As the first day includes taking the train (included) from Bucharest to Brasov, it is recommended you arrive in Bucharest in the morning or book a pre tour night. This morning / early afternoon make your way to Bucharest North train station to take the train to Brasov (approx 2.5 hours). At Brasov, you will be met and transferred by taxi to your guesthouse, set in a traditional village at the foot of Piatra Craiului National Park. This transfer takes around 1 hour. Overnight in Magura. It is also possible to visit Brasov for a few hours today - ie leave your luggage at the 'left luggage' office at Brasov train station then take a bus or taxi (own arrangements) to the centre to explore this charming town on foot. Return to the train station for your transfer to the first accommodation. You can also break your journey and stay overnight in Brasov - at the start or end of the trip (extra night rate applies - must be requested at time of booking). We highly recommend at least a short visit of Brasov. NOTE: Trains operate throughout the day, you can choose a departure to suit your arrangements. The latest possible train departure is around 3pm, if your flight arrives after 1pm, an extra-night is necessary in Bucharest.

Meals:  D

Today you will walk along a small ridge and through flower filled meadows to Bran Castle at the foot of the Bucegi mountains. The castle, which was built as a gift from Ludovic d'Anjou in the 14th century to the inhabitants of the region, had a defensive role against the migratory peoples and later it protected Transylvania from the Ottoman invasions. The castle was also associated with the prince Vlad Tepes of Walachia, upon whom it is widely thought the fictional character 'Dracula' was based. Entry into the castle is optional (long queues are possible in peak season). Transfer back to your guesthouse in Magura for overnight accommodation. Walking: 12km/7.5mi, +350m/1148ft, -600m/1969ft

Meals:  B,L,D

The walk continues at the base of the Piatra Craiului Mountains. It's an interesting contrast to the landscape of the previous day, as you traverse pastures, sheepfolds and woods. Scattered villages which seem unchanged for centuries break up the landscape, while the surrounding mountains are a constant companion. Overnight Ciocanu. Walking: 14km/8.7mi, +700m/2296ft, -550m/1804ft

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning you leave the Piatra Craiului mountains and walk to the Bucegi Mountains. It's an easy walk with “picture postcard” landscapes to a traditional Romanian mountain village with small and ancient houses, at the foot of the Bucegi mountains. The inhabitants are livestock breeders and the village has a long tradition in cheese making. Overnight in Moeciu de Sus. Walking: 14km/8.7mi, -150m/492ft, +250m/820ft

Meals:  B,L,D

A more strenuous day today as you ascend trails into the Bucegi mountains. A longer walk is possible along the meadow of Gutana and the vertical walls of the Bucegi’s ridge, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes and over Piatra Craiului ridge. Overnight in Moeciu de Sus. Walking: 17km/10.6mi, +750m/2460ft, -900m/2953ft or 10km/6.2mi, +450m/1476ft, -600m/1968ft

Meals:  B,L,D

Transfer to Brasov where you take the train (included) to Bucharest. Trip concludes on arrival in Bucharest. There are a number of trains from Brasov to Bucharest, and you can choose a time that best suits your onward travel plans. Eg, you can take a later train so that you have time to explore Brasov, if you did not do this on the first day (luggage can be left at the station in the left luggage office). Brasov was founded by the Teutonic Knights and with its Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture is an alluring destination, one of Romania's most beautiful. We can also arrange a night in Brasov, on request - please ask our office for details.

Meals:  B