RomaniaFrom the Belle Époque to Europe's wild bear nature

After Bucharest, the journey continues to the Carpathian Mountains, one of Europe's most impressive natural landscapes. Transylvania surprises visitors with its vastness, tranquility, and wilderness, which one would rather expect to find in Canada. It is home to Europe's largest brown bear population, nestled in dense forests and alpine landscapes. On the way to the region, you will visit Peleș Castle, the former summer residence of the Romanian royal family. The private tour through magnificent salons, ornate woodwork, and richly decorated rooms paints a vivid picture of court life. At lunchtime, the Cantacuzino estate awaits you with a view of the Bucegi Mountains.

During a guided wine tasting and a fine lunch, you will learn about the quality of Romanian wines, an experience that surprises many guests. You will spend two nights in the luxurious Naturhotel MATCA near Brașov, nestled among forests and meadows. The hotel combines traditional architecture with modern comforts and offers plenty of space for rest and relaxation. During your stay, you will experience Transylvania from different perspectives. A special experience is the guided observation of wild brown bears in a protected area. Accompanied by an expert, you will experience Europe's wilderness in an impressive way. Another highlight is the city of Brașov. On a guided tour, you will discover the historic town hall square, the Black Church, and the beautiful alleys of the old town. In the evening, immerse yourself in the myths of the region with an atmospheric Dracula experience, combined with a stylish dinner.

From Transylvania, you will travel on to Sibiu, a city with a clear structure, spacious squares, and a strong Central European influence. The former European Capital of Culture is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the country. You will spend two nights in a high-quality boutique hotel in the historic center, housed in a carefully restored 16th-century building. The location allows you to explore the city on foot. The first evening is yours to spend at your leisure. Stroll through the old town, enjoy a glass of wine in one of the squares, or simply relax and unwind at the end of the day.

The following day, you will explore the region around Sibiu. In a Saxon village, you will visit fortified churches and learn more about a community that still cultivates its cultural roots today. During a group cooking class, you will prepare traditional dishes and experience regional cuisine up close. In the afternoon, you will take a trip to Sighișoara. The medieval citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and impresses with its unity and colorfulness. During a tour, you will discover the clock tower, historic alleys, and the birthplace of Vlad Țepeș.

After a wine tasting at the Jidvei Winery in the Târnava Valley, you will continue on to Maramureș. The landscape changes noticeably. The pace slows down, the architecture becomes simpler, and traditions become more visible. You will spend two nights on an extraordinary estate in the middle of a nature reserve, staying in an exclusive country house that combines sustainability, comfort, and authenticity. Wide meadows, forests, and absolute tranquility characterize your stay.

During your stay, you will get to know Maramureș in depth. You will visit local artisans who carve wood, weave fabrics, or make ceramics. The work is done using traditional techniques and with great dedication. Another highlight is a visit to the Merry Cemetery in Săpânța. The colorful grave crosses tell life stories with humor and openness. The day is rounded off with visits to several UNESCO-protected wooden churches, which are among the most impressive sacred buildings in Europe.