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Western Carpathian Mountains - The Apuseni Region

The Apuseni Mountains are part of the Romanian Carpathian Mountains and they are located in the western part of the country. These mountains enjoy a well-deserved fame among local hikers and nature lovers. Here, you can admire the intriguing limestone landscape, explore extraordinary caves, admire unique waterfalls and gorges. There are countless attractions to choose from, based on your preferences and aptitudes. Whether you want to test your strength on a demanding trail or take calm strolls in nature, we will help you establish the best route for your journey.

The Northern Apuseni Mountains

Places that keep tradition alive:

1. Țara Moților

The Apuseni region has been inhabited since ancient times and people still enjoy its fresh air and terrific landscape today. It is literally one of the highest inhabited places in Romania, with villages located at altitudes of more than 1000 m. This is area is widely known as Țara Moților, an ethnogeographical region, located on the Rivers Arieș and Crișu Alb. On these lands, nature’s charm blends perfectly with centuries’ old traditions. Some of the best places to observe customs and meet locals are the villages located on the Aries River such as Garda, Patrahaitesti, Arieseni or Albac. Here, time seems to stand still. The local people called ‘moți’, will welcome you with genuine kindness and share the secrets of their main trade – wood carving with you. This area is also famous for its traditional ‘bucium’ music. The bucium is a horn-like musical instrument producing moving and powerful sounds. It is carved from wood, according to a centuries-old tradition. These people’s origin has been lost in the midst of time and historians still argue about their origin. Various theories link them to Dacians, Slavs and even the Celts. No matter what their roots are, one thing about the moți is certain. They are brave and hard-working people who love nature, music and handcraft. Their land has been blessed with beauty and greatness, gifts they highly appreciate up to the present day. If you seek adventure and a genuine traditional experience, Țara Moților is a place where you can get the best out of both. Below, we’ll briefly present you just some of the objectives we can show you. The list is by no means exhaustive. We’ll provide you more insight as soon as you let us know what type of sites you would like to visit.

Roșia Montană

Roșia Montană is located at the heart of the Apuseni Mountains, between the Northern and the Southern Apuseni. This very old mining settlement has been subject to numerous disputes throughout history due to its natural gold resources. This is the very reason why the area has been inhabited since ancient times. The Romans used to exploit the natural resources of Roșia Montană and, as a proof, today you can still visit the 2000 years-old mining gallery. A mining museum located near the gallery is also open to visitors. Here, you will learn how gold has been extracted over the centuries. Roșia Montană is literally a gold mine, but also figurately. The area surrounding this culturally diversified village is spectacular. Here you can admire two peculiar geological formations: Piatra Corbului (the Raven’s Rock) and Piatra Despicata (the Split Rock), as well as the highest lake in the Roșia Basin, Taul Tarinii, located at an altitude of almost 1000 m.

Avram Iancu, the village and Mountain Gaina

Avram Iancu is a beautiful village located in the center of the Apuseni Mountains. It was named after a leader who fought for Romanian’s national emancipation in the 19th century, when Transilvania’s territory was ruled by the Austrian Empire. The village is home to several historical landmarks including the Memorial Avram Iancu Museum where you can learn more about the 1848 revolution and the local ethnography. The Mountain Găina can be accessed via this village. The 1486m high mountain is home to the biggest open-air festival in the country. Known as the girls’s fair, this old tradition, was an occasion for girls and boys from different villages to meet in order to get married. The fair had been organized since 1816. Nowadays, the aim of the fair is, of course, different and you can come here to buy local handmade items, see folkloric dances, eat traditional food and enjoy nature’s view. The festival is held in late July.

The Apuseni Nature Park

The Apuseni Nature Park, Parcul Natural Apuseni in Romanian, is the focal point for tourists traveling in the Apuseni Mountains. It is located in the Western part of the country, spreading over 3 counties, Cluj, Bihor and Alba. This area has been the subject of numerous national and international studies, especially aimed at its unique caves system. Moreover, proves of human life dating back to prehistoric times have been found here. Nowadays, thousands of nature lovers venture year by year on fascinating expeditions in the Apuseni Nature Park. This is a land of impressive natural beauty, boasting a wide array of caves, waterfalls, diverse vegetation and a dramatic landscape with numerous gorges. With our professional guided tours, you too can embark on a memorable journey in the Apuseni Nature Park. Here are some of the myriad attractions we can show you.

Famous Caves you Should Dear to Explore

The Apuseni Mountains are not only famous for their picturesque landscapes. Some of the most astonishing attractions of these mountains are literally hidden from plain sight. We refer to the beautiful caves of the Apuseni, known all over Europe among passionate nature travelers. There are more than 1500 caves in the Apuseni Mountains. Below, some of the most renowned caves in the Northern Apuseni.

  • Scărișoara

Scărișoara is one of the biggest attractions in the Apuseni Mountains. We always include it in our organized tours in the Northern Apuseni. The cave is home to the largest underground glacier in Europe, and second worldwide, measuring 80,000 m3. Scărișoara is 22 meters wide and more than 700 meters long. It is located at an altitude of more than 1150 meters. The cave is divided into chambers and you can delight your sight with the beauty of its stalagmites as you enter the chamber called the Church. The cave welcomes you with an imposing entrance measuring over 50 meters.

  • The Bears’ Cave (Peștera Urșilor)

Located in Chișcău village, this is one of the most famous caves in the Apuseni Mountains. It got its name due to the thousands of years old bear skeletons which were discovered here. As you enter the cave, you will remain speechless admiring the beauty of the stalactites and stalagmites, some of which date more than 20 000 years ago. The cave is divided in two sectors, the lower one being reserved for research. Animal skeletons are displayed in the Bones Gallery. The beauties of the cave spread over a length of 1500 m.

  • Focu Viu

Literally translated as the ‘living fire’, this cave witnesses an interesting natural phenomenon. During the afternoon, the sun’s rays enter the cave, and as they set upon the inside stalagmites, they give the viewer the impression that the cave is on fire. Focu Viu is also divided in chambers: the Big and the Small Hall. The latter accommodates the third largest glacier in the country measuring 25.000 m3.

  • The Meziad Cave

This is one of the most interesting caves in Apuseni that is open to visitors. The cave is a naturally protected objective. The entrance portal has imposing proportions: 16m high and 10m wide. An impressive number of baths lodge within, so do expect to see the little creatures during your visit. The cave is located at an altitude of almost 400 m, it is divided in two levels, of impressive length and width. The largest area of the cave reaches 30 m in width and 20 m in height, so if you fear narrow places, you won’t have any issues here. Inside the cave, traces of human presence dating back to the Paleolithic and Neolithic ages have been discovered.

  • Cetățile Ponorului (The Fortress of Ponor)

It is also known as Pestera Minunată (the Wonderful Cave) or the Everest of Romanian Speleology. Many explorers have come here over the centuries, attempting to unveil the cave’s secrets and admire its beauty. The cave is located, in the Padis area, surrounded by the natural diversity of the typical Apuseni Park landscape. The cave stretches over 5 km and as you step inside you will have the impression that you’ve entered a human-made environment. The walls of the cave have a complex structure, to the delight of tourist and professional alpinists alike. There are several waters inside the cave, running and vanishing as they please. An amazing entrance, that outmeasures any other cave in the country will be your passage way to this splendid natural gift.

  • The Vârtop Glacier Cave

The Vârtop Glacier Cave is located near Arieșeni. This cave features an impressive blend of limestone and ice, and it is found at an altitude of 1200 m. It spreads over a distance of more than 300 meters. Several proofs of Neanderthal life have been discovered here. The glacier of the cave measures 1600 m3.

The Padiș Plateau

The Padiș Plateau is hiker’s favorite choice. It lies between the Măgura Vânătă Mountain, Boghii Mountain and the protected nature reserve of Biserica Moțului. Padiș is the perfect representation of a karstic plateau. There are numerous underground galleries, some of which can also be accessed. Several lakes and imposing spruces will also delight your eyes. The gem of the plateau is the Podis Cave located in the northern part. The Valleys Tranghiesti and Garjoaba divide the plateau and between them lies the Padiș Cabin – a famous stopover and departure point for numerous trails. If you want to spend the night at the cabin, let us know and we will book rooms for you. If not, we can briefly stop there for a tasty Romanian or Hungarian dish and then move on. The entire area is literally dominated by the height of the Biserica Moțului Peak (1458 m). This is an awesome place for a short break which allows you to enjoy the panoramic view and take photos.

The Fortress of Ponor

The Fortress of Ponor is located in Padiș, a couple of kilometers away from the commune of Pietroasa. This is a terrific display of limestone landscape. It has been a protected area for more than 70 years. The fortress comprises the Galbenei Gorges and the Flower’s Glade where, as its name suggests, you can admire myriad colorful flowers during the warm season. Beiuș is the closest town. If you want to rest in a tranquil environment before moving on, you can briefly stop here.

The Galbenei Gorges

This is another famous stopover you shouldn’t miss on your way through the Apuseni Nature Park. The Valley and the Yellow Gorges offer some terrific sights starting with the Bortig Pothole which measures 150 m in length and is maximum 54 meters deep. As you enter the pothole, an imposing ice block will welcome you. The Valley has countless other beauties. Its kart spring, located at the feet of a massive stone wall, gives way to several waterfalls as it flows. At the point where the spring meets Luncsoara Valley, you can admire beautiful canyons. If you love adventure, you can embark on the trail through these gorges; the road is equipped with special cables and chains for your safety and ease of access.

The Turda Gorges

The Turda Gorges are located only a couple of kilometers away from the town of Turda. This is a famous departure point for hikers who venture on trails through Tureni or Borzești. These gorges are extremely popular and well-provided with touristic facilities, so do expect to see other people around, especially in the warm season. The Turda Gorges were declared a natural reserve more than 80 years ago. Almost 1000 different plant species grow here. The fauna in this area is also diverse and one of the most symbolic species living here is the golden eagle. The jewel of the area is the Salt Mine of Turda, an ancient mining spot that has provided salt since the times of the Dacians. Nowadays, the salt mine is a major touristic objective, best described as a salt museum. As you enter the mine, you will be taken aback by its height and the fact that you are literally surrounded by salt from all sides. Here, you will also be able to see the old but well-preserved machinery used in the exploitation process and learn more about it.

All these sound fascinating, and they truly are. Before you decide to visit these caves and the Natural Park in general, we will tell you more about the entailed difficulty degree. Remember that this is largely an untouched area. So, do not expect luxury hotels and facilities, and be prepared for some walking, a bit of climbing or crawling, and off-roading in general.

Waterfalls

  • The Ciucaș Waterfall

Another worth-seeing objective near the Turda Gorges is the Ciucaș Waterfalls. Located in the Hasdate Valley, close to the village of Cornesti, this waterfall is easy to reach. It flows on a length of 5 m. The water creates a beautiful lake at the base of the waterfall. People in the area often come here in the summer to relax, enjoy the sun and the water. You can literally get a hydromassage in the waterfall as there are several large rocks where you can sit and let the water soothe you. The waterfall is surrounded by wild vegetation, making the overall experience even more pleasant.

  • The Bohodei waterfall

Located in Aleului Valley, this waterfall is one of the hidden gems of the Bihor Mountains. The glittering water flows from a height of 80 meters, outranking any other waterfall in the Apuseni. The rocky terrain beneath the waterfall enhances the beauty of this natural splendor. The Bohodei Waterfall is the perfect background for your holiday photos or simply a place where you can chill out and admire nature at its best.

  • The Evantai Waterfall

The Evantai Waterfall is a splendid stopover in the Galbenei Valley. The water flows on a length of approximately 7 meters, in the shape of a fan, hence its name which literally translates as the fan waterfall. This waterfall is formed by the water that goes through a cave and emerges on the other side. A lake is also formed at the base of the waterfall. For tourists visiting Galbenei Gorges, the waterfall is a must-see. However, keep in mind that the road to get here is a bumpy one, so you need a good physical condition and proper equipment.

  • The Pătrăhăițești Waterfall

The Pătrăhăițești Waterfall is located in the Bihor Mountains, under the Curcubăta Mică peak. Hidden in the heart of the forest, near the homonymous small village, reaching this waterfall is a challenge worth taking. Especially if you enjoy hiking, you’ll love the wild uphill trail that will take you here. The waterfall measures 15 m. It is located on the river Buciniș, therefore is also named the Waterfall of Buciniș. This is a two-steps waterfall with an impressive flow especially during the autumn and at the end of the winter when the snow is melting. If you’re here, take the chance to see the village as well. It’s one of the most secluded and best-preserved places in Apuseni.

  • The Valul Miresei Waterfall

Valul Miresei means the veil of the bride and the shape of this waterfall is somehow self-explanatory for its denomination. Also, legend says that a bride fell into the waterfall, her veil remaining hanged on the cliffs, hence the name. This is a large waterfall measuring 30 meters. It is divided into three steps and it is one of the hot spots of the Apuseni Mountains. The Valul Miresei Waterfall is generally recognized as the most picturesque waterfall in these mountains. To get here, you will go on one of the most beautiful trails in the Apuseni, through the gorges of Stanciu Valley. There are several access routes, of different difficulty degree, so anybody can reach this place.

Historical Vestiges more than 2000 years old

Sarmizegetuza Regia

Sarmizegetuza Regia is the legendary settlement of the Dacians. Built at an altitude of more than 1200 m, in the heart of the Șureanu Mountains, Sarmizegetusa Regia was the political, military and spiritual center of the Dacian Empire. The area where now lie the ruins of the ancient city had always been difficult to access. The choice of this location, as a capital has both practical and religious connotations. On the one hand, the Dacians knew how to take advantage of the natural wealth of their territory. They decided to dwell in the heart of the mountains they held so dear as they knew this would keep enemies at bay. Sarmizegetusa was the economic center of Dacia, the place where the nobles, priests and most skillful craftsmen lived. The city’s remains prove that the Dacians were highly spiritual people, living in a well-developed structure that granted them a high standard of life. The remaining worship sanctuary, which can still be admired nowadays doesn’t cease to impress foreign visitors and history connoisseurs worldwide. The approximate date when this historical site was built remains unknown. However, it’s estimated that it dates back to the 2nd or 3rd centuries BC. Sarmizegetuza Regia is a place where mystery and history blend together perfectly. If you love either one of them, don’t miss out the opportunity to visit this unique place.

Romantic Medieval Citadels, City-Touring and more …

Even if your main goal during your trip in the Apuseni Mountains is to get in tune with nature, it would be a shame to leave this beautiful part of Romania without some city touring. Here are some of the best cities where you can dwell among historical buildings, visit museums, have a great traditional meal or enjoy the exciting nightlife.

  • Hunedoara & Corvinilor Castle

Hunedoara is not only famous for its proximity to Corvinilor Castle. This is a nice stopover where you can relax in a quiet town atmosphere after all that hiking and climbing. This town has been a human settlement since 1265. Some of its historical buildings that will grasp your attention are the railway station, the Greek-Catholic Cathedral, the city hall, the Cathedral of Sfinții Împărați Constantin și Elena, the Church of Saint Nicholas. There is also a zoo you might want to check out. This tranquil town is also situated in the proximity of lake Cincis and Padurenilor Land.

Corvinilor Castle is situated in Hunedoara, being one of the best-preserved medieval treasures of the country. If you find knights stories inspiring, you’ll love it here. The castle dates back to the 15th century when Iancu de Hunedoara, a famous military leader decided to build it. The castle’s rich history will spellbind you as you take a stroll through its chambers and admire the old furniture, the armors, the dungeon or the torture chamber. Legend says that the courtyard’s pit used to be home to hungry bears which fed off the prisoners.

  • Sibiu

Sibiu is one of the most popular cities in Romania. It has seen a rapid development in the last years since 2007 when it was named the European Capital of Culture. The Forbes magazine called it one of ‘the most idyllic places to live’ and there are countless reasons to support this statement. Sibiu is a charming city with a long history dating back in the 12th century. Today, you can still witness the medieval scent that made Sibiu one of the most powerful citadels in the country. Sibiu was built by the Germans and it kept its multicultural identity up until today. Our guided tours in Sibiu will provide you the chance to enjoy this city’s art and history, but also to discover the best dining places and cozy retreats where you can rest. We will walk you down the old cobblestone streets of Sibiu and show you the key attractions such as the city’s towers, the Brukenthal Palace, the Haller Bastion, the Roman-Catholic Church, the big and the little squares, the Bridge of Lies, the Stairs Passage and plenty more.

  • Alba Iulia

Alba Iulia has the biggest citadel in the country. If you enjoy historical locations, Alba Iulia is a perfect match for you. This is the place where the state’s union was proclaimed in 1918. Ever since, it’s a tradition to come to Alba Iulia on the 1st of December to celebrate the coming into being of Romania as a unitary country. Alba Iulia has been inhabited since the times of the ancient Roman Empire (called Apullum at the time), as proved by the remains of the castrum and the 2000 years old ruins. It is best known as a medieval settlement and the fortress, Alba Carolina, which used to enclose the city centuries ago still stands still nowadays, sheltering historical monuments and buildings. Here, you can visit the cell where the national folk hero, Horea, was imprisoned, the 7 medieval gates, the dendrological park, the bronze statue representing figures of the 17th century, as well as several cathedrals and museums.

  • Turda

Turda is mostly known for its salt mine and gorges. However, if you get here, you can also take a break and enjoy a good night sleep in this peaceful town. Turda has some nice objectives you might want to check out on a chill-out afternoon: the Mikó Palace, the old Reform Church, the History Museum, the Potaissa Castrum built in the year 168, the salty lakes at Turda Bai where you can relax in style enjoying a day at the spa.

  • Brad

Brad is a small town located in Hunedoara county. It is a great departure point to many of the natural attractions we’ve previously discussed. If you’re planning a several-days tour in the Apuseni area, Brad might be on your route. Despite its size, this town is loaded with historical objectives. The number one must-see attraction in Brad is the Gold’s Museum. The impressive mineralogy collection of this museum is unique in Europe and its first exhibits were gathered more than 100 years ago. The museum is home to more than 2000 exhibits from different places worldwide. Other highlights include the city’s statues, the Ethnography Museum, the grave of the national hero, Avram Iancu, the buildings in the historical center.

Moving South ...

The Retezat National Park

The Retezat National Park is one of the most valuable wild nature areas of Romania, located in the South Carpathian Mountains. Hiking fans should not miss the opportunity to get here and explore an unspoiled landscape. There are more than 20 peaks where you can climb at an altitude that exceeds 2000 meters. Some of the most renowned are Peleaga, Gugu, Custura, Retezat, Păpuşa. If you are not a skilled alpinist, don’t worry, there are plenty other things to do in the Retezat National Park. Many tourists come here simply to admire the landscape and to go on easy to moderate trails. This park is home to a third of the country’s plant species. More than 50 species of mammals live in this region, the bear being one of the most representative. Bird-watching is also a common leisure activity in the Retezat National Park. The flora and fauna of the area are simply astonishing, ranging from wildflowers, to protected animal and bird species. Within the park, there is also a scientific reservation called Gemenele where rare species of plants are preserved and studied.
The park’s beauty is enhanced by numerous lakes, around 80 glacial ones to be more precise. The largest glacial lake in the country, with a surface of 8,9 hectares, is also located here. It’s called the Bucura Lake and lies at an altitude of more than 2000 m. Another must-see is the deepest glacial lake, 29 meters deep, which is called Zănoaga.
If you really want to reconnect with nature, there are several areas where you can camp in the Retezat National Park. Whether you prefer the tent or the bed, we will help you pick the best place based on your needs.

The Defileul Jiului National Park

This park lies on the Jiu River along Jiu Valley, in Gorj and Hunedoara counties, covering a surface of more than 11.000 m2. The park is guarded by two majesties mountains: Vâlcan and Parâng. This is a place of astonishing beauty, where you can enjoy the sight of never-ending green forests of oaks. This park still has virgin forests, such as the Gornicel, Chitu-Bratcu or Rafailă. It is a unique ecosystem and a protected area, where more than 700 species of plants grow. Also, it is the home of approximately 400 wild animal species including bears, wolfs, wildcats, Carpathian deer, as well as a large number of birds.
Here, you can spend the night over in the middle of nature in hotels, pensions, or chalets. There’s a plethora of fun activities you can engage in during your stay in the Defileul Jiului National Park. While most people come here simply to admire the area and take long walks in the forest, those who are keener on adventure can go rafting, climb cliffs, take riding lessons, or explore caves. Impressive geological formations can be found here: the Lainicilor Sphynx and Rafailă Rocks are the most famous ones.
There are different access ways to get to the park; we will choose the most appropriate one based on your route. Other attractions you might want to check out in the area include:

  • the old church of Lainici located inside the park, which was built between 1812 and 1827
  • the wooden church Sf. Nicolae (Bumbești Jiu), built in 1760
  • the church Sfinții Voievozi ( Bumbești Jiu), built in 1706
  • the church Sf. Gheorghe (Sâmbotin), built in 1794
  • the church Saint Dumitru (Schela) built in 1781
  • the Roman castrum in Bumbești Jiu which was built during the time of the emperors Septimus Sever and Antonun Caracala
  • the museum of traditional architecture Curtisoara where you can see 30 exhibits portraying the traditional lifestyle of people living in this area across the centuries and their skillful handicraft items.

The park is also crossed by an incredible number of underground tunnels, as much as 34, covering a surface of 33 km.

The Transalpina Road

Transalpina is one of the most popular roads in the country where you can drive through awe-inspiring mountains. At its highest point, called the Urdele Pass, Transalpina reaches almost 2150 m. This route is a convenient way of enjoying nature from the comfort of a vehicle. Transalpina measures 148 km and it links Sebes and Novaci. There is a plethora of breathtaking images to see along this road and plenty places where you can stop and take photos or simply relax while breathing fresh air and disconnecting from the hectic everyday life. This route basically crosses the Parâng Mountains and the following counties: Sibiu, Alba, Gorj and Vâlcea. What is now a modern driveable road, used to be a plain path back in the old days, that was by no means suitable for automobiles, as suggested by its nickname, the Devil's Pathway. The road has been used for centuries, initially by shepherds who lived in the mountains. The first attempt to modernize it and make it suitable for driving was made during the first world war. The wild scenario you will see here is absolutely breathtaking and there are numerous locations along the road where you can stop for a lavish meal or a good night's sleep. The road is lined with touristic attractions including lakes (Tău, Oașa), mountains (Novaci, Ranca, Lotrului), unspoiled forests. Transalpina is also the scene of different events such as bike or music festivals, cycling competitions and much more.

  • Petroșani

Petroșani is a small town located in an area that used to be famous for its mining activities. Especially for foreigners, this is a chance to grasp the reminiscence of the communist period. Petroșani is an utterly quiet place where time literally seems to stand still. It is a good point of departure to some of the attractions we have previously mentioned such as the National Park Retezat or Sarmisegetuza. There are numerous historical vestiges in the area: the fortress of Poenari, the Fortress Blidaru, the Fortress Căpâlna or Costești. There are also mountain resorts you can reach in only 30 minutes, for example the Parâng resort which is only 10 km away, Straja or Pasul Vulcan, located at an altitude of 1621 m. The town itself also has some historical highlights including the wooden church and the mining museum, unique in Romania for illustrating the coal mining technique.

  • Petrila

Petrila is also a tranquil little town where you can enjoy the amazing view of a pure natural landscape. Petrila is surrounded by beautiful rolling hills such as Moeciu, imposing mountains like Bucegi, Șureanu, Retezat. A long trail in Lunca Florii gorges located nearby will relax your mind and spirit. Here, in Petrila, there is also the biggest coal mine in Romania, not surprisingly, the town has the highest percentage of people employed in the mining industry in the country.

Cazanele Dunarii - The Danube Canyon

As we go further south, we reach another protected area, Cazanele, located on the Danube Canyon. This is considered the most beautiful area of the canyon. It is located in the proximity of the city of Orșova. This area features on one side a spectacular rocky landscape with forests, nature reserves where wild animals and birds dwell and, on the other side, the slow course of the Danube. This is the part of the canyon where the river Danube is at its narrowest point. There are different bold experiences to indulge in here: 15 marked trails here, with different difficulty degrees, cycling routes, motocross routes, archaeological sites, places where you can practice fishing or sailing. A landmark of the area is Decebal's statue 25m wide and 40m high, sculpted in rock, in the point where Mraconia River meets the Danube.

Herculane and the Iron Gates

The Iron Gates Natural Park also lies on Danube's canyon, in Mehedinți and Caraș-Severin counties, near the border with Serbia. This is the largest natural park in the country, featuring spectacular gorges along the Danube. The area includes the hydroelectric dam near Orșova, Traian's Bridge, built between 103 and 105, the medieval fort at Golubac.

Herculane is the most popular city in the area. A historical location, Herculane has been inhabited for the past 2000 years. It is mostly known for its thermal baths, having been a spa center for centuries. This is one of the oldest thermal spas in the world. Legend says that the mythological hero Hercules used to bathe here. Consequently, there is also a huge bronze statue of the hero right in the center of the city along with several historical monuments and centuries-old buildings. Besides thermal baths and spa services, Herculane is also surrounded by beautiful forests, lying along Cerna Valley and hidden caves where proof of human life dating back in the paleolithic age were discovered.

Romania has plenty places of unspoiled natural beauty which are largely unknown to the wider public.

Take your chance to be among the few privileged ones who get to explore them.

Contact us for a personalized tour in the Apuseni Mountains and let's start planning the vacation you'll never forget.

Why Choose Us?

We are native Romanian and Hungarian speakers, fluent in English, and can get along with Hebrew, Italian, French and German.

We are not geniuses, just went to school, pay a bit of attention, and have some good connections. Probably also helped the fact that Transylvania is a multiethnic region, nowadays with roughly ~ 60% ethnically Romanian people, ~ 20% Hungarian (Magyar, Székely), ~ 8 German (Schwabian, Saxon, Zipser), ~10% Gypsy, and under 5% Ukrainian, Serb, and other ethnical groups.

The situation was a bit different during the 18’Th and 19’Th century, when probably it was something like: ~ 40% ethnically Romanian, ~ 25% Hungarian, ~ 15% German, ~ 10% Gypsy, ~ 5% Jew and under 5% Ukrainians, Serbs.

I can personally say, as long as I know, that I am something like 25% German, 25% Romanian, 25% Hungarian, and not sure about the rest because one of my grandpa’s was born somewhere in Galicia (present day Ukraine) and there the situation was even more complicated .

We offer mainly custom services / custom packages which are basically a combination of multiple single services tailor made to the traveler’s needs.

It can be a complete package as a sightseeing tour, a guided heritage tour or a family tree tour, even airport to airport tours, but we offer also, as we call it, single services like:

  • Airport transfers from or to Budapest, Cluj Napoca, Debrecen, Timisoara Airports
  • Services of a private driver or other transportation services
  • Car rentals from local, flexible companies
  • Organization services
  • Training and team building type activities
  • Translations and interpreting
  • Research, representation or just consultancy

We call a service, a package or a tour as airport to airport all-inclusive when we plan the whole trip and organize for our travelers all the needed services from landing at a specific airport to taking off from the same or another airport.

In these cases we expect and meet our travelers at the airport terminal and say goodbye in the same place. “All-inclusive” usually includes:

  • Planning and creating a custom tour – itinerary, sites, objectives etc
  • All the necessary reservations
  • Airport transfers and all the needed transportation services
  • Guiding and interpreting
  • Assistance throughout the whole period of stay

In this way we can spare a lot of time and money and gain more comfort and safety.

We are flexible and always deliver considering your wishes. For example, a specific place or area might catch your attention and decide to stick around more than it was planned, we are flexible enough and can easily adapt to such situations or even more than that.

We prefer to guide and deliver information towards your curiosity and interests rather then follow a specific, memorized program.

As small business owners with several years spent also in multinational corporations we learned to value time.

Being passionate about history and with a rich experience in travelling across Romania and Europe we can promise that if you are interested we are able to widen your knowledge about our regions and about Eastern Europe in general.