Conquering the Transalpina
The Transalpina pass road climbs above 2,100 metres through the Transylvanian Alps. Curve after curve it winds upward, with panoramic views and cool mountain air in the middle of the Romanian summer.
Transylvania's Old Towns
Along the way lie the medieval upper town of Sighișoara and the market square in Sibiu. Narrow alleys, old fortified churches and colourful facades tell of centuries of vibrant craft tradition here.
Apuseni Mountains Start
The loop begins and ends at the APUSENI LODGE Avram Iancu. Even the first kilometres towards Hunedoara reveal dense forests, quiet valleys and peaceful mountain roads well away from any traffic.
Bear Sanctuary Visit
On the rest day there is an optional visit to the bear sanctuary near Brasov: on foot, separated only by a fence, you encounter rescued brown bears in one of the largest free-range enclosures in Europe.
Winding Carpathian Passes
The Transfagarasan hairpins rank among Romania's most celebrated stretches: 148 kilometres of bends, steep gradients and, with some luck, a Carpathian bear right at the roadside near the summit.
