Gyimesfelsőlok

Gyimesfelsőlok (in Romanian, Lunca de Sus) is the easternmost settlement in Harghita County, nestled in the narrow valley of the Gyimes region along the Trotuș River. This village, located amidst the mountain ranges of the Eastern Carpathians, forms a unique transitional area between Szeklerland and Moldavia, as well as between Hungarian and Romanian cultures. The settlement is characterised by scattered farmsteads and an elongated structure, with houses and homesteads spread out along the valley and hillsides. The majority of the village's residents are Hungarian-speaking Csángós, who to this day preserve their distinctive traditional attire, customs, musical and dance heritage. For a long time, the lives of the locals were shaped by border guarding, shepherding, and forestry. Among the village's main attractions are the Contumacy Chapel at the historic border, the 30th Guardhouse, and the remnants of the Gyimes Pass fortifications and railway structures, which bear witness to the area's former strategic importance. Trains still run on the railway line crossing Gyimesfelsőlok, making the village accessible by rail. In recent years, Gyimesfelsőlok has become a local hub for active tourism alongside nature exploration. Located near the village is the SkiGyimes ski complex, which not only offers winter sports opportunities but also operates year-round with its alpine coaster, restaurant, and guesthouses, making it one of the region's most modern tourism providers. A highlight of the SkiGyimes Restaurant is the experience of dining on meals served on hot stone, blending local traditions with modern hospitality. For children, there is a playroom, while adults can enjoy a terrace with scenic views and family-friendly services. Pilgrims heading towards the Mária Route and the Millennium Border consider the village an important stop. The close-to-nature lifestyle, the living Csángó culture, the unique dialect of the Gyimes Csángós, and the traditional hospitality all contribute to making Gyimesfelsőlok a destination where visitors can experience the meeting of past and present as a truly unique experience.