Experience pure bliss on this fascinating 8-day walking safari as you hike through the majestic mountains and rustic villages of central Romania while searching for wild brown bears. Traverse protected regions, breathtaking canyons, dense forests, Saxon villages, the mediaeval town of Brasov and the famed residence of Dracula, Bran Castle.

Your adventure begins in Bucharest, after which you transfer to your family-run guesthouse in the quaint village of Magura. Explore the surrounding areas of the Kalibash villages of Magura and Pestera. Visit traditional houses and learn about the history of the settlements built against the mediaeval invasion. Journey into the Barza Valley using horse-drawn carts before hiking through hay meadows to a hermitage in the rocks. Join a forester as he takes you to a safe hide deep in the forest to engage in brown bear watching. Hike uphill across the flower meadows from our accommodation and catch spectacular views over the expansive landscape. Head to the historical Bran Castle. Embark on a drive to the mediaeval town of Brasov, which has always been a mix of nations since it was founded. Taste mouth-watering Romanian cuisine. Climb through Zarnesti Gorge, Curmatura Cabin at 4,820 ft (1,470 m)and perhaps Piatra Mica. Visit LiBearty, the largest brown bear sanctuary in Europe. Head to Vulan and its strong fortified churches, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

This package includes 7 nights accommodation in a private guesthouse on a twin-share basis. Your guesthouse has been handpicked for convenient location situated within the boundaries of Piatra Craiului National Park where your friendly hosts possess a wealth of knowledge on Transylvania, wildlife conservation and serve delicious homemade food. Meals and activities are included as specified.

A gorgeous region with unfiltered nature, an entrancing culture, luscious cuisine, breathtaking architecture and a heap of wonderful memories just waiting to be created. This special 8-day itinerary in the Carpathian Mountains will expose you to all everything you desire and more.

Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

A thrilling 11-day Active & Discovery small river cruise voyage whisking you through the bliss of the Lower Danube River. Discover a new sense of adventure abroad on foot, by bike or simply relish the slow pace of cruising and sightseeing as you venture across Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Croatia. Feel the astonishing cultures of these regions and relive their mesmerising histories as you cruise in luxury.

Your adventure begins with an overnight in the “Paris of the East'', Bucharest with two nights in Brasov. Discover the gems of the region including Bran Castle of Dracula Fame and Peles Castle with time exploring at your own pace. Journey to Oltenita to board your Avalon Suite Ship to begin your Danube River cruise through the Balkans. Cruise to Nikopol, Bulgaria and explore the region with different exciting options to match your interests. Saunter the rocky landscape of Belogradchik, grace your taste buds with fine Bulgarian wines, or go sightseeing and make your way to Baba Vida Fortress in Vidin. In style and luxury, navigate the soothing waters and sail through the marvellous and narrow Iron Gates Gorge. Hike through the Djerdap National Park, tour the important Mesolithic archaeological site of Lepenski Vir, or explore flourishing Donji Milanovic. Cruise to Belgrade and unearth the richness and culture in different perspectives of your choosing. Discover the ancient architecture and tradition in Novi Sad. Disembark from the ship and travel to Zagreb. Fully immerse in its rich history and etch your presence in this fascinating city as you explore on your own before ending your awe-inspiring adventure here.

In between adventures, relax onboard the Avalon Fleet delivering the largest staterooms with panoramic suites complete with an open-air balcony of floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall views. The largest standard window in river cruising more than 30% larger than others. With panoramic suites, world-class amenities and refreshing off-shore excursions, experience your own slice of heaven aboard Avalon Waterways.

Active, Discovery or Classic

With multiple activity options from Active, Discovery or Classic to choose from each day, the cruise itinerary would accommodate varied interests and fitness levels, giving you the freedom to enjoy the best of a region tailored to you. You can choose to go slow pace taking in sounds and flavours of each city or as active to fulfil natural curiosity and wonder as spirited travellers. For more information, please refer to daily itinerary and ‘How To Choose Your Excursion Type’.

This luxury package includes 10 nights accommodation in city hotel and onboard the Avalon Waterways on a twin-share basis. Meals and activities are included as specified.

Embark on a life-changing cruise that’ll surely leave you mesmerised. Feel and embrace the essence of 4 rewarding countries exposing you to the wonders of the Balkans.

Customised Itinerary: Skip a stay in Brasov, Romania, for a 9 days 8 nights cruise from Bucharest to Zagreb. Please contact us to book. 9D8N Bucharest to Zagreb Itinerary Download

Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to Red Centre. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points