3 scenic cycling routes near Bethlen Estates Transylvania

Exploring Transylvania’s forests and pastures by bicycle is the best way to take in the scenery. This is your chance to get immersed into the authentic rural landscape, learn about nature and local communities, and experience traditional crafts, all while getting your exercise in the great outdoors.

Late April and May are truly magical times for cycling, as you will get the chance to ride through carpets of wildflowers and the bright green beech and oak forests.

Below you will find 3 perfect itineraries for cyclists of all levels.

1. Cris [Kreish; Keresd] – Floresti [Felsendorf; Földszin] – Malancrav [Malmkrog; Almakerék]

Level: Beginner-Intermediate
Duration: 2-4 hours
Distance (km): 16 km

One of the best parts of the Via Transilvanica route is the one connecting the village of Cris to the village of Malancrav, passing through some truly remote areas, making it an ideal base from which to experience the region.

The route starts in the middle of the village and follows the Via Transilvanica markings (white circle with the orange T). Alternatively, you can follow the marks made by Transylvanian Highlands. Starting with a steep ascent to the forest on the top of the village, the path soon enters into the forest.

By following the T for more than one kilometer you will soon get back on asphalt, on a scenic road taking you to the village of Floresti. Stop for a short snack break and visit Stana de pe Coline, where a local shepherd offers an array of local produce.

Going forward to the village of Malancrav, you will find a wide path taking you back into the forest and into a picturesque plateau, giving you a majestic view of the surrounding landscape. This is a fantastic place for a picnic that our team can happily arrange.

The last few kilometers are marked by a descent through the luminous forest. Once you arrive in Malancrav, visiting the old Saxon church with 13th-century paintings and the Apafi Manor house should be on your checklist.

2. Cris [Kreish; Keresd] – Stejarenii [ Peschendorf; Bese] – Breite – Sighișoara [Schäßburg; Segesvár]

Level: Intermediate
Duration: 4-5 hours
Distance (km): 12.3 km

Leave the Estate and turn left on the main road. Exit the village of Cris and shortly after, turn left on the sign indicating Stejarenii. You will cycle uphill and then descend on a smooth downhill road with a beautiful overview of the Stejarenii village and church.

Cross the village on the main road, by the village church. Follow the white and blue markings that will ascend along a hillcrest and through a dense deciduous forest.

After a while, you will reach a crossroads indicating that you have reached the Breite plateau. Take a left turn and follow the Via Transylvania markings and soon after you will find yourself on a pebbled forest road amidst solitary ancient oaks.

The pebbled road on the Breite plateau goes straight for another 6-7 kilometers. When you reach the Colinele Transilvaniei sign, take a right turn and through the picnic area used by the locals for hundreds of years. This path will take you downhill and to the city of Sighisoara.

Remember to carry a whistle or make noise to scare away any wild animals.

3. Cris [Kreish; Keresd] – Nou Sasesc [Deutsch-Neudorf, Apaújfalu] – Copsa Mare [Gross-Kopisch, Nagykapu]

Level: Advanced
Duration: 6 hours
Distance (km): 24 km

In the middle of the village, close to the Bethlen Castle, you will notice the blue band marking. Follow it to climb the ridge of the hill. After a while, you will reach an intersection with a path marked with a red cross, but you need to follow the blue band and descend through a spectacular canyon in the village of Malancrav.

Passing over the hill of Malancrav to the west in the direction of Noul Sasesc will be challenging, with uphill and pushbike areas. Cycling from Malancrav to Noul Sasesc should last for about 20 minutes. Follow the blue band markings that will take you up and down the hill and through breathtaking landscapes and eventually to the village of Copsa Mare.

Cycling alone in Transylvania is only recommended for experienced riders. For safety reasons, we recommend always having a local guide by your side. Contact us at booking@bethlenestates.com and we are happy to arrange a cycling trip during your stay in Transylvania.

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