The Via Transilvanica (Transylvanian Trail) was inaugurated in 2022. It’s the fruit of many years' work, of which the Romanians are very proud. This unique route crosses the Romanian mountains from north to south, in wild and unspoilt regions. Covering more than 1,400 kilometres (870 mi), the route reveals unspoilt nature and more than 2,000 years of Transylvanian history.

The Romanian NGO Tășuleasa – which specialises in environmental, educational, social and cultural issues – is responsible for this titanic project. The entire route is divided into seven sections and 67 stages, which can be completed on foot, by mountain bike or even on horseback. The Via Transilvanica is synonymous with variety. From the peaks of the high mountains to the banks of the Danube River, the landscapes are as varied as the people.

Leaving the city of Poiana Negrii behind, the trail also leaves the Bucovina region. This is where the Highlands region begins. This 11-stage Collection, which is 243 kilometres (151 mi) long, reveals a very open landscape. The route heads towards the commune of Lunca Ilvei, in the county of Bistrița-Năsăud, on the slopes of the Rodnei Mountains.

The trail crosses many mountains and offers myriad opportunities to experience the beauty of this part of the Carpathians. The lifestyle of its inhabitants is marked by the harsh natural conditions inherent in mountainous regions. The trail passes through a diverse landscape ranging from mountain peaks to lowland forests, and from gentle hillsides to endless high-altitude meadows.

As well as the difficulty of the terrain, there’s also the wildlife to consider. Along with Finland, Romania has the largest population of brown bears in Europe. So your chance of encountering one is not zero. Most of the time, the bear is as frightened as you are and runs off. Bear attacks are very rare and only happen if they feel threatened. Shepherds' dogs, of which there are many, are more annoying. If you don't show any animosity, they’ll ignore you. A sheepdog protects its flock, so don't hesitate to pass as far from the perimeter as possible.

Few people speak English in these mountainous regions, making communication another challenge. Memorising a few Romanian words and phrases may prove useful. When it comes to accommodation and food, you’ll have nothing to worry about. At the end and beginning of each stage, you'll find shops, guesthouses, hotels and sometimes campsites. Prices vary between €9 and €14 for accommodation and between €4 and €9 for a meal. This adventure is aimed at those who are used to hiking – they don’t require physical prowess, but you’ll need some experience.

Make sure you are well-equipped for the conditions on this hike. The paths can sometimes be very muddy and rocky, making good walking shoes essential. The climate can be very harsh and changeable, even in summer. Warm and waterproof clothing is required in all seasons. Avoid winter, as there’s a lot of snow. The best time to enjoy this region is between May and October. I recommend undertaking this adventure as a group or, for the more solitary, taking a dog as a travelling companion. Romania plans to join the Eurozone in 2024 at the earliest. The local currency, the Leu, is roughly equivalent to 20 euro cents.

To get there, you can take a flight to Floreni regional airport, close to the start of the route. The Floreni and Dorna Candrelinor bus stations are the other two options. You'll find the Câmpu Cetății railway station, located along the River Niraj a few kilometres from the end of this section of the Via Transilvanica.

For more information on other parts of the Via Transilvanica, see the following Collections:

komoot.com/collection/2391600

Happy touring.