Why Transylvania?
Transylvania is best known as the mysterious land of bloodthirsty 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. Bordered to the east by the Carpathian Mountains, ‘the land beyond the forest’ still feels undiscovered. So, pack your garlic – here’s the lowdown on one of Eastern Europe’s most captivating regions.
Clay Castle
Straight out of a fairy tale, in the heart of Romania, in the Carpathian mountain range, in Transylvania, hides a strange castle. Want to have a hobbit experience? Visit the fairy castle whose exact name is Castelul de lut from the valley of the fairies. Nestled at the bottom of the imposing Fagaras Mountains, the highest mountains of the Southern Carpathians, this castle stands out with its wave-shaped spruce roofs and organic curves, perfectly integrated into the landscape.
More about the Clay CastleTop 3 places to visit when you're roaming in Transylvania
Balea Lake
One of Romania’s amazing natural wonders, Bâlea Lake is a spectacular, must-see landmark. The glacier lake has been carved 2,034 metres (6,673 feet) up into the rugged stones of the Făgăraș Mountains, named the ‘Transylvanian Alps’ by the French geographer Emmanuel de Martonne..
Transfagarasan
How does this drive compare to other great roads? "We were wrong, this is better than the Stelvio, this is the best road in the world!" Jeremy Clarkson - Top Gear. This amazing road called the Transfagarasan highway passes over the Fagaras mountains in Transylvania, Romania at 2000 metres. It was on this road with endless curves and sheer drops that I decided to invite Jeremy Clarkson and the Top Gear team to Romania. Although I never received a reply to my email, I was happy to see that they turned up a year later to film and experience one of the most exciting and inspirational drives in the world!
Retezat Mountains
The Retezat Mountains are very popular with hikers, climbers and nature lovers because of the varied flora and fauna, rugged cliffs, waterfalls, gorges and over 50 mountain lakes, most of which are of glacial origin. Most of the massif is considered a protected area and is part of the Retezat National Park. The Retezat Massif is home to wild animals such as wolves and black goats, as well as a small number of brown bears.
Gallery
Explore more amazing cities in Transylvania
