:00 4 PM arriving at Gârda

Accommodation at guest house in Gârda

19:00 Dinner

8^TH DAY SATURDAY

Transfer to Bucharest

9:00 AM Breakfast

10:00 AM Leaving west Carpathians for Bucharest (450 km/280ml)

18:00 6 PM arriving at Bucharest

Accommodation at 3 * hotel in Bucharest

	What to take		SCHEDULE MADE BY
	Subscribe		Andrei Pârciog
	* Customizable Tour		Area: Baiului Mountains, Bucegi Mountains Level rate: Medium Dates of departure: June – November Nr. of team members: 1-7 Trip duration (days): 4 Required gear: boots, waterproof and warm changing cloths, front-light, and sweets. Accommodation: Hotel
			1ST DAY – Welcoming you at the Bucharest Henry Coanda International Airport and transfer to Buşteni resort - Transfer by car/minibus to Busteni (2h) - Visit at Peles Castle (if time allows it) - Dinner (not included) Buşteni is a small Mountain Town well known for its beautiful views towards the steep valleys of Bucegi Mountains. Accommodation: *** Hotel in Busteni
			2ND DAY – Explore Baiului Mountains Level rating: moderate Highlights: View over Bucegi steep valleys, Wild area of Baiului Mountains Hiking time: 7 – 8 hours - Breakfast (included) - Transfer by car/minibus to Sinaia, where we start our hiking trip - Picnic lunch (included) - Reaching Piscul Câinelui Peak (5438feet) - Dinner (not included) Accommodation: *** Hotel in Buşteni
			3rd Day – White Valley – Heroes Cross • Level rating : moderate • Highlights : White Valley, Bucegi Plateau, high chances to see the Chamois (rupicapra rupicapra) - Early breakfast (included) - In the morning we start climbing towards the La Verdeata point, where from we have 3.5 hours left of hike before reaching the plateau. This in one of the most interesting valleys in Bucegi Mountains because of the vertical walls and the snow that you may see even in late summer. - Picnic lunch (included) - A stop at the heroes cross, and hike down on Jepii Micii Valley - Dinner (not included) Accommodation: Hotel in Buşteni
			4th DAY – A final hike before leaving the mountains for the big city and departure • Level rating: It’s a moderate hiking day. • Highlights: The view towards Piatra Craiului Ridge - After breakfast (included) transfer by car/minibus to Predeal and hike up to Diham hut; - We continue to Poiana  Izvoarelor lodge, a beautiful path leading to a spectacular scenery over Bucegi peaks, then descend to Gura Diham lodge for transfer by car to Bucharest. - Picnic lunch (included) - Easy hike of 4 hours. - Transfer back to Bucharest by car / minibus - Dinner (not included)
			Note: Please be aware that the present schedule is subject to alteration according to the weather condition, daily timing, the physical shape of the attendees, as well as unforeseen delays. Price: Number of persons Price (EURO) 1 634,- 2 378,- 3 351,- 4 308,- 5 278,- 6 250,- 7 247,- and includes: • all transfers by car/minibus • three nights accommodation in a 3 stars hotel in Busteni • back-pack food on hiking days (picnic lunches) • guiding service all-around the tour (English speaking) Not included: • entrance fees to museums and other sights • dinners and any other meals which are not mentioned above as included
			Subscribe to this hiking tour now and choose the desired departure dates !