Eastern Carpathians

The Eastern Carpathians form a broad mountain belt between Transylvania and the valleys of Moldavia. Near its northern reaches the Suhard and Călimani ranges rise above wooded river valleys, their long ridges separated by streams flowing toward the Bistrița and the Transylvanian basin. The Călimani massif belongs to an ancient volcanic chain, its high ground retaining the form of a great caldera. Forests, open pastures and exposed summits give way to narrow routes through the surrounding valleys.