Romania · Hiking

Maramures Activ Tour

5 Days Round trip from Cluj-Napoca Challenging pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore Maramures on a 5-day active tour from Cluj-Napoca
  • 02 Hike in Rodnei Mountains National Park with panoramic alpine views
  • 03 Visit Banffy Castle, the Dance Museum, and the Transylvanian delta
  • 04 Ride the historic Mocanita steam train through the Vaser Valley
  • 05 Discover the UNESCO-listed wooden church at Barsana Monastery
  • 06 See Romania's highest waterfall on an evening hike
  • 07 Experience the colourful and unique Merry Cemetery
  • 08 Stay 4 nights in a family-run guesthouse or pension

Discover the wild beauty and living traditions of Maramures on this 5-day active journey from Cluj-Napoca. Designed for nature lovers and hikers, the tour combines rewarding mountain walks in Rodnei Mountains National Park with cultural landmarks including Banffy Castle, the Dance Museum, Barsana Monastery, the Vaser Valley steam train, and the famous Merry Cemetery.

Along the way, enjoy a balance of scenic hikes, birdwatching, heritage sites, and local hospitality. From panoramic mountain trails and Romania's highest waterfall to UNESCO-listed wooden architecture and traditional village culture, this itinerary offers an immersive look at one of Romania's most distinctive regions.

From panoramic mountain trails and Romania's highest waterfall to UNESCO-listed wooden architecture and traditional village culture, this itinerary offers an immersive look at one of Romania's most distinctive regions.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Challenging
Accommodation Included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Cluj Napoca, Maramures County
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Day 1 Route and accommodation

The tour commences promptly at 9 am with a scheduled pick-up from your accommodation. Our journey will lead us towards the captivating North of Romania, with four carefully curated stops that seamlessly blend the beauty of nature with unique tourist attractions.

Our first stop will be at Banffy Castle, where we'll indulge in a delightful coffee break and delve into a brief yet captivating historical narrative. Following this, we'll embark on a quest to spot rare birds species in the scenic Transylvanian delta.

A highlight of our itinerary includes a visit to the Dance Museum, graciously hosted by our friend Michael, providing an enriching cultural experience. As the day unfolds, we'll culminate our adventure with an evening hike to witness the grandeur of Romania's highest waterfall. Throughout the tour, our aim is to ensure a professional yet warm and friendly atmosphere, making your exploration of Maramures tour a memorable and enjoyable experience.

2
Day 02

Hiking Day -  Pietrosul Rodnei Peak 

Please note that this hike requires a moderate level of physical fitness. We will start our day early, at 7 o'clock in the morning, and after having a hearty breakfast, we'll embark on a hike towards the Meteorological Weather Station located at about 2000m. This part of the trail spans 4.5 kilometers with an altitude gain of 800 meters, and should take approximately 2 hours to complete.

While the hike is manageable for most, it's important to be in good physical shape in order to fully enjoy the experience. The path to Pietrosu Peak involves constant zig-zags, making it a challenging but accessible hike. The final ascent to the top is made on rock carved stairs that make the climb even easier.

If you're up for the challenge and in good physical condition, this hike will be an unforgettable experience! And once we reach the top, the breathtaking views and delicious picnic at the Glacier Lake will make it all worth it.

3
Day 03

Vaser Valley Railway     " MOCANITA " "BARSANA"

This day will take you on a journey through the stunning landscapes of Romania! We'll start our day with a delicious breakfast before embarking on a scenic drive by minibus to Viseul de Sus. This picturesque town is home to the famous Mocanita steam train, which we'll board at 9 am sharp.

As we chug along the historic railway line, you'll be transported back in time to the days when steam power ruled the rails. Our journey will take us through the breathtaking Carpathian Mountains, passing by charming villages and lush forests. We'll make a stop at the Paltin Station, where you can stretch your legs and indulge in the delicious catering service provided by the CFF team. With plenty of covered and open-air seating, you'll be able to relax and take in the beautiful scenery.

After a leisurely break of 1-2 hours, we'll continue our journey back to Viseul De Sus.

The next stop will be Barsana Monastery. Nestled in the picturesque Maramures region of Romania, the Barsana Monastery is a true gem of Eastern Orthodox architecture. This stunning 18th-century complex is a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, art, and spirituality.

As you approach the monastery, you'll be greeted by a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and valleys. The complex itself consists of several buildings, including a main church, a bell tower, a chapel, and a museum. The buildings are adorned with intricate wood carvings and colourful frescoes that depict scenes from the Bible and local folklore.

One of the most impressive features of the monastery is its wooden church, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The church is a true masterpiece of traditional Maramures architecture and is one of the largest wooden churches in Europe. Its interior is adorned with stunning religious paintings and carvings, and the peaceful atmosphere is truly awe-inspiring.

In addition to its architectural and artistic treasures, the Barsana Monastery is also a place of spiritual significance. It is home to a community of nuns who dedicate their lives to prayer and service, and visitors are welcome to attend services and witness the monastery's daily life.

Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a spiritual seeker, the Barsana Monastery is a must-see destination in Romania. Its beauty, history, and spiritual significance make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

The fun doesn't end there - our friendly hosts will be waiting to welcome us with a mouth-watering spread of traditional Romanian food. We'll have the chance to savour the flavours of the region and spend some quality time together.

4
Day 04

Hiking Day - Gargalau Summit

Get ready for another exciting day of adventure in Romania's stunning Maramures region! We'll start our day with a delicious breakfast and then head off in our comfortable minibus to the Borsa chairlift. As we ascend to the majestic Rodna Mountains, prepare for a tranquil and scenic hike, offering panoramic views of the park's iconic peaks. Enveloped in the serene beauty of nature, our hike promises a serene and immersive experience. To enhance this connection with the surroundings, we'll relish a delightful meal atop the mountain, presented in a charming picnic style.

5
Day 05

Merry Cemetery

The Merry Cemetery is a unique and colourful destination that you won't want to miss. This vibrant cemetery is unlike any other, featuring hand-carved wooden crosses that are adorned with brightly coloured paintings and witty epitaphs.

The Merry Cemetery is a celebration of life, rather than a place of mourning. Each cross tells a story and honours the life of the person buried beneath it. The paintings and inscriptions on the crosses are often humorous and offer a glimpse into the personality of the deceased. You'll find everything from funny anecdotes to poignant messages, all written in a lighthearted tone.

Walking through the Merry Cemetery is an experience like no other. You'll be surrounded by a sea of vibrant colours and intricate designs, each one telling a unique story. The cheerful atmosphere is contagious, and you can't help but feel uplifted by the joy and celebration of life that permeates the air.

In addition to the wooden crosses, the cemetery also features a small museum where you can learn more about the history and significance of this unique attraction. The museum showcases a variety of wooden sculptures and artefacts, providing an insight into the traditional crafts and culture of Maramures.

The Merry Cemetery is a truly unique and unforgettable destination that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for life and a lasting memory of the colourful and vibrant culture of Maramures. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a unique and uplifting experience, the Merry Cemetery is a must-visit destination in Romania.

Your Curly Guide and will take you back to your accommodation or airport in Cluj Napoca.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Cluj-Napoca 2 cities · 5 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Accommodation included: 4 nights at a family-run guesthouse or pension
  • 4x Breakfast
  • 3x Dinner
  • Transport by air-conditioned minibus (gas, road tax, parking fees included)
  • English speaking national licensed tour guide during the program
  • Entry to Rodnei Mountains National Park
  • Entry to Barsana Monastery
  • Entry to Banffy Castle
  • Entry to Transylvania Delta
  • Entry to Dance Museum
  • Mocanita steam train ticket
  • Chairlift Ticket

What's Not Included

  • Personal expenses
  • Flight tickets
  • Private insurance - Every participant will be requested to purchase their own trek insurance for the duration of the trip, that covers mountains in summer conditions up to 2,000 m.
  • Other services not mentioned

Know before you go

  • PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION NEARBY
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not stroller accessible
  • Not suitable for pets
  • Infant seats unavailable
  • Not recommended for people with back problems
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for people with heart conditions

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Cluj-Napoca, RO
Tour start
Cluj-Napoca, RO
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 5 days finish where they began, in Cluj-Napoca.

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