Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle), Romania by Florin73m

Transylvania is a wild corner of Europe where untamed forest meets the mountains, forming jagged ridges in the sky. There are a number of impressive mountain ranges in Transylvania including the Făgăraș, Bucegi and the Carpathians. Ensure that you spend at least 8 full days exploring each of these stunning regions. Start off your magnificent European tour with a visit to the medieval town of Brasov.

Brasov is a gorgeous village in central Romania, enveloped by the Carpathian Mountains. There are a range of summer and winter activities for tourists to enjoy including skiing and snowboarding in the resorts during winter as well as swimming at the Aquatic Paradise, roller skating and climbing in the summer. But for those with a wild appreciation for natural beauty, Brasov’s surrounding Prahova Valley is definitely worth the visit. The Valley separates the Eastern Carpathians from the Southern Carpathians and was historically, a passage that led from the principality of Wallachia to Transylvania. You may take a day hike up the Carpathian Mountains and visit the spectacular Seven Stairs Canyon.

Turda Gorges, Romania by Cristian Bortes

Dracula’s Castle

Your exploration of Romania is not complete without a visit to Bran, home of Castle Dracula. The majestic Bran Castle is one of the nation’s most popular landmarks, it was built during the medieval period and is now a museum displaying artefacts collected by Queen Marie. It is speculated that the real Castle Dracula is now in ruins, but Vlad Tepes (The Impaler) used Bran Castle as the headquarters for most of his invasions in Transylvania.

Moldoveanu Peak

Hike to the very top of Romania – look down at the magnificent escarpment below atop Moldoveanu Peak. At 2544m, it is the highest point on the Făgăraș mountain range. You may climb the mountain at any time of the year, but be on the lookout for avalanche warnings during the winter. It can take up to four days to hike the Făgăraș Mountains, with no restrictions on camping but make sure you take with you plenty of food, water and sunscreen as there is very little shade on the mountain. The journey begins at the beautiful glacial Bâlea Lake and you can get there by car. Start your hike early in the morning to ensure you make the most of the daylight.

Pietrosu Mare, Romania by Gavrila Stetco

Accommodation

Book yourself a European tour package with accommodation included. Many deals offer cheap and comfortable accommodation options such as cosy guesthouses or lodges. Some packages even include most meals – but make sure you pack a few sandwiches, some snacks and plenty of water if you’re planning to camp out on the mountains, as there are no dining facilities once you leave the townships.

The countryside of Romania is a gorgeous, often forgotten part of Eastern Europe that is easily one of the most naturally beautiful locations in the world. For those who can’t resist a long hike up majestic mountains and a good social gathering at the pub afterwards, Romania is the perfect holiday escape.

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