Transylvania - Romania and Hungary

Day 1: Arrive Bucharest

Upon arrival in Bucharest, you are transferred to our hotel. Tonight we will have an orientation meeting followed by dinner. Overnight in Bucharest.

Day 2: To Brasov via Sinaia. Peles Castle, Sinaia Monastery

We begin our morning with a guided city tour of Bucharest, seeing the historical downtown and the Parliament Building, which was designed and nearly completed by the Ceausescu Regime as the seat of political and administrative power in Romania. Constructing the Palace required demolishing much of Bucharest's historic district, including 19 Orthodox Christian churches, six Jewish synagogues, three Protestant churches (plus eight relocated churches), and 30,000 residences. This is the world’s second largest building after the Pentagon. After Bucharest we begin our journey to Brasov, crossing the Carpathian Mountains, which will be our point of entry into Transylvania, the land of Magyar, Saxon, Secler, Romanian and Moc Peoples. En route we stop in Sinaia, named after Mount Sinai in Egypt. It is a mountainside town with winding streets and colorful houses. We visit Sinaia Monastery and than Peles Castle, a former royal residence. Built between 1875 and 1883, the castle contains many architectural styles, 160 rooms, and beautiful terraces. Overnight in Brasov.

Day 3: Brasov, the Black Church, and Bran Castle

This morning, we explore the downtown core of Brasov. Brasov has a well-preserved downtown square that is surrounded by beautiful buildings. (It is reminiscent of squares found in Prague.) We visit the Black Church, named so by a fire that blackened its walls. Erected in 1476, the Gothic cathedral has a 250-foot high tower and an organ with 4000 pipes. We also visit the first Romanian school with amazing old Slavic manuscripts. After lunch we drive to Bran Castle, one of the most famous castles in Europe and the setting of the famous Bram Stoker novel. Falsely attributed as a residence of Vlad Tepes and the Dracula myth, it is still a very impressive castle even if isn’t connected with infamy! The castle was built in 1378 atop a cliff that served as a customs checkpoint and as a strategic point for protecting the pass. Its narrow stone stairways, the comfortable rooms and furnishings give one a first-hand look at the life of nobles that ruled the region in the 15th and 16th centuries. Overnight in Brasov.

Day 4: Prejmar, Risnov, Cable car to Mt. Keresztely

This morning we explore Prejmar, a former Saxon fortified church in a town outside Brasov. This church is exquisite in design and contrast, featuring thick walls with internal passages that were used to defend the inhabitants from attack. The Hungarian King, Geza the 2nd, mainly to develop and re-settle the area after the Tatar invasions, first invited the Saxons to the area in the 13th century. The Saxons lived in this area until the revolution of 1989, when most of the population left. The Saxon heritage is most valuable from both a cultural and architectural point of view. During the afternoon we visit the fortress of Risnov with its stunning panorama of the surrounding area. This enormous citadel was built around the year 1215 by the Teutonic Knights and was conquered only once in its history. The citadel is most famous for a well (470 feet/143 meters deep) that was dug by Turkish prisoners of war during a siege and which sits today in the center of the fortress. Later (weather permitting), we will go up by cable car to the peak of Mt. Keresztely situated at 5905 feet (1800 m) - one of the highest peaks of this section of the Carpathian Mountains. From the top enjoy amazing views of the nearby Prahova Valley.Overnight in Brasov.

Day 5: Viscri, to Odorheiu Secuiesc

We say our goodbyes to Brasov today, as we travel through coniferous forests and steep rocky peaks to inner Transylvania. Our first stop will be the village of Viscri (UNESCO World Heritage Site), with one of the most impressive of all the Saxon citadels. From the tower, there is a view of the idyllic countryside and of the village, a classic Saxon Strassendorf, with a row of houses on either side of a single street and a brook running down the center. Hear about the history of the village from one of the last Secler inhabitants as we learn about the traditions, culture and folklore of the local people. Enjoy a typical Saxon lunch with a local family. You will have some free time to explore the city on your own. Overnight in Odorheiu.

Day 6: Biertan, Copsa Mare, Sighisoara

Today we will visit more Saxon heritage sites. Our first stop is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Biertan. The Saxons built this fortified church, which houses a magnificent altar made up of 28 panels, in the 15th century. We then visit the village of Copsa Mare to see the church, which was built in the 14th century. The church was attacked in the 16th century by the Turks and Tartars, but survived, only to be destroyed in 1605 in an attack by Szekely troops. After climbing the bell tower to enjoy the wonderful view, we will be ready for our picnic lunch. After lunch we drive to Sighisoara (Shassburg) the best-preserved medieval/fortified Saxon town in Europe. Walk up to Citadel Hill along narrow winding streets crowned with a 200-foot clock tower that watches over the main gate. This 14th-century building contains old documents, weapons, coins and glass icons. Atop Citadel Hill, there is a Gothic cathedral with strange stone sculptures on the buttresses. You can also visit the house where Vlad Tepes “Dracula” was born. It is now a pub! Overnight in Odorheiu Secuiesc.

Day 7: Mt. Hargita hikes, Charcoal Makers, Secler-gates, Korond Village, and Enlaka Village

This morning we drive up to Mt. Hargita, the sacred peak of the local Seclers, via the scenic Ivo-stream Valley. There we have an hour-long hike to the very peak, where we can enjoy the landscape of central Transylvania with long-range views of the Carpathians. After a picnic lunch we will drive down to the foothills to see the work of a traditional charcoal maker before continuing on to the remote village of Enlaka. En route we stop in a small village, famous for its dozens of “Secler-gates”, whose beauty adorns the streets. These gates were sign of hospitability and showcased the skill of local woodworkers. Many of these gates are more than one hundred years old, and are deemed to be national monuments. We also stop at Korond Village, whose inhabitants are the most famous handicraft makers in the country and where more than 5000 families make a livelihood from producing ceramics and wooden crafts. Afterwards continue on to Enlaka, a traditional Unitarian village and a potential UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the ancient traditions and architecture of the local people. After sightseeing and dinner we will return to Odorhei. Overnight in Odorheiu Secuiesc.

Day 8: Praid Salt Mine, to Voronet via Bicaz Gorge and Lacu Rosu

We begin our day with a visit to the Salt Mine at Praid. Traveling by bus, we descend down into the mine far below the surface. Today the salt mine is a sanatorium for children who suffer from asthma. They come here to live and sleep for several weeks while they receive care for their condition. This virtual underground city is complete with a hospital and underground church. Afterwards we continue on to Voronet, our base to explore the famous Painted Monasteries of Bucovina. Our journey today has us crossing the Bucsin-Pass of the Eastern Carpathians. En route we will pass through the narrow Bicaz Gorge, with its hundred meter high walls, and Lacu Rosu (Lake of Murder), with its unique landscape and which is oftentimes referred to as the "Switzerland of Transylvania". Above the lake is the Tunder (Fairy)-Rock, which offers stunning views of the area. We will at the end of the day into Voronet, the center of Bucovina. Overnight in Voronet.

Days 9-10: Painted Monasteries of Bucovina: Moldovita, Arbore, Sucevita, Probota, Voronet, Humor and Saint John the New Monastery

Among the most picturesque treasures of Romania are the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina. Their painted exterior walls are decorated with elaborate 15th and 16th century frescoes featuring portraits of saints and prophets, scenes from the life of Jesus, images of angels and demons, and heaven and hell. Deemed masterpieces of Byzantine art, these churches are one-of-a-kind architectural sites in Europe. Far from being merely wall decorations, the murals represent complete cycles of religious doctrine. The purpose of the frescoes was to make the story of the Bible and the lives of the most important Orthodox saints known to villagers by the use of images. Their outstanding composition, elegant outline and harmonious colors blend perfectly with the surrounding landscape. Some of Romaniaís most beautiful countryside is to be found in Bucovina, whose rolling green hills nestle villages and monasteries within their valleys. Horses, decked with red-tasseled bridles, travel country lanes, as villagers crowd churchyards in traditional folk dress on Sundays and holidays. Seven of the churches were placed on UNESCO World Heritage list in 1993. The eighth, Sucevita, is awaiting sanction to be added on the list. We have dedicated two days to explore the most stunning examples of painted churches in this area.
Overnight in Voronet.

Day 11: Drive to Rimetea

Today we have a long day of driving to reach Rimetea. Our journey will take us through beautiful mountain scenery, as we cross the Eastern Carpathian arch and than central Transylvania, passing through the Carpathian Mountains at the Mestecanis Pass, and then following the route through a series of significant towns that were once an important part of medieval Transylvania. This evening we will learn how to make the Hungarian specialty cake “Kurtoskalacs” in a local home. With dinner this evening, we have a chance to sample the famous local plum brandy, “Palinka”. Overnight in Rimetea.

Day 12: Rimetea, Torockoszentgyorgy hike, Moc villages

We begin our day with a walk around the town of Rimetea, which is known for its traditional old houses and small local museum, and which also offers a view of Secler Rock, which dominates the landscape. Afterwards we drive to the next village to begin a scenic hike to the castle ruins that overlook Torockoszentgyorgy Village, situated far below. The views are superb! After a picnic lunch we travel a short distance by bus to visit a traditional Moc village surrounded by large mountains. The Mocs are an ancient ethnic group who live a secluded life deep in the mountains, many without electricity or running water. The Moc people speak Romanian and many of the houses have conical, thatched roofs. We also visit a beautiful wooden carved monastery and try to meet with the local orthodox monks. Overnight in Rimetea.

Day 13: Torda Gorge hike, Hunedoara Castle, Deva Fortress

Today we hike Torda Gorge, one of the largest in Europe and which contains hundreds of endemic plants and insects. According to one legend, the sword of St. Ladislas, a legendary Hungarian King of the 13th century who escaped the Mongolian Tatar hordes, forged the canyon. We will see the giant nests of Golden eagles and with luck we might see them soaring overhead. After a picnic lunch we drive to Hunedoara, to visit one of the largest and most breathtaking medieval fortresses in Transylvania. The impressive size and architectural beauty set it among the most precious monuments of medieval art, subsequent developments mixing Gothic style with Renaissance and Baroque. The building lies on a rock around which flows the Zlasti River. It has an impressive drawbridge, countless towers, a number of interior courts, and two large halls, "Knight Hall" and "Diet Hall", as it housed the diet of Transylvania for a very short period. The castle’s history is mostly related to the Hunyadi Family, as it was the place where John Hunyadi spent his childhood. He was one of the heroes of the fight against the encroaching Ottoman Empire, and the most skilful warrior of medieval Hungary. He advanced to be named Voivode (Prince) of Transylvania, which was at the time an autonomous part of the Kingdom of Hungary. He formed a coalition with the principalities of Moldavia and Wallachia and engaged in crusades against the Turks to free Serbia and Bulgaria. Although he died in a military camp, his son Mátyás (Matthias) later became one of the most famous Hungarian kings. The rising nationalism in the modern era made John a celebrated hero of Romanians, Hungarians and Serbians. Statues of John Hunyadi can be found in Hunedoara and various other locations in Romania and Hungary. On the way back we drive up to Deva Castle, a 13th century fortress sitting on the top of a hill with great panorama view over this section of the Carpathians. Overnight in Rimetea.

Day 14: Sincrau Village, Oradea. Arrival in Hungary

We have an early start this morning as we travel to the Hungary border. En route we visit a Calvinistic church of the Magyar Sincrau (Kalotaszentkiraly) Village. This is one of the foremost, original ethnic villages of Western Transylvania, famous for its folk and native culture. We will enjoy the hospitality of the locals with their traditional costumes, very special local dishes, as well as the opportunity to shop for some local handmade painted pitches, woodcarvings and embroideries. We cross the Bucea Pass, our exit point of Transylvania, as we descend to Oradea (Nagyvarad) to visit one of the most gorgeous baroque churches in all of Central Europe, and the burial place of the sacred Hungarian King, St. Ladislaus. We also will learn about Endre Ady, the greatest Hungarian poet. Overnight in Hajduszoboszlo.

Day 15: Hortobagy National Park, Godollo Royal Palace

After breakfast we will visit a local animal farm with many endemic domestic animals before we travel into the Pusta. The Pusta is a wide-open flat area with unique vegetation. In terms of flora, the Pusta is Asiatic and is known as a small piece of Asia inside Europe. Hortobagy National Park is a World Heritage Site that preserves the unique natural and cultural treasures of this remote part of Europe. Here we will see the special curly-haired and “cholesterol-free” mangalica pigs, strange spiral-horned sheep, the enormous Hungarian Gray Cattle, Water Buffalo and many special house fowls and pigeons. After the animal farm we travel by cart into the open plains, where we will be introduced to the life of the local herdsmen and horse riders as we visit several herds of semi-wild kept animals. After lunch, we continue to travel westward to see the former royal palace of Godollo. Godollo was a palace of Emperor Franz Joseph, King Charles IV (the last Hungarian King), and Nicholaus Horthy, regent of Hungary between the two world wars. Partially restored over the last two years, the building and garden provide a glimpse into the Austro-Hungarian Empire’s regal past, highlighting the life of the famous “Sissi”, wife of Emperor Franz Joseph.
Overnight in Budapest.

Day 16: Budapest Sightseeing

The broad Danube River runs through the middle of this stunning metropolis, dividing hilly Buda from the Pest plain, with nine beautiful old bridges and romantic islands. Today, we explore Budapest by foot and by bus, visiting the highlights of Andrassy Street (a World Heritage Site) including the Opera House, Hero’s Square, and the Parliament building, which is ranked as one of the most beautiful in the world. With 691 rooms this neo-Gothic palace stretches 880 feet (268 meters) along the embankment of the Danube River. We also visit the Basilica, the greatest of the Hungarian churches, and the Synagogue, which is the 3rd largest in the World and the largest of the continent. Overnight in Budapest.

Day 17: Visegrad, Danube Bend, Szentendre, Buda Castle

Today, we travel north from Budapest to the very center of the Danube Bend, visiting the Royal Palace of Visegrad City. In its day, completed in 1330, Visegrad was the largest building ensemble in medieval Hungary and was declared as the capital in the 14th century. "From Visegrád, from an earthly paradise" - thus wrote an ambassador of the Pope, guest of King Matthias (1458-1490), and a person well used to glitter and pomp. We travel to the Serbian City of Szentendre to explore this legendary old museum town. With its winding streets, church towers and colorful houses, Szentendre is probably the Danube Bend's most visited tourist centre and is a fascinating place to explore. Later we return to Budapest, and visit the Buda Castle District, a World Heritage Site that includes Mathyas Church, the Royal Palace, and the viewpoint at Fishermen’s Bastion. After dinner we drive up Citadel (Gellert Hill) to see the best panorama of Budapest. It is not difficult to see why Budapest is known as one of the most romantic cities in the world!
Overnight in Budapest.

Day 18: Church of Zsambek, Alcsut Arboretum, Kamandul Hermitage, and Wetlands of Csakvar, Castle of Lovasbereny

Will visit the Alcsut Arboretum in the Danube- Ipoly National Park. We enjoy a day of exploring outside of Budapest. We begin with the Church of St George the Martyr, a former Benedictine Abbey, in the village of Zsambek. Later we a guided tour through the arboretum to see many of the 540 different tree and bush species displayed in the landscaped park and learn the special history of the place, as it was a garden of a former aristocratic palace. We will enjoy a picnic lunch on the way to Vertes Hills and its large nature reserve where we hope to see many of the birds that inhabit these wooded limestone hills. Don’t forget your binoculars today, as we will spend the late afternoon on a walk near the wetlands of Csakvar. We also have a guided tour at the Kamandul Hermitage site of Majk, an extraordinary assemblage of buildings. The Kamandul Order was established in 1009 in Italy, and the monks were allowed to speak to each other only twice a year. They lived at this peaceful spot from 1733-1770, when it was converted into a hunting lodge of the famous Esterhazy Family. Later we stop at Lovasbereny Castle, a ruined and half-abandoned mansion of a local aristocratic family who shared a fate similar to other such properties during the Communist-era. Before our farewell dinner in a countryside restaurant we will enjoy a great panoramic view over the second largest lake of the country, Lake Velence. Overnight in Budapest.

Day 19: Depart

Our adventure in Eastern Europe concludes today as we depart for Budapest Airport to board our international flights home.