We have designed this tour based on our previous trips to the Transylvanian Plateau and Carpathians over many years. It has been adapted to combine the hay meadows, pastures and wood pastures around the ‘Saxon’ villages of Viscri and Crit with the limestone gorge and valleys of Piatra Crailui National Park and the high altitude alpine meadows of the Bucegi Massif in the Carpathians.

Staying in two centres you will have the chance to explore the natural history in the company of local ecologists who can help you understand the history and culture of the local area and its effects on the management of the habitats and see some of the characteristic species of the area. The holiday will include time for botanising and birdwatching, as well as the opportunity to look for other animals including butterflies and other insects, amphibians and reptiles.

A highlight of the trip should be an evening visit to a bear hide where Brown Bears can be seen as they emerge from the forest at dusk (and where Wolves are not usually expected but are also possible, as in our visit in 2013). The area has a rich cultural heritage including Saxon architecture such as fortified buildings reflecting this Germanic influence. The village of Viscri is one of several to be awarded World Heritage status.