Royal Hike: Scaunul Domnului (1381m) in the Călimani Mountains

Trip Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 07:00

We will explore this natural andesite monument, sculpted by erosion, and enjoy a panorama considered one of the most beautiful in the Eastern Carpathians.

The Story of Our Trail Scaunul Domnului (The Lord's Chair) is not just a peak; it is a natural reserve and a unique geological formation. The summit, composed of volcanic andesite rock, resisted the erosion of the surrounding softer rocks, taking on an imposing, throne-like shape.

Local Legend: The name comes from the popular belief that this is the place of rest the Creator chose to sit and admire the world after creating the mountains, the Mureș River, and the surrounding valleys. It is considered a place of special energy where, according to other legends, the Lord will watch over the Last Judgment.

Suggested Itinerary: We start from the village of Bistra Mureșului on a circuit that will take us from the Mureș Gorge toward the southwestern ridges of the Călimani, reaching the spectacular plateau of Scaunul Domnului.

• The Climb: We will follow a classic route that leads us along the contour line and then through the forest toward the Scaunul Saddle (Șaua Scaunului).

• The Plateau: We will reach the peak that offers a breathtaking panorama of the Mureș Valley, the Gorge, and the ridges of the Gurghiu and Călimani mountains. Here we will also find a developed spring (Apa Domnească - The Princely Water), perfect for a break.

• The Return: We will descend on a different circuit, through the Zănoița Valley (or similar areas), to create a complete and varied trip.

Trail Information

• Objective: Scaunul Domnului Peak (1381 m)

• Elevation gain: ∼770 m (Cumulative ascent and descent)

• Length: ∼12 km (Circuit)

• Approximate duration: 5 – 6 hours (actual walking time)

• Difficulty: Moderate. Requires good physical condition for the elevation gain.

Who is it for?

This event is ideal for:

• Regular hikers looking for a medium challenge.

• Geology and local history enthusiasts.

• Anyone wishing to admire one of the most impressive panoramas in the Eastern Carpathians.

Required Equipment

• Hiking boots/shoes (Mandatory, with a high-grip sole).

• Layered clothing, adapted for variable mountain conditions (waterproof jacket/windstopper).

• Water (minimum 2 liters) and a food pack for the entire day.

• Trekking poles (recommended, helps the knees on the descent).

• Sunglasses and sunscreen.

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: May 6, 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 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