Dear hiker,
A place where nature meets storytelling and tradition comes to life. Set off on a captivating sunset hike in the Lotru Mountains and, at the same time, take part in one of the most beautiful Romanian Epiphany traditions: “Udatul Ionilor in Tălmăcel”, a custom that symbolizes purification and the beginning of a lucky year. You will have the chance to enjoy the parade of young horse riders, colorful traditional costumes, and the “watering” ritual that brings great joy to the entire village.
WHERE AND WHEN DO WE MEET?
Wednesday, 07.01.2026, at 10:00, in the Kaufland Șelimbăr parking lot, near Sibiu Shopping City. We will group into personal cars and head towards the village of Tălmăcel.
ROUTE INFORMATION
Level: easy
Elevation gain: 200-300 m
Distance: 8-10 km
Duration: 4-5 hours
We will depart around 10:00 towards the village of Tălmăcel, where we will visit the Tălmăcel Village Museum, a representative place for the Mărginimea Sibiului area. Then we will head towards the ox-drawn cart and, together with the procession, descend along the village street to the village center and church. At 12:00 we will go down to the river for the “Udatul Ionilor” ritual, after which we will begin the actual hike.
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
Spare T-shirts, trousers and socks, high-ankle hiking boots, rain poncho, waterproof jacket and trousers, hat, gaiters and hiking poles (recommended), water bottle (minimum 1 liter), food, whistle, headlamp. We recommend dressing in layers, as it is warmer at midday and cooler in the evening.
COSTS
80 lei / adult – participation in the hike
40 lei / child – participation in the hike
Optional: museum entry is donation-based. Each participant is free to donate the amount they wish.
Note
Through this program, we aim to encourage and support the local community and to enjoy together these authentic traditions preserved since ancient times.
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.
