"We are in Transylvania... Our ways are not your ways, and there shall be to you many strange things..." – Bram Stoker in Dracula
“We are in Transylvania… Our ways are not your ways, and there shall be to you many strange things…”
— Bram Stoker, Dracula
Maramureș • Transylvania • The Carpathians • Moldavia
Romania is no longer Europe’s hidden secret — it is one of its last great adventures.
Once described as the “Wild West of Europe,” today Romania is a land of medieval citadels, legendary mountain passes, UNESCO treasures, ancient monasteries, and some of the most thrilling roads on the continent. With 14 National Parks, over 6,000 wild brown bears, 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and a Latin-based language dating back over 1,700 years, Romania offers an experience unlike anywhere else in Europe.
This 12-day, 13-night journey is a clockwise exploration of the magnificent, horseshoe-shaped Carpathian Mountains, taking you deep into the heart of Transylvania, Maramureș, Moldavia, and the high Carpathians — where history, myth, and nature collide.
We first discovered Romania in 2012 during our Circumnavigation of the Black Sea expedition. It quickly became one of the most unforgettable highlights of our travels — compelling us to return, explore deeper, and design what we believe is the ultimate Romanian tour.
🌿 Viscri Village (UNESCO). Step into a living medieval postcard in Viscri. Cobbled lanes, pastel Saxon houses, and a UNESCO-listed fortified church create a timeless atmosphere. Famously restored with support from King Charles III, Viscri embodies authentic Transylvanian heritage.
🕯️ Sighișoara – Birthplace of Dracula. Explore the perfectly preserved medieval citadel of Sighișoara, birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Wander narrow cobbled streets, climb the Clock Tower, visit the Medieval Weapons Collection, and spend the night immersed in legend and atmosphere.
👑 Peleș Castle. In the mountain town of Sinaia, discover the Neo-Renaissance masterpiece Peleș Castle — a royal summer residence filled with carved wood, stained glass, and opulent detail.
🏰 Corvin Castle. The Gothic grandeur of Corvin Castle rises dramatically from stone foundations — one of Europe’s most impressive medieval fortresses.
🧛 Bran Castle. Visit the legendary Bran Castle, forever linked to the Dracula myth and Bram Stoker’s immortal tale.
Romania’s mountain roads are simply extraordinary.
🏁 Transfăgărășa Pass – Declared by Top Gear as “the most beautiful road in the world,” Transfăgărășan delivers epic switchbacks, alpine lakes, and unforgettable views.
⛰ Transalpina Road – Climbing above 2,100 meters, Transalpina is Romania’s highest road — an exhilarating ribbon of tarmac through the clouds.
🌄 Legendary Mountain Passes – Praid, Prislop, Cheia, Urdele, Tihuța, Râșnov, Transbucegi, Transceahlău, and Transrărau — each one a masterpiece of curves and panoramic beauty.
🌊 Red Lake – Submerged tree trunks rise eerily from calm waters beneath towering cliffs — a hauntingly beautiful natural wonder.
🌲 Rucăr–Bran Pass – A perfect blend of mountain scenery and traditional Romanian village life.
Moldavia reveals Romania’s spiritual and artistic soul.
🎨 Voroneț Monastery – Known for its extraordinary “Voroneț Blue,” Voroneț Monastery features vivid 16th-century frescoes commissioned by Stephen the Great.
🕊 Neamț Monastery – Founded in the 14th century, Neamț Monastery stands as one of Romania’s most important Orthodox centers.
In Maramureș, life follows ancient rhythms. Ride through rolling hills dotted with wooden gates, horse-drawn carts, and haystacks shaped by hand. Visit the breathtaking wooden Bârsana Monastery, originally founded in 1390 — a masterpiece of traditional craftsmanship and faith.
Black Church – Gothic grandeur in Brașov’s Old Town
Râșnov Citadel – 13th-century hilltop fortress
Făgăraș Fortress – Surrounded by a defensive moat
Citadel Valley Cave – where classical concerts echo underground
Ride along the Danube — Europe’s great river forming the border with Serbia
Romania is home to Europe’s largest population of wild brown bears and vast ancient forests. As we journey through the Carpathians, we ride through landscapes where wilderness still thrives.
✔ 12 Days / 13 Nights of fully curated adventure
✔ UNESCO World Heritage Sites
✔ Legendary mountain passes
✔ Medieval castles & Dracula legends
✔ Painted monasteries of Moldavia
✔ Authentic Maramureș traditions
✔ Boutique accommodations & unforgettable local cuisine
✔ A perfect blend of culture, history, scenery, and thrilling roads
This is more than a tour — it is a journey into Europe’s last great frontier. From the shadowed towers of Transylvania to the sky-high roads of the Carpathians, from painted monasteries to timeless mountain villages — Romania will surprise you, move you, and stay with you long after the ride ends.
Are you ready to discover the strange and beautiful world of Transylvania? 🇷🇴
A Fully Supported Motorcycle Adventure – This is a fully supported tour starting and finishing in Budapest, Hungary. Our experienced team will be on hand throughout the journey, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience from start to finish.
Please contact the office before booking flights so we can confirm timings and logistics with you.
Flight InformationArrival: Saturday 29th August – Budapest
An early morning flight is recommended.
‣ Aer Lingus departing Dublin 07:45 – 11:50
‣ Ryanair departing Dublin 15:40 – 19:35
Please note: your first night’s accommodation will be in Budapest.
Departure: Friday 11th September – Budapest
Flights may be booked at any time that suits you.
Ryanair offers a suitable direct route.
Itinerary from 2025
Day 1:
Departing Budapest and Hungary, we head east and northeast to the Maramureș region in northwest Romania, where age-old traditions remain integral to daily life. The residents here have remarkably preserved the rural culture and crafts of their Dacian ancestors. Maramureș villages are known for their distinctive wooden churches featuring tall spires and shingled roofs. Woodlands cover more than four-fifths of the region, making it clear why wood has historically been and continues to be the primary medium for local artisans. Intricate wood carvings adorn eaves, entryways, and windows, while hand-woven carpets and detailed embroidery embellish the traditional folk dresses still worn by the locals.
Day 2:
Day 3:
Today, we journey into the heart of Romania, exploring the enchanting region of Transylvania. Our adventure begins with a smooth ride along a dam beside the river, before we delve deep into the forests. Scenic landscapes and well-maintained roads await us as we meander south through the Bicaz Gorges, Praid Pass, and onward to the Bogatti forests. The road through the gorges is one of Romania’s most stunning routes, offering numerous photo opportunities and local bazaars where you can find crafts made by Romanian and Hungarian artisans. The gorge twists steeply upward for 5 kilometers, cutting through towering 300-meter-high limestone cliffs. At one point, the narrow mountain road runs precariously beneath overhanging rocks in an area known as the “neck of hell.” We conclude our long day in Sighișoara, one of the seven towns (known as “Siebenbürgen,” or seven castles) founded by German settlers in the 12th century. Sighișoara features a charming old town, and a stroll through its streets will lead you to the eerie house where Count Dracula is said to have been born!
Day 4:
Today our route takes us through some beautiful and un-spoilt villages on route to Brasov. Fringed by the peaks of the Southern Carpathian Mountains and resplendent with gothic, baroque and renaissance architecture, as well as a wealth of historical attractions, Brasov is one of the most visited places in Romania. Founded by the Teutonic Knights in 1211 on an ancient Dacian site and settled by the Saxons as one of the seven walled citadels, Brasov exudes a distinct medieval ambiance and has been used as backdrop in many recent period films. The location of the city at the intersection of trade routes linking the Ottoman Empire and western Europe, together with certain tax exemptions, allowed Saxon merchants to obtain considerable wealth and exert a strong political influence in the region. Brasov is home to one of the narrowest streets in Europe. The Rope Streetis approximately four feet wide and it links CerbuluiStreet with PoartaSchei Street and was initially used as an access route by firefighters. A stroll around the old Town Hall Square is highly recommended where you can admire colorfully painted and ornately trimmed baroque structures. Take a peek inside the Black Church, the largest gothic church in Romania. Its name derives from damage caused by the Great Fire of 1689, when flames and smoke blackened its walls. The interior is impressive and well-kept and houses one of the largest organs in Eastern Europe.
Day 5 – Rest Day with optional ride-out to Bran Castle and Bucegi Mountains
Bran Castle – Surrounded by an aura of mystery and legend and perched high atop a 200-foot-high rock, Bran Castle owes its fame to its imposing towers and turrets as well as to the myth created around Bram Stocker’s Dracula. A little history. Although Stoker never visited Transylvania, the Irish author relied on research and his vivid imagination to create the dark and intimidating stomping ground of Count Dracula, leading to persistent myths that it was once the home of Vlad Tepes (also known as Vlad the Impaler or Vlad Dracul), ruler of Walachia. While the association with Dracula is sketchy at best, the castle continues to hold a strong attraction for all fans of the Count. Because Bran Castle is the only castle in all of Transylvania that actually fits Bram Stoker’s description of Dracula’s Castle, it is known throughout the world as Dracula’s Castle. From 1920 to 1957 Bran served as royal residence, a gift of the people of Brasov to Queen Marie of Romania. The castle is now a museum open to tourists, displaying art and furniture collected by Queen Marie. Narrow winding stairways lead through some 60 timbered rooms, many connected by underground passages, which house collections of furniture, weapons and armor dating from the 14th to the 19th centuries. Well worth the tour!
Day 6
Arguably the two main reasons why most people travel to Transylvania are on offer today as we traverse the Bran – Rucar Pass and the magnificent Transfagarasan road. More than 150 kilometres in length the Transfagarasan Highway is Romania’s most spectacular and best known road and, thanks to an appearance on BBC Top Gear in 2009, now one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions. Fully open only from June to October, the road’s highest point is at 2042 metres: the tunnel which links the northern and southern sides at Lake Balea (Balea Lac). The Transfagarasan was built between 1970 and 1974 by military forces. After the 1968 invasion of Czechoslovakia by the Soviets, Nicolae Ceausescu had it built as a strategic military route to cross the mountains in the event the Soviets attempted a similar move into Romania. The builders used 6000 tons of dynamite to clear a path for the road on the northern side of the mountains (this is the most spectacular) and on the tunnel. 40 soldiers lost their lives during construction. Facts and figures tend to vary but you get the jist.
Day 7 Rest Day – with optional rideout
The highlight today is a motorcyclists dream as we traverse the TransAlpina, known locally as ‘the Kings Road’ and sometimes referred to as ‘The Devils Path’. The TransAlpina road (DN67C) is the highest road in Romania and one of the famous Romanian high altitude roads. With a length of 146 km, it crosses the Southern Carpathian Mountains and reaches a maximum altitude of 2,145m above sea level at PasulUrdele. It is considered one of the most spectacular roads of the Carpathian Mountains and offers breathtaking views together with an exhilarating ride.Arguably the oldest road over the Carpathian Mountains, TransAlpina was built at the beginning of the 2nd Century AD by the Roman legions during their war campaign to conquer Sarmizegetusa – the capital of Dacia (modern-day Romania). After the conquest of Dacia, the Romans used the TransAlpina to transport gold to Rome extracted from Transylvania.
Sibiu, voted Cultural European Capital in 2007, was the largest and wealthiest of the seven walled citadels built in the 12th century by German settlers known as Transylvanian Saxons.Sibiu’s Old Town retains the grandeur of its earlier days when rich and powerful guilds dominated regional trade. Like Sighisoara and Brasov, it has a distinctly Germanic feeling. Sections of the medieval wall still guard the historic area, where narrow streets pass steep-roofed 17th century buildings with gable overhangs before opening into vast, church-dominated squares such as Great Square and Little Square. Renowned composers Strauss, Brahms and Liszt all played here during the 19th century, and Sibiu has stayed at the forefront of Romania’s cultural scene through its festivals of opera, theatre and film, as well as rock, jazz and more. The country’s first hospital, school, library and pharmacy were all established here, and locals are justly proud of the spirit of enterprise that endures to this day.
Day 8
Today, we ride through several national parks as we reach the southernmost point of our tour, where the majestic Danube serves as a natural border between Serbia and Romania.
Day 9
Today we follow the banks of the Danube west and north through more national parks on route to Timisoara.
Day 10
After a short ride to the Hungarian border, we leave Romania behind in pursuit of Budapest. For those looking to relax or extend their holiday, we highly recommend spending a couple of days in Budapest either before or after the tour.
Divided by the Danube, the city features Buda on one side, known for its Ottoman-era thermal baths at the foot of the stunning Gellért Hill, the royal palace, and Matthias Church, all exuding a sense of calm. On the other side is Pest, vibrant and lively, home to a wealth of museums rich in cultural and historical treasures, remarkable Secessionist architecture, and the majestic Parliament building, considered one of the most magnificent in the world. Saint Stephen’s Basilica, surrounded by pedestrian streets, and the recently renovated Jewish Quarter and Palace District add to its charm. Beyond its historical significance, Budapest boasts a thriving cultural scene with world-class festivals, theaters, museums, concert halls, and sporting events. For those seeking relaxation and nature, Margaret Island serves as the city’s “green heart,” regarded by many as one of Europe’s finest city parks, perfect for strolling, various sports, swimming in outdoor pools, or soaking in thermal baths and spas. Food lovers will not want to miss the celebrated delights of Hungarian cuisine!
We will be providing a more detailed itinerary on arrival to include hotel info and GPS co-ordinates.
Please note that this is an outline route and maybe subject to change.
We aim to provide a comprehensive, well-supported touring experience so you can focus on enjoying the adventure.
Return motorcycle transport from our base in Gorey, Co. Wexford to Budapest, Hungary
Bed & Breakfast accommodation in quality 3–4 star hotels (or best available in remote areas)
6 evening meals
Experienced tour guide(s)
Detailed route maps and full itinerary, allowing flexibility for self-guided riding if preferred
Support vehicle for luggage transfers and backup.
To ensure transparency, the following items are not included in the tour price:
Flights and travel costs to/from the tour start and finish points
Personal travel, accident and medical insurance (including repatriation, cancellation, curtailment, loss or damage to property)
Motorcycle insurance, breakdown cover or recovery costs
Entrance fees to sights, parks and optional excursions (unless specifically stated)
Lunches and snacks (unless stated)
Evening meals on rest days or optional ride-out days
Personal spending money, tips, souvenirs and incidental expenses
Personal documentation (passport, visas), vaccinations, taxes, border fees and motorcycle paperwork
Motorcycle repairs (parts and labour), tyres
Fuel, oil and other motorcycle consumables
Toll road charges, traffic fines or any legal penalties
Any item not specifically listed under “What’s Included”
If you have any questions about what is or isn’t covered, please contact the office — we’re happy to clarify any details before you book.
Carefully Selected Hotels for Comfort & Character
We believe that where you stay is an essential part of your journey. That’s why, on all of our guided tours, we carefully select high-quality 3- and 4-star hotels that enhance your overall travel experience — not just places to sleep, but places that add to the story of your adventure.
Over many years of operating tours across the globe, we have built an extensive portfolio of trusted, tried-and-tested properties. Each hotel is chosen with care, based not simply on its official star rating, but on what truly matters to our guests: comfort, atmosphere, location and, above all, consistently high standards of service.
Understanding Global Hotel Standards
Hotel classification systems vary widely from country to country. A 4-star hotel in Africa or South America, for example, may differ in style and facilities from a 4-star property in Europe.
For this reason, we look beyond the rating itself. Our focus is on the overall guest experience — ensuring every hotel we use meets our expectations for:
Cleanliness and comfort
Professional and welcoming service
Convenient location
Good facilities appropriate to the destination
Our goal is consistency in quality, wherever in the world you travel with us.
Authentic Stays in Unique Locations
In more remote or less developed regions, international chain hotels may not be available — and often, that is part of the charm.
In these areas, we select the very best accommodation available. This may include:
Charming family-run establishments
Boutique local hotels
Traditional properties full of regional character
Authentic accommodations that reflect local culture
While these properties may sometimes be equivalent to a strong 3-star standard, they frequently provide something far more memorable: genuine hospitality, individuality and a true sense of place.
Comfort with Character
Our aim is simple — to provide accommodation that is comfortable, welcoming and perfectly suited to the destination.
At the end of each day’s adventure, you can relax knowing that your hotel has been carefully chosen to complement your journey, allowing you to unwind in comfort and wake refreshed for the next stage of your experience.
Before departure, we provide you with comprehensive Tour Specific Information designed to help you prepare, plan and understand exactly what to expect while on tour.
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. If you have any additional queries or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us — we’re always happy to help.
Motorcycles & RidingWe generally recommend adventure or touring motorcycles as the most suitable for our tours.
However, sport, sport-touring and cruiser motorcycles may also be appropriate, provided:
‣ You are comfortable riding the bike for extended distances and duration
‣ The motorcycle is properly prepared and fully serviced
‣ Tyres are in good condition
We recommend that all participants are experienced touring riders, whether in Europe or further afield.
Some destinations are more demanding than others (as reflected in our difficulty ratings). If you have concerns about your suitability, please contact us for advice and bear in mind everyones perception of difficulty varies significantly.
It is your responsibility to ensure your riding skills meet the demands of the tour. Advanced riding ability enhances enjoyment and reduces risk.
No. You are never required to ride in convoy.
We offer complete flexibility — you may ride independently or with the group. Most riders choose to ride together for convenience and navigation ease.
When riding as a group, we use tried-and-tested systems such as the “drop-off” or “buddy” method (depending on country and route complexity). These allow everyone to ride at their own pace.
If you prefer to ride solo, we can provide:
‣ Detailed route info daily
‣ Route cards with hotel information etc.
‣ Recommended lunch/coffee stops
Daily departure times are proposed / agreed each evening for the following day. Our approach is flexible, with an emphasis on maximum enjoyment.
Yes. Pillion passengers should be experienced travellers and comfortable touring by motorcycle.
Groups typically range from 8–14 riders (some with passengers).
Most participants are from Ireland, though we also welcome overseas riders.
Recommended Protective Riding GearFor maximum comfort, safety and versatility on tour, we strongly recommend a layered riding systemdesigned to perform in a wide range of temperatures — typically between 15°C and 30°C. A good layering system can be used all year round in all weather conditions.
A layering approach allows you to easily adapt to changing weather conditions throughout the day, particularly when riding through mountains, coastal regions or desert climates where temperatures can vary significantly.
Base Layer
Start with a breathable, moisture-wicking base layer (technical riding or sports fabric). This helps regulate body temperature, keeps you dry and prevents discomfort during warmer riding conditions.
Mid Layer (Optional)
A lightweight insulating layer — such as a thin fleece or softshell — provides warmth during cooler mornings or higher-altitude riding. This layer can be easily removed as temperatures rise.
Protective Outer Jacket & Trousers
Your main riding jacket and trousers should be high-quality motorcycle-specific protective gear, featuring:
CE-approved armour (shoulders, elbows, back, hips, knees)
Abrasion-resistant materials
Good ventilation panels or zip vents for airflow in warmer conditions
Removable Waterproof Outer Layer
We recommend carrying a separate, lightweight waterproof over-jacket and over-trousers that can be quickly added if needed. A removable waterproof layer offers greater flexibility than fixed waterproof linings and performs better in prolonged or heavy rain while maintaining ventilation during dry weather. This waterproof jacket can also be used around town in the evenings (but hopefully not!)
Quality full-face or modular helmet
Protective riding gloves (summer pair plus waterproof pair recommended)
Sturdy motorcycle boots with ankle protection
Neck tube or buff for wind protection
Sunglasses or tinted visor for bright conditions
By using a modular layering system, you can remain comfortable across a broad temperature range without carrying excessive bulk. Proper preparation ensures you stay dry, protected and focused on enjoying the ride — whatever the weather brings.
Documents & InsuranceYou must carry original documents:
‣ Passport
‣ Driving licence
‣ Motorcycle registration document (RF101 / log book / V5)
‣ Motorcycle insurance
‣ Valid travel/medical insurance
Passengers require a passport only.
Passports should generally be valid for at least six months after the end of the tour (requirements may vary by country/nationality).
If visas are required, you must ensure these are obtained in advance.
Yes — this is a condition of travel.
Your policy must cover:
‣ Medical expenses
‣ Emergency treatment
‣ Repatriation
‣ Motorcycle touring (as rider or passenger)
‣ Full duration of the trip
‣ All countries visited
We strongly recommend additional cover for:
‣ Cancellation and curtailment
‣ Loss/damage to belongings
‣ Travel delays
‣ Personal liability
‣ Overseas legal expenses
Please note: We cannot refund deposits due to insufficient insurance cover. Some policies exclude large capacity motorcycles or extended travel durations — always check carefully.
Weather & HealthOur tour calendar is carefully planned around optimal seasons for each destination. However, weather cannot be guaranteed and it has become more un-predictable than ever in recent years. More detailed information including suggested clothing & riding gear will be provided in the pre-trip emails.
Appropriate riding gear is essential.
You must be physically fit and take necessary health precautions.
Consult your GP or travel clinic for up-to-date advice, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.
Check:
‣ Required vaccinations
‣ Official travel advice
‣ Local customs and regulations
‣ Do you have a current EHIC? (European Health Insurance Card)
‣ If you have health insurance please ensure you can access the policy details
‣ Travel Insurance with medical repatriation is essential
Minimum NumbersA minimum of 8 riders is required for this tour.
If this number is not reached, we reserve the right to cancel.
Booking & PaymentsBookings may be made:
‣ Online
‣ By telephone
‣ By email
A booking is confirmed once the required deposit has been received.
‣ 20% deposit required at time of booking
‣ Balance payable in full 60 days prior to shipment / travel date
‣ All payments and deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable if cancellation occurs within one month of shipment/tour date
‣ In the event of curtailment, no refunds will be made
‣ Amendments will be accommodated where possible
‣ Refunds (if applicable) will be processed via original payment method (cash refunds issued by cheque)
‣ Travel insurance is essential
Motorcycle Shipping (If Applicable)To ensure smooth transport, please follow these guidelines:
‣ All riding gear (boots, helmets, clothing) must be packed in one labelled kit/sports bag per person
‣ Label must include: name, motorcycle make/model, registration
‣ Loose items attached to the motorcycle will not be transported
‣ Bin liners, cardboard or plastic boxes are not accepted
‣ Motorcycle must be clean for outbound and return shipment
‣ Luggage (hard and soft panniers) should be left unlocked and removable
‣ Alarms must be switched off or set to “Ferry” mode
‣ Fuel level should be kept low (fuel stations are close to depots)
‣ Keys for motorcycle and luggage must be left with the bike
At handover, you must provide:
Signed customs declaration form (sent prior to shipment)
Photocopy of registration/log book (stapled to declaration)
These documents must be handed over in hard copy at delivery.
Do not email copies in advance.
Original log books will not be accepted.
If you require clarification on any of the above, please contact us — we are here to ensure your preparation is straightforward and stress-free.
Highlights from previous adventures.
