With only one weekend left before school starts, it is the perfect time to enjoy the final days of summer vacation with your family. Before the bell rings and the daily hustle begins, a trip offering true relaxation for both parents and children is well worth taking. The narrow-gauge steam railway in Vișeu de Sus, the famous Maramureș Mocănița, is an excellent destination if you want to escape the city's hustle, put your phones away, and spend a pleasant day together.

The Last Forest Steam Train in Europe's Forests

Designed at a width of just 760 mm, the narrow-gauge railway in the Vaser Valley traces its origins to the first half of the last century. Construction work began in 1932 out of the need to find a safe and efficient solution for transporting timber through dense forests and steep mountain terrain. While most European countries gradually abandoned forestry railways in the second half of the 20th century—replacing them with paved roads and modern trucks—the extremely difficult terrain in this area prevented road modernization. Thus, geographic isolation and the rugged landscape saved the route from extinction, preserving this traditional method to this day.

Thanks to this historical legacy, the Maramureș Mocănița is now a unique technical rarity across the entire continent: it is the only active forestry railway in Europe where steam locomotives are still used today for both timber transport and tourism. The rail network meanders through mountains and forests for about 60 kilometers, though the nostalgia tourist route covers a 21.5-kilometer section. The journey unfolds at a relaxing pace, advancing at a speed of just 10–15 km/h.

(Source: Libertatea)

Attractions and Scenery of the Vaser Valley

The full round trip takes approximately 6 hours, offering plenty of time for the family to spend a peaceful day without rushing. The train slowly leaves the Vișeu de Sus station and soon enters the valley accompanied by dense forests and rushing streams. After about 2.5 hours of travel, it stops at Glimboaca station (at kilometer 16), where the locomotive is refueled with wood and water for the remainder of the journey. This 10-15 minute technical break is an excellent opportunity for travelers to stretch their legs. Adults can buy warm tea or coffee, while kids can enjoy hot chocolate and local pastries, such as fresh donuts or traditional slightly salted cheese pies.

Afterward, the train passes by the cliffs of Piatra Șoimului (Falcon's Rock). Later, it reaches Miraj station, close to the mountain area where heavy fighting took place between the Russian and German armies in the autumn of 1916 during World War I. Today, a forest military cemetery preserves the memory of the past in this area. A bit further ahead, in the narrow Novicior Gorge (at kilometer 20.5), traces of World War II can be seen: military tunnels carved into the rock and former ammunition depots are visible directly from the carriage window.

The final tourist stop for the train is Paltin, a station surrounded by mountains. Here, the train takes a break of about an hour and a half before the return trip. At the designated stopover area, visitors can step inside a small museum displaying the history of the Vaser Valley and its forestry railway. On the local terraces, you can enjoy a warm lunch and traditional Maramureș dishes. Occasionally, the atmosphere is completed by local folk dances, and the most adventurous guests are invited to join the dancers. The rail route traverses the protected area of the Maramureș Mountains Natural Park, offering magnificent views along the way of beech forests, tall firs, and the clear waters of the Vaser River.

(Source: Mocanita Maramures)

Practical Information

During the period leading up to the start of the school year, the Mocănița runs daily from Vișeu de Sus, with departures available at 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Since visitor numbers are higher during this time, it is advisable to book your tickets in advance online at mocanita-maramures.com. Because temperatures can be cooler in the mountains—especially in the open-air carriages—it is recommended to wear weather-appropriate layers, a jacket, and closed-toe shoes. At the end of the line, you can also organize a small picnic by the stream to wrap up summer vacation with a relaxing family experience.

Nearby Attractions

Beyond the well-known Mocănița ride, Vișeu de Sus and its surroundings offer plenty of possibilities for a successful family getaway. Nearby in Borșa, you can reach Horses' Waterfall (Cascada Cailor)—one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Romania—either on foot or by chairlift.

For hiking enthusiasts, Rodna Mountains National Park offers trails through fir forests, rocky areas, and striking alpine landscapes. A stop at Prislop Pass, located at an altitude of 1,416 meters, is well worth it for the sweeping mountain views.

The region also impresses with its cultural heritage. Bârsana Monastery is one of the most famous examples of traditional wooden architecture in Maramureș, while at the Maramureș Village Museum in Sighetu Marmației, you can discover old houses, traditional farmsteads, and a glimpse into past ways of life. Along the road, you will frequently encounter the famous carved Maramureș gates, and the living tradition of woodworking is still preserved today in the yards of local craftsmen.

Maramureș is a wonderful choice for families seeking a few days of relaxation, nature, traditions, and authentic experiences. Choose the place that suits you best and book your accommodation on stayhere.ro for a family weekend in Maramureș.