Romania's secret treasures: Discovering the hidden beauty of Transylvania.

Sighisoara, also known as the "Jewel of Transylvania," is a hidden gem in the heart of Romania. This small medieval town is located on the Tarnava Mare River and is surrounded by rolling hills and lush green forests. Sighisoara is one of the most well-preserved medieval cities in Europe, and it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.

The town is famous for its picturesque architecture, cobblestone streets, and ancient fortifications. The citadel, the fortified old town at the top of a hill, is the most iconic part of the town. It is surrounded by walls and towers, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can walk along the walls, explore the medieval streets, and visit the Clock Tower, which houses the town's history museum.

One of the most interesting things about Sighisoara is that it is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula. Visitors can visit the house where Vlad was born, which has been turned into a museum. The museum showcases medieval weapons, furniture, and clothing, as well as exhibits about Vlad's life and legacy.

In addition to its historical and cultural attractions, Sighisoara is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding hills and forests offer hiking and biking trails, and there are several parks and gardens in the town itself.

Overall, Sighisoara is a hidden gem that should not be missed. Its stunning architecture, fascinating history, and beautiful natural surroundings make it one of the most unique destinations in Europe.

Whether you are interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventure, Sighisoara has something for everyone.

Corvin Castle, also known as Hunyadi Castle, is a fairytale fortress located in the heart of Transylvania, Romania. It is one of the most impressive Gothic castles in Europe and is considered a hidden gem by many visitors.

The castle was built in the 14th century and was owned by the Hunyadi family, one of the most powerful families in Transylvania. The castle's Gothic architecture and impressive size make it look like it was taken straight out of a fairytale. It features a drawbridge, towers, and a courtyard with beautiful gardens.

One of the most unique features of Corvin Castle is its underground passages and torture chambers. Visitors can explore the dark, eerie tunnels and learn about the gruesome history of the castle. It is said that Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula, was imprisoned in the castle for several years.

The castle has been restored several times over the years, and it is now open to visitors. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle, explore the courtyards and gardens, and learn about the castle's fascinating history.

Corvin Castle is located in the small town of Hunedoara, which is surrounded by the beautiful Transylvanian mountains. Visitors can combine a visit to the castle with a trip to the nearby Apuseni Natural Park, which offers hiking trails and stunning views of the mountains.

 

Overall, Corvin Castle is a hidden gem that should not be missed. Its fairytale architecture, underground tunnels, and rich history make it one of the most unique and impressive castles in Europe. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or just love fairytales, a visit to Corvin Castle is a must.

Apuseni Natural Park is a hidden gem located in the heart of Transylvania, Romania. It is a nature lover's paradise, with stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and unique geological formations.

The park covers an area of over 75,000 hectares and is home to several mountain ranges, forests, rivers, and caves. Visitors can explore the park's hiking trails, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. There are also several camping sites and picnic areas throughout the park, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a longer stay.

One of the most unique features of Apuseni Natural Park is its extensive cave system. The park is home to over 400 caves, including the Scarisoara Ice Cave, which is the second-largest ice cave in Europe. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave system and learn about the unique geological formations and ecosystems that exist within them.

In addition to its natural beauty, Apuseni Natural Park is also home to several traditional Romanian villages. Visitors can explore these villages and learn about the local culture and customs. The park is also home to several traditional crafts, such as pottery and weaving, which visitors can watch and learn about.

Overall, Apuseni Natural Park is a hidden gem that should not be missed. Its stunning natural beauty, unique geological formations, and rich cultural heritage make it one of the most unique destinations in Europe. Whether you are interested in hiking, wildlife, or cultural tourism, a visit to Apuseni Natural Park is a must.

Sibiu, also known as Hermannstadt, is a hidden gem located in the heart of Transylvania, Romania. It is considered a cultural capital of the region, with its beautiful architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene.

The city was founded in the 12th century by German settlers and has a unique blend of Saxon, Hungarian, and Romanian culture. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. Visitors can explore the old town's narrow streets, colorful buildings, and charming squares, which are lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops.

One of the most impressive sights in Sibiu is the Brukenthal Palace, which houses the Brukenthal National Museum. The museum features a collection of European art, including works by Rubens, Van Dyck, and Bruegel. The palace itself is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Sibiu is also home to several festivals and cultural events throughout the year, including the International Theatre Festival and the Jazz Festival. Visitors can enjoy performances by local and international artists, as well as traditional Romanian music and dance.

In addition to its cultural attractions, Sibiu is also a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside. The nearby Fagaras Mountains offer hiking and skiing opportunities, and the Transfagarasan Highway is considered one of the most scenic drives in Europe.

Overall, Sibiu is a hidden gem that should not be missed. Its beautiful architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene make it one of the most unique destinations in Europe. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventure, Sibiu has something for everyone.

Bran Castle is a hidden gem located in Transylvania, Romania, and is famously known as the home of Dracula. The castle is perched atop a hill overlooking the town of Bran, and its Gothic architecture and eerie atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the legend of Dracula.

While the castle is often associated with the fictional character of Dracula, it is more closely linked to the historical figure of Vlad the Impaler. Vlad was a medieval ruler who is known for his brutal tactics, including impaling his enemies on spikes. It is said that Vlad was imprisoned in Bran Castle for a brief period.

Visitors to Bran Castle can explore the castle's winding staircases, dark corridors, and hidden chambers. The castle features a museum that showcases the history of the castle and the surrounding region, including the legend of Dracula. Visitors can also enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside from the castle's ramparts.
In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Bran Castle is also a popular destination for its picturesque location. The castle is situated in the middle of the Carpathian Mountains, and visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities in the nearby area.

Overall, Bran Castle is a hidden gem that should not be missed. Its history, architecture, and association with the legend of Dracula make it a unique and fascinating destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Transylvania.

 

Whether you are a fan of horror movies or just love exploring historical sites, a visit to Bran Castle is a must.

Biertan Fortified Church is a hidden gem located in Transylvania, Romania, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The church is a remarkable example of medieval fortification and architecture, and its history and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Transylvania.

The church was built in the 15th century and served as a center of religious and cultural life for the surrounding community. Its Gothic architecture and intricate carvings are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the medieval builders. The church is also fortified with walls, towers, and a moat, which were designed to protect the community from outside threats.

Visitors to Biertan Fortified Church can explore the church's interior, which features a beautiful altar, pulpit, and frescoes. The church also houses a collection of historical artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the surrounding region. Visitors can also climb the church's tower for a stunning view of the surrounding countryside.

In addition to its cultural and historical significance, Biertan Fortified Church is also a popular destination for its picturesque location. The church is situated in the middle of rolling hills and vineyards, and visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities in the nearby area.

Overall, Biertan Fortified Church is a hidden gem that should not be missed. Its medieval fortification, Gothic architecture, and cultural significance make it a unique and fascinating destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Transylvania.

 

Whether you are a history buff, a lover of architecture, or just love exploring cultural sites, a visit to Biertan Fortified Church is a must.

Retezat National Park is a hidden gem located in Transylvania, Romania, and is a hiker's paradise. The park is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, diverse flora and fauna, and challenging hiking trails, making it a must-visit destination for anyone who loves to explore the outdoors.

 

The park covers an area of over 38,000 hectares and is home to the Retezat Mountains, which are some of the most picturesque and rugged peaks in Romania. The park's landscape is characterized by rolling hills, deep valleys, and crystal-clear lakes, which provide the perfect backdrop for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
Hikers visiting Retezat National Park can choose from a variety of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks.

 

Some of the most popular trails include the Retezat Peak Trail, which takes hikers to the highest peak in the park, and the Bucura Lake Trail, which offers stunning views of the park's largest lake.

 

In addition to its natural beauty and hiking opportunities, Retezat National Park is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is home to over 1,000 plant species, including several rare and endemic species, as well as a variety of wildlife, such as bears, wolves, and lynx.

Overall, Retezat National Park is a must visit hidden gem. Its natural beauty, challenging hiking trails, and diverse flora and fauna make it a unique and fascinating destination for anyone who loves to explore the outdoors. Whether you are an experienced hiker or just love being in nature, a visit to Retezat National Park is a must.

Viscri is a hidden gem located in Transylvania, Romania, and is a traditional Saxon village that has retained its unique culture and heritage. The village is known for its charming traditional houses, fortified church, and rural way of life, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Transylvania.

 

Viscri was founded by German settlers in the 12th century and served as a center of Saxon culture and community for hundreds of years. Today, the village's traditional houses, many of which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, have been preserved and restored, providing visitors with a glimpse into the village's rich history and culture.
One of the most notable features of Viscri is its fortified church, which was built in the 14th century and served as a place of worship and a defensive structure. The church's walls, towers, and moat are a testament to the community's ingenuity and resourcefulness in the face of outside threats.

 

Visitors to Viscri can explore the village's narrow streets and alleys, admire its traditional architecture, and learn about its unique history and culture. The village is also home to a variety of small shops and cafes, where visitors can sample local food and crafts.

In addition to its cultural and historical significance, Viscri is also a popular destination for its beautiful natural setting. The village is surrounded by rolling hills and forests, providing visitors with the perfect backdrop for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities.

 

Overall, Viscri is a hidden gem that should not be missed. 

Whether you are a history buff, a lover of architecture, or just looking for a peaceful and beautiful place to visit, a trip to Viscri is a must.