The tour begins with a 20-minute transfer from Cluj to Gilău, where we immediately begin climbing along a scenic road that winds through dense forest and follows the Somesul Cald river. This stretch takes us past three impressive reservoirs—Gilău, Someșul Cald, and Tarnița—gradually ascending to over 1000 meters altitude.

The landscape with steep forested slopes creates a powerful introduction to Transylvania’s natural beauty. As we reach the plateau near Mărișel, the terrain opens up and we get our first views of the Apuseni Mountains.

From here, the road leads gently downhill into the tranquil village of Ponorel, where the quiet scenery welcomes us to our destination.

The final stretch is a peaceful descent into Ponorel, where we arrive at Drumul Inacului Guesthouse. Here, we’ll unwind with a delicious dinner, soaking in the serene surroundings before a well-earned rest—ready for the next day’s journey.

   Guesthouse: Drumul Inacului

Approximately 108 km (67 miles) with 2,030 m (6,660 feet) of climbing

The day begins in Ponorel with a gentle ride through the Apuseni Mountains, where the early morning mist clings to the landscape.
We pedal through secluded hamlets and shaded forest roads, with occasional clearings revealing expansive views of the surrounding peaks. As we continue, the route gradually flattens and becomes more dynamic as we approach Alba Iulia, one of Transylvania’s most important historical cities.

Upon arrival, we’ll head to Hotel Carolina Heritage, a beautifully restored hotel offering both comfort and a touch of history. After checking in, you’ll have time to relax and explore the city, followed by a delicious dinner at the hotel, where you can reflect on the day’s ride in this charming, historical setting.

   Hotel: Carolina Heritage

Approximately 88 km (55 miles) with 911 m (2,988 feet) of climbing

The day begins with a smooth ride from Alba Iulia, taking us through scenic countryside and traditional villages. We follow quiet roads through open farmland and pastoral settings, where time seems to slow down.

After approximately 50 km, we’ll stop for a well-earned lunch break at a local café. Refueled, we’ll continue toward Sibiu, with the landscape slowly shifting—small hills begin to rise and the horizon fills with the dramatic silhouette of the Făgăraș Mountains.

The approach into Sibiu takes us along peaceful backroads and forest paths, ending in one of Transylvania’s cultural jewels.

We’ll arrive at the Mercure Hotel, where we’ll have time to relax and unwind after the day’s ride.

   Hotel: Mercure Sibiu Arsenal

Approximately 120 km (74 miles) with 1,576 m (5,170 feet) of climbing

Today’s ride takes us to Veseud and to our favorite accommodation of the tour. The first part of the day takes us through the Saxon settlements around Sibiu, and after 45km, we'll have a well-deserved lunch break at the Orangery located in the park of Avrig’s Brukenthal Palace. Following a winding road climb, revealing the majestic range of the Făgăraș mountains, we enter the Hârtibaciu Valley area with its rolling hills, one of the last intact rural medieval landscapes in Europe.

We’ll reach Veseud 11 guesthouse, our destination for the night, where a warm welcome and cozy surroundings await. After checking in, you can unwind and enjoy a delicious dinner in a peaceful, rustic setting. The serene environment will provide the ideal place to relax and recharge for the adventures that lie ahead.

   Guesthouse: Veseud 11

Approximately 93 km (57 miles) with 871 m (2,857 feet) of climbing

This is the day of an epic climb. Thirty kilometers of climbing will take us from the lowlands to the second highest altitude reachable on road in Romania. We will start cycling in the plains, cross the coniferous forest, make our way into the alpine pastures and after 25 hairpin turns and countless breathtaking views of the Transylvanian Alps, as the mountains are nicknamed, we will conquer the Transfăgărășan. At the top of the climb, the mountains and the road will give up their last secret, the Bâlea glacial lake located at an altitude of 2040 meters in a glacial cirque guarded by majestic rocky peaks. After lunch at one of the mountain chalets, built on the side of the lake, we will get ready for a magical descent on the same way we came up. The thirty kilometers ride down the mountain will be equally rewarding and awesome as the climb.

Due to the heavy snowfalls during winter the road opens officially on the 15st of June each year and closes on the 1st of November. Please keep this in mind when you are planning your trip.

   Guesthouse: Casa Mosului

Approximately 95 km (59 miles) with 1,906 m (6,253 feet) of climbing

The route takes us along quiet country roads, winding through peaceful landscapes, and offering views of lush meadows and traditional villages. The gentle climb through the foothills of the Făgăraș Mountains provides a perfect opportunity to take in the beauty of the countryside at a relaxed pace. As we approach the iconic Saxon villages, we will be immersed in the region's rich history, cycling past well-preserved fortifications and centuries-old churches. We will end the day in the picturesque Unesco village of Viscri. One of the benefactors of the village is His Majesty Charles III, who in 2006, after buying and restoring some of the 18th century Saxon houses in the village, became the promoter of sustainable tourism in Transylvania. In the evening, you'll be able to witness one of the most iconic spectacles of rural Transylvanian life when the cattle return to the village from grazing, a perfect ending for your trip.

   Guesthouse: Viscri 125

Approximately 96 km (60 miles) with 826 m (2,709 feet) of climbing

The route takes us through lush meadows, with distant views of the mountains on the horizon, setting the tone for a relaxing yet rewarding ride. The final stretch brings us closer to Praid, a village famous for its salt mines and natural beauty. Upon arriving, we’ll reach the welcoming Guesthouse Hygge Praid, where a cozy and comfortable atmosphere awaits.  A delightful dinner at the guesthouse will cap off the day, giving us the perfect opportunity to reflect on the beautiful tour.

   Guesthouse: Hygge Praid

Approximately 101 km (63 miles) with 937 m (3,074 feet) of climbing