TRANSYLVANIA

Its name derives from the Latin word „between forests”, this area rich in history and diversity still holds the charm and mystery of past times. Romanians, Hungarians and Germans have thrived together here, each preserving their own culture, but influencing each other, the result being a unique blend that is enchanting to this day.

Transylvania is best known as the mysterious land of blood thirsty vampires and howling wolves. Some may think it’s fictional, but this central Romanian region is a real place. And it’s pretty special, too.

Transylvania is so stuffed with attractions of all types of adventurous, cultural, historical and natural interest that there really is something for everybody.

Those wanting to ski will find slopes that suit all from the beginner or families with young children to those wanting to ski off-piste or try cross-country skis on rugged mountain plateau. Those who would like to hike, cycle or just ramble through stunning countryside, track bear, lynx or fox, watch birds or admire wild flowers in the unspoiled landscape can find many places where they can wander undisturbed on a journey back in time.

Culture vultures will enjoy discovering the Saxon villages, each guarded by a magnificent fortress church, and beautifully restored historic town centers crammed with museums, galleries, bars and restaurants.

Horror fans can pursue the legend of Dracula and his inspiration Vlad III Tepes. Spa holidays are becoming increasingly popular and Transylvania is home to a number of fun resorts.

DO NOT MISS…

• Some of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns: Brasov, Sibiu, Sighisoara
• Bran Castle (also known as Dracula’s Castle), built in 1377
• Rasnov Fortress – built in the 1300s by the Teutonic Knights to protect Transylvania against the Tartars and the Turks
• The Saxon fortified churches at Biertan, Calnic, Harman, Darjiu
• Prejmer, Saschiz, Valea Viilor and Viscri – all designated by UNESCO as World Heritage sites
• Transylvania’s finest art museum – the Bruckenthal Palace in Sibiu
• Marginimea Sibiului, an area northwest of Sibiu home to more than 18 traditional villages
• The Museum of Glass-Painted Icons in Sibiel, the largest of its kind in Europe
• The city of Hunedoara with its 14th-century Gothic Corvinesti Castle
• The Dacian Fortresses at Sarmisegetuza (UNESCO World Heritage List)
• The Moti Land (Tara Motilor) on the Ariesi Valley – “moţi” is the name given to the inhabitants of this region. They live in scattered villages at altitudes up to about 4,265 feet and have preserved their century-old traditions and lifestyle.
• The Apuseni Mountains with Scarisoara and Focul Viu glaciers, Chiscau Bears’ Cave and Vartop Cave as well as other 400 caves.