Apuseni Mountains

The Apuseni are limestone mountains on the north-western borders of Transylvania. While they aren’t huge (1,400m-ish, highest 1,849m), they make up for that with superb scenery of peaks, cliffs, spires, gorges, many vast cave systems, huge and famous sink holes, karst plateaux, even waterfalls. Much of it is covered in fine, unspoilt forest.

There are plenty of good walking trails, and you can spend several rewarding days here.

There are firms which offer guided tours, including Responsible Travel, which offers an extensive expedition here.

The Padis Plateau is particularly exciting, a rugged karst area with many classic features including disappearing streams, vast sink holes and huge caves; it has a cabin complex at its heart, so a good walk/out can be made.

There is also an exciting sounding 6km ridge walk which takes in Bohodei Peak (1,650m).

While in the area, the extraordinary Scarisoara ice cave (said to be the biggest in the world) is well worth a visit, as is the Ponorului Fortress complex of pot holes.

The Galbena Valley, of gorges and waterfalls, is also too good to miss.

Bradt’s Transylvania is the guidebook, packed with valuable information, although little detail on walking routes. Find relevant books on Amazon.

This page is at an early stage of development. Please help us by recommending your best walks, making suggestions and sending photos! Thank you!

For more information and photos, including detailed practical information and some warnings, see our Transylvania walk page.