9th – 13th October 2025

On this unique trekking challenge we will discover some of the hidden sights of Transylvania, and step back in time to experience rural life, Romanian style. Discover Romania on this amazing weekend trekking challenge in the rugged Piatra Craiului Mountains, tucked away in the southern Carpathians.

Feast your eyes on majestic castles such as the famous Count Dracula’s ‘Bran Castle’, pass through traditional villages and hike through stunning untouched scenery. Our three-day challenge takes us along craggy mountain ridges, through indigenous forests and flower-strewn meadows and farmland, with a fascinating glimpse of rural life in an almost medieval corner of Europe.

What to expect:

Once you're signed up and joined Team SSAFA, we will be on hand throughout the lead-up to the trip to help you with your fundraising. We can help by providing ideas, tips, materials and anything else you may need to reach your target! We will also be able to offer some tips and advice on how to prep for the trip itself! 

Starting with a flight from London, this 5-day trip will feature 3 days of trekking - taking in the beauty of the Piatra Craiului Mountains, Zarnesti Gorges, Piatra Mica Peak and the famous castle in Bran, home of Count Dracula!

There will also be the opportunity to visit Peles Castle in Sinaia or a bear watching experience before flying home

At the end of your trek, you will receive a well-deserved medal and a dinner to celebrate your fantastic achievement. 

Itinerary:

Day 1 (9th October 2025) – Fly from London to Bucharest where we will be met by our local guides. We then have a transfer to Zarnesti (approx. 3 hours), where we will spend the night in a local guesthouse.

Day 2 (10th October 2025) – Our first day trekking! After a short transfer we begin our trek on the northern slope of the Piatra Craiului Mountains, trekking through the forest towards Coltii Chiliilor Monastery. From here we begin a difficult ascent up to Diana refuge. In the afternoon we will descend along Valea Ursului towards Plaiu Foii Chalet, where we will finish with a short transfer back to Zarnesti for the night in the local guesthouse.

Day 3 (11th October 2025) – After a short transfer we begin trekking through Zarnesti Gorges leaving the gorge on a shepherds path through an old forest towards Curmatura hut. Todays trek will take us past stunning natural caves and we follow the shepherds trail as opposed to the normal tourist trail which give us the opportunity to spot forest wildlife. In the afternoon we will trek to Piatra Mica Peak before transferring back to Zarnestis.

Day 4 (12th October 2025) – This is our final day trekking. We begin the day with a transfer to Bran where we will visit the iconic castle, home to Count Dracula. We will then be transferred to the entrance of the National Park Bucegi Mountains where we trek through forest paths, alpine meadows and up to Strunga Saddle. We then trek the Bucegi Mountains to Padina Chalet our finish line! Late afternoon we transfer to Sinaia resort where we will check in to our hotel and enjoy a celebration meal!

Day 5 (13th October 2025) - Time permitting there is the opportunity to visit Peles Castle in Sinaia before flying home. We will then be transferred back to Bucharest airport and fly back to London.

What’s included?

Inclusions

• International return flights from UK to Bucharest
• Transfers upon arrival and departure and local transfers
• Head English speaking guide
• Twin-share accommodation (3* guesthouse)
• Full board throughout
• Celebration dinner
• UK Doctor

Exclusions

• Single person supplement 
• Entrance to castles ($20Euros)
• Gratuities
• Personal expenses 
• Personal travel insurance 
• Bear watching ($50 Euros)

Registration Fee: £299
Fundraising Target: £2500

If you would like any more information, please email teamssafa@ssafa.org.uk or call 020 4566 7952.