We will begin our adventure in Bucharest and head north toward the Carpathian Mountains, arriving in Sinaia, the "Pearl of the Carpathians." Here we will visit the fairytale-like Peleș Castle, surrounded by forests and mountain peaks, a masterpiece of Noe-Renaissance architecture.
After strolling through the castle gardens and enjoying the alpine atmosphere, we will take a gentle walk through Sinaia's old town, admiring the monastery and the serene charm of this mountain resort.
Today we will take the cable car up into the Bucegi Mountains, rising to the Bucegi Plateau where nature has sculpted some of Romania's most iconic landmarks. We will admire the enigmatic Bucegi Sphinx and Babele rock formations, shaped by wind and time into astonishing forms.
From the plateau, we will walk along a panoramic trail leading to the Caraiman Cross, perched high on the ridge, offering breathtaking views over the Prahova Valley and surrounding peaks.
Our journey continues with a thrilling 4x4 safari across the Bucegi highlands, exploring wild landscapes of meadows, cliffs, and hidden valleys. The off-road experience will bring us closer to untouched corners of the mountains, where the beauty of nature feels endless.
Later, we will descend to visit the mystical Ialomița Cave, a vast underground chamber filled with legends and dramatic rock formations. Here the cool silence and mystery of the cave will contrast with the open skies of the plateau.
We will set out on the Transfăgărășan, one of the most famous roads in the world, climbing through countless switchbacks that reveal ever-changing views of the Făgăraș Mountains. At the top, we will pause at Bâlea Lake, a glacial jewel surrounded by steep cliffs.
On our descent, we will stop at Vidraru Lake and the impressive dam, marveling at the engineering feat and the wide waters stretching into the mountains. The day will be filled with both adrenaline and serenity.
We will step underground at the Ocnele Mari Salt Mine, where vast chambers of salt create an otherworldly landscape. The cool air and shimmering walls make it a fascinating natural wonder to explore.
From there, we will discover Polovragi Cave and the narrow Polovragi Gorge before ascending the Transalpina Road, Romania's highest mountain pass. At Urdele Pass we will feel as if we are standing on the roof of the Carpathians, and we will end the day at Oașa Lake, calm and surrounded by forested slopes.
Today we will travel back in time at Sarmizegetusa Regia, the ancient Dacian capital hidden in the Orăștie Mountains. Walking among its circular sanctuaries and ruins, we will feel the echoes of a civilization that resisted Rome with courage and spirit.
In the afternoon, we will explore the Hațeg region, a land of rolling hills and legends, known also as the home of the dwarf dinosaurs that once lived here. It is a place where history and nature blend beautifully.
We will head into Rudăria Gorge, where dozens of traditional wooden water mills line the stream, still working just as they did centuries ago. The gentle walk along the gorge will show us this unique blend of natural beauty and living tradition.
From here, we will follow the Cerna Valley, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and green forests, before reaching our accommodation along the Danube Gorge, where the great river begins to unfold its majesty.
A full day will be dedicated to the Danube Gorge, where the river carves its way between high limestone cliffs, creating landscapes of rare beauty. We will embark on a boat trip that will take us to the mysterious Ponicova Cave, carved by the waters over centuries.
Along the way, we will admire the colossal rock sculpture of King Decebalus, as well as sweeping viewpoints over the river, where Romania and Serbia face each other across the waters. This is one of the natural highlights of our journey.
We will continue along the Danube, enjoying the landscapes one last time before turning toward Craiova, an elegant city with parks, wide boulevards, and cultural landmarks. Its historic center offers a mix of old charm and modern vibrancy.
We will spend the afternoon strolling through the city, visiting the Art Museum housed in a beautiful palace, and discovering the lively atmosphere of Oltenia's capital.
On our final day, we will leave Craiova and head back to Bucharest, reflecting on the incredible journey through mountains, caves, gorges, and ancient sites.
The road back will be filled with memories of dramatic peaks, hidden valleys, and the timeless flow of the Danube, completing our circle through Romania's most stunning natural wonders.
