Ffestiniog Travel

Tuesday 15 May to Saturday 26 May 2012

We return to Romania in 2012 with an evocative tour of the west and south west, an unspoilt and romantic country of incredible rural beauty combining atmospheric towns with captivating castles, culture and unique transport systems.

Day 1   Fly to Timisoara

Following a flight from London, our captivating tour of western Romania starts with a 2-night stay in the centre of the charming town of Timişoara. Once again Ffestiniog Travel is extremely lucky to have accompanying us for the duration of our holiday, our regular experienced Romanian guide. Not only is this an invaluable support for our group throughout the tour, but also gives us insights into the ‘behind the scenes’ Romania and helps create a special rapport with local people. Evening meal provided tonight.

Day 2   Excursion to Arad

Today you have a choice of relaxing activities, as you settle into this fascinating and unique tour. You may wish to take a leisurely day exploring the pleasing and photogenic town of Timişoara or, using your Inter Rail Card, catch a train to nearby Arad. The local tramway system here includes a long out-of-town route to Ghioroc reminding us of how public transport still plays an important part in rural life.

Day 3   The spa town of Baile Herculane

Following a free morning relaxing in Timişoara, the afternoon train takes us south to the popular Romanian spa town of Baile Herculane for a three night stay at the Hotel Ferdinand.

Day 4   Water Mills

Time seems to have stood still in our excursion today as a private coach takes us to a hidden valley for a picnic lunch (included). Here over twenty water mills operate as they have been doing so for centuries as local villagers continuing to produce their grain in the traditional manner. After lunch we ride the branch train from Oraviţa to Anina through wonderful upland scenery with high viaducts.

Day 5   Danube Cruise

Cruising along the Danube over lunch is a delightful way for us to spend time today. After a short transfer to nearby Orşova, we join a cruise sailing through the gorge for four hours whilst enjoying our meal on board (included).

Day 6   Roman ruins and a castle

We move on today to a new destination, Deva where we stay two nights at the Hotel Sarmis. The journey by coach takes us through memorable scenery with stops including the awe inspiring Hunedoara Castle and the tranquil and evocative Denşus Orthodox Church. A guest house in the vicinity is our lunch stop (included) as we continue to experience this wonderful and unspoilt country.

Day 7   Two narrow gauge steam trains

Narrow gauge steam trains have long since disappeared from this area but two lines remain available for charter, both belonging to an enterprising company in Brad that specialises in refurbishing narrow gauge locos and rolling stock for the rest of Europe (including Wales!). We ride both lines and also have a tour of the works – a fascinating glimpse into Romania’s industrial past. Lunch (included) is again provided in a local guest house.

Day 8   Sibiu

Western and south western Romania is an enchanting place to discover and the atmospheric and pretty city of Sibiu is no exception. Arriving after a three hour train journey, we stay three nights allowing us time to explore this quintessential Romanian town. An added bonus for enthusiasts can be found nestled behind the loco depot, a collection of old Romanian steam locos.

Day 9   Sibiel and the Glass Icons Museum

After an unhurried morning, we take a late morning train the short distance to Sibiel where we are met by working horses and carts to take us to join a village family for lunch. The Glass Icons Museum is fascinating to visit and we have a chance to do so whilst there. Our journey back to Sibiu gives us a chance to experience local four legged transport again!

Day 10   Free day in Sibiu

A day free to further explore the unspoilt delights of this portion of Romania and your guide will be happy to advise you on how best to spend your time. You may wish to take a 12km tram ride to the small neighbouring village of Rasinari or travel further afield on a train excursion. Count Dracula’s birthplace of Sighişoara is nearby and well worth a visit with its old walled town and castle or you may just want to amble around Sibiu soaking up the atmosphere.

Day 11   Return to Timisoara

Today we take a train journey back to Timişoara for our last night’s stay in Romania.

Day 12   Timisoara to London

Flight to London.