I still smile every time I think how fast we found ourselves into the adventure at the Bucegi National Park. As soon as we passed the barrier that marks the beginning of the small road, the mountain air totally relaxed us. Suddenly we were in the middle of untouched nature, without the usual signs of civilization, you know – PETs, trash etc. Adding to the picture the flowing river that runs down the trail and our delight was completed.
After 10 minutes of hiking and admiring the surroundings we heard noises coming from the forest area. I honestly expected to rather meet a bear then the dogs of the wood workers. But there they were, running toward us. Three started separating by group and turned left, through the forest. That relaxed us just for a minute, second later the dogs appearing from behind. We were surrounded. Two in front, three in the back. Army stile or what?
That thing you hear around – sit and do not move as they growl, it is not working! Eventually I pulled the pepper spray. My plan to save our ankles from their teeth was partially successful. I gave a short “fasss” but in the only possible direction: against the wind from where the threat came! In the next second we all were running, dogs and people.
With weeping eyes but okay, we went deeper into the woods on the path leading up the pick to Vf.Omu. Our only concern – we have to go back on the same trail we came.
At one point we stopped in a clearing where the grass was flattened. Total silence. From time to time some branches crackled nearby. The saying ” watch your back for the bear” suddenly become possible. And we were just two. Not even a bird singing. And we had walked for quite a long time until stopping here. Far away from the barrier. Moreover, we had not encountered any hiker since we left. Like we were alone on the planet.
We stayed here for a while, admiring nature. We also kept a careful eye on the blackberry bushes that we so gladly ate. Relaxing came naturally but still, something hunted me. The saying ” be aware of bears” suddenly became true except it took the shape of the dogs. At our return the wood workers were still there but the dogs were now tied down. Except for one that was friendly and calm. Can you believe that this puppy run to greet us friendly in the next days, calming down the whole pack? Only now we could think again about the bear. So here is my traveler conclusion to Bucegi National Park: if you want awesome nature at “a stone throw” from civilization, now you know where to find it; but be prepared to face the dogs wild side in the woods. The bear we leave for next time.
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