Pick-up in Cluj-Napoca
Meet your guide and transfer to Turda (approx. 45 min drive).
Stop in Rimetea village.
A quick detour to this picturesque Szekler village at the foot of the Apuseni Mountains. Enjoy the white houses with green shutters, and optional local snack or coffee.
Rafting experience (light to moderate). Depending on water level and location, rafting can be done on Arieș River (or nearby rivers) with full safety equipment and guides provided.
Late lunch / early dinner (optional). Stop at a local restaurant for traditional Transylvanian dishes (on request).
Return to Cluj-Napoca
Arrival estimated around 19:30–20:00.
Departure from Cluj-Napoca Begin your journey northward toward Breb, one of the most picturesque and authentic villages in Maramureș (~3.5–4 h drive with stops).
11:30 – Visit at „Căsuțele cu Lavandă” A peaceful stop in a blooming lavender field. Stretch your legs, breathe in the aromatic air, take stunning
photos, and browse through handmade lavender products. A perfect rural escape. Located near Dej or Chiuiești area (depending on route).
Stop at the Festivalul Bivolilor (Buffalo Festival). Depending on the date, enjoy a unique local celebration in one of the nearby villages (such as Giulești or Ocna Șugatag). Expect traditional music, dancing, food stalls with local delicacies, and of course—pride parades of the mighty Maramureșean buffalo.
Note: Festival dates may vary – usually late August to mid-September.
Continue to Breb & Check-in
Arrive in the heart of Maramureș. Breb is known for its traditional wooden houses, cobbled lanes, and peaceful atmosphere. Free time in Breb – relax & explore. Spend the evening exploring the village on foot, chatting with locals, or simply unwinding in nature. Optional dinner at a local guesthouse with traditional dishes.
Today blends adventure, tradition, and exploration, offering flexible activity options depending on your energy and interests. From mountain views and thrilling flights to charming historic streets and vibrant local festivals – this is a full taste of northern Romania’s beauty.
Option 1 – Horseback Riding in the Hills. Begin your morning with a relaxing horseback ride through the rolling countryside and peaceful forest paths of rural Maramureș.
Guided ride for all levels, including first-time riders. Duration: ~1.5–2 hours
Includes safety gear and basic instructions Ideal for those who want a calm, nature-connected start to the day.
Option 2 – Paragliding from Mount Igniș. For the adventurous, an off-road ride will take you up to the Igniș plateau (~1300m altitude), where breathtaking views await.
Tandem paragliding flight with a certified instructor. Approx. 20–30 minutes of flight time. Panoramic views over Baia Mare, Gutâi Mountains, and forested valleys. Weather-dependent – may require flexibility in scheduling. Wear sports clothing, hiking boots, and a windbreaker. Not recommended for those with fear of heights.
Cultural Stop: Explore Baia Mare. After the morning activities, head to the historic center of Baia Mare for a more relaxed cultural experience:
Walk through the Old Town. Evening: Traditional Festival of the Village Elders (option 1). Conclude the day by joining a local rural festival held in a nearby village (usually in September):
Folk music, traditional dancing, and vibrant costumes. Cultural performances by local ensembles. Traditional food tastings and local crafts. A unique chance to connect with the spirit of Maramureș. Festival date may vary each year – final confirmation is required closer to the trip date.
Evening: Festivalul Castanelor (Chestnut Festival) (option 2). End your day by joining the lively Chestnut Festival, a popular local event celebrating autumn’s arrival.
Traditional music and dance performances. Local food and drink stalls featuring chestnut-based specialties. Artisan crafts and family-friendly activities. A festive atmosphere perfect for experiencing Maramureș culture in a fun setting.
Festival usually takes place in early to mid-October – please check the exact
dates before planning.
Today is designed as a slow-paced, relaxing day, focused on charming local culture and picturesque northern villages. We’ll explore two of Maramureș’s best-known destinations, both offering vibrant traditions and scenic landscapes.
Săpânța – The Merry Cemetery. This colorful and unique cemetery is famous for its hand-painted wooden crosses, cheerful colors, and poetic epitaphs. It reflects the light-hearted spirit and creativity of the local people.
Stroll through the rows of artfully decorated crosses. Admire the vibrant motifs and rhymes. Optional stop at nearby wooden church or local craft shop. Sighetu Marmației – Local Charm. A short drive brings us to Sighetu Marmației, a welcoming town near the Ukrainian border.
Enjoy a relaxed walk through the town center. Browse traditional markets or small local boutiques. Optional lunch in a cozy local restaurant. Free time to explore or enjoy a coffee in the main square.
Local Life, Steam Trains & Scenic Roads. Today combines authentic rural charm with one of the most iconic experiences in Maramureș – a journey with the steam-powered narrow-gauge train known as the Mocănița. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a mix of local flavors, farm visits, and panoramic landscapes.
Morning Visit – Ostrich Farm in Călinești. Start your day with a light-hearted and unexpected experience: a visit to a local ostrich farm.
Get close to these impressive birds. Learn about their care, habits, and how they adapt to the Romanian countryside. Opportunity for photos and to browse handmade farm products.
Ride the Mocănița – Vișeu de Sus. Continue to Vișeu de Sus, where you’ll board a historic steam train for a slowpaced ride through the Vaser Valley.
Wooden carriages, mountain rivers, and forested slopes. Stops for photos and refreshments. A nostalgic and scenic experience that captures the soul of the region. Duration: ~4–5 hours round trip (including breaks). Great for photography and nature lovers.
Local Market Visit – Vișeu de Sus. Back in town, take some time to explore a local traditional market (if open that day):
Seasonal produce, local cheese, jams, smoked meats, and handmade crafts
Ideal place to pick up authentic gifts or snacks. Traditional Stop – Moara lui Mecles (Water Mill). Before heading to Vișeu, stop at a fully functional traditional water mill, still used by locals to grind corn and wheat.
Learn about the traditional milling process powered by river flow. See how locals preserve ancient techniques passed down for generations. Optional tasting of fresh polenta or traditional baked goods (depending on time
and host availability)
Afternoon Scenic Drive: Vișeu de Sus → Borșa. On the way to Borșa, enjoy one of the most scenic drives in the region.
Multiple panoramic stops for photos and landscape viewing. Short optional walks to admire rivers, mountain passes, and
traditional villages
Arrival in Borșa in the early evening, with time to relax at your
accommodation
After days of travel and exploration, today is all about slowing down and
enjoying the peace and authenticity of Borșa, one of the most beloved villages in Maramureș.
Relaxing Day in the Village. Spend the day at your own pace, surrounded by wooden houses, cobbled paths, haystacks, and mountains in the distance. Borșa is a place that invites you to disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature and local life.
Morning strolls through the village lanes. Visit small local workshops (weaving, woodworking, plum brandy distillation – depending on availability)
Quiet corners for reading, journaling, or photography. Optional visit to the wooden church or nearby hills. Traditional Tastes at Agrotourism Guesthouses
Lunch and/or dinner can be enjoyed at family-run guesthouses, where
everything is cooked using homegrown ingredients and traditional recipes
passed down for generations.
Enjoy homemade soups, stews, cheeses, jams, fresh bread, and desserts
Learn the stories behind each dish, often told by your host. Optional: try local drinks like țuică or afinată. Meals can be arranged on request and are often served in a rustic, homey setting.
Your final day in Maramureș offers a choice between two memorable ways to explore the Rodna Mountains. Whether you’re in the mood for a rugged off-road ride or a peaceful hike to one of Romania’s most beautiful waterfalls, Borșa is the perfect setting to end your trip.
Option 1 – Off-Road Mountain Tour. Hop into a 4×4 vehicle and head deep into the highlands above Borșa for an unforgettable off-road experience.
Explore forest trails, alpine meadows, and remote mountain views.
Stops for photos and short walks in panoramic spots. Learn about the local landscape and shepherding traditions from your guide. Duration: ~3–4 hours
Weather-dependent; bring layers and sturdy shoes.
Option 2 – Chairlift to the Mountains & Visit to Horses’ Waterfall
Take a gentler route into the mountains by using the Borșa chairlift
(when operational), followed by a scenic hike.
Ride the chairlift up to the alpine plateau. Short hike (~20–30 minutes) to Horses’ Waterfall – the highest waterfall in Romania.
Optional continuation to Lake Stiol, a glacial lake nestled in a peaceful valley (~1.5–2 hours total hike round-trip). Ideal for nature photography and relaxing in fresh mountain air
Arrival in Gura Humorului – Easy Afternoon
Once in Gura Humorului, enjoy a relaxed exploration of the town and nearby spots:
Town Park & Adventure Park – perfect for a walk, coffee, or zip-lining (optional). Small artisan shops and cafés in the town center
Optional walk to the hilltop cross for panoramic views.
Evening Suggestions. Dinner at a traditional guesthouse or restaurant
Rest and recharge for the next day’s discoveries.
Day 9 brings the perfect balance of outdoor activity and breathtaking
mountain views with a guided cycling tour on Rarău Mountain.
Suitable for active travelers, this experience combines forest trails,
alpine landscapes, and panoramic stops in one unforgettable ride.
Guided Bike Tour – Rarău Mountain.
Set out in the morning with a local guide for a scenic and moderately
challenging mountain biking tour through the forests and high roads
of Rarău.
Routes can be adapted based on group fitness (moderate to
advanced). Mixture of forest paths, gravel roads, and paved panoramic stretches. Stops for photos, nature breaks, and stunning viewpoints
Pass by iconic sights such as Pietrele Doamnei (The Lady’s Rocks)
Bike and helmet rental included (if needed).
Duration: ~3–4 hours (flexible depending on the route and pace)
Note: Bring sportswear, a windproof jacket, water bottle, and light
snacks.
surprise activity included
Scenic Transfer: Bucovina to Bicaz.
After several active and culture-filled days, today is a relaxing travel day as you leave Bucovina behind and head south toward the dramatic landscapes of the Bicaz region, known for it’s gorges, lakes, and mountain roads.
Road Trip: Gura Humorului → Bicaz.
Enjoy a slow-paced journey through the Carpathians, passing by rural villages, forests, and spectacular mountain scenery.
Panoramic stops for photos and fresh air.
Optional coffee break or lunch in a local guesthouse along the
route.
Opportunities to stop at small roadside markets or handicraft
stalls
Today offers a truly authentic mountain experience with an exciting off-road
drive deep into the Carpathians, close to the majestic Ceahlău Massif.
Off-Road Drive to a Traditional Stână (Sheepfold).
Travel by 4×4 vehicle on rugged forest trails, surrounded by untouched nature
and fresh mountain air. The destination is a cozy sheepfold, a hub of local
pastoral life.
Traditional Butter-Making Demonstration.
At the stână, watch and learn how butter is made by hand in the traditional way, using local milk and time-honored methods.
Taste Local Delicacies.
Enjoy a tasting session featuring the best regional products: fresh cheese,
homemade bread, honey, and other authentic treats from the area.
Live Folk Music & Surprises.
Relax to the soothing sounds of live guitar and folk music, played by local
musicians. Expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere with some special
surprises along the way.
Today is a calm, scenic day exploring some of the most beautiful
natural landmarks in the area by car, perfect for unwinding and
soaking in the landscapes.
Scenic Drive Through Cheile Bicazului (Bicaz Gorge).
Drive along the spectacular Bicaz Gorge, famous for its towering cliffs
and winding roads carved through limestone walls. Multiple stops for photos and short walks to take in the dramatic scenery.
Visit to Lacul Roșu (Red Lake)
Spend time at the peaceful Lacul Roșu, a natural dam lake surrounded by forested hills.
Optional boat rental to explore the lake or a gentle walk around its
shores.
Enjoy local snacks or refreshments at nearby cafés or guesthouses.
Today is a travel and exploration day, heading back to Cluj while visiting some notable highlights along the way.
Morning: Departure from Bicaz.
Start your journey westwards, leaving the scenic mountain areas behind.
Stop at Târgu Mureș. Brief visit to the city center, known for its historic architecture and cultural sites. Option for a coffee break or light snack.
Visit Salina Turda.
Explore the famous Turda Salt Mine, an impressive underground attraction offering fascinating history, unique salt formations, and fun activities such as boating and mini-golf inside the mine.
Duration: ~1.5–2 hours
Afternoon Visit: Cheile Turzii
Stop at the stunning Cheile Turzii (Turda Gorge) for a light walk or photo opportunity. The gorge features dramatic cliffs and beautiful nature trails.
Arrival in Cluj. Complete your journey by arriving in Cluj-Napoca in the late afternoon or early evening.
License Number: 523 dated 10.01.2019
Tourism Certificate: No. 2 dated 28.09.1998 | Holder: Alin Nicolae Burcea
Insurance Policy: OMNIASIG Series I No. 58145, valid from 25.11.2023 to 24.11.2024
Registered as a personal data operator: No. 8176 and No. 7718