Skiing on Muntele Mic

Slopes on the plateau and hot spring bathing in Poiana Mărului.

The weekend suits those who want two days on snow, with slopes for all levels and a relaxing evening after skiing. The good skiing season is usually between December and March, but check the snow and ski lift schedule beforehand. You'll need a car and winter tires: from Poiana Mărului to Borlova it takes approximately an hour and a half one way. In total you'll drive about 6 hours over the two days, mostly on uphill and downhill stretches between accommodation and the ski lift base.

Muntele Mic is one of the well-known skiing areas in Caraș-Severin, and the upper plateau has several slopes, suitable both for those just learning and for those wanting something more technical. You go up with the ski lift from Borlova, so you don't depend on the forest road. We suggest two simple days: one full day on the slopes, ending with a hot spring bath, and a second day on snow, either another half day skiing or a hike to Vârful Țarcu if the weather holds.

Skiing on Muntele Mic and hot spring bathing in Poiana Mărului. Set off early towards Borlova, to the ski lift base. From Poiana Mărului you have about an hour and a half to drive, so plan your departure so you catch the slopes well-groomed and less crowded in the morning. If you're coming from elsewhere, check road conditions beforehand, it's winter. With the ski lift you reach the Muntele Mic plateau, where there are several slopes, both for beginners and advanced skiers. If you're starting out or skiing with someone just learning, stay on the gentler slopes until you build confidence and only then try something steeper. Take a lunch break up on the plateau so you don't waste time going down and up. After your last run down, head back to your accommodation in Poiana Mărului. In the evening, a hot spring bath is the reward for the day: muscles tired from skiing rest best in warm water. Ask at your accommodation in advance if they have a hot spring bath and how to book it, as it often requires a reservation.

Stops: Muntele Mic.

Where to eat: On the plateau, eat simply, something warm, from the slope. In the evening, in Poiana Mărului, look for a meal with local dishes at the guesthouse where you're staying, the kind of tripe soup, stew or grilled meat, then perhaps some mulled wine.

If it rains: If rain or fog make the slope dangerous or the ski lift isn't running, stay in Poiana Mărului: take it easy walking among houses and orchards, then spend the afternoon at the hot spring bath, earlier than planned.

Another half day on the slopes or a hike to Vârful Țarcu. On the second day you choose based on the weather and how rested you feel. If you enjoyed the slopes, go up again with the ski lift from Borlova and ski in the morning, on the slopes you liked best, or try the ones you skipped yesterday. If the weather is clear and you have experience on snow, you can swap skiing for a hike to Vârful Țarcu. Keep in mind it's a mountain route in winter: check the forecast, don't set out in fog and let someone know which route you're taking. If you're not sure, stick to the slopes. Towards afternoon, head down to Poiana Mărului, pack your bags and set off without rushing, especially if it's snowed or the road is wet.

Stops: Muntele Mic, Țarcu Peak.

Where to eat: Before you leave, have a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, then pack something for the slopes or the hike. On your way back, grab something warm, also at a guesthouse in Poiana Mărului, if you have time before heading home.

If it rains: If the weather is bad or there's thick fog, skip the hike and skiing. Stay longer in Poiana Mărului, near your accommodation, and head home once the road clears up a bit.

Check the Borlova chairlift schedule and slope conditions before you leave, as they depend on snow and weather.

In winter you'll need winter tires and, ideally, chains in your car for mountain roads.

Book accommodation in Poiana Mărului well ahead for season weekends and ask if they have mulled wine and how to arrange it.

For the hike to Vârful Țarcu, check the forecast, bring winter gear, and don't leave in fog or if you don't know the route.

Can I ski on Muntele Mic if I'm a beginner? Yes, the plateau has slopes for beginners too, not just advanced skiers. Start on the gentlest ones and gradually increase the difficulty.

Where should I stay: in Poiana Mărului or at Borlova? In Poiana Mărului we have more accommodation options, about 30–40 minutes from the chairlift base. If you want to be closer to the slopes, you can choose a place at Borlova.

Do I need a car? Yes, it's much easier with a car, both for the drive to Borlova and for getting around between your accommodation and the chairlift.

Can I do the hike to Vârful Țarcu without experience? In winter it's a mountain route that requires care and proper gear. If you don't have experience, stick to the slopes or ask for local advice.