Mountainous North Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, hikes to take, food to eat and where to stay in Romania's Mountainous North. Explore the beauty of the Balkans through this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Mountainous North

Nestled in the heart of Muntenia, Romania’s Mountainous North is a natural paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. As the name suggests, this region is characterized by its rugged mountainous terrain, which offers a wide range of trekking and adventure opportunities. From hidden waterfalls to picturesque villages, it boasts a unique mix of natural beauty, history, and local culture.

List of Places to Visit in Mountainous North

There are several places that you must explore when visiting Mountainous North. Here are some of the top tourist attractions to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Mountainous North boasts a rich cultural heritage, and you can explore it by visiting some of the following places:

  • Peles Castle - A stunning castle built in the late 19th century, which features several works of art and a magnificent garden. It’s located in the town of Sinaia, often dubbed “The Pearl of the Carpathians”.

  • Sighet Memorial Museum - A former prison that was converted into a museum dedicated to the victims of communism. It’s a sobering reminder of Romania’s Communist past.

  • Rasnov Fortress - A medieval fortress that dates back to the 1300s. It offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding area and is located just outside the town of Rasnov.

Natural Attractions of Mountainous North: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The Carpathian Mountains dominate the landscape of Mountainous North and provide numerous opportunities for outdoor adventures. Here are some of the most popular:

  • Balea Lake - One of the highest natural lakes in the Carpathians. The lake is surrounded by stunning peaks that create a postcard-worthy view from the water’s edge.

  • Bucegi National Park - A vast natural park that covers 32,000 hectares and hosts diverse plants and animals. Trek through its forests and plains featuring waterfalls, caves and rocky ridges.

  • Piatra Craiului National Park – A gorgeous national park in the Southern Carpathians home to many hiking trails and unique landmarks such as the Zarnesti Gorges.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mountainous North

Mountainous North offers hikers and cyclists the chance to explore some of the most pristine natural landscapes that Romania has to offer. Here are some of the most spectacular routes to explore:

  • The Bucegi Circuit - A stunning trekking circuit that begins at the base of the Bucegi Mountains, passes through beautiful mountain villages, and ends at Peles Castle. It takes roughly four days to complete.

  • Transfagarasan Highway - This 90 km stretch of road winds its way along the Fagaras Mountains, providing spectacular views of the landscape. The highway is open from June to October.

  • Cheile Nerei-Beusnita Natural Park - This park spans across 36,000 hectares and is home to several breathtaking trekking routes and bike trails.

Best Things to Do in Mountainous North: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Mountainous North offers an array of activities such as:

  • Skiing and snowboarding - Due to the region’s mountainous terrain, there are several ski resorts where you can enjoy a winter break.

  • Rafting and kayaking - The stunning rivers that run through the Carpathian Mountains offer the perfect conditions for water sports enthusiasts.

  • Wine tasting - Enjoy a glass of Romania’s best wine while taking in the stunning mountain views.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mountainous North

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Mountainous North, here is an itinerary that you can follow:

Day Plan
1 Visit Peles Castle and explore the picturesque town of Sinaia.
2 Take a scenic drive on Transfagarasan Highway.
3 Explore Bucegi National Park and hike to some of the most stunning peaks.
4 Visit the Sighet Memorial Museum and learn about Romania’s Communist past.
5 Go on a wine-tasting tour in one of the local vineyards.
6 Explore Cheile Nerei-Beusnita Natural Park.
7 Enjoy a relaxing day at Balea Lake.

Food and Drink Scene of Mountainous North

Mountainous North is a region with a strong food and wine culture. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages that you can savor:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sarmale - Cabbage rolls stuffed with ground pork and rice, served with sour cream.

  • Ciorba - A sour soup that’s a staple of Romanian cuisine. It can be made with various ingredients such as vegetables and meat.

  • Tochitura - A hearty, savory stew made with pork and served with cornmeal or polenta.

Local Beverages

  • Horinca - A strong brandy made from plums.

  • Tuica - Another brandy, but made from apples rather than plums.

  • Romanian Wine - Romania produces some fantastic wines, especially red wines such as Feteasca Neagra, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir.

Where to Stay in Mountainous North: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mountainous North has several options for accommodation, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the top picks:

  • Hotel International Sinaia - A 5-star hotel located within walking distance of Peles Castle and Sinaia Monastery.

  • Pensiunea Casa Wiarusti Cheia - A cozy guesthouse located near Cheia village, offering stunning mountain views.

  • Hostel Bucegi - A budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Bucegi National Park.

What to Buy in Mountainous North: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When traveling to Mountainous North, here are some of the souvenirs and local products that you should consider taking home:

  • Traditional Carpets - Made using the same techniques that have been handed down for centuries, these carpets are beautiful pieces of art that add warmth and color to any home.

  • Handmade Ceramics - Romania has a long tradition of pottery, and you can find some stunning handmade ceramics in Mountainous North.

  • Local Honey - Produced by local beekeepers, the honey of Mountainous North is famous for its rich flavor and natural sweetness.

Local Culture and Customs of Mountainous North

Romania has a unique culture with several customs and traditions. Here are some of the most common customs that you may encounter in Mountainous North:

  • Greeting people with a kiss on both cheeks is a common custom in Romania.

  • Traditional folk dancing and music are an essential part of Romanian culture and are celebrated throughout the year.

  • Romania has several public holidays that are celebrated with large festivals and parades, such as Easter, Christmas, and St. George’s Day.

Best Time to Visit Mountainous North

The best time to visit Mountainous North is from late May to October, when the weather is mild, and the trails are dry. However, do note that the months of July and August are peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mountainous North

To make the most of your trip to Mountainous North, here are some do’s and don’ts which you should keep in mind:

Do:

  • Bring comfortable walking shoes and clothing suitable for hiking.

  • Try the local food and drinks.

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter- Keep in mind to keep the landscape clean and dispose of any waste properly.

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting the monasteries or churches.

  • Get off the beaten path when hiking trails are not well marked and your skills and gear are not adequate.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mountainous North

Mountainous North is a relatively safe place, but as with any outdoor activity, it’s essential to be mindful of safety. Here are some safety tips for hiking:

  • Do not hike alone.

  • Bring a map and compass, as well as a GPS device.

  • Be aware of the weather forecast, and always be prepared for sudden changes in weather.

Health in Mountainous North

There are no major health concerns when traveling to Mountainous North. However, if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors, be sure to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and appropriate clothing. Also, pack a basic first aid kit with you, as well as any medications you need.

Getting to Mountainous North: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mountainous North is located in Romania’s Muntenia region. Here are the transportation options to reach this region:

Airports Near Mountainous North

The closest airport to Mountainous North is Henri Coanda International Airport in Bucharest. There are direct flights from most major European cities, including London, Paris, and Istanbul.

Bus Stations Near Mountainous North

There are several bus stations in the town of Brasov, which is a gateway to several destinations in Mountainous North.

Other Options

Renting a car is also an excellent option if you want to explore the region on your own.

How to Get Around in Mountainous North

Public transportation in Mountainous North is limited, so your best bet is to rent a car or to join a guided tour. Alternatively, hitchhiking is a common mode of transportation in rural areas.

Where to Go Next from Mountainous North: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Mountainous North is a great base from which to explore Romania’s other attractions. Here are some of the nearby destinations that you can visit:

  • Bran Castle - A medieval fortress famous for its connection to Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

  • Brasov - A historical city that is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Romania.

  • Bucharest - Romania’s vibrant capital city with a rich history and culture.

Conclusion

Mountainous North is a beautiful region that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and history. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a lover of local culture, there is something for everyone in this region of Romania. So, pack your bags and get ready to be enchanted by the beauty of the Carpathian Mountains.



    Azuga
    Breaza
    Curtea de Argeș
    Câmpulung
    Sinaia
    Slănic
    Vâlsan Valley