Cycle Romania

Derryn Cope   -  Traveled, August 2023

Interesting, entertaining and sporty way to see Transylvania Overall a brilliant and interesting trip. We felt like we had seen and learnt so much about the countryside, the culture and the history. Some great cycling, definitely need to be reasonably fit but nothing we couldn’t manage. Fabulous views, varied countryside, we really got an idea of the area. Accommodation definitely basic but clean, showers worked and comfy beds. Excellent food really loved it all. Friendly people who were enthusiastic about their locality and customs. The cultural visits in between the cycling were excellent. Our guides Christina and Radu were brilliant, very knowledgeable and always willing to share their information, always helpful and smiley! Great lunchtime picnics! Most Inspirational Moment Cycling on the quieter lanes through the countryside. Thoughts on Group Leader Christina and Radu were both brilliant, they were a key part of making the trip exceptional. Christina cycled with us and organised the cultural visits, her knowledge was excellent, she was super patient, always enthusiastic, and the perfect host. Radu drove the van and gave technical support, again very knowledgeable and interesting on the more recent romanian history. Again always sociable and helpful. Advice for Potential Travellers If you are on a push bike do get fit. Take your own toe clips/cycling pedal straps as the bikes don't have any sort of toe clips. Easier than taking your own pedals which is fine if you can be bothered but for the type of cycling I think pedal straps would be useful. Take your own water bottle. Suggestions The pillows in a couple of locations were poor, which was a shame as the mattresses were good, but for some reason pillows are not good. If the are slightly quieter roads that could be incorporated especially in the first two days that would be good. Bikes were OK but not brilliant, although to be fair to Romania Active they did say this was their last year before they are replaced, but they do need upgrading. We did an Exodus trip Seville to Cadiz were the bikes were excellent so it is possible. The food was always excellent.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/25/2023

Kate Ferguson   -  Traveled, June 2023

A great way to explore Romania This turned out to be yet another great Exodus cycling trip. Cycling is the perfect way to explore the lovely countryside, and see people living a simple country life. There was a nice balance of cycling, culture, and visits during the day. The cycling was not too hard-core and the accommodation generally was simple but clean and comfortable. Some of the nicest places we stayed were local rural guesthouses with a warm welcome. The food was not particularly exciting but perfectly palatable– (bread was generally disappointing and a bit dry). We were lucky enough to have a great group of people who were fun to be with. As usual everything was incredibly well organised with a well-balanced programme of activities, and we felt looked after. Bikes were good and well maintained by the wonderful Radu. Most Inspirational Moment No one stand out moment, but lots of nice memories - The wonderful City of Brasov, with its beautiful buildings, large open square and cafe culture (A great place for a short weekend break). Lunchtime picnic in the woods overlooking huge meadow, a horse and cart ride through the countryside to one of the fortified churches. Thoughts on Group Leader Tudor was very hard working and nothing was too much trouble - good local knowledge. Sometimes a bit irritable with the group when we didn't quite take on board instructions (did talk for quite extended periods of time which meant we sometimes lost the thread a bit!) Radu the support leader was fantastic, excellent English, great company, also hard working and knowledgeable Advice for Potential Travellers We had been told than places took Euros as an alternative to local currency but this was not the case. Cards not always accepted in rural areas, we needed many more Lei than we expected

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/12/2023

michael ballard   -  Traveled, August 2019

My first cycling holiday, definitely not the last Thoroughly enjoyable 6 days of cycling in great company, final day sightseeing of Bran Castle and Peles. Cycling never difficult, mainly rural farmland scenery and rolling hills. A few uncomfortable dirt,rutted tracks but bikes good enough to cope. Stop off activities all worthwhile apart from Bran Castle – a congested tourist zoo which is best avoided. Peles fabulous, beautiful setting Social evenings with food, drink and great companionship. Most Inspirational Moment Romanian short hills proved more challenging than the bastard long ones! Seeing rural Transylvania and the life people lead a real treat, coming back to the busyness of London and M25 quite a shock. And how great a place to visit is Bucharest, people had warned me it would disappoint. Thoughts on Group Leader Radu is superb. Well organised, knowledgeable, friendly and wanting everybody to have the best experience. Manged to smile and soldier on whilst wrestling with a nasty sore throat for a few days. Advice for Potential Travellers Expect mixed cycling terrain (much good road, but also gravel/dirt roads, rutted farm tracks, and a little bit of unpleasant congested main road) because that's what you'll get. If you want to see Bucharest then go early or stay on after, definitely worth a couple of days. Pay to go on the tour at Peles, worth it. Suggestions My recommendations would be to forego a visit to Bran Castle and get back to Bucharest earlier on Saturday (we arrived back near 7.30 pm). And shorten the rest periods at breaks, people were keen to get cycling, if possible exchanging the shorter breaks for more cycling.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/10/2019

Ken Plumb   -  Traveled, August 2019

Cycling through Transylvania Another super Exodus trip with a great group. The countryside is lovely and most of the cycling was on minor roads and tracks – so peaceful and calm. The cycling has quite a few climbs to increase the heart rate but nothing too severe. The accommodation was varied, clean and comfortable. We were clearly mixing with the local communities and we received smiles from everyone we met. Food was good and locally sourced. All in all a great trip Most Inspirational Moment Umm - for me there is nothing that stands out from the many great times I had. The church service in Vulcan, the fascinating fortified churches, the rural communities , the peace and quiet of the cycling, the homesteads we stayed in - they all combined to make an enjoyable holiday Thoughts on Group Leader Madalina - what can you say … such enthusiasm , organisational skills, personnel skills, knowledge and a smile that lit up the room. Always willing to help and it was pleasure to have her as our leader . A great lady ! Advice for Potential Travellers You need to be reasonably fit but nothing special. There are few places to change money during the trip so get money either in your home country or from the airport ATMs. You don't need that much cash as almost all meals are included. Don't drink the local water and use hand gel before eating. . Its a great trip that brings you close to rural Romania. Suggestions Its just a very peaceful and interesting place to visit ( except the tourist infested Bran and Peles Castles !) . Go for it !

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/12/2019

Stuart Norris   -  Traveled, August 2019

Touring Transylvania We have been on many cycling tours over the years with Exodus and this was yet another excellent trip. We did not know exactly what to expect (how many people do you know who have visited Transylvania?) but we were not disappointed as the countryside is beautiful, green and rolling, with a good handful of climbs to make the cycling interesting, and all the locals that we met on our journey were friendly and welcoming. The accommodation was varied and unfailingly comfortable, the food of a high quality and the various visits along the route to local cottage industries, fortified churches and cities always interesting and informative. Most Inspirational Moment It is difficult to identify a single "inspirational" moment as it was not really that kind of trip. It is probably more appropriate to point to the local people as an inspiration as they have emerged from an oppressive communist governed administration at the end of the 1980s and have spent the last thirty years working hard to evolve into a more democratic country, integrating into the EU. Thoughts on Group Leader Tudor was without doubt one of the best guides we have had the pleasure of meeting on any of our Exodus trips. He was unfailingly charming, helpful, extremely hardworking, very informative and knowledgeable, and became a firm friend of our group. He was not only a great ambassador for Romania but also a very nice and gentle person. Advice for Potential Travellers Get your currency (Romanian Lei) from one of the ATMs at the airport on arrival in Bucharest and choose the option not to take the conversion rate offered by the machine. By leaving your own UK bank to apply their conversion rate you will get a far better rate of exchange. As a couple, we found that £200 (1000 lei) cash was enough to cover our needs for the whole trip as the majority of meals are included in the cost of the trip, but we used credit cards on a couple of occasions (in Sighisoura and Bucharest) for dinners. Tips for the guides went on top of this £200 so we drew a little more out at the end of the holiday from the ATMs in Bucharest. A crossbar bag is handy for carrying a camera so photos can be taken whilst cycling, but panniers are provided for carrying other essentials so a rucksack is not really necessary. The support vehicle is never far away so access to day bags is easy. Bring your own water bottle for filling up and carrying in the bottle cage on the bike. You need to be relatively fit for some of the climbs but there is nothing overly difficult if you already enjoy cycling. Suggestions Do this trip before Transylvania changes too much. Despite the changes being made since entering the EU it is a country that is still very much living in the past out in the countryside and this only adds to its charm and interest. If you get Tudor and Liviu as your guide and driver you will have an even better experience! If you should get the option at the end of the trip, choose to miss the visit to Bran and Bran Castle (it's a dreadful, over-commercialised place after such a lovely week in the countryside and, anyhow, has absolutely nothing to do with Dracula etc.) and ask to visit the bear sanctuary as an alternative. This may not be possible but it's worth a try.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/18/2019

Nigel Turner   -  Traveled, May 2022

A great week and a super country This is a super trip if you are up for ‘moderate’ level cycling, want to visit a new country and are interested in seeing a village lifestyle that may well soon disappear. It is full of small but magical moments – overtaking horses and carts, waves from villagers, passing hi-fives with children and visits to the baker. the blacksmith, the mill, and being shown round a fortified church and a ruined abbey by the local priest. The scenery is great – for the first couple of days we would be cycling alongside snow-capped mountains. That then turns into the lush green hills of Transylvania. The first three days have the longest routes and we were glad that we’d done some hill training before the trip but we coped – although we were usually last we weren’t far behind! The routes are well planned and there is less traffic in Transylvania than on our previous cycle trips in western Europe. Some of the dirt roads are being tarmacked and will soon be smoother rides. The dinners in the small hotels / guests houses were very good as were our picnics and snacks during the day. The fortified churches are really interesting and, as a keen photographer, there were plenty of opportunities for good photos along the way. Btw, the bikes were fine! Most Inspirational Moment I'm split, so here are two: - Hearing cuckoos every day while cycling. I used to hear them at home as a boy - that doesn't happen now in southern England but it does in Transylvania at least in May! - Seeing the cows come home in Viscri. There we were, enjoying our food and wine at dinner, and our host says 'the cows are coming home'. Out we rush...what a surprise! Enjoy! Thoughts on Group Leader Tudor is excellent, he's a very experienced guide, with super local knowledge, a nice friendly style and good focus on a safe trip. He made our last day - we chose not to visit Bran Castle and instead to go to Peles Castle but via Brasov. That was a super addition on his part. We'd been in villages and small towns. To visit a 'Saxon' city was great. The Black Church and the main square were both wonderful. Thank you Tudor. Our driver Lucien was great too and added to the vitality of our small group (post Covid and with war in Ukraine, we were six + guide and driver. There were no Covid issues or disruption. The Romanians have taken in many Ukrainian refugees and two families were staying at the church in Vulcan.) Advice for Potential Travellers The accommodation isn't in standard hotels - it's a mix of small hotels and guesthouses. There's something to like about every place but also the odd thing that isn't ideal but it all adds to the special nature of the trip. In a couple of guesthouses we shared a bathroom with another trip member and that worked fine. In Vulcan the room was a bit basic but the evening welcome from the priest was fab and, after a couple of glasses of welcoming schnaps, it didn't matter! Suggestions Romania is really interesting and on the up. We stayed a few extra days so we could see a bit more of Bucharest and then went north to see the painted monasteries and to visit Moldova.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/29/2022

Sally Pratley-Woodward   -  Traveled, September 2021

Amazing adventure with glorious scenery and many animals An amazing adventure into a unspoilt landscape. This well organised trip had so much to offer, the scenery, the welcoming local people, the traditional cuisine and the wildlife. Most Inspirational Moment There really were some many but favourite moment was watching the cows in Viscri return home to their individual gates. Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent!!! Funny, enthusiastic, informative and kind. Advice for Potential Travellers We didn’t take coats but needed them. Suggestions This was such an unspoiled country and so inexpensive.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/25/2021

Mike Baker   -  Traveled, April 2019

Another Gold Star for Exodus Travel! This was my fourth cycle holiday with Exodus (previously Dalmation Coast, Albania, Puglia in southern Italy) and I certainly hope there will be many more. I am often asked which is my favourite so far. So difficult to pick one as they are all top drawer stuff. It is a fantastic way to get to know a country and its history; our guides did not disappoint in this respect. The weather was not always kind, but the tour was packed with interest, visits, charm, and views that stun. As a photographer, all those appealed. Most Inspirational Moment Being part of a church service in Vulcan on our first day of cycling. Although I an not overtly religious, the feeling of being part of a community was quite overpowering and emotional. Thoughts on Group Leader Radu was excellen, full of knowledge of the history of the region. We all got on famously with him and, not forgetting Stefan, our driver and mechanic. Advice for Potential Travellers Just book it now! Suggestions I would like to be able to see details of each ride day on the previous evening. This happened on the Albania trip and was most useful giving distances, stops and profile of the route.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/13/2019

Kalpesh Patel   -  Traveled, May 2019

Great times It was a really fun trip. Very well organized. Terrain is moderate. This was my first real biking experience and I felt I was able to manage it. Our group was small – 10 people and we gelled immediately. Overall organization and coordination was excellent. It is a well thought out route. You get to see a lot of history and meet locals – especially in churches. Most Inspirational Moment It was amazing to stay in the fortified church the first night. The minister actually served us the dinner (and perhaps cooked for us as well). Thoughts on Group Leader Our guide Radu was amazing and very knowledgeable about Romanian history and European history. He took care of anyone's needs and issues immediately. He made it very easy for all of us. Advice for Potential Travellers I am vegetarian. They did their best possible to cater to me. So there was no lack of food. However if you are used to flavors and spices in your vegetarian food, I suggest to pack some sauces. Suggestions Bike gear shifters could have been better. E.g. delayed gear change or change several gears at once. Made it less smooth on hills sometimes. Stefan - the support person - was excellent and fixed mine a few times, and he did his best. But problems still persisted on-and-off because I think the shifters need to be replaced.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/25/2019

Angela Wallis   -  Traveled, June 2019

Beautifully Organised and Fun Holiday Really good holiday and guides. Superbly organised by Exodus. Bikes were in good condition and the accommodation ranged from rustic to very comfortable. For us, the cycling could have been more challenging and at a quicker pace but the guides did really well to manage the different levels in the group. The main negative point was the hotel in Sighisoara which really let us and Exodus down, and also that we were both sick at different times. Most Inspirational Moment Encouraging the less able cyclists and learning from others experiences. Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent, very supportive and knowledgeable, extremely kind and friendly. Advice for Potential Travellers Don’t expect luxury accommodation or exciting cycling. Don’t expect a lift on the broom wagon either. Practice cycling up hills and in traffic before you go. Suggestions Thanks for a great holiday, our last one was 18 years ago and this was in a different league for organisation and professionalism.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/18/2019

Elizabeth Murphy   -  Traveled, December 2018

Biking in Transylvania Thoroughly enjoyed the trip Most Inspirational Moment Enjoyed every day Thoughts on Group Leader Great! Suggestions Bottled water should be provided on a daily basis as I was not willing to drink the water from the tap. When I did ask, the water was provided

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 01/12/2019

Penny Poulin   -  Traveled, August 2018

Cycle Romania I’ve been on quite a few Exodus walking and cycling trips and this has to have been the best so far This was down to several reasons. Firstly Romania is a beautiful country and the tour took us though some of the most scenic areas . Our guides Cristina and Liviu were fabulous. Knowledgeable about their country and relaxed and fun to be with. We stayed at some wonderful out of the way places and our hosts and food were exceptional. The group was the best! We laughed so much and we all felt we had found 13 new friends by the end. Most Inspirational Moment Meeting the local people with a love for their country and a willingness to share with us their amazing hospitality Thoughts on Group Leader Both Cristina and Liviu get full marks We all fell in love with both of them Advice for Potential Travellers This is very much a"get close to the real Romania" trip so make the most of it Dont drink the water!!! Suggestions The last day was a bit of an anticlimax as it involved a long bus transfer with a couple of stops at Vlads casle and another palace. Very busy with tourists and not really enjoyed by any of us I dont think We had so enjoyed the quiet solitude of the country I would have preferred a direct ride to Bucharest and then a slightly longer walk about before our last dinner

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/15/2018

Barbara Elliston   -  Traveled, August 2018

Cycle Romania A wonderful trip exploring very rural parts of Transylvania – varying terrain – some stretches of unmade roads. Beautiful scenery and interesting visits to Monasteries and fortified Churches. No problem with the bicycles provided. Most Inspirational Moment Cycling through very rural parts. Meeting up with friendly hosts at the overnight stays in the towns and experiencing some of their culture and food. Thoughts on Group Leader Very good and knowledgeable and able to cope with all eventualities. The driver of the van was also very knowledgeable and very helpful moving luggage, mechanical issue with the bicycles and providing refreshments. Advice for Potential Travellers Not many places to get cash out of machines so make sure you have enough. Suggestions Although it was interesting seeing the outside of both Bran and Peles Castles and hearing about the history we did encounter a lot of traffic as it is a very touristy area and after the relative solitude of the tour I am not sure whether it should have been included. All the traffic jams meant that we got to the hotel in Bucharest rather late and did not really get chance to explore very much.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/21/2018

Laura Knapp   -  Traveled, August 2018

Do this trip soon! Romania is fantastic! This is our 6th cycling trip with Exodus and it is one of the best. The route was wonderful with views of the Carpathians, fields of corn and potatoes and horses pulling carts. We are experienced cyclists and the 3/10 level lets one burn some calories but still leave time to visit monasteries, water-driven flour mills and fortified churches. It was good to know in advance that we might have to share a bathroom (4 times, but it worked out) and that the food is rustic home cooking (great cheese, cured meats, mashed potatoes, lots of tomatoes and cucumbers). Our leader, Tudor, was excellent. Remember to save time to do a free walking tour in Bucharest on the last day. Travel guides say that tourism in Romania is “budding”–do this trip now before the country changes! Most Inspirational Moment Witnessing the beautiful rural life with an abundance of local crops. Learning the influence of Mongols and Turks, and the Silk Road from China, as this country is so far East. Riding alone on a country road with the yellow flowers all around. Thoughts on Group Leader Tudor did an excellent job. He let us bike at our own pace which is very important. He had incredible knowledge and love of the area. Also, he put together a WhatsApp group for us (by individual consent) at the beginning. We could share pictures and get more pictures of ourselves. Why hasn't anyone thought of that before? Our driver, Livio was calm and capable. He would provide snacks such as chocolate from his Communist childhood and tell us the story. Or candy bars with the name of the nearby Fagaras Mountains. Suggestions Do this trip. Our group is still chatting and sharing pictures in our WhatsApp group because we just don't want to let go of the memories.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/24/2018

Irene Daniels   -  Traveled, August 2018

Cycling Romania Brilliant guide Brilliant support driver Brilliant group Fantastic country – mostly in Transylvania Great bike Great accommodation Challenging but very satisfying daily bike rides Most Inspirational Moment When one of our group (young female) stopped two galloping horses tied to a cart careering through a small village, even the owners could not stop them and were very impressed Thoughts on Group Leader Tudor was first rate; great leader, knew Transylvania's history and geography inside out. Great sense of humour, knew when to be serious and when to be light hearted Great with the slower as well as the quicker cyclists Advice for Potential Travellers Book it! Suggestions Superb trip

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/23/2018

Patricia H   -  Traveled, July 2018

Great trip This was my first trip with Exodus and bike tour – but not my last. And I can only recommend it to anyone: a well organised trip, with great guides (Tudor and Liviu – both are always smiling and relaxed but well prepared). Tudor informed us very well of what is ahead and what to expect and Liviu took care of nice coffee and tea brakes (and nuts, chocolate, bananas etc.) waiting for us always in great mood. With both I would go on any trip as I felt well taken care of. And the group itself was nice too. Though I’ve seen more impressive landscapes n other journeys it was still unique – all the untouched lovely wild meadows everywhere – and the most impressive pottholes I have ever seen ?? ! With the bike the impression is uncomparable: the rustic land life, horses pulling carts and the little villages with old men and women sitting on benches in front of their houses waving with a cheerfull smile. very friendly people and hosts. Though there was a lot of meat it was not only meat – but don’t expect to lose weight as you get a lot to eat, and I liked the Romanian Radler, nearly at every guest house you get free wifi. Don’t take too much change – everything is cheap and even with tips I ended up with enough change, but as I will come back no problem. By the way: they have new bikes, so well equipped for the tour. But bring your gel saddle and enough sun screen and some mosquito repellent and your camera for lovely photos. I think the trip was more challenging than expected, less due to some gravel roads but with some climbs (e.g. 4 k) in the hot summer heat without any shade (I would recommend going in May or June). Most Inspirational Moment The visit at the wool mill. And nearly every little village we passed with the bike. After the biking part in Viscri watching the cows, horses and goats coming back from the fields into the village and the visit at the local brick "factory". Thoughts on Group Leader Tudor (guide) and Liviu (support car) just great!!!!!! Advice for Potential Travellers (See above and:) have your camera/mobile for photos any time that you don't have to stop to take photos. Be fit, especially for the climbs in the heat, don't underestimate it. Be aware that the guest houses are quite simple but they offer anything you need (always warm water, just be aware that is sometimes the opposite of what is indicated on the regulator), sometimes shared bathrooms and it is not always allowed to throw toilet paper in the toilet. Suggestions Book this trip! You won't regret it.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/25/2018

Paula Walker   -  Traveled, July 2018

Fantastic Just got back from an amazing week of cycling in this lovely country. Our leaders, Tudor and Livio were wonderful, so kind and considerate, so knowledgeable about this history and culture of their country, superb English, they made this trip fun and interesting. The cycling was challenging on varied road surfaces but the scenery, views of the mountains and seeing rustic farming methods, scythes, horses & carts etc more than compensated. At the end of a hot day of cycling Livio was there offering cold beer and watermelon. At each comfort stop he was there with coffee, tea, a sweet from the region and fruit. Nothing was too much trouble. The accommodation was great, very clean and comfortable, and the hosts welcoming. As a vegetarian I was well catered for. I can recommend this holiday. Most Inspirational Moment In Viscri towards the end of the tour, watching the cows, horses and goats Being herded from the fields down the Main Street and finding their way to their own homes. An amazing sight. I was up at 6:15 the next morning to watch them all emerge from their homes and congregate in the street to away their journey back off to the fields. Each house in Viscr appear to own it’s on cow so there were quite a few. Thoughts on Group Leader Tudor was amazing, so very kind and thoughtful with a lovely sense of humour. We pulled his leg about his pronunciation of a few words, but his English was very very good. And his knowledge of Romanian history was encyclopaedic. Advice for Potential Travellers Take a gel saddle cover for extra comfort, and a tube of sudocreme. Romania is a very cheap country to visit, for a week I took out £120 for tips, a couple of meals out, drinks, ice creams and other incidentals...and that was plenty. Investigate Strava for your phone beforehand. Suggestions See Romania before it becomes more developed, already buildings for tourists are being constructed. And enjoy beer at 60p/ pint and ice creams at 40p/ cone.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/10/2018

J T   -  Traveled, May 2018

cycle romaina really truly surprising place quiet unspoilt clean friendly , good wi fi , mobile phone and yet really untouched by 2oth centuary cars a variety , and then the fortified churches we all yawn ,but with this trip each and everyone has its own special charm . Good varied acheivable ride in deepest quiet untouched country side Most Inspirational Moment veskri unesco world heritage village Thoughts on Group Leader radu was i think the best i have had so far Advice for Potential Travellers do not forget youre battery charger for camera i did and beelive me youll want to take loads of pics

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/25/2018

Roger Pattenden   -  Traveled, September 2017

Fascinating glimpse of rural Romania Very good trip. The rides were through a variety of terrain and landscapes. On the first few days there were views of groups of local people working in the fields with only the occasional item of usually soviet era farm machinery to help. There were visits to interesting sights including many fortified churches the like of which we had not seen before. In the context of local overnight stays with which we are very familiar on Exodus trips, those on this trip were all good. The only slight downside for some was the local high fat diet (sausages, salami, fatty pork and pickled cabbage featured prominently ) and hardly any fresh vegetables for nearly all meals. But that was the local diet and was therefore the authentic experience we expected. It was interesting to see the contrast between rural Romania with its horses and carts and modern Bucharest which we explored at the end of the trip. The trip lived up to our expectations of seeing a rural way of life which might have been similar to the UK several hundred years ago. Most Inspirational Moment Visiting the bakery where the wife made very good bread, in conditions which would give a public health inspector a turn, and where the husband used a cart pulled by a blind horse. Thoughts on Group Leader Radu was an excellent leader and Liviu was also excellent as helper / driver and picnic provider. Both spoke very good English, had a very good knowledge of Romanian history and were very pleasant company. Advice for Potential Travellers Be prepared for rather different food from a healthy UK diet.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/26/2017

Annette Jorgensen   -  Traveled, August 2017

Great cycling holiday in Romania Just back from a 8 days cycling trip in Romania and really loved this trip because here you get the chance of experience the real country life in Romania. Most Inspirational Moment The people of Romania was just so friendly and welcoming everywhere we went in the country and seeing their simple but laid back life was a true inspiration for all of us. Thoughts on Group Leader The 2 guides Radu and Liviu is by no doubt some of the best guides I have ever had. So experienced and laid back and nothing was too much trouble for them. Also always ready for a party and to take the group out a night so just had so much fun with these guys. Advice for Potential Travellers Do not expect 5 star accommodation but expect something very different every night and to get close to the real people in Romania. Suggestions The bikes are not fantastic on this trip but the days are relatively easy so didn't matter too much. However if you are a tall girl like me and prefer a male frame then please remember to request this - since for the first time I had to cycle on a female frame - which was not ideal for me.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/15/2017

Bel CM   -  Traveled, June 2017

Cycle Romania This was an execllent trip. The scenery, food and the people were wonderful. Just the right balance of cycling – good and energetic – and cultural. What made it particularly special was our two guides. Although Liviu was the main guide, he worked closely with Redu, who is also a guide but provided the support on our trip. They formed a great team and we could not have been better looked after. Both were proud and passionate about their country, its history and culture and were determined to give us every opportunity to learn about it and experience it. As well as the main itnerary, they took every opportunity to show us additional things. The fact that we stayed mainly in small rural homestays gave us an opportunity to sample local hospitality and see village life close up. Most Inspirational Moment It was all great but maybe an impromptu visit to the home of a couple who invited us into their yard full of animals, fed us home-made cake and showed us how they continue to live a traditional Transylvanian lifestyle. Thoughts on Group Leader Liviu, working as a team with Redu, were brilliant. They were so knowledgeable. We learned about the history, food, architecture, politics, traditions, etc. etc.etc. They really went above and beyond to make sure we had a good time. For example, on our first night they learned there was a concert in the neighbouring village so we went there. And on our last night they gave up their first night back with their families to have dinner with us and then walked all round Bucharest with us until almost midnight showing us things that we would never have seen on our own. Thanks both! Advice for Potential Travellers Just go. This is up there with one of the best trips we have done. Suggestions Great trip. Staying in local homes was lovely. It was also nice to have most meals included. This is always so much more convenient and efficient on activity holidays.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/15/2017

Lindsey Fountain  -  Traveled, June 2017

Cycling, cows and churches A great mixture of cycling and culture, with plenty of cows and castles along the way. Visiting rural Transylvania is like going back in time to the Middle Ages – farmers still use scythes, people get around in horses and carts, and cows wander the streets. There is a fascinating history to uncover and the locals are very friendly. Most Inspirational Moment I really enjoyed meeting traditional craftspeople and learning about how close their skills came to being lost forever in the Communist era. We met quite a few entertaining characters along the way. The countryside is beautiful and the medieval town of Sighisoara is picturesque. Thoughts on Group Leader Raluca was a great guide - cheerful, patient, experienced and passionate about Romania. She offered lots of personal insights to bring the history of the country to life, and there was a great balance between cycling and culture. She really went out of her way to make sure that we were all enjoying ourselves. Liviu was a great helper too, keeping us fed and watered on the rides. Advice for Potential Travellers Be prepared for mixed standards of accommodation - some excellent and some a little basic, but all with character. Hot water can be a little hit and miss. There are no hair dryers or kettles, so take your own if those things are important to you. It helps to be not too fussy about food as options can be limited if you have specific dietary requirements. We went in May and the weather was very changeable - some hot and sunny days and some cold and rainy days, so if you are going early or late in the season make sure you take clothes for all weather. But above all, go now before it changes too much! Suggestions You don't actually visit Bran Castle on the way back to Bucharest because it's a tourist trap and involves long ticket queues - the compromise is to take pictures from the road and visit a different (and impressive) castle instead.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/20/2017