Ciucaș Mountains

Easily accessible from both Moldova and Brașov, and being relatively close to Bucharest, the Ciucaș Mountains often represent a welcome alternative to the mountains and mountain trails of the Prahova Valley. The mountain cabins in Cheia or Muntele Roșu, but especially the modern Vârful Ciucaș Cabin (1595m) invite hikers to a more leisurely exploration of the area.

Beyond easy day hikes or those with tents on your back, the Ciucaș Mountains are ideal for photo tours, MTB tours, trail running, ski touring or snowshoeing, or off-road (4x4 and ATV). Especially the road through Valea Berii (which, contrary to expectations, does not pass by the brewery, but by the mineral water factory) is among the most accessible and quickest ways to reach the Vârful Ciucaș Cabin, in any season.

A trail to the Ciucaș peak can be done from Cheia or Muntele Roșu (the most sought after), from Bratocea Pass, from the former Babarunca cabin through Poiana Teslei (beautiful views of the rocks), or from Vama Buzăului. The wild trail through the Cheile Cheiței, although short, is considered moderate.

A complete crossing of the Ciucaș Mountain ridge connects with the Buzău Mountains, via Boncuta and Tabla Buții Passes, bypassing some ridges to reach Vârful Ciucaș, then Bratocea Pass. However, the more demanding route starts from Cheia, through Stâna Zăganu, crosses the Zăganu and Gropșoarele peaks, reaches Ciucaș and descends into Bratocea Pass. 

The banks of the Teleajen River, downstream of Cheia village, are dotted with caravans and tents during the summer. Nearby, there are also the Muntele Roșu seismic station and Suzana Monastery.