Bistrița-Năsăud

A stopover in the city of Bistrita should definitely be on your list, followed, probably by setting your "base" either at the foot of the Rodna Mountains or near Lake Colibita and start exploring from there. If your journey continues to Bucovina, you will definitely also see the famous Tihuța pass (or Borgo pass).

Your holiday will include a city walk through the old center of Bistrita with visits to several well-documented local museums. Furthermore, both in Colibita and in the localities at the foot of the mountains, find an accommodation that offers a package of various activities suitable for families with children: relaxing walks or rent-a-bike service, boat or kayak rides, spa services (if the place allows it).

In winter, the Valea Blaznei slope, near Sângeorz-Băi, and the accommodation options nearby recommend the place for short holidays or even ski camps.

The mountain trails in the north of Bistrița-Năsăud County (starting from Rodna, Șanț or Sângeorz-Băi) are long, less popular, so even more spectacular. For a delightful experience, come here in early summer and look for the daffodils meadow on Mount Saca. Your experience might be rounded with an agrotourism experience in the area.

Beclean Stud Farm organizes horse trips in the Rodna Mountains - an experience that few try, so do not hesitate to set aside time for something like this, if you are passionate about horseback riding.

Bistrița-Năsăud County can be covered in its entirety on foot or by mountain bike, on the Via Tranilvanica route: between Tihuța pass and Monor. The entire landscape - wide plains, dotted with haystack huts or isolated households - is a delight for any hiker, the adrenaline rises in some parts due to the presence of shepherd dogs, and the route includes several historical paths such as Roman Road or Maria Theresia Road (with a short deviation).

Stop at the Tășuleasa Social headquarters, not only for a well-deserved rest and to (literally) recharge your batteries, but also to enjoy the excellent meals cooked by the hosts. Along the route, you'll also come across several mansions in a somewhat state of preservation or renovation, or sheepfolds where you can buy fresh dairy products.

The wine produced in Bistrita though less marketed has received a few international awards. Local wineries - mostly family businesses - are open for guests all year round, except during the harvest season.