Tour Overview
One of the last remaining true wilderness areas in Europe can be found in the majestic Piatra Craiului Mountains of central Romania. For centuries the locals have existed in harmony with a rich variety of rare wildlife, including Europe's highest concentration of bears, wolves and lynx. Our days are spent on walks through spectacular canyons, virgin forests and Saxon villages. We stay in a guesthouse owned by a local family, providing a good standard of accommodation and delicious food. We visit the Beaver Reintroduction Programme and the former research centre for the Carpathian Large Carnivore Project, which is home to two hand-raised wolves, Poiana and Crai. There is also a chance to visit Bran Castle ('Dracula's Castle') and the mediaeval town of Brasov.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1Start Bucharest. Transfer to our village guesthouse at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains.
Day 2
Daywalk visiting Kalibash villages, learning about the history of the settlements.
Day 3
Walk through the spectacular Prapestile Zarnestilor Canyon; visit shepherd camp to see traditional cheese being made.
Day 4
Horse drawn cart to Birza Valley to learn about the Carpathian Large Carnivore Project; gentle walk through mountains and ancient forest to Stramba Valley. Bear watching option tonight.
Day 5
Daytrip to Saxon village of Viscri with its UNESCO church. Hike with a local gypsy guide and eat lunch in traditional farmhouse.
Day 6
Drive to Brasov to explore the mediaeval marketplace; after lunch visit Beaver Reintroduction Programme; dinner in local restaurant with folk music.
Day 7
To Bran (Dracula's) Castle; return to guesthouse for barbeque.
Day 8
To Bucharest; end Bucharest.
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