The guidebooks all say the same thing: Start in Brașov.
But here is the thing: we always prefer off-the-beaten path destinations, and Brașov is pretty touristy.

So, we preferred to stay near Zărnești. We were enchanted by foggy valleys and curious cows, but it was pouring rain, so no hike that day. We’d figured we’d swing through the region’s biggest name for the classics — Old Town charm, Dracula’s Castle, and whatever Transylvanian mystery we could cram into a day trip.

Spoiler: We weren’t blown away by Brașov. But that’s not really the point of this story.

Because around the edges of this tourist hotspot, the magic lingers — in weather-worn monasteries, A-frame cabins that vanish into clouds, and backroads that look like they’ve never heard of GPS.

This is Brașov & Beyond. A mini adventure through myth, fog, and a surprising amount of garlic.

Tucked between the Bucegi and Piatra Craiului Mountains, Măgura and Zărnești are where Romania’s wild soul beats slow and steady.
Here, time moves differently — mornings start in mist, afternoons end with cowbells, and somewhere in between you might meet a bear (from a respectful distance).

We came for Piatra Craiului National Park, and left with muddy boots, a full heart (and belly), and a very loyal village dog.

When Jake found out that the world’s largest bear sanctuary was in Transylvania, he surprised me with a trip!

Our route wound from the Carpathian peaks of Magura to the mediaeval calm of Sibiu, through foggy Făgăraș roads that refused to show their secrets and Bucharest’s creative chaos.
It’s one of those places where nothing goes exactly to plan — and that’s what makes it unforgettable!

Buckle up (literally, because driving there is… can’t even describe it) and follow us!