Saddle up and ride in the foothills of Transylvania’s Carpathian Mountains, following winding trails through forest tracks, flower filled meadows and ascending mountain paths, connecting one small village to another. You’ll be welcomed into medieval villages where your local hosts will prepare warming feasts and you’ll experience traditional Romanian country life. Canter across the rural countryside before nestling down for a night of glamping in the wild.
1. Royal Homes of Romania
Arriving in Bucharest, you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to the village of Miklosvar where you’ll stay in The Count Kalnoky’s Guesthouse. Dating back to the early 1800’s, this royal home has been lovingly restored to preserve the original architectural charm and character. Dinner will be served at the Stone Pub, the oldest building in the village, for your first tastes of local food and wine.
Your riding adventure begins after building a rapport with your horses, you’ll saddle up and begin riding along the high pastures which showcase spectacular views across the Carpathian Mountains. You will arrive in the town of Malnas Bai, a previous spa town with numerous hot springs and wooden Transylvanian spa architecture.
2. Horseback across the Forests & Medieval History
Gallop between medieval villages, stopping throughout the day to explore the local life as well as, spectacular landscapes of forests and meadows. You’ll ride around the crater of Murgo volcano before arriving in the Batanii villages.
You’ll stay in the guesthouse of a local family who will warmly welcome you and invite you to learn about the history of the town. In the evening, you will have a cooking class alongside the family before tucking into a feast together.
3. The Secret Valleys of Romania
Your final day of riding will take you through the valleys of the Carpathian Mountains to reach the village of Zalanului. You will arrive in the early afternoon at your accommodation, The Prince of Wales Guesthouse, King Charles’ private nature retreat nestled in the hills. In the afternoon, you’ll have some time to explore the scenery and landscape of the Zalan Valley and village.
The Prince of Wales guest house oozes authenticity through well-preserved architecture met with local furnishings and textiles. Meals reflect the age-old cooking styles of the Transylvanian region and are served together at the ‘table d’hôte’.