Home to preserved medieval towns, imposing gothic fortresses and the legend of Count Dracula, Transylvania has put Romania on the map.
Spend six days exploring in the heart of one of Europe’s last untouched forests, staying in a 17th-century castle. Castle Daniel has a selection of boutique rooms that combine old-world charm with all the comfort of modern life. Discover Saxon fortified churches, take a 4x4 off-road to the Prince of Wales’ remote guesthouse, search for bears, lynx and deer's in the Vargyas Gorge and tour Bran Castle.
On arrival in Bucharest, transfer to the Castle Hotel Daniel (approx 3.5 hour drive). Check in for a 5 night stay.
The striking Bran Castle, made famous by Bram Stoker’s novel and the illustrious legend of Dracula, is a must-see while in Transylvania. During the visit to the impressive fortress you will learn about its history and uncover the true connection to Vlad the Impaler, also known as Count Dracula. In the afternoon, enjoy a walk through the Old Town in Brasov, visiting sights at the Black Church, or simply enjoy the ambience of this beautiful city from one of the many cafes in the pedestrian area. (B, D)
Just 10 miles away from Castle Daniel, surrounded by unspoilt forests inhabited by bears, lynx and deer, the gorge of the Vargyas river is a stunning location in which to embrace the untouched natural environment of this part of Romania. Spend part of the day embarking on a gentle hike, following the river through the gorge to reach a viewpoint that boasts breath-taking panoramas, and explore the biggest of the 124 caves to be found in the area. Your experienced guide will explain to you the diverse flora and fauna of the natural reserve. There is a good change that you will spot a few of the 19 different bat-species inhabiting the cave and recent tracks of wildlife throughout the gorge. (B,L,D)
Saxon fortified churches are the jewels of multicultural Transylvania's built heritage, 7 of which have been included on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Today's excursion visits Biertan and Viscri, two of the most impressive fortified churches, built in the 12th and 13th centuries respectively. The medieval town of Sighisoara, was built by the German Saxons between the 12th and 17th centuries, preserving a most charming atmosphere even today. Take a walk along the narrow cobblestone streets of the Old Town, climb the Scholar’s stairs up to the Church on the Hill, and enjoy the picturesque panorama of the town with its pastel-coloured medieval houses from the Clock Tower. (B,D)
Today take an off-road day to trip to explore the unbeaten tracks of Transylvania, taking you to a remote village where HRH the Prince of Wales owns a pretty guesthouse. Prince Charles is a great ambassador of Transylvania biodiversity, and spends a few days a year at his private nature retreat in Zalanpatak, ranked amongst the top 10 private paradises by Vanity Fair. (B,L,D)
After breakfast take a transfer back to Bucharest for your flight home. (B)
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Price Notes
* To upgrade to a Signature Suite (Castle Gate & Constantinople) £150 per person for 5 nights.
Please note that the order of the excursions may change from those listed. The excursions are not fully private and you may be joined by other guests from the hotel.