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Offered languages
- German
- English
- Italian
Maramureș is one of Romania’s most picturesque regions, known for its traditional villages, peaceful countryside and unique cultural heritage. Its most famous attractions are the wooden churches, outstanding examples of local craftsmanship. Eight are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The region is also home to talented artisans, from woodcarvers to potters. In places like Bârsana and Săcel, you’ll see their work up close and learn how these traditions are kept alive.
To round off the experience, you’ll enjoy a ride on the Mocănița, a historic steam train that travels through the lush forests of the Wasser Valley. With its mix of culture, scenery and authentic rural life, Maramureș offers an unforgettable journey, especially when explored by bike.
What's Included
Lunch
Dinner
Breakfast
Meeting and pickup
Most convenient is to transfer from Baia Mare or Cluj, where you can spend a couple of days before or after the trip. You can transfer on your own, or we can arrange a transfer for you (not included in the price).
If you decide to go to the meeting point yourself, we shall meet at the wooden church in Plopiș.
Itinerary
-
1
We start our day in Plopis, in front of the wooden church, which is a UNESCO World-heritage site
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
We'll pass the church in Surdești, which is the tallest 18th-century wooden structure in the world.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Desesti
We'll visit the wooden church in Desești, renowned for its fantastic frescoes.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
4Breb
We'll spend the night in Breb, the quintessential Maramureș village, where many traditions are being kept alive.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
5Budesti
We'll pass by the wooden church in Budesti.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
6
In Bârsana, we'll stop by a couple of craftsmen, who still keep the traditions alive to this day.
2 hours • Admission ticket free -
7
Botiza is our destination for the night.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
8
In the morning, we'll start by visiting the local monastery to see how Orthodox monks live.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
9
Ieud is the last wooden church on our tour, but definitely one to not miss, since it has the best-preserved frescoes of all the churches in Maramureș.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
10Sacel
Săcel is our home for the night. But before heading for our well-earned sleep, we'll visit Mecleș's water mill, used to power a weaving machine to create woollen products and Mr. Burnar's pottery, to see him at work.
3 hours • Admission ticket free -
11
We will ride north, towards Vișeu de Sus. A sublime bike ride over the hills and through a valley along the railroad.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
12
We'll switch our vehicles for the day, riding a train instead of our bikes. The narrow-gauge steam train, or Mocăniță as it's colloquially known, used to be the only means to carry down the logs from the mountains. Nowadays, it is one of the more famous sights in Maramureș. Deservedly so. The journey takes us through the splendid Wasser Valley, with the river billowing between towering cliffs.
5 hours • Admission ticket included -
13Merry Cemetery
In the afternoon, we will transfer to Săpânța, home to the famous Merry Cemetery.
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
14
Our time in Maramureș has come to an end. We hope you enjoyed the unique culture, splendid landscapes, hearty foods and friendly locals.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Plopiș -> Breb
Breb -> Botiza
Botiza -> Săcel
Săcel -> Vișeu de Sus
Ride the Mocănița Steam Train
Sad goodbyes
Additional info
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 6 full days before the experience’s start time.
- For a 50% refund, you must cancel 2–6 full days before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 2 full days before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
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