Our adventure begins at Poiana Cârnic, the designated parking area. From here, we’ll embark on a picturesque 3-hour hike, following the Blue Band trail, which leads us directly to the cozy Gentiana Cabin. Upon arrival, we’ll settle in, share a meal, and exchange stories, anticipating the challenging ascent planned for the following day.
Rising early on our second day, we’ll hit the trail, continuing along the Blue Band route towards Bucurei Cirque, an estimated 2 hours and 30 minutes. This path will eventually lead us away from the main ridge. At Bucurei Saddle, we’ll veer left, joining the ridge path marked with a red dot. Our journey will take us over Custura Bucurei (2370m), before descending towards Bucurei Cirque and shortly after, to the beautiful Peleaga Cirque.
Within minutes, the majestic Peleaga Peak (2509m), the highest summit in the Retezat Mountains, will stand before us. After conquering Peleaga, we’ll proceed for another 20 minutes through the Peleaga Cirque, preparing for the final exhilarating climb to Păpușa Peak (2508m), which offers a truly breathtaking panorama. It is here, amidst these towering peaks of the Retezat massif, that we will proudly celebrate Romania’s National Day, complete with flags and unforgettable photo opportunities.
Throughout our demanding trek, hikers will be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of Lake Bucura, Lake Ana, Peleaga Saddle, and Vf. Păpușa. The dramatic gorges of Râul Mare (Rea Valley) will unfold beneath us, showcasing the Retezat massif in its full, spectacular winter glory.
The return journey will follow the same captivating trail, leading us back to Gentiana Cabin and ultimately, to Poiana Cârnic.
Trek Details:
- Date: November 30 – December 1, 2024
- Route: Poiana Cârnic – Gentiana Cabin (1670m) – Bucurei Cirque – Custura Bucurei Peak – Peleaga Peak (2509m) – Păpușa Peak (2508m)
- Difficulty: This route is classified as moderate to difficult, primarily due to the steep ascent from Bucurei Lake’s rocky terrain and the 14 km stretch from the cabin to Păpușa Peak. Excellent physical fitness is essential, especially given potential winter conditions.
- Duration:
- Day 1: Approximately 3 hours from Poiana Cârnic to Gentiana Cabin.
- Day 2: Approximately 12 hours round trip from Gentiana Cabin to Păpușa Peak and back to Poiana Cârnic.
- Physical Condition: Participants must possess a strong level of physical fitness and be prepared for challenging winter mountain conditions.
- Total Distance: Approximately 20 km (round trip over two days).
- Total Elevation Gain: Approximately 2100m over two days.
- Available Places: 4
- Parking Location: DJ667A Cârnic.
- Meeting & Departure: Specific timings will be communicated and discussed within a private WhatsApp group for confirmed participants.
This trekking expedition is offered free of charge. We will arrange both transport and accommodation at Gentiana Cabin. Beds at the cabin are pre-reserved, with a cost of 50 RON per person per night. Accommodation is in communal rooms or on sleeping platforms (‘arcades’), where wool blankets will be provided. The cabin is heated by stoves, and the caretaker assures us it will be sufficiently warm. Please note that while drinks are available for purchase at the cabin’s bar (cash payment only), no food is served. Participants are welcome to bring their own sleeping bags for added comfort, if desired.
How to Register:
To secure your spot on this unforgettable trek, please register using the following form: https://forms.gle/bga6rofr9nunqek9
Alternatively, you can send a private message on Facebook, contact us via WhatsApp at 0735 244 947, or email contact@journalmontan.ro with ‘Retezat Trek Registration’ as the subject. Should you need to withdraw your participation, kindly notify us at least 2 days in advance to allow another enthusiastic adventurer to join. Spaces are strictly limited to 4 participants.
Weather Update:
A detailed weather forecast will be shared approximately 2 days prior to the event’s start, posted directly within the private WhatsApp group.
Essential Gear List:
Please ensure you have all the necessary items from the comprehensive list below. Note that specialized navigation equipment such as a location map, compass, GPS, altimeter, and communication devices will be provided by the group leader, so you do not need to bring your own.
- Robust, waterproof winter hiking boots with excellent grip and ankle support (no other footwear types are suitable).
- Trekking backpack (30-40L capacity).
- Waterproof, windproof, and breathable mountain trousers.
- Long-sleeved base layer (synthetic or merino wool – cotton is not recommended).
- Fleece jacket (mid-layer).
- Hardshell or softshell jacket (waterproof, windproof, and breathable outer layer).
- Down or synthetic insulated jacket.
- Warm hat or bandana.
- Insulated winter gloves.
- Polarized sunglasses.
- Hydration: Minimum 2 liters of water or a thermos with hot/cold beverages (tea, coffee).
- Snacks & Meals: Energy bars, mixed nuts and seeds, sandwiches, fruit, and sufficient food for two days.
- Headlamp with fully charged batteries and spares.
- Trekking poles (optional, but recommended).
- Crampons and ice axe (essential for winter conditions).
- Gaiters (snow protection).
- Change of clothes for the cabin/sleeping.
- Personal hygiene kit.
Important Notes & Safety Guidelines:
Adherence to the mandatory equipment list for winter conditions is crucial for your safety and comfort. The itinerary may be subject to changes based on prevailing weather and trail conditions. All expeditions organized by Mountain and Vertical Xplore Journal operate under a set of guidelines designed to ensure the collective health and safety of all participants.
Every route is meticulously documented and planned to allow ample opportunities to savor the stunning scenery, take necessary breaks for hydration, and capture memorable photographs. The pace of the trek will be adjusted by the group leader to suit both the terrain and the overall group’s capabilities.
We will strictly adhere to the designated, clearly marked trail, avoiding any deviations onto adjacent paths that could pose risks. Mountain safety always takes precedence over achieving the objective. Decisions regarding a safe return will be discussed openly with the group, with final authority resting with the group leaders. Breaks will be communicated well in advance. Our group leader is fully qualified to administer first aid in case of emergencies (Canton-SMURD certified).
Prohibited During the Trek:
- Consumption of alcohol or other impairing substances while on the trail.
- No participant will be left unsupervised or fall behind the group.
- Abandoning any participant on the trail.
- Engaging in conflict with other participants.