Winter Hike: Dobrin Hamlet Circuit (Măguri-Răcătău)

Trip Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026 (Perfect for enjoying the last serious snow of winter)

We invite you to an incursion into the heart of the Gilău Mountains (part of the Apuseni), in an area of unique picturesqueness, where time seems to have stood still. We will follow a long circuit that will reward us with wide landscapes, old wooden houses, and the specific silence of mountain villages.

The Story of Our Trail Dobrin Hamlet: Located at altitude in the Gilău Mountains, this is a historical and geographical hamlet that is part of the scattered, traditional settlements of the "moți". The hamlet is famous for its wooden houses and open landscapes, being a testament to simple mountain life.

Long Winter Circuit: We will start from the Măguri-Răcătău area and climb steadily, following mountain paths, to the heart of the Dobrin hamlet. The trail is long (19 km) and demanding (670 m D+), offering an excellent endurance challenge. From the altitude, we will enjoy spectacular panoramas of the snow-capped peaks of the Gilău Mountains.

In short: A long endurance trip with moderate elevation gain. You will combine physical effort with a unique cultural experience, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Trail Information Itinerary: Măguri-Răcătău Circuit → Ascent to Dobrin Hamlet → Return

Elevation gain: ∼670 m (Constant and sustained climb)

Length: ∼19 km (Long endurance hike)

Approximate duration: 7 hours (including lunch breaks and photos)

Trail type: Thematic Circuit (Winter, Local History)

Difficulty: Long trail, requires good physical condition, but has no technical or exposed sections.

Who is it for?

This event is dedicated to those seeking a serious physical challenge (19 km), but who appreciate the peace and beauty of traditional Romanian landscapes, perfect under the mantle of snow. The trail is perfect for you if:

• You like to cover many kilometers on foot and are looking for endurance trips.

• You are passionate about isolated villages and the traditional architecture of the "moți" in the Apuseni.

• You are prepared for winter conditions (snow, ice) and have the appropriate equipment.

Required Equipment

• Mountain boots (mandatory) – Waterproof, Warm, and with a high-grip sole (February means snow/ice!).

• Headlamp (mandatory) – The day is still short!

• 3-layer clothing (Thermal layer mandatory!) suitable for low temperatures.

• Thermos with hot tea and enough food for a 7-hour hike.

• HIGHLY recommended: Rubber crampons (spikes) for boots (essential in case of ice) and Trekking poles.

• Hat, thick gloves, neck gaiter/buff.

Practical Details Hike cost: 220 RON/person

The price includes:

• Mountain hiking guide / Certified International Mountain Leader

• Full assistance, good energy

Registration To register, please complete the form: https://forms.gle/CmxtyUSoHxds9L2Y8

Registration deadline: February 18, 2026

Cancellation Policy

• Cancellation more than 7 days before: Full refund of the amount paid (minus any bank fees) or the possibility to transfer the payment to a future trip.

• Cancellation less than 7 days before: For organizational reasons, a refund of the amount is not possible. However, we offer you the flexibility to join another future trip.

• We understand that plans sometimes change – that's why we try to find the best solution for each situation together.

• Weather conditions: In case of unfavorable weather, we reserve the right to cancel the hike, and the money will be refunded.

Contact: You can contact us at phone/WhatsApp +40 745 605 361 or at the address explore@upthemountains.com