Open air activities have been enthusiastically pursued in Romania for a long time. In fact the word "tourism" to Romanians virtually means hiking in the mountains, while down at the Black Sea there are superb conditions for watersports.

Beginning in July on, Romanians set off for the hills or the beaches and, because there is so much unspoilt open space, you won't feel crowded out if you join them.

Taken alphabetically, caving comes first, and that is appropriate, since Romanians are absolutely crazy about speleology.

Rock climbing in Europe's least known mountains

More than 11,000 caves can be explored without official permission, many being in the Apuseni Mountains.

Rock climbing is popular too and known locally as alpinism. The main centre for the sport is Busteni (also a ski-resort).

Cycling in the hills can be fun, following forestry roads and shepherd's tracks. You need to bring your own mountain bikes, but having done so you will be rewarded with an exhilarating sense of freedom, not to mention the spectacular scenery you can admire.

Hiking is a marvellous way to see the country, with very few tough climbs. Routes are signposted and crosscountry walking is so highly esteemed that there are even marked paths between the painted monasteries of Bucovina.

At the Black Sea resorts you can windsurf, water-ski and scuba dive. Canoeing or kayaking is possible on rivers and lakes, while a kayak is the ideal way to explore the Danube Delta. You will need your own equipment.

The Black Sea offers the whole range of watersports

Romania's ski resorts were mostly purpose-built in the 1960s and 1970s and well-trained skiers characterize them as one of Europe's most enjoyable, friendly and least spoilt winter sports destinations. Furthermore they are extremely affordable.