Join Ioan, an experienced UIMLA Mountain Leader, on a day hike in the Piatra Craiului National Park, an area of amazing natural beauty near Brasov, in Romania.
Private
Carpathian Mountains
1 Day
Jan - Sep, Nov, Dec
High
Intermediate
The Piatra Craiului National Park in Romania is one of the most beautiful protected areas of the Carpathians. Join me on a day hike and discover this national park in the Piatria Craiului Mountains, one of the most popular hiking areas in the country, located just a few kilometers away from the city of Brasov.
We can meet up in Brasov or directly in Zarnesti village early in the morning. The trip will take us in total about 7-8 hours. During this day we will get to the Piatra Mica peak (The Small Rock – 1816m), visit the Curmatura cottage and Prapastiile Zarnestilor, a river gorge. You can find something interesting to see in the park in every season, so it is up to you if you prefer to see greener or whiter landscapes.
From Brasov we need to drive, or to take a train, to get to Zarnesti village, where the trip will start. We will leave the car and start ascending through the forest and after one hour we will arrive to a big clearing, where we will see for the first time the rocky ridge of the Piatra Craiului Mountains.
From that point we continue the climb until we get to the Piatra Mica peak , with great views all around and a big fall at our feet. After taking plenty of photos, the most interesting part of the trail is up! We have to walk on a narrow and rocky path, with some steep slopes all around. Some chains will be there to help through the most difficult part, when we will start the descent.
After we return to the forest, we head to the Curmatura cottage for something to eat and drink. Then we descend to Prapastiile Zarnestilor, a river gorge with steep and tall walls. Following this way, after approximately 8 hours, we will finally return to the car.
The trip can be customized to your needs and level. We can modify the route in case of bad weather, or in case you prefer something easier or more demanding.
This hike involves 1000m of positive altitude difference (about 4-5 hours of climbing), meaning you need to be in a good physical shape. However, experience is not mandatory, and you can enjoy the trip even as a beginner. Although you should bear in mind that if you have a big fear of heights, this trail could put you to a test!
Just send me a request if you want to join me on this hike in the Piatra Craiului National Park. Book your trip and come enjoy a great trek in Romania. You could also check out my profile page for other hiking tours in Romania.
More info
Depending on the season, you will need normal mountain equipment: mountain boots - 3 season or winter, proper clothing, some water and food in your backpack, sun glasses, head lamp etc. In winter, small crampons could be necessary.
Meeting point
What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?
5.0
(1)
Mountain Leader
For me, mountains are not about high peaks or adrenalin, but about inner peace, joy, freedom and a chance not just to get to know better the nature around you, but also yourself.
I love the wilderness in the Romanian mountains, especially the less known mountains, where you can really get closer to nature, and I would like to give as many people the chance to discover that feeling of being "into the wild".
I have been hiking since childhood, but got much closer to mountains in 2006, when I went on my first solo trip in to the mountains. Since then I have been in countless trips all over Romania, and from time to time in other mountains in Europe.
I am a certified International Mountain Leader (since september 2017), but I have been organizing trips in the mountains since 2011.
I am also a nature photographer and movie maker, the creator of the mountain episodes (broadcasted on TV and also on Youtube) called "Pe poteci, spre inima ta" ("On the trails, toward your heart) - movies about trails and trips in the mountains.
Languages
Romanian | Italian | English
Certificates
UIMLA
Eitan
Ioan was a great guide!! We joined a group of 10 others at the last moment and although we came unprepared for the first day, he managed to get us what we needed in order to have an amazing adventure! We visited several peaks over 2500m, met local shepherds, saw amazing views and had great meals. Despite some injuries we had and lagging a bit behind the group, everyone was patient and understanding. The first day was a challenge uphill, the second we had a lot of rain but enjoyed the area and clean air, the third day was a tour of the Fagaras peaks leading to a steady descent with great views. Make sure to prepare in advance and bring the necessary equipment - rain proof gear, adjustable walking sticks, low temperature sleeping bag and quick setup tent. Very much recommended!!!
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