Mossy Miles

If you’re looking for a beautiful and not-too-crowded day hike in Romania, Munții Baiului is one of my top picks. It’s easy to reach, offers incredible ridge views, and has just the right mix of challenge and calm. I’ve hiked it several times in different seasons, and while it’s always beautiful, my favorite time was in November — the mountains were glowing with autumn colors, and the ridge was dusted with a thin layer of snow. The mix of gold and white made it feel completely magical.

Getting There

I started my day early, catching the train from Bucharest to Azuga. There are several train companies in Romania (CFR, Softrans, Astra, and others), but the easiest way to check all routes and prices is through https://mersultrenurilor.infofer.ro/ro-RO/Itineraries. It lists every train and links directly to the booking sites. Simple, quick, and reliable.

Once in Azuga, I turned right out of the train station and walked along the main road for about five minutes. That’s when the trail begins, marked with a blue triangle. The climb starts right away and stays steady for about an hour to an hour and a half. The path is wide and clear the entire way. There are no tricky or technical sections — just a steady uphill on open ground and forest track. The higher you go, the better the views get. Eventually, the forest thins out and you can see the Bucegi Mountains across the valley.

On the Ridge

When the climb evens out, the views open up completely. Ahead of you are rolling ridges, and behind you, the sharp peaks of Bucegi. After a short walk on the flat, you’ll reach the top of the Azuga cable car. There’s a small shop here that sells drinks — a perfect excuse to stop, rest, and take it all in.

If climbing isn’t your thing, you can actually take the cable car up from town. It usually opens at 9 a.m. and costs around 50 RON one way. Just check the schedule before you go, as hours can change depending on the season.

Peaceful Trails and Wide Views

What I love most about this hike is how quiet it is. It’s known, but not overly popular, so you’ll often find yourself walking alone with only the wind and distant sheep bells for company. From the cable car station, continue along the red cross trail. This follows the mountain ridge and keeps the views coming from every angle. The ridge itself is broad and grassy, which makes the walking easy and relaxing. There are no exposed sections or difficult terrain, so it’s a great choice even if you don’t have much experience in the mountains.

After a while, you’ll reach a crossroads where you can either descend to Bușteni or stay on the ridge toward Sinaia.

Option 1: Down to Bușteni

If you turn right, the red cross trail leads down toward Bușteni. The descent takes about three hours and finishes near Cantacuzino Castle, which you might recognize from the Netflix series Wednesday. The path can be a little busy with ATV tours, so keep an ear out and step aside when needed. Once in Bușteni, you’ll find plenty of cafés and restaurants where you can celebrate with a cold drink and something hearty to eat before catching the train back to Bucharest.

Option 2: Along the Ridge to Sinaia

If descending early feels like a waste of great mountain time, continue on the ridge instead on the red line trail. Right after the junction for Bușteni you will reach Vârful Baiul Mare (1,895 m), the highest point in the Baiului range. Keep following the red line trail along the ridge for a while, then take the blue dot trail down toward Sinaia. The path stays wide and walkable, still non-technical, with open, sweeping views the whole way.

Things to Know

Munții Baiului can get very windy, and much of the route is on open ridges without tree cover. Bring warm layers and a windproof jacket, even in summer. The views of Bucegi and Piatra Craiului are spectacular, so it’s worth waiting for a clear day to go. You’ll also encounter plenty of sheep along the way. Be careful around sheepdogs — they can be protective — and it’s wise to carry bear spray for safety. The trail is open year-round, but if you plan to hike in winter, bring proper gear and start early so you can finish in daylight.

Hike Details

Option 1: Azuga to Bușteni
Distance: 19.38 km
Elevation Gain: 900 m
Total Time (including short breaks): 5 hours 43 minutes

Option 2: Azuga to Sinaia
Distance: 27 km
Elevation Gain: 1,294 m
Total Time (including short breaks): 7 hours 38 minutes

This hike has everything I love about the Carpathians — wide ridges, peaceful trails, and endless views — without any technical sections or difficult scrambling. Whether you finish in Bușteni or Sinaia, you’ll step off the trail feeling renewed, a little tired, and completely in awe of Romania’s quiet mountain beauty.