May 1st Weekend in the Eastern Carpathians: Vârghiș Gorges, Prisca & Lacu Roșu

Trip Date: Friday, May 1 – Sunday, May 3, 2026 | Karst Adventure, Tradition, and Szekler Flavor

We invite you to a 3-day adventure in the heart of Szeklerland, combining the spectacle of karst nature (Vârghiș Gorges) and ridge panoramas (Prisca Peak) with the authentic experience of local culture and gastronomy.

The Story of Our Trail

This long weekend is not just about hiking, but also about enjoying Szekler hospitality.

Authentic Accommodation: We will spend our nights in selected guesthouses that will offer us a taste of the area's tradition and hospitality.

Local Gastronomy: In the evenings, we will indulge in specific Szekler food – famous for its flavor and heartiness – a well-deserved reward after days on the mountain!

Trail Information

Day I: Friday, May 1 – Karst and Metal Bridges Vârghiș Gorges & Șura Cailor Cave

• Hike: Circuit through the Vârghiș Canyon, crossing the gorges on paths, bridges, and spectacular metal ladders. We will explore the Șura Cailor Cave.

• Distance/D+: ~8 km / ~250 m D+

• Focus: Geology, light speleology, adrenaline (on the ladders).

Day II: Saturday, May 2 – Prisca Peak and the Szekler Spirit Prisca Peak (1308 m) and the Lăzarea Cultural Center

• Hike: Ascent to Prisca Peak (Giurgeu Mountains), which offers an excellent panoramic perspective over the Giurgeu depression and neighboring massifs.

• Distance/D+: ~13 km / ~650 m D+

• Cultural: Visit to the Lăzarea Franciscan Monastery and the Lăzarea Art Center (the former manor), an important artistic hub of the area.

• Focus: Panoramas, art, and history.

Day III: Sunday, May 3 – Canyons and Legendary Lakes Bicajelului Gorges (Circuit) & Lacu Roșu

• Hike: We will follow the picturesque circuit of the Bicajelului Gorges, a smaller and more accessible canyon.

• Distance/D+: ~10 km / ~300 m D+

• Geological Focus: Visiting Lacu Roșu (Red Lake), a natural dam lake famous for the petrified fir trunks emerging from the water.

• Return: Departure for Cluj-Napoca in the afternoon.

Who is it for?

This event is dedicated to those seeking a hike that combines moderate physical effort with an unforgettable scenic experience.

Required Equipment (3 days)

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

• 3-layer clothing for variable conditions (rain, wind on the ridge).

• Headlamp (for the Șura Cailor Cave).

• Water (minimum 2L/day) and packed food for lunches on the trail.

• Trekking poles (recommended for Prisca Peak).

Practical Details Hike cost: 450 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: April 29, 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