Early September, either you keep going to the sea or head to the mountains to enjoy autumn; we chose the second and headed to Bucegi Mountains, as a day escape from Bucharest.
Bucegi Mountains
Bucegi is part of southern Carpathians with its highest peak, Omu, at 2.505m. Commonly accessible via the east side, Prahova valley, where most people start their hikes from either Sinaia or Busteni.
The hike
Starting point was Busteni, just where cabin base is. We climbed along the valley up to Cabana Caraiman. Almost one third of the route is in the forest and the rest in alpine background.
After a short stop, we headed to Heroes’ Cross (WWI memorial). From that point on the ground was almost level, going to “Sphynx” and “Babele”,- some really… famous rocky formations- and crossing Piatra Arsa.
We, eventually, took the way back descending “Cantonul Schiel” to Busteni.
A circling route that combines beautiful and variable scenery and views. The hike requires moderate physic; some parts have some kind of assist (chains, steps,…). In total, it took us around 8 hours including a big break in Babele for lunch. Strongly recommended for your next 24h city break!
Tips
- Get water with you; no refilling point on the way. You can buy some at the kiosk at the top of the cabin, though.
- Avoid weekends; lots of traffic to get there.
- You can ride the train from Bucharest; easy, cheap and no jams whatsoever.
- If you are lazy (or tired) you can always use the cabin.
- You might combine with a road trip to the Transylvania or a castle visit.
- Useful App: Muntii Nostri