Ielele
Apuseni Natural Park

Chapter 02 · Five ways into the wild

Choose your adventure.

Scroll down to find out more about the outdoor activities in the Apuseni Natural Park.

Fly fishing.

01 · About the adventure

Fly
fishing.

The Western Carpathians hide pristine streams that have carved their way through massive limestone formations and formed the spectacular karst landscape for which our destination — the Apuseni Natural Park — is known. Gorges, caves and a deep lake complete this special destination for fly fishing and nature lovers.

The river is home to some of the finest grayling and trout fishing in the Romanian Carpathians. Through its clearness and its cognac colour, the river offers the landscape a specific warmth and welcoming feeling. You'll fish for trout in shallow, narrow rapids and calm, clear pools in the upper parts, then wade further downstream to chase your catch in grayling paradise.

No matter your level of experience, the river is perfectly suited for beginners and advanced fly fishermen alike.

Lake explorers.

02 · About the adventure

Lake
explorers.

Just a few minutes' walk from our home base, you can easily reach the calm waters of the Belis-Fântânele reservoir. The lake stretches over 13 km and reaches depths of more than 100 m — just the perfect place for lake explorers.

In the mid '70s, when the dam was built, 5 villages had to make way for economical "progress". Their ruins lying underwater nourish the local legends that tell of the curses of the former inhabitants forced to leave their homes. During dry summers, the ruins of a church tower dating from the beginning of the XIX Century pierce the water surface as a reminder of the stories left behind.

We are in the birthplace of fascinating legends about strigoi — the real Transylvanian vampires; urieși — giants roaming in the mountains above; and vâlve — fairies, protector spirits of the woods and waters.

Biking the highlands.

03 · About the adventure

Biking
the highlands.

Easy woodland tracks and gentle, grassy country roads through the rolling hills, or more challenging, rugged and steep trails — here you can experience them all.

You'll be cycling in one of the best-known natural parks of Romania, the Apuseni Natural Park, famous for its cultural heritage and impressive karst landscape.

Take your two wheels through scattered hamlets, breathe the clean air of old forests and marvel at the scenery revealed at 1,600 m altitude and above.

Hiking the Apuseni.

04 · About the adventure

Hiking
the Apuseni.

Welcome to Apuseni Natural Park, the place where pristine nature meets ancient traditions. Discover the overwhelming biodiversity, spectacular geology and the vivid culture of the people called moți living in scattered villages high in the mountains.

From the lodge you'll be able to explore paths that take you to Bihor and Vlădeasa Mountains, home to some of the most spectacular limestone formations in this part of Europe. One must-see is the largest karst complex in Romania, Cetățile Ponorului, considered the Everest of Romanian speleology.

On your way to these natural beauties, take a break to discover the tracks of wild animals, fill up your lungs with bloomy meadow air, try some fresh local cheese and enjoy the cool water of the many springs you'll walk by.

Winter fun.

05 · About the adventure

Winter
fun.

Imagine highlands covered in a white, fluffy, sparkling coat, with frozen woods and untouched paths. Embrace this magic of nature and let the snow crunch under your snowshoes or skis.

Hiking and cross-country skiing adventures await. After a summit experience, or just a long hike, enjoy a warming welcome at the accommodation. Taste some animating "water of life" next to the fire and try the traditional, homemade pancakes, filled with cheese or blueberry jam.

Let us guide you through the peaceful winter landscape of the Western Carpathians.

Property details

Download the brochure.

Full specifications, floor plans and photography of the four houses and the estate.