Description

From the small ski resort of Azuga there are numerous possibilities for good one day ski tours.

This route, which covers terrain on just about every aspect, is one of the best and certainly one of the most varied. Start by taking the Sorica gondola to the top of the Azuga resort, and then drop south into the gentle bowl below.

Ski down this to the treeline via a lovely mellow pitch and then put skins on and climb east, aiming for the wide ridge south-east of Urechea. Follow the ridge south-east to the peak of Duca and then turn due east and continue along the ridge to Cazacul itself.

Despite its proximity to the ski resort, the peak feels very wild and you are likely to have it to yourself.

Take some time to relish the solitude and study the surrounding peaks, most of which are covered in great looking ski lines.

Having made future plans, enjoy the present moment and ski down the north ridge of Cazacul and then down the nicely steep north-east face.

Provided you can hold on to enough height you can traverse west-northwest from the foot of the face to some lovely tree skiing right above the river north of Duca.

If you end up too low you will need to skin briefly in order to regain the height required to reach the trees. Whether you judged it just right or had to skin, the tree skiing section leads you down to a peaceful river bed.

Put your skins back on and make a short but quite steep climb onto the north ridge of Urechea and follow this to the summit.

The skin is quite awkward in places and you might find it easier to bootpack sections of it.

Once on the summit of Urechea, follow the gentle north-west ridge back down to the pistes of Azuga and follow these back down to the village.

The village is not known for its apres-ski scene but you will be able to track down a hot-dog and a drink!