Exploring the Carpathian Mountains

Wildlife in the Carpathian Mountains

The Carpathians are home to an extensive and diverse ecosystem, including wolves, Eurasian lynx, brown bears, wild cats, bison and much more. Many of these species are endangered but Foundation Conservation Carpathia's (Travel Carpathia's partner foundation) mission is to preserve the forests and their natural ecosystems through measures such as limiting hunting rights and anti-poaching initiatives. They work tirelessly to reverse the decline of species like chamois, wolves and red deer while reintroducing species such as bison, beavers and vultures.

An unforgettable experience for any visitor to the Carpathian Mountains is spotting brown bears. Travel Carpathia has built wildlife hides deep in the wilderness of the Făgăraș Mountains that offer a chance to spot bears and a range of other wildlife from the safety of an eco-friendly cabin. The experience is all inclusive, allowing visitors to switch off and soak in the surrounding nature.

Hiking in the Carpathian Mountains

Hiking the scenic trails is one of the best ways to explore the mountains. Travel Carpathia offers guided walks through some of the mountain range's most scenic spots. One spot they recommend is the Forest of Immortal Stories in Nucșoara, where a project is underway to protect the area's mighty beech trees. This is the gateway to some of the wildest places in the Făgăraș Mountains, including Elm's Valley, an almost inaccessible gorge with 11 waterfalls.

Another popular option is the Dâmbovița Valley. Here you can take a five-day guided circuit hike through picturesque meadows and green valleys, staying in shepherd's huts and wildlife hides along the way.

Travel Carpathia predominantly operates in the Făgăraș Mountains, but the area covered by the Carpathian Mountains is vast, spanning a length of 1,500 kms. We asked our guides where else they would recommend for walking. Here are just a few option across Romania:

Bucovina: a historical region in northeastern Romania, renowned for its UNESCO painted monasteries. The area is also perfect for mountain biking and can be explored on our e-bike tour of Bucovina.

Rodnei National Park: home to some of the most spectacular mountains in Romania with well-marked trails far from the crowds.

Ciucas Mountains: an accessible mountain range with striking rock formations.

Piatra Craiului Mountains: a mountain range in the Southern Carpathians with a particularly challenging but rewarding trail along the range's narrow ridge.

Other Ways to Explore

Beyond hiking, Travel Carpathia hosts adventures on horse back. In the hills of Transylvania you can horse-ride through pastures and traditional villages, spotting rare wildlife along the way. It's a suitably slow way to explore this beautiful area.

Of course, our favourite way to travel through Transylvania is by e-bike. Our Transylvania cycling tours take you through Saxon villages and wildflower meadows in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains. Along the way, you'll eat at some of Romania's best private tables and explore the extraordinary architecture of this region.

When we asked guides Iancu and Silviu how else they like to explore (when not on their bikes) they highlighted that the Carpathian Mountains are perfect for skiing and ski touring. Some of their favourite spots are the Bucegi Mountains, Leaota Mountains and Piatra Craiului Mountains.

About Travel Carpathia

Travel Carpathia offers authentic experiences focused on nature, people and the cultural values of Romania's rural villages. They want guests to experience the Carpathian Mountains' natural diversity and beauty through wildlife encounters and their beautiful, sustainable accommodation.

They work closely with Foundation Conservation Carpathia which funds many conservation projects in the area. Together, they aim to build an economy that benefits both nature and local communities.

Slow Cyclist guests who join our Transylvania tours can extend their time in Romania by staying in one of Travel Carpathia's wildlife hides, farms or guest houses.

If you'd like to explore Romania by e-bike with us, find out more about our Romania cycling tours. We can now offer an extension with Travel Carpathia in one of their wildlife hides, biodiversity farm or guest house. Contact us to find out more.

_{Photo credits: Liviu Ungureanu, Dan Dinu, Cristi Laczko, Daniel Mirlea}