When you are very passionate about something, you will reach a point where you know everything about it. For example, if you are a hiking lover, you will always have this hunger of discovering new trails. The more hidden they are, the more interesting they become. It is not always about heights, but rather about the complex and challenging experience.
Did you know about this hidden gem of Romania called Iezer-Păpușa Mountains? Well, they are part of the Carpathians and the highest peak is The Red Peak (2.469 m). If you googled it already, maybe you’re asking yourself what it is that makes it so special.
Let us start with the endless climbing area and the magnificent view. If you need to go on the wild side (of yourself, but not only) and to let your senses sink into the untouched nature, this trail is for you! The starting point is Lerești, a small Romanian village. However, the climb is made on Portăreasa, which is the massif’s outer leg and one of the main gates for entering Iezer. Continue on the Cernat & Danci summits up to the Iezerul Mic Peak, at the cross of the Athenaeum.
Now, consider yourself lucky because you got to this fantastic view of Lake Iezer and the glacial valley with the same name. Oh, did you know that this lake has been declared a monument of nature, due to the vegetation of rare varieties?
You can now reach the The Red Peak, on the quietest trail, with big, grassy fields. Time to relax, you courageous hiker! Enjoy this place here, in Romania, where, as the locals say, time no longer flies.
If you choose to travel in the cold season, you will be grateful for something. Once you reach Iezer Lake, surprise..surprise: there is a refuge, made from stone, very close to the lake. One can stay inside and sleep there, in case of foul weather. Inside, there is a fireplace where one can make fire (but you need to carry some wood).
The springs in the Carpathians will provide you with the most delicious water you have ever drunk. Cold, but pure, you have to taste it for at least once in your life.
The silence of the heights is the best source of peace and happiness. The chances of seeing human presence are very rare. Told ya! Iezer-Păpușa Mountains is, indeed, a hidden gem, not known, nor frequented by tourists. No worries, though, on your way up to the high peaks, you will find a hut and a refuge on the way; Voina hut and Iezer refuge.
The closest road to the sky. You can definitely call it this way, especially in the winter, when you can genuinely feel the heavy clouds and the greatness of the horizon.
You will notice that the features of this part of the country are bittersweet. The warm colors combined with the sharp and rocky ridges form a perfect symbiosis for any hiking and adventure lover.
By the way, we gave you just one example, but there are so, so, so many to explore and discover. Start by sending us an e-mail and we will give you all the information you need!
Writing credits to:
Cristiana Cornea
Digital Specialist
http://cristiacornea.ro
