11 October 2025

The Dwarf Pine Paradise on the Lotrului Ridge towards Balindru Peak

Ani Drumetiei icon

Route

Sibiu - Sibiu
Ani Drumetiei icon

Difficulty

Medium

Dear hiker,

Join us on the highest and most spectacular peaks of the Lotrului Ridge, where endless dwarf pine forests hide wild trails and breathtaking views. From this natural balcony, vast horizons open over Lake Vidra and the great Carpathian mountains: Făgăraș, Cindrel, Șureanu, Retezat, Parâng, Căpățânii, and Latoriței. On clear days, even Sibiu or the Apuseni Mountains can be seen in the distance. A hike that reveals the mountain in its most authentic and luminous form.

WHERE AND WHEN DO WE MEET?

Saturday, 11.10.25 at 6:00 from Sibiu
Meeting point: “Kaufland” Ștrand parking lot.

ROUTE INFORMATION

Level: medium ++
Elevation gain: 900–1000 m
Distance: 15 km
Duration: 8–9 hours
Route:
Valea Frumoasei – Șaua Șteflești – Cristești Peak – Șteflești Peak – Contu Mare Peak – Balindru Peak.

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

T-shirts, pants, and spare socks (no cotton), mountain boots, rain poncho, waterproof jacket and pants, trekking poles (recommended), headlamp, hat and gloves, whistle, water bottle min. 1.5 liters, protein bars, magnesium, calcium, snacks, fruits. It’s best to dress in layers, as it’s cooler in the morning and much warmer at midday. Have extra water in the cars.

COSTS

80 lei/person – participation fee for adults
50 lei/person – participation fee for minors.
The drive takes approximately 3+ hours, and the last 15 km are on a forest road, which is why high-clearance cars are needed. To be fair to everyone, fuel costs will be shared among the passengers in each car.
The age limit is 12 years. Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis.

GUIDE

Nicoleta Ocneriu – mountain guide
Contact: 0742 667 196

Note:

– The route configuration and length will be adjusted according to weather conditions and the homogeneity/heterogeneity of the group.
– The organizer (guide) reserves the right to refuse participants who are not appropriately equipped or who have inadequate physical condition.
– Tours are conducted under safe conditions and with a minimum number of participants. The organizer reserves the right to reschedule or cancel tours without prior notice if these conditions are not met.
– Ticket refunds are only provided in case the organizer (guide) cancels the hike.

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By participating in this event, I consent to being photographed. I acknowledge that the photos may be used for promotional purposes, both online and in printed materials, within the “Anii Drumeției” Program to promote it. I declare under my own responsibility that, to the best of my knowledge, I am physically capable of sustained physical effort during hiking events without jeopardizing my health in any way. My participation in this event is entirely voluntary, understanding the associated risks to which I expose myself.
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The “Anii Drumeției” Program is initiated and funded by the Sibiu County Council in collaboration with the Sibiu County Tourism Association. Its main purpose is to improve hiking infrastructure in the county and promote activities specific to ecotourism.

The date of the hike

11 October 2025

Starting point

Kaufland Strand

Departure time

06:00

Duration of the hike

8-9 ore

Difficulty

Medium

Cost / person

80 lei