Via Transilvanica - Bucovina - self-guided walk

Your adventure begins in the picturesque village of Putna, nestled in the heart of Bucovina. You will discover the breathtaking Putna Monastery, one of the region’s most historic treasures. You can choose to visit the monastery upon arrival or saving it for the next day, as the very first milestone of the Via Transilvanica trail is located right beside it. Founded in the 15th century by the legendary ruler Stephen the Great, the monastery remains an enduring spiritual site where the ruler’s tomb rests within serene grounds.

• Meals not included.
• Accommodation: local guesthouse in Putna.

After a hearty breakfast, the adventure begins along the Via Transilvanica, Romania's iconic long-distance hiking trail. Today, you will walk from the historic Putna Monastery to the village of Sucevita, a route that immerses you in the breathtaking natural landscapes of Bucovina.
The day begins at km Via's km 0, in front of the Monastery you visited yesterday. From there, you’ll set out along the trail, and today’s stretch offers plenty of chances to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the dense fir forests planted during the Austrian Empire occupation. The noble-wood was famously used for crafting musical instruments.
Stopping for a packed lunch in a scenic spot, you’ll enjoy locally-sourced food while taking in the beauty of your surroundings. Afterward, the trail continues toward Sucevita village, where you'll arrive in the afternoon, ready to experience the largest of Bucovina’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Sucevita Monastery. The monastery’s painted exterior, particularly its vibrant frescoes, tells stories from the Bible and is a testament to the region’s rich artistic and religious heritage.


• Walking:
- easy version: ~6h, 17.5km, +/-350m;
- hard version: ~7h, 18.5km, +/-700m;
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation: local guesthouse in Sucevita

The day begins in the charming village of Sucevita, where you’ll enjoy the morning peace before setting off along the Via Transilvanica towards Moldovita. Today’s trek rewards you with increasingly captivating scenery and unique encounters with local culture, including the Hutsuls, an indigenous ethnic group native to the Carpathians who have proudly preserved their distinct traditions, language, and vibrant folk attire.
In the afternoon, your path leads into Vatra Moldovita, home to the famous Moldovita Painted Monastery. Renowned for its brilliant blue frescoes and UNESCO-recognized artistic heritage, this iconic site offers a deep look into Bucovina's spiritual history. You'll also have the opportunity to discover the exquisite local tradition of egg painting, an ancient art form brought to life by local artisans.

• Walking: ~9h, 21km, +1100m, -1000m
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation: local guesthouse in Vatra Moldovitei

After a short transfer, you’ll pick up the Via Transilvanica trail once again as you head toward Sadova. The route weaves through dense forests, peaceful pastoral landscapes, and traditional mountain villages, offering an authentic taste of Bucovina’s natural beauty.
A highlight of today’s trek is discovering the region's rich heritage. Villages like Sadova are famous for time-honored crafts such as traditional weaving, pottery, and wood carving, skills lovingly passed down through generations. Along the trail, you'll have the opportunity to meet local artisans at work and hear firsthand how these customs shape daily life in Bucovina. As you approach Sadova, the forest gives way to lush green fields with the village resting in the valley below. You will spend the evening in the heart of the village. Depending on the accommodation, which is usually approximately 5 km away from where the trail meets the village, an optional transfer from Iezer Lake can be arranged in order to avoid the asphalt.

• Walking: ~9h, 21km, +1100m, -1000m
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation: charming guesthouse in Sadova

The route from Sadova begins with a gentle climb through dense fir and beech forests, where the air is fresh and the sounds of nature surround you. As you pass through these tranquil woods, you'll enjoy views of the rolling hills and lush valleys that define the region.
As you approach the villages along the route, you’ll encounter traditional wooden houses with intricately carved details and large, blooming gardens. Continuing your ascent toward Mestecaniș Pass, the trail leads through mountain meadows dotted with grazing livestock, passing traditional shepherds' huts where cheese is still made using age-old methods. You’ll also see locals using horse-drawn carts for farming, a traditional practice still widely preserved here.
In the afternoon, you’ll reach Mestecaniș Pass, where sweeping panoramic views of the Carpathian Mountains await. After a rewarding hike, descend to your accommodation in the pass to relax for the evening.

• Walking: ~8h, 19.5km, +900m, -580m
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
• Accommodation: local guesthouse in Pasul Mestecanis

* Flexible Pace: If you feel like taking things a bit slower, this stage can be split into two shorter days with an intermediate overnight stay in the village of Fundu Moldovei.

On the final day of your journey, you'll leave the peaceful mountains behind as you begin your descent toward Vatra Dornei. Known for its relaxing spa resorts, winter sports, and beautiful alpine scenery, Vatra Dornei offers a lively and rewarding end to your Via Transilvanica trekking adventure, regardless of the season.
The area is also famous for its mineral springs, and along the route, you might catch a glimpse of locals filling bottles with the naturally healing waters. The walk offers a unique opportunity to witness the harmonious blend of natural beauty and authentic mountain culture as you approach town, completing your memorable week in Bucovina.

• Walking: ~8h, 21.5km, +490m, -780m
• Meals included: Breakfast, lunch.
• Accommodation: 4* central hotel with spa access.

Once in town, take a relaxing stroll along the resort’s lovely promenades, enjoy the serene atmosphere of the central park, or sample the famous local mineral waters directly from the springs. If you're interested in regional culture, a visit to the local Ethnographic Museum offers fascinating insight into Bucovina’s rich heritage. When it's time to head home, your hotel is conveniently located just a 5-minute stroll from the train station, making your departure effortless and hassle-free.

• Meals included: breakfast

Pro Tip:
! We strongly recommend extending your trip by adding an extra night in Vatra Dornei, giving you ample time to soak in the spa atmosphere and reflect on your Via Transilvanica adventure before concluding your journey.

! Looking to complete the full Bucovina section of the trail? You can easily extend your journey by adding 2 additional walking stages:
• Extra-stage 1: Vatra Dornei to Poiana Negrii
• Extra-stage 2: Poiana Negrii to Lunca Ilvei
Continuing through these two extra days allows you to cross the official border of the Bucovina region and finish this entire iconic chapter of Via Transilvanica. If you'd like to extend your itinerary, simply add them to your booking from the Optionals' list, or ask our team.