Enjoyed a short walkabout. So nice to move around after so many hours in flight.

Cabbage rolls for Holly. She substituted fries for the polenta.

Found a nice outdoor restaurant serving local beer and food.

Vegetable salad and local cheese.

It’s hot—29C and is expected to be that temperature our three days here.

Flight from YVR to Frankfurt then on to Bucharest. Long day! After 21 hours we checked in to our hotel.

Sausage & beans. Very tasty!

Cărtureși Carusel Bookstore.

Umbrella Street

Kretzulescu Church

Entertainment in the restaurant.

CEC Palace. Built 1897-1900. Eclectic style. Now CEC Bank.

After dinner we were delighted to see many of the buildings beautifully lit up.

Revolution Square

Zlătari Church

Caru’ cu Bere Restaurant

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Revival’s Memorial. ‘Eternal Glory to the Romanian Revolution and its heroes December, 1989.’

Rich & Holly had ‘Papanasi’. Romanian cheese donut with sour cream & jam (Blueberries, Blackberries, Raspberries, Sour Cherries and Strawberries.) Judy & I helped them out!

Judy had cream vegetable soup with croutons

Holly also enjoyed the ‘Master’s Delight.

After an amazing breakfast at our hotel (Bucur Accommodation), we set out to explore the Old Town.

Patosul Jupãnului ‘Master Delight’

Glazed Pork Ribs in Beer Sauce & Pork Tenderloin

Stopped for a latte and dessert.

CEC Palace

Capitoline Wolf of Bucharest. Gift from Rome 1906.

Stairs of Happiness.

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The Opera House. Couldn’t go inside but walked around the grounds.

Yo-yo family-owned pastry shop.

‘Like this tree that changes with the seasons, we constantly innovate offering fresh, delightful creations. The tree symbolizes our promise to surprise & delight you with every visit.’

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Got an early start to the day. Walked past this University toward the upscale Cotroceni neighborhood.

Saint Martyr Eleftherion Church. Neo-Byzantine Style Church.

King Michael Park.

Took the Bucharest subway to this park and walked back from here to our hotel. Walked over 15 Kms today.

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We visited only a few of the 1,100 rooms.

We enjoyed a one hour tour with an English-speaking guide.

What’s with these Canadians drinking beer in paper bags? Yup—it was sold this way!

Palace of Parliament.

Heaviest building in the world. Built 1984-1997. 17 floors, 1100 rooms. 700 Architects. 100,000 workers. All materials sourced in Romania.

The building was ordered by Nicolae Ceaușesca, dictator 1965-1989. He and his wife were tried and executed by firing squad Dec 25, 1989

So much marble!

At check-in we were given two coupons for complimentary bottles of wine with dinner. I had the Romanian stew with mashed potatoes and it was delicious!

Checked out mountain hikes in the area and visited the information centre.

We checked in to Villa Camilia alpine-style 20th century villa in Sinaia. Fabulous breakfast!

Holly had the ribs and sautéed vegetables.

Lunch on our balcony.

Strolled around the town.

Commissioned by King Carol I of Romania, it served as a summer residence for the royal family.

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Judy and her friend, King Carole I.

His reign was marked by significant social, economic, and cultural advancements, including the establishment of a strong national identity. Carol I's commitment to developing education, infrastructure, and foreign relations helped shape modern Romania. His legacy is celebrated through various monuments and institutions, including Peleș Castle, which stands as a testament to his vision for the nation.

King Carol I, born on April 20, 1839, was the first king of Romania, reigning from 1881 until his death in 1914. He played a crucial role in Romania's modernization and independence, particularly during the War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire in 1877.

Peles Castle. We purchased tickets online for a 12 noon visit.

Peles Castle, now a National Museum.

The castle is renowned for its exquisite architectural style, intricate woodwork, and luxurious interiors, featuring over 160 rooms adorned with beautiful art, stained glass, and antique furniture.

Walked in the rain from our hotel to visit \240Peles Castle.

Dinner at our hotel where we enjoyed our second bottle of Romanian wine.

Stunning Neo-Renaissance castle that was built between 1873 and 1914.

Every room is so opulent!

The surrounding natural landscape adds to its picturesque beauty, making it a popular tourist destination.

It is getting a bit clearer.

The sheep seem happy.

The hiking is pleasant.

Our plan is to take two gondolas. First one to Cota 1400 and the second to Cota 2000.

Shepherd minding his flock.

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Pretty foggy and light drizzle but we are hoping for improvement.

It’s a bit chilly but at least the wind isn’t too bad.

On our way down. Even though the weather wasn’t as good as we had hoped we still enjoyed the hiking. 14 Kms, 527 elevation gain.

On the gondola ride up we went thru a layer of cloud then pleased to end in sunshine and blue skies!

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Perfect day! Loving our view!

Caraiman Cross.

On our way to Caraiman Cross.

Perfect weather!

It is huge!

Great views!

On our way to Caraiman Peak.

At the cross.

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It is very rugged terrain,

Babele (means the ‘Old Woman’) is the name of this area of the Bucegi Mountains within the Southern Carpathians.

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Yeah! Caraiman Peak!

Herding the sheep.

The Sphinx.

Long way down toward Babele and the Sphinx.

Back in Sinaia for dinner.

Back down from the Gondola in Busteni. Walked around to look at the village before taking a taxi back to Sinaia. Taxi was as cheap as the train for the four of us and we didn’t have to wait for the next train.

Lamb and mashed potatoes for Holly.

Pork Tenderloin and grilled vegetables for Rich.

(Judy & I had boring meals!)

Walking by lovely neighborhood with beautiful homes and views.

Climbing again and enjoying the view.

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As we climb steadily we get good views of the surrounding area.

Our last night in Sinaia we enjoyed dinner at our hotel restaurant.

Holly tried the traditional grilled minced meat rolls. Also, grilled vegetables and fries.

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View from Saint Joseph Monastery lookout.

Not sure what this is?

On the trail now that is much like an old Roman Road.

The Hermitage of Saint Anne’s Monastery. We could hear music and service from the speakers as we walked by. \24012 Kms, 728 elevation gain today.

Slight downhill relief from the climb.

Our accommodation for three nights.(Hotel Paraul Capra). Good hiking in the area.

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From our deck.

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Spanning about 90 kilometers, the road connects the regions of Transylvania and Wallachia

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Picking up rental car in Downtown Brasov.

All our luggage fits well in the Kia Station Wagon.

Lots of bears in the area. Unfortunately people do not obey the signs and feed the bears.

Perfect day for driving this epic road!

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Taking an hour long train to Brasov. Cost is 25 Lei per person (Just over $8 Can)

Tough rider!

Enjoying dinner at our hotel restaurant. I had the roasted duck leg, sauerkraut & polenta. Yum!😋

Judy’s amazing Caesar Salad!

Transfagarasan Road, known as one of the most scenic drives in the world, winds through the Fagaras Mountains.

Entertainment from our deck!

Woke up this morning totally fogged in and hearing the roar of car engines. The road was closed and the exotic cars were lined up.

Waiting for the road to open Holly took advantage of the extra time to enjoy Papanasi!

Finally the road opened. It was not clear enough to attempt our planned hike. We stopped to explore a roadside market.

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A couple making Kürtőskalács caught my eye!

Kürtőskalács is a traditional sweet treat originating from Eastern Europe. This unique dessert is made by wrapping dough around a wooden or metal cylinder, then baking it over an open flame.

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It wasn’t too exciting and very cold and windy, 7C. It was still nice to \240venture out on the hillside.

Decided to pull off and attempt a hike up from the road.

Yes—I did share!

Unfortunately the weather did not improve. Hoping for better tomorrow.

Still fogged in and very windy.

Loving my Kürtőskalács! (also known as Chimney Cake)

Huge monument beside the road.

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So many huge waterfalls in the area.

More market stalls beside the road all selling the same stuff. Who buys all this?

Another waterfall.

A bit of flat stretch. Not ver clear but much better than yesterday.

The "window" is a natural arch in the rocks, providing an extraordinary viewpoint directly into the valley below.

We can see the ‘Dragon’s Window’!

On a clear day you would see breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains & valleys.

On the top!

Excited for this hike. Windy and cold but happy to be on the trail.

Holly is eyeing the pepperoni.

Steady climb on rough, rocky footing.

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Up we go. Windy!

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Back down!

Located in the Rarău Mountains of the Eastern Carpathians, this trail is renowned for its unique rock formations and panoramic views.

Romanian hikers on their way up.

Steep up!

Found parking at a trailhead.

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Steadily climbing.

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The Dragon's Window features impressive geological formations.

This was not the day for spectacular vistas but thrilled to have achieved this grinding hike up to ‘Dragon’s Window’

Still foggy but stopped at a market place to find a trailhead.

Found a trailhead and decided we would hike at least a couple hours before driving to Sibiu.

Checked in to our accommodation and walked into Old Town. First priority for Holly was an ice cream! She declared it to be delicious!

The Small Square is an historic square from the 14th and 15th centuries. Note the ‘Eyes’ on the buildings.

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It was nice to get a short hike done before heading to Sibiu.

Council Tower in Sibiu on the Grand Square.

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More waterfalls in the distance.

Grand Square

Small Square.

Latte on the square

Sibiu Lutheran Church

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St Mary’s Evangelical Church

Rich enjoyed his pasta too. Good choice of restaurant in Sibiu.

Holly said her pasta was delicious 😋

Baroque style built 1726-1733

Great views!

Romanian Soup in a bread bowl.

Back inside the Church

The iconic eyebrow dormers on the roofs of Sibiu’s houses. Sibiu lies in Transylvania, an historic region of Romania. The eyes, which are symbol and tourist attraction of the city, have given Sibiu the nicknames of ‘The City with Eyes’ and ‘The City Where Houses Don’t Sleep

We climbed the tower (200 steps)

View from the tower

Bread bowl with the lid still on.

Filharmonica de Stat, Sibiu.

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Biertan Fortified Church

Checked in to our apartments in Sighisora.

One of many towers in Sibiu.

The sacristy door dated 1515. It is framed by a late gothic portal with renaissance cornices.

The ceiling

Dinner in our apartment in Sighisora. Great day!

Sibiu Town Square

Medias

Biertan

Will leave Sibiu now and stop in Medias and Biertan on our way to Sighisora.

The Eastern Bastion (prison for unhappy couples). In peacetime this tower was transformed by the local priest into a place for quarreling couples and called a ‘prison’. The couple was locked inside the room with a single bed, table, chair, plate, glass and one spoon that they had to share until they pledged to get along with each other. Do you think Rich & I made it out?🤣

Wall surrounding the fortified city. The defensive bastion has 27 towers, built and defended by the various Guilds of the day. This one is the Carpenters’ Tower. Holly was happy to see a Potters’ Guild Tower!

Medias City Walls.

Top of the stairs.

Inside Medias Castle

Inside the door is a magnificent lock. It contains a special mechanism with a crank that works four locks and 15 further ferrules that move into the wall for extra security. The door was considered so important that it was exhibited at the 1889 World Exhibition in Paris.

Covered stairs to The School On The Hill.

Saint Margaret Church in Medias

Inside Biertan Fortified Church.

Click Tower Biertan

Brukenthal National Museum

Entrance to Old Town Sighisora.

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Loving our huge outdoor area. We have 3 apartments and each has a washing machine.

Locked gate and good parking for the car. Enjoying the swinging chairs.

Piata Cetatii, Sighisora.

Drone is taking wedding photos.

School ‘On the Hill’

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Evangelical Church ‘On The Hill’.

Period SANDOR, Hungarian poet, 1823-1849.

Saint Joseph Catholic Church.

Cappuccino on the square.

Sighisora Clock Tower

Vlad ‘The Devil’ lived in this house between 1431 and 1435.

Stopped in to visit Vlad but he wasn’t home🤣

Holly loves the Papanasi dessert.

The Cobblers’ Tower, 1681.

Colourful buildings.

Graveyard by the Church.

Private residence on the hill.

Village of Viscri. King Charles III purchased his first Transylvanian property here in 2006–an 18th Century Saxon house.

Cobblestone streets in much of Viscri.

Walked around Viscri Village.

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Inside Bran Castle

The King’s house.

Bran Castle

Finished touring Bran Castle.

Shopped at ‘Penny’s’ Supermarket for Happy Hour, \240breakfast and lunch fixings. Pizza delivery tonight that will be enjoyed at this lovely table!

Judy making a friend?

Checked in to the 3 bedroom house we rented in Zarnesti.

Entrance to Bran Castle.

Judy at Bran Castle.

The King’s Bedroom in Bran Castle.

More of the bedroom.

Inside the Church

Viscri Fortified Church

Met up with Naama from Israel at the start of the trail and she joined us on our hike.

The rental house (that we found on Booking.com), is very well equipped. Owner drops by in the morning and evening to feed chickens and rabbits.

Interesting woodwork.

Beautiful views.

Loving the mountain views!S

The Bats Cave, also known as The Cave with Bats, is a National natural monument. The cave’s name is derived from the numerous colonies of bats inhabiting it.

Blue sky and 23C.

Our front yard.

Surprised by the number of houses and farms in the area.

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Sunny, 24C.

Found the trailhead and appreciating the beautiful day!

The Bats Cave, reported in documents dating many centuries back. The cave is 370m long is islanded inside with various limestone formations, called “tears of the earth” and is divided in several rooms with different coloured ceilings.

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On our way back to the car.

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Stopped in Zarnesti for refreshments after an exhilarating hike!

Interesting conversation and lots of fun!

Shepherd tending his herd.

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Judy checking out the apple trees in our front yard.

Starting off on the trail.

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Which way should we go?

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Checking out the hut.

Sticking with the Red Cross route.

This route takes us into a canyon.

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Contemplating our route down.

Very steep trail down to the creek bed.

Nice views.

Lots of haystacks. Almost back to the car. 17kms, perfect weather.

Further into the canyon.

Rescue crew honing their climbing skills.

Finally made our way out of the canyon and back in the upper trail.

Admiring the view.

Hiking up to the ladders.

This is in the barbecue room in the back of the house.

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Enjoyed our 3 bedroom house in Zarnesti. Today we will drive to Brasov and on the way we will do the Seven Ladders Hike.

This is the main eating area.

Looking forward to this hike. It is high on my list of Romanian hikes.

The first ladder.

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Dropped the car and walking to our apartments on the square in Brasov.

This caged ladder is the longest of all the ladders,

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Sections with chains along rock walls.

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I’m sure there are times when there is more water in the gorge. Definitely enough for me!

More amazing than I had imagined!

Climbing vertical ladders and crossing suspended bridges inside the canyon.

Hiking out of the canyon, then a loop back down.

Little walk around our neighborhood.

View from our apartment. Getting set up for market tomorrow.

The windows face the square.

Apartment for me and Rich.

Dinner for Rich is Beef & Vegetable pie.

Holly enjoyed the cabbage rolls with dip and potatoes (substituted for Polenta).

In memory of 135,000Jews from Northern Transylvania. In May 1944 almost 150,000 Jews living in Northern Transylvania were deported to Auschwitz by the German Nazis.

St. Nicholas Cathedral, 1495.

Catherine’s Gate—oldest gate and main entryway to the city, 1559.

Door of the Black Church

Judiciary Hall. Totally impressed with this amazing city. One more day here.

Largest organ in Romania, built between 1836 and 1839.

Yup—very narrow!

Baptismal Font, 1472. Oldest decorative object in the Black Church.

Neolog Jewish Temple, 1807.

Lots of steps up to the White Tower.

From the Black Tower.

Brasov Council Square.

Some of the tombstones in the church.

From the White Tower.

Holly is ready to enter Braşov’s smallest street.

The Black Church.

View from the Black Tower.

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We will take the steeper route up.

Took a different route down with lots of switchbacks and not as steep. Some chains which would be helpful in slippery conditions.

Rich had Traditional Sarmale (cabbage rolls) with Polenta and Sour Cream.

Enjoyed our last dinner in Brasov.

Black Church is easily spotted in the middle of the photo.

This morning we will hike up to past the ‘BRAŞOV’ sign where the gondola goes. Currently closed for maintenance.

Judy had the Mushroom Soup with Potato Bread.

Holly & I had the Beef Goulash with Spätzle and pickles.

View from near the top.

Dinner at a restaurant on the square. Lots of people eating outside but we prefer inside where it is warmer. (And no smokers)

Cappuccino treat! Decaffeinated coffee not available everywhere.

So nice to be familiar with the city. Staying at the same hotel.

I loved my salad with chicken.

Walked around our neighborhood.

Couldn’t resist this silly photo op!

The meals were huge!

Enjoyed a little walk after dinner.

Pedestrian street. Beautiful at night.

Dinner at Restaurant Excalibur.

Rich’s favourite place for ‘Happy Hour’. $3 Can for a beer enjoyed with a bucket of popcorn! Wonderful to see all the families in the park on a Sunday afternoon.

Rich seems to have made a new friend?

Tomorrow we will have an early breakfast at our hotel, Accommodation Bucur, where we stayed when we first arrived in Bucharest. We all agree it is the best breakfast!

The buildings were beautifully lit.

Judy had chicken soup,

After a lovely, early breakfast at our hotel we took an Uber to the airport. Judy, Rich & I catching a flight to Sofia, Bulgaria. Holly flying to Vancouver via Munich.