This 9 days Self Guided Walking Tour is the best way for you to truly experience most authentically the Romanian Country life and landscapes by following a short part of Via Transilvanica – also known as the road that connects: various cultural and historical landmarks in Romania – a remarkable 1,400-kilometer-long trail. Beyond its role as a hiking route, it serves as a transformative social project aimed at rejuvenating rural communities. This initiative shines a spotlight on remote, often forgotten corners of the country, revitalizing areas affected by economic struggles. The trail invites travellers to discover authentic local hospitality, where even the simplest gestures—a gentle smile or an engaging conversation—become meaningful. Via Transilvanica isn’t just a path through Romania; it’s a bridge connecting people, places, and stories.
This walk takes you to the ‘Painted Monasteries of Bukowina’. These monasteries are unique because of the mural paintings on their exteriors, pictorial texts combining Byzantine forms and Western book miniature painting with Romanian folk tradition. You walk along old rediscovered trails through the beautiful landscape of the ‘Sweet Land of Bukowina’.
Price:
£945 per person based on two people sharing a room
Single supplement of £185
Solo walker supplement £295 (only suitable for very experienced hikers)
Included:
8 nights in guesthouses, double occupancy with private facilities
6 nights in local guesthouses
1 night in 4* Hotel
OR equivalent boarding house / hotel nearby.
Meals – 7 breakfasts, 5 picnics and 4 dinners. Dinner is entrée, main dish and a dessert. Occasionally dinner is a 2-course meal.
Not included: Drinks.
Transfers –
Day 1 – Private transfer Suceava – Putna ~ 1.30h
Day 9 – Hotel – Vatra Dornei train station ~ 5-10 min
Luggage transfer during each hike. They only have to carry the things needed for the day (e.g. picnic, camera).
Roadbook: Technical description of the itinerary, map with itinerary traced out, contact list, technical sheet. Our Road-book includes: restaurants, museums, … and a 24-hour emergency phone number. We will send the roadbook by email and the hardcopy version by post to the first guesthouse along with the train tickets and maps. Train tickets can also be presented in digital format.
NOT INCLUDED:
Entrance fees.
Other transfers to/from the meeting point (see optional services)
Departure Dates:
Self-Guided – start any day April – October
Day 1: Arrival Putna
Your adventure begins in the picturesque village of Putna, nestled in the heart of Bucovina. Upon arrival, you are warmly greeted by our local driver, who will welcome you and take you to your first guesthouse. The peaceful atmosphere of the village, surrounded by rolling hills and dense fir forests – planted during the Austrian Empire occupation. The noble-wood was famously used for crafting musical instruments.
No meals included.
Day 2: Putna – Sucevita
After a hearty breakfast, the adventure begins along the Via Transilvanica, Romania’s iconic long-distance hiking trail. Today, you will walk from the historic Putna Monastery to the village of Sucevita, a route that immerses you in the breathtaking natural landscapes of Bucovina.
The day begins in front of the Monastery you visited yesterday. From there, you’ll set out along the trail, and today’s stretch offers plenty of picturesque views, a perfect opportunity for some leisurely walks and nature photography.
Stopping for a packed lunch in a scenic spot, you’ll enjoy locally-sourced food while taking in the beauty of your surroundings. Afterward, the trail continues toward Sucevita village, where you’ll arrive in the afternoon, ready to experience the largest of Bucovina’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Sucevita Monastery. The monastery’s painted exterior, particularly its vibrant frescoes, tells stories from the Bible and is a testament to the region’s rich artistic and religious heritage.
~17 km, +330 m / -340 m.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 3: Sucevita – Vatra Moldovita
The day begins in Sucevita, where you’ll take in the beauty of the village before setting off on the next leg of the Via Transilvanica trail heading towards Moldovita village. You will have the chance to enjoy a more intriguing scenery and the sight of locals -including the Hutuls — an ethnic group native to the region — who have preserved their unique customs and traditions. Known for their distinct culture, language, and traditional clothing, the Hutuls add a special cultural touch to the area, and you’ll have the opportunity to see their influence on local life.
In the afternoon, you’ll arrive at Vatra Moldovita, home to the stunning Moldovita Painted Monastery. Known for its striking blue frescoes, the monastery is a highlight of Bucovina’s artistic and religious heritage. You will also have the chance to get inspired by the antique art of egg painting.
~21km, +530 m, -630 m.
Meals: breakfast, picnic, dinner
Day 4: Vatra Moldovita – Sadova
After a short transfer, you’ll continue your journey heading towards Sadova, following Via Transilvanica, again. The trail takes you through a mix of dense forests, pastoral landscapes, and traditional mountain villages, offering a true taste of Bucovina’s natural beauty.
A highlight of the route today is the opportunity to learn about the unique traditions of the area. The region’s villages, including Sadova, are home to a variety of cultural practices, including traditional weaving, pottery, and wood carving, often passed down through generations. Locals will share their stories of how these traditions have shaped life in Bucovina, and you may have the chance to see artisans at work along the route.
As you approach Sadova, the landscape opens up, and you’ll find yourself walking through lush green fields with the village in sight. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your guesthouse, where you’ll be welcomed with a traditional Bucovinian meal
22 km, +870 m, -790m.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 5: Sadova – Fundu Moldovei
The route today begins with a gentle climb through dense forests, where the air is fresh and the sounds of nature surround you. As you pass through these tranquil woods, you’ll enjoy occasional views of the rolling hills and lush valleys that define the region. The landscape here is unspoiled, offering a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and relaxation.
As you approach the villages along the route, you’ll encounter traditional wooden houses with intricately carved details and large, blooming gardens, typical of the local architecture.
In the evening, after a long day of walking, you’ll have the chance to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Fundu Moldovei, perhaps learning about the region’s folklore, customs, and traditions from the friendly hosts.
~10km, +340 m, -350 m
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 6: Fundu Moldovei – Mestecanis Pass
You’ll begin your ascent toward Mestecanis Pass, passing through dense forests of fir and beech trees. As you climb, you’ll encounter traditional shepherds’ huts, where locals continue the age-old practice of sheep herding. Many families still produce cheese made from sheep’s milk, which is a staple in the region’s diet.
The trail leads through mountain meadows dotted with grazing sheep and cows, providing insight into the rural lifestyle. You’ll also see locals using horse-drawn carts for farming and transporting goods, a traditional method still widely practised in the region.
In the afternoon, you’ll reach Mestecanis Pass, where panoramic views of the Carpathian Mountains await. After a rewarding hike, descend to your accommodation.
~13km, +370m, -750m
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Day 7: Mestecanis Pass – Vatra Dornei
On the final day of your journey, you’ll leave the peaceful mountains behind as you begin your descent toward Vatra Dornei. Known for its spas, winter sports, and beautiful alpine scenery, Vatra Dornei is a lively resort town that offers a perfect end to your trekking adventure, regardless of the season.
The region is also known for its mineral springs, and you might catch a glimpse of locals filling bottles with the healing waters. The walk offers a unique opportunity to witness the blend of natural beauty and local culture as you approach Vatra Dornei.
~21km, +360 m, -660 m
Meals included: breakfast, lunch
Day 8: Vatra Dornei – Departure
Take a stroll along the town’s beautiful promenades, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the parks, or visit the famous local mineral springs. If you’re interested in history, a visit to the Dorna Museum will give your insight into the region’s heritage.
A comfortable transfer will take you from your hotel directly to the train station, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free departure.
We strongly suggest adding an extra night in the town, allowing you to reflect on the beauty and cultural richness of Bucovina before ending your journey.
Meals included: breakfast
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY
8 days / 6 days of walking. Medium level of walking with a maximum day at 6 h.
CARRYING
The transfers of your luggage are provided. You only have to carry your things needed for the day (picnic, camera…)
ACCOMMODATION
6 night in lovely guesthouses, 1 night in 4* hotel in double rooms with showers and toilets (except for 1 night with shared
facilities).
SIZE OF GROUP
Minimum of 2 people.
DEPARTURES
Every day from April to October, subject to availability of accommodation, response within 48 hours, from Monday to Friday.
STARTING POINT
Suceava train station.
END OF THE TRIP
At the hotel in Vatra Dornei
HOW TO GET THERE
1) Suceava International Airport (direct flights from Rome, Milan, London or Bucharest)
– we can pick you up from the airport and transfer you to the first guesthouse in Putna
– UBER / Bolt – these work very well so you can order a car to take you to your hotel if you want to spend an extra night in
Suceava before starting the trip. The price depends on the number of cars available and the amount of traffic.
2) Suceava train station – Str. Nicolae Iorga 7, Suceava 720167From Bucharest:
11:10 – arrival in Suceava at 17:22 – recommended
14:00 – arrival in Suceava at 20:13
From Cluj:
09:40 – arrival in Suceava at 16:14 – recommended
14:20 – arrival in Suceava at 20:54
EQUIPMENT TO TAKE
Mandatory equipment
– Waterproof tracksuits (breathable Goretex type jacket and possibly trousers)
– Warm fleece jacket
– High walking shoes (preferably already worn)
– Backpack for day hiking (20-35l)
– Water bottle (allow at least 1,5l of water at the beginning of the day)
– Hiking poles
– Walking Boots Should be sturdy and of good quality to handle all types of terrain. Ankle support is important. Leather, with a
good durable sole, is
the most suitable or, for people who prefer a more lightweight boot, Cordura/leather boots which have Gore-Tex or sympatex
waterproofing. They should be well broken in and be of correct fit. Proof your boots before you leave home. Waxing your boots
regularly prolongs their life.
– Lightweight walking shoes/sneakers For wear around towns & villages. They can also be a backup pair for your walk.
– Socks & Underwear Take only good quality socks with wicking and insulating qualities. Road test them before you go on the
trip to be sure they are comfortable with your boots. Take a suitable quantity of underwear (washing facilities are limited).
– Several Shirts and Walking Trousers T-shirts preferably with collar and at least 1 long-sleeved shirt for sun protection. If you
sweat a lot it is a good idea to purchase at least one t-shirt in a breathable material. These are fast drying, keep moisture away
from your skin and are available from outdoor stores. The quick-drying loose-fitting trousers are popular. You
should bring one pair of the loose-fitting type trousers to wear in cities and for evenings etc. Shorts for warmer weather.
– Warm jacket Fleeced Polartec or warm wool shirt for evenings. This will be worn a great deal; be sure it is totally suitable for
your needs. A fleeced jacket which blocks the wind (Windstopper) is the most preferable.
– Waterproof Jacket & Pants Must be waterproof, not shower proof, Gore-Tex is best. It must fit comfortably whilst wearing
warm clothing and wearing your rucksack. It must have a proper hood, zipper flap and storm cuffs and come down over hips.
Pants should have a zip on the side of the leg to make it easier to get them on quickly over boots.
Optional equipment
– Cutlery and pans for picnics
– Lamp (frontal preferably – some guesthouses don’t have head lamps)
– Toilet paper or tissues for the day
– Solar cream
– Sun glasses
– Personal pharmacy
– Your favourite snacks or energy bars
