The Best Hiking Trails in Romania
Hiking is the best way to discover the beauty of Romanian mountains. We’ve rounded up the best hiking trails in the Carpathian Mountains to include in your next trip to the country.
While Bucharest is perfect for a city break, hiking in the Carpathian Mountains will allow you to breathe the freshest air, take in the picturesque views and enjoy the surprising wild nature Romania has to offer. Follow our recommendations and always remember to check the exact route you are planning to take, the best accommodation options available, as well as to be up-to-date with the weather conditions.
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Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers. Next
Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt. Next
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Bușteni – Urlatoarea Waterfall in Bucegi Mountains
With their stunning views, Bucegi Mountains (2,505 m / 8218 ft) are some of the most popular with hikers. Most trekking routes start in the resorts that dot the Prahova Valley, such as Sinaia, famous for one of the most beautiful castles in Europe, the iconic Peleș Castle.
The hiking route to Urlatoarea Waterfall starts in Bușteni, another popular resort, home to the Cantacuzino Palace, a must-visit architectural landmark. The route, which is perfect for beginners, takes around one hour, but if you go slowly and stop to enjoy the views, you can easily give it half a day. Other beautiful routes in the area are those to Piatra Arsă cabin and the trail passing through the Râșnov Passage to Diham Cabin.
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Piatra Craiului Mountains
The Piatra Craiului Mountains (2,244 m / 7362 ft) offer a variety of hiking routes as well as beautiful sights with rugged peaks and picturesque mountain villages. The highlight of the trails are Zărneștilor Keys, a spectacular two kilometer long passage carved in rock as high as 200 meters. The mountain villages of Măgura and Peștera, nestled between the hills, are perfect for experiencing the locals’ hospitality as well as delicious traditional food. If you happen to pass a sheepfold, go greet the shepherds and get yourself invited to a lunch with bulz and other delicacies.
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Apuseni Mountains
Apuseni Mountains (1849 m / 6066 ft) offer stunning views and over 400 caves. One of the most interesting of them, Peștera Urșilor, translated as Bears’ Cave, was named after the 140 cave bear skeletons discovered there, still on display. One of the natural wonders of Romania, Scărișoara Cave, is home to a 3,000 old glacier with a volume of 75000 cubic meters.
For a weekend of hiking, start at Stâna de Vale Cabin and continue the trail until Adăpostul Padiș. It takes around six hours to hike along the 20 kilometer route. Next day, from Adăpostul Padiș you can hike to Scărișoara Cabin. Set aside around seven hours for about the same distance.
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Făgăraș Mountains
Very popular with hikers, Făgăraș Mountains (2,544 m / 8346 ft) are located in the heart of Romania. A spectacular trail runs from Bâlea Waterfall to Bâlea Lake. Expect to spend five hours hiking along the 10 kilometer route. For a lighter hike, try the three hour route from Capra Cabin to Capra Lake, and you will also get to see Capra Waterfall, located at 1,690 meters.
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Retezat Mountains
The Retezat Mountains are dotted with over 80 glacial lakes and are home to the Retezat National Park, a biosphere reserve which includes 55 species of mammals, including wolves, lynxes, black goats, deer, roebucks and bears.
One of the most picturesque hiking trails is that of the glacial lakes. Start from Bucura Lake, the biggest in the massif, which is fueled by five springs and covers nine hectares. You will have the chance to admire seven lakes, including Florica, Viorica, Analia, Tăul Porţii and Bucurel. Very accessible for beginners, this hiking trail can be completed in around three hours, selfie time included.
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Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip
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