What to do around the Small and Big Boilers when it rains?
It is one of the sunniest corners of Romania, given its Mediterranean influences. However, due to weather manipulation, we had a rainy end of April/beginning of May.
How to cope when the weather isn't on your side? [it did give rise to spectacular views on the road and very strong colours - fields of rapeseed against still snow-capped mountains]
• If you choose an accommodation by the Danube, with all the comforts you need, it will offer you the chance to stay dry, enjoy your breakfast outdoors, and wait for a break in the weather. Depending on the season, it may come sooner or later.
We chose Serenity in Eșelnița and were very pleased.
• Take advantage when the weather changes for the better. Swim in the Danube; the currents are strong, but it is doable. Again, depending on the season, the water temperature can be low or high. It is wonderful to swim in the rain!
It was my April wild swim; I loved it!
• Kayak/canoe all the way to the Big Boilers. It could prove challenging in the wind [waves could form], but also beautiful.
In our case, I chose this accommodation to get us as close as possible to the Small and Big Boilers, given that it was also the season of the yellow tulip found on these cliffs. We didn't see it, but we did see lilac practically grown in the water.
We were close to Tabula Traiana and managed to get to Decebal's Rock-hewn Statue when the storm hit and drove us back. Imagine short neoprene pants, no PFDs [we forgot them at home], and the air temperature of 11°C. On the bright side? There was only another boat at Decebal's Statue, and it is quite dramatic during a storm.
• Have a hearty meal at one of the restaurants nearby.
We chose Septembrie, and the food was delicious! I couldn't believe I'd have hot chocolate at the end of April!
• You visit a Czech Village. Eibenthal is adorable, and you get to try Czech food, as well as beer!
We were lucky to be there at the Eibenthal Festival, sat with the locals, and listened to some jazz.
Right before reaching the main square, there is a well. Cross the water and head up the trail for some beautiful views. It doesn't take more than 5 minutes, but it is rewarding!
• Have some dessert! You'll always find a nice traditional sweet to lift your mood.
We went for something less traditional, with chocolate, strawberries [their season was starting!], and bananas at 'Denver' in Severin [as the locals call it]. Different people told us that Severin is actually considered part of Oltenia, while the historical region of Banat ends with Orşova.
Because our return way was through the south [long story!], I discovered the bakes at Poftă de pâine and loved them.
• Hang out with friends, and cuddle all the adorable beings that come your way!
We visited our dear Erna and her husband near Orşova. We finally met the animals that keep them company. Coincidentally, Erna's father was from Eibenthal.
We then continued to Motru, where Anca and Larisa waited for us with Thorică in the park in front of their block of flats. We loved walking and cuddling him. He is the youngest of Linu and Kara's babies, born on July 2nd 2023.
With the festivities of May 1st in full swing, we couldn't visit Tomiţă, the other cub adopted in Steic, near Motru, but managed to hug his human Mom, Simona.
In the end, weather matters, but it shouldn't affect you that much. The way things happen is the way we need them to happen.
Enjoy the flow and everything that's coming your way!
To us, it was a much-needed break! We relaxed a lot!
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