Romania, occasionally spelled Rumania, and formerly also spelled Roumania is a unitary semi-presidential republic located in southeastern–central Europe, north of the Balkan Peninsula and on the western shore of the Black Sea. It borders Hungary, Serbia, Ukraine, Moldova, and Bulgaria. It covers 238,391 square kilometres (92,043 sq mi) and has a temperate–continental climate. With its 20.1 million inhabitants, it is the seventh most populous member of the European Union. Its capital and largest city, Bucharest, is the sixth largest city in the European Union.
Romania? Why Romania? Where is Romania and why would I pick to go there? Well, it wasn’t really Romania I was going to but rather a part of Romania that is well known. We were in search for someone, someone very famous. Figured it out yet? Everybody has heard of this mystery person. Were were trekking in Transylvania in search of the true history of Dracula, or at least the person the stories may have been based upon.
This was a trekking trip, where would leave a village each morning and hike to (or close to) another village were we would spend the night. It was the modern version of trekking where you didn’t have to carry all your gear, you just needed a day pack during the hike and your luggage would magically appear at your destination or your pick up location.
Bucharest
Bucharest is a historic but modern city. It is surprising at times to realize that before 1990 Romania was a communist country so you do see some signs of it but they have made great progress.
Modern history would talk about the beautiful Palace of the Parliament, but we were more interested in a previous resident of the city. The man, the myth, the legend, Dracula, Vlad the Impaler, Prince of Wallachia. When you are in Bucharest you don’t see many signs of this infamous previous resident but when you go looking you can find his old fortress which they were renovating during our visit to allow it to be a first class tourist attraction.
We spent the day with a walking tour of the city, including the inside of the Palace of the Parliament. If you are modern history buff I really encourage you to read up on the building.
Sinia
We left Bucharest fairly early but ran into a bit of a traffic incident that slowed our departure, however we did get in a little hike the first afternoon. The next day, well that was the type of hike that gets the legs working and an introduction on how the weather can change pretty quickly.
Pestera to Moeciu
This day we started by exploring a cave behind the church. I would say it is at least a quarter mile into the cave before you find a little shrine and you cannot go any further. The hike on this day at times got really cold, I remember trying to find a little dip in the ground to get out of the wind so that we could have our picnic lunch. Then we get on the other side of the hill and sun comes out and cows are relaxing, enjoying the view of our destination.
Hiking to a Pestera Village
On this day we had a very scenic trek, from one small village to another, through some beautiful countryside.
Pestera Village to Bran
This trek started off with a long, slow incline and then got steeper before we finally stopped for lunch. Then it was a step, rough downhill trail. Luckily our drive was at the end of the trail to drive us to Bran. This was probably the toughest trek of the trip, good elevation climb and some rocky “paths” to navigate.
Bran
Bran, home of Bran Castle, the name doesn’t ring a bell? How about the name many other people call it? It’s also known as “Dracula’s Castle.” Another piece of interesting history is that in the 1920s the castle became the royal residence in the Kingdom of Romania and a favourite location for Queen Marie. It was a cloudy cool day so it was a perfect day to explore the castle and learn more about Vlad the Impaler.
Brasov
This city had so many historic and beautiful buildings. We spent the day wandering throughout the city and exploring the churches learning about the city. Did you know the Romanian national anthem was written here and that they host the Golden Stag International Music Festival?
Sighisoara
Heard of this town? Probably not, but it is known as the birthplace of Vlad III, Prince of Wallachia (1431-1476) who was a member of the House of Draculesti. This little town has taken full advantage of this famous resident and we had dinner in the house he is said to have been born in. We had a good waking tour of the town and then the next day was our last hike before heading back to Brasov for the night and then Bucharest the next day for our flights home.
Before this trip I did not know much about the origins of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, in fact I didn’t think it was really based on any real character, but this trip has given me some great stories about Vlad the Impaler, including how he got that moniker. For those interested I encourage you to read the Wikipedia page for Vlad the Impaler, but there is nothing like hearing the origins and many stories from the locals in the places where it was all supposed to have taken place.
Logistics
This trip was organized by Mountain Travel Sobek and it does not appear to be offered any more. We were a small group of about ten travelers, a guide, and a driver which was a good size. In most locations we stayed in small hotels that were family run and we would usually take most of the rooms. Some nights we stayed in small little villages that did not get many outsiders and it was nice to experience a more authentic atmosphere and see their true culture. Everywhere we went the people were very friendly.
With regards to the terrain, well, lots of hills, we would hike for 4-7 hours a day often with a 300-400m (900-1,300 feet) elevation change with temperatures ranging from 0C – 18C (32F – 65F), through in a little rain and some wind and you have fun. You need to have a good selection of clothing in your day pack so that you can peel off or add on clothing as needed.
Aya
Such a fab trip! Great pictures Nigel. I will go back one more time …in warmer weather to enjoy the views! And hopefully this time the count will come to my room! hehe