Transylvanian Alps

From World travel guide

Romanian Carpatii Meridionali, southern branch of the Carpathian Mts., extending c.225 mi (360 km) E across central Romania from the Danube River at the Iron Gate. Moldoveanu (8,343 ft/2,543 m) and Negoiu are the highest peaks. The range, composed of crystalline massifs, is densely forested and is a famous hunting ground. Its subalpine meadows are used for extensive sheep grazing. There are coal, iron, and lignite deposits. Turnu Rosu is the most important of several passes linking Transylvania with Walachia to the south.

The Transylvanian Alps have an almost mediaeval landscape, with scattered villages nestling below towering summits and vast forests.

This unique itinerary links together the untouched landscapes of three different but very beautiful massifs. Beginning with the stunning valleys of Bucegi we move on to explore the limestone scenery of Piatra Craiului, and the rolling uplands of Lezer, before visiting the jagged Fagaras Range. Here we can climb Moldoveanu (2544m), Romania's highest mountain. Between the massifs lie the attractive wooden villages of Rucar Bran, ringed by miles of alpine meadows, where the hospitable inhabitants still follow a pastoral way of life.

The rich and varied wildlife includes wolves and bears. This strenuous, fascinating and varied trek is one of our most exciting walking itineraries in the whole of Europe. There's also a chance to visit the impressive castles of Peles and Bran (Dracula's castle), before finishing in the busy capital, Bucharest.