Sometimes, the best travel experiences start not with a plan, but with an invitation from a friend.
Earlier this year, a good friend of mine, Silviu — an experienced mountain guide and passionate advocate for eco-tourism — invited me to spend a few days in his small guesthouse in Mercheasa, a quiet village tucked away in the heart of Transylvania.
The idea was simple: explore the area by bike and kayak, recharge in nature, and enjoy the landscapes that he had been telling me about for so long.
What followed was one of the most refreshing and inspiring trips I’ve had in a long time.
We cycled across the wide open landscapes of the Transylvanian steppe, visited the legendary Mercheasa Oak — Romania’s oldest oak tree — and marveled at the dramatic cliffs and colorful crater of the Racoș volcano.
Each turn of the trail seemed to reveal something new: wildflower meadows buzzing with insects, bird calls echoing from hidden corners, and occasional wildlife tracks left by deer, foxes, and even bears.
Out on the water, paddling along the nearby rivers and lakes, the world slowed down to the rhythm of nature.
Kingfishers flashed by in electric blue, and herons stood like statues in the reeds.
It was the kind of immersion in wild beauty that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.
It didn’t take long for an idea to take root.
Sitting around the table after a day of exploring, we started talking: What if we could share this experience with others?
A tour that blends gentle adventure, wildlife observation, and cultural discovery, all based in this unique, little-known part of Transylvania?
This idea sparked even more enthusiasm from Silviu, who was eager to share more of his deep knowledge of the area. The next day, we set out to explore the Vârghiș Gorges — a stunning natural gem that remains surprisingly little known, despite having excellent infrastructure for visitors. Our hike took us along a narrow trail that crisscrosses the river over nine hanging bridges, adding just the right touch of adventure. Not far off the path, there’s even a via ferrata route — a hidden treat for the more daring — which led us to a vantage point with truly breathtaking views over the gorge and surrounding forests.
And so, from a spontaneous visit and a string of beautiful, active days outdoors, the seed for two distinct tour programs was planted.
One Landscape, Two Experiences
What struck me most was how versatile the region is. It’s a place where you can quietly observe wildlife one day and feel the adrenaline of a mountain trail the next. That’s why we decided to offer two separate experiences, both rooted in the same landscapes, but tailored to different travel styles.
🐾 Wild Heart of Transylvania
For those who prefer a slower rhythm and want to immerse themselves in wildlife observation, forest walks, and gentle discovery, we created a 4-day program focused on tracking animals, birdwatching, and visiting bear hides — all based in the less travelled area of Mercheasa.
🚵♂️ Transylvania Active Adventure
For explorers who crave more motion, we shaped a dynamic alternative that includes longer hikes, an optional via ferrata route, mountain biking to the Racoș volcanic site, and a half-day kayak journey along the Olt River.
Both trips are based at Silviu’s guesthouse, where travelers enjoy locally sourced meals, a strong connection to nature, and the slow pulse of village life — just in two very different ways.
It’s not just a trip. It’s an invitation to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience Transylvania in an authentic, unforgettable way.
We can’t wait to share it with you!