Cycling day trip from Cluj-Napoca to Petreştii de Jos

This scenic ride takes you from the lively city of Cluj-Napoca to the peaceful village of Petreştii de Jos, covering just over 30 km. You’ll start out in Cluj, Transylvania’s unofficial capital, famous for its vibrant student life, historic architecture, and great coffee spots. The initial stretch is mostly on asphalt, but get ready for plenty of tracks and some unpaved sections as you venture out of the city.

Expect rolling hills—there's a solid 660 meters of climbing—so gear up for some effort, but you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views as you pass through rural landscapes and woodlands. About half of your ride follows country tracks, making it ideal for gravel bikes or MTBs.

Your destination, Petreştii de Jos, is a small village at the edge of Turda Gorge Natural Reserve, a stunning limestone canyon popular with nature lovers and hikers. It’s the perfect escape from city life, and you just might spot some local shepherds or wildlife along the way. Don’t forget a snack and water, as services are sparse once you leave Cluj’s outskirts!