Current as of: March 14, 2025 - 23:30
Summits of the Transylvanian Alps Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group
- Destination: Romania
- Programmes: Walking & Trekking
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Activity Level:
5 out of 7 - Challenging
- 8 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 16+
- Trip Code: TTM
Trip Overview
Explore the wild peaks of Romania, enjoying daily treks and summiting several mountains with an expert tour leader
Discover the Transylvanian Alps on foot, a mountain range in south-central Romania known in the hiking world for its wild landscapes. The trip is challenging but the rewards great. We have the chance to summit several peaks and spend two nights in mountain cabins to aid our ascents. For the most part, however, we base ourselves at Villa Hermani, a family-run guesthouse in the quaint village of Magura.
At a Glance
- Accommodation: 5 Classic nights (Villa Hermani), 2 Simple nights (mountain cabins)
- Group normally 4 to 12, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
- Altitude maximum: 8,220ft (2,505m)
- Option to travel by train to your adventure
Highlights
- Discover the most scenic trails in the Transylvanian Alps with an expert tour leader
- Summit several mountains on a two-day trek around the Ascutit Peak Trail
- Hike to the top of La Om, the highest peak in Piatra Craiului National Park
- Get into the wilderness with two nights in remote mountain cabins
- Enjoy Romanian hospitality at the family-run Villa Hermani
Is This Trip for You?
The trip is rated Activity Level 5 (Challenging). For more information on our trip gradings, visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip, please contact us.
Difficulty: This trek follows mountain paths throughout, which are generally well maintained but rocky and steep in sections, so not suitable for vertigo sufferers. The longest days can have an ascent of up to 4,879ft (1,487m) followed by a similar descent. This means walking uphill for approximately five hours and the same down again. For this reason, you should have experience of hiking in the mountains and very good fitness.
Itinerary: The walking hours stated in the day-to-day itinerary, which include lunch and photo stops, are given as approximates only and vary depending on your group’s pace. Additionally, the itinerary may be followed in a different order for various reasons, such as weather and local conditions, but we still cover all the listed activities.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 12
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Bucharest Airport
- End City: Bucharest Airport
Land Only Itinerary
Catch transfer to Magura
Our family-run guesthouse, and home for most of the week, is in the quaint village of Magura within Piatra Craiului National Park. It is approximately 105mi (170km) from Bucharest Airport and takes around 3hr 30min to reach by road.
Therefore, we highly recommend you join the group transfer – speak to your sales representative to find out the transfer times. Due to the late arrival of the group transfer, dinner tonight is a light snack.
Classic accommodation: Villa Hermani
First leg of the Ascutit Peak Trail
Over the next two days we tackle the Ascutit Peak Trail, a circular hike taking in some of the major peaks in Piatra Craiului National Park. Pack your overnight bag before we leave, which should include the essentials, such as a spare T-shirt, fleece, toiletries and a small towel.
We start the hike from the front door of our guesthouse, descending to Botorog Fountain. From here, we hike mainly through forests and alpine meadows to the summit of Piatra Mica (5,958ft/1,816m), where we can take a moment to enjoy 360-degree views over unbroken forests towards Brasov.
We then descend through rocky patches and scree, sometimes using ropes, to Cabana Curmatura, our home for tonight. Staying here gives us more time for tomorrow’s hike, a longer day in which we complete the trail and tackle Ascutit.
Simple accommodation: Cabana Curmatura
Second leg of the Ascutit Peak Trail
Leaving our mountain cabin after breakfast, we start our hike to the summit of Turnu Peak. It takes us through forest to a viewpoint, after which the landscape becomes rocky. There are ropes to help our climb on the first part of the rocky trail. From the top, we follow the ridge to the top of Ascutit (6,998ft/2,133m). We then descend back down to Cabana Curmatura following a different route, after which we cut through forests and across pastures to Magura.
Classic accommodation: Villa Hermani
Summit La Om
We summit La Om today, the highest mountain in the national park at 7,343ft (2,238m). We start with a one-hour drive to Plaiul Foii, the startpoint for hikers tackling the Westwand Trial. From here, we ascend through forest to Spirlea Shelter, before hiking over scree and rocks to the top of La Om – the path is very exposed in some parts and there are several chains to secure the trail!
From the top, we head southward to Funduri Peak, taking a mixed trail of forest, scree and rocky terrain. We then descend back to Spirlea Shelter and Plaiul Foii, where we catch our return to Villa Hermani.
Please note: This trail can only be attempted in dry weather. If it rains, the tour leader provides an alternative option.
Classic accommodation: Villa Hermani
Summit Piatra Mare
We take a one-hour drive this morning to the foot of Piatra Mare, a 6,181ft (1,884m) mountain that we can attempt to summit today. Our hike up takes us on gravel paths and forest lanes. It also takes us through the Seven Ladders Canyon, a spectacular route along a rocky path, past waterfalls, up metal ladders, and within the steep walls of the gorge.
From the top of Piatra Mare, we head back to our start point on a different route through forest.
Classic accommodation: Villa Hermani
Hike to Cabana Malaiesti
Today, we drive (one hour) to our start point, Cabana Gura Diham, on the east side of Bucegi mountain. From here, we follow a marked trail through the forests until we reach Poiana Pichetul Rosu, a meadow where multiple trails unite. Then follow the Take Ionescu Trail to Cabana Malaiesti. Our accommodation for the night has a scenic spot in the Malaiesti Valley, allowing us to relax and enjoy the wild beauty of Romania before we tackle Omu Peak tomorrow.
Simple accommodation: Cabana Malaiesti
Summit Omu Peak
We start today’s hike from Cabana Malaiesti, with the goal of standing on top of Omu Peak, one of the highest mountains in Romania at 8,218ft (2,505m). The route first cuts through the Malaiesti Valley, before we take the Brana Caprelor (Goats’ Ledge), a narrow path clinging to the seemingly vertical wall of Bucsoiu mountain. After summiting Bucsoiu, we take the Bucsoiu Ridge to Omu Peak.
From the top, we descend via Saua Hornurilor and Poiana Ciubotei to Poarta where we are picked up and taken to Villa Hermani.
Classic accommodation: Villa Hermani
To Bucharest Airport; end
The adventure comes to an end after breakfast. Bid a fond farewell to the guesthouse, which may feel like a second home by now, and begin your return journey home.
Ascents, descents and distances: All ascents, descents and distances listed in the daily itinerary have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. However, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these Trips Notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.
Accommodation
Villa Hermani and two mountain cabins
For most of the adventure we stay at Villa Hermani, though we also spend two nights in Simple mountain huts as we venture into the wilds of the Transylvanian Alps.
Magura: Villa Hermani (nights 1 and 4-7)
We spend five nights in Villa Hermani, a private guesthouse in the remote village of Magura. It’s ideally situated for our adventure, sitting within Piatra Craiului National Park. The property has twin and single rooms in a range of sizes and styles, almost all of which have private facilities (there are two rooms that share one bathroom). Our friendly hosts, German couple Hermann and Katharina Kurmes, possess a wealth of knowledge on Transylvania, wildlife conservation and serve delicious homemade food.
Mountain cabins: Cabana Curmatura and Cabana Malaiesti (nights 2 and 6)
We also spend two nights in Simple mountain cabins, allowing us to venture deep into the Romanian wilderness. In the evenings, we can mingle with other hikers or enjoy the beautiful settings, before retiring to our bunk beds.
We have allocated beds in the cabins which means that we may need to share the cabins with guests who are not part of our group. The rooms usually have 20 beds. Blankets are provided.
Worth knowing
- There are no showers or indoor toilets in the mountain cabins and we are staying in mixed dorm rooms there with bunk beds.
- Single supplement is not available in the mountain cabins.
Single supplement from £ 170
Food & Drink
All breakfasts, six packed lunches and seven dinners are included.
Meals are a mixture of fresh local produce and Romanian/Transylvanian dishes.
Transylvanian cuisine is influenced by several traditions and cultures (German, Hungarian and Romanian) but maintains a distinct character with a love for homemade cooking. Soups are a staple, main meals tend to be hearty with a strong focus on local produce, while desserts are varied and plentiful.
Breakfasts are usually a small buffet including an egg dish, cold cuts, cheeses, boiled eggs, vegetables, spreads, bread, cereals, juice, herbal teas and coffee.
Lunches included on this trip are usually self-made sandwiches – choose your own fillings from the morning buffets.
Each evening there is a choice between a meat or vegetarian dish. Dinner on the first evening is typically a light snack (cold platters with local food and bread) due to the late arrival of the group.
Vegetarian and special diets can be catered for, but options can be limited in Romania – please inform us of any specific requirements upon booking.
Transport
Transfers between Bucharest Airport and the guesthouse are normally in a Mercedes Sprinter. Local transport is by minibus.
Weather & Seasonality
Romania has warm summers and snowy winters. Rainfall is usually quite low except in the mountains; spring and summer are the wetter seasons. The weather changes abruptly from winter to summer and spring is generally short. The mountains can be blanketed in snow until late May at higher altitudes. Summer days are often long and warm with 10 to 11 hours of sunshine, while nights can range from pleasantly warm in the lower valleys to cold at higher elevations. September temperatures tend to be lower than those in July and August but changeable weather with cloud, rain and chilly daytime temperatures can occur at any time of the year. Expect temperatures in the village to be lower than Bucharest.
Joining Instructions
Key details
Guesthouse: Villa Hermani, Sat Magura 130, Măgura 507133
Phone: +40 740 022 384
Airport: Bucharest (OTP)
Getting to the guesthouse
Villa Hermani is approximately a 3hr 30min drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
It’s not possible to reach Villa Hermani by public transport. We therefore highly recommend joining the group transfer where possible. If not, a cab from the airport costs around €200. On arrival, please make the staff aware that you are part of an Exodus group and they will have more details on meeting with the tour leader and group
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to Bucharest Airport (OTP) for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Bucharest Airport
Location end: Bucharest Airport
What To Take
Essential Equipment
- Traditional or lightweight walking boots with good ankle support and a strong sole
- Waterproofs
- Hat and gloves
- A warm two-season jacket or sweater/fleece
- Large water containers or Thermos flask, as some days it is not possible to fill up on the trek
- Backpack (30/40 litre)
- Small towel
- Sun hat (the sun can be intense with a very high UV factor)
- Sunscreen and lip salve
- Hand sanitiser
- Sandals or slippers for indoors
- Quick-wicking clothing rather than cotton as it dries much quicker and is more comfortable when trekking
- Shower gel
- Walking poles (highly recommended) – there are some available in the guesthouse should you wish to borrow these but not enough for the whole group so please bring your own if required
Optional Equipment
- Binoculars
- Ear plugs
- Helmets
Practical Information
Passport
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Visa
Romania
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Romania. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
- Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/romania
- Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/romania
- United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/romania/entry-requirements
- USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Romania.html
Vaccinations and Health
Romania
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) and tuberculosis (TB). Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
If you’re a UK citizen, please note that your UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) are still valid and offer the same cover as the Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) in the EU. This gives you medical care at a reduced cost, and in some cases for free, in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. Once your EHIC has expired, replace it with a GHIC.
Local Time
Romania's time zone: Europe/Bucharest (UTC +02:00)
Electricity
Romania's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins) and F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Romania's currency: Romanian leu (RON)
ATM Availability
Cash machines are limited on this trip. Credit cards are useful only for major souvenir purchases in cities or in emergencies.
Should you wish to exchange money locally, euro notes in good condition are usually the easiest to exchange. You can also change British pounds and US dollars in banks or recognised exchange shops. Only exchange money in banks, hotels and recognised exchange shops, it is illegal to change money on the streets. We recommend you don’t change money at Bucharest Airport as the rate is very poor.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
Drinks are not included but the guesthouse has a bar from which you can purchase drinks. Payment can be made at the end of the week by cash or card; however, cash is preferred. Villa Hermani accepts euros, British pounds or Romanian lei. Snacks are not included and you may wish to buy souvenirs.
Tipping
Tipping is entirely at your discretion but is customary in Romania. Although optional, a tip for the leader at the end of the trip is greatly appreciated. As a guideline we recommend a contribution of €15-€20 per person for the week. It is also customary to leave a tip for the driver and Villa Hermani staff. This can be handed to your leader at the end of the week. For local staff, we recommend approximately €10-€15 per person.
Sustainability and Impact
As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.
We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.
This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony though practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call us and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
Seatbelts
All vehicles used by us should be equipped with working seatbelts, except where approved by us based on the vehicle type or journey. Wherever seatbelts are available, we require our customers to use them for their own safety, even where it may not be a legal requirement.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.