Râșnov

Activities

Your tour will begin as you are taken by a professional guide from your hotel in Brasov. From here you will travel with a luxury Mercedes high-class van, which you will be your mode of transportation for all 3 of your sights included in the tour. You will begin with a tour of Pele's Castle, a summer residence belonging to the royal family of Romania which was built in the 19th century by Carol the First, the first king of Romania. It is the most beautiful castle in Romania, and one of the greatest in Europe. Next up you will visit Bran Castle, also known as "Dracula's Castle" and built in the 14th century. Whilst here you will learn how this castle was made famous by the Irish writer Bram Stoker. Legends, spirits, ghosts, and many mysteries will be encountered whilst visiting Dracula's Castle. Your final stop will be to the Rasnov Fortress, built in the 13th century on top of a rocky hill creating the perfect vantage point over the surrounding valley. This unique vantage point is the reason why it was only conquered once in 1611. You will be able to admire the beautiful mountain scenery of the Bucegi Mountains, Tara Barsei, and many others. In the evening, you will be returned back to your hotel with beautiful memories of the day.

Follow in the footsteps of the Count Dracula legend on a 2-day tour to Peles Castle and Bran Castle in the Transylvanian mountains. Wander the ornate rooms and gardens of former royal residences, and see Saxon houses that date back to the 16th century. The scenic drive takes you high up into the Carpathian Mountains where time has stood still at enchanting villages, and where Romanians head in the winter to ski at the mountain resort of Sinaia. Day 1: Bucharest - Sighisoara Following a pick-up from your hotel in Bucharest (or from Revolution Square at 09:00), cross the Carpathian Mountains en route to Sibiu, stopping at the Monastery of Curtea de Arges to explore the complex founded by Prince Neagoe Basarab in 1514-1517. During the summer (1 June - 15 September), the route to Sibiu takes the unique Transfagarasan Road across the Carpathians, climbing to an altitude of 2,000 meters at its highest point. Upon arrival in Sibiu, enjoy a quick tour of the medieval city center. Then, drive to Sighisoara on the picturesque Tarnava Mare River. Marvel at the beautifully preserved citadel, and wander the enclosed walls and cobblestone streets of the Old Town. See Saxon houses that date back to the 16th century, and the 9 surviving towers, including the iconic Clock Tower. From the balcony of this former main gate to the city, enjoy beautiful views across the town and countryside. Immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere at sights such as the former Church of the Dominican Monastery, where valuable relics include a fresco of the Saint Trinity, a carved altarpiece, and Oriental carpets. Day 2: Sighisoara - Brasov - Bran - Bucharest Today you will drive to Brasov to discover where Vlad the Impaler led his raids against the German Saxons. Explore the medieval city center on a tour of the Black Church, Town Hall, Black Tower, and Ecaterina Gate. Then, continue to “Dracula’s Castle,” located between the Bucegi and Piatra Craiului Mountains. More commonly known as “Bran Castle,” the important monument depends on the legend of Count Dracula for its reputation, but is also acclaimed for its beauty. Learn the history of the castle, from the 14th century to the day in December 1920 when the castle was donated to Queen Marie of Great Romania. Admire the fountains, lakes, and halt terraces of the former royal summer residence, and see the "Tea House" of Queen Marie. Continue to the beautiful mountain resort of Sinaia, known as "The Pearl of the Carpathians." Here, you will visit Peles Castle, one of Romania's most exquisite palaces. Learn about the Romanian kings that used the castle as their summer residence as you admire its intricate façades and see wooden towers that reach for the sky. Discover the fountains and statues built by Viennese architects in the grounds, and imagine the balls, concerts, literary events, and theatrical performances of Romanian high society in days gone by. Wander the opulent interiors to find ebony, walnut and mother of pearl. Go to the terraces and grand outhouses of the castle complex, such as Pelisor Castle and Sinaia Monastery. Venture inside the Monastery, built by the "Spatar" (a high ranking noble of the Valahian Kingdom), Mihai Cantacuzino following his pilgrimage to Mount Sinai. The monastery contains religious icons and rare books, as well as an exhibition of pottery and porcelain that dates from the 16th to the 19th centuries. There will be time to visit the 19th-century wine cellars from Azuga, built by the Rhein family, official suppliers to the Royal Court. Purchase some authentic still wines and sparkling wines of Romania, before transferring back to Bucharest in the evening.

In case you have your own bike, meet your guide in Brașov's city center where you can receive assistance with renting one. Cross-country mountain bikes or e-bikes are available, you just need to provide your height. Meet your guide in the city center, get familiarized with the bikes. Start the tour through the city streets until you reach the outskirts of Brașov. From here, continue riding towards Cristian and Râșnov, passing through scenic meadows, overlooking Piatra Craiului mountains and the nearby settlement of Cristian, with its dominating church tower. Once you reach Râșnov, together with your guide, you will decide what you will do. You can go and visit the nearby Valea Cetății cave, then head back to Râșnov and visit the citadel up the hill. Or, if you feel the need to relax, you can chill at a local restaurant. At the end of the tour, head back to Brașov on your bike or take the train, if you are too tired.