Vârful Omului rises to 2135 metres in the Rodnei Mountains of northern Romania, a rugged and wonderfully off-the-beaten-track massif that rewards hikers with raw alpine scenery and genuine wilderness. If you are looking for a summit far from the crowds, this is exactly the kind of place you want to find.

The Rodnei Mountains have a bold, untamed character — rocky ridges, wide alpine meadows and deep forested valleys define the landscape. In summer the summit delivers sweeping panoramas across the surrounding peaks, while in winter the area transforms into a snow-covered wilderness best suited to experienced mountain walkers. The atmosphere here feels wilder and more remote than in Romania's more famous ranges.

• Starting from the towns of Borsa or Rodna — trails in the Rodnei Mountains pass through forested valleys and open ridges; allow several hours of walking; difficulty moderate to demanding

• Much of the Rodnei Mountains falls within the Munții Rodnei National Park — check current entry regulations before your trip

The Rodnei Mountains are one of the last true wild corners of the Eastern Carpathians, renowned for their rich wildlife including bears and wolves — a fact that gives any hike here an extra edge of adventure.