With spring rains impeding our motorcycle adventures, we enjoyed a long weekend with family in the cozy resort town of Moneasa nestled in the Codru-Moma Mountains. Even in the rain, Moneasa’s beautiful, towering pine trees, meandering streams, and hiking trails are uplifting and serene.

It is the perfect place with its own pace to retreat with a good book or to meet old and new friends. There are plenty of hotel rooms, villas for rental or camping spots available. The pool (strand) is open for a swim. The grill and terrace invite a taste of mici with a good selection of local brews and snack items. Mici are a Romanian speciality sausage made with spicy pork and beef, that's usually enjoyed with fresh bread and mustard.

The hiking trails are well marked throughout the adjoining hillsides. We headed for the trails for mid-morning exercise, to enjoy the fresh mountain air and nature’s beauty. Our trail ended at the Bats’ Cave perched on the mountain. We did not have proper lighting and clothing (thankfully!) to explore the supposed 30 meters of very narrow passage before the cave apparently opens into an expansive room.

A special place to enjoy a few days celebrating good conversation, good food and good rest. – BGR & HSR