Category: Romania

The Bison Reserve close to Haţeg is a natural reserve located in the south-western part of Romania which was established in 1958. These magnificent animals are some of the largest mammals in Europe, and they are considered to be an endangered species.

The reserve aims to protect and promote the conservation of these animals, as well as to provide visitors with the opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. The Bison Reserve Silvuţ-Haţeg is actually named after the forest and region in which it is located.

How to get there

Getting to the Bison Reserve is easy, especially if you have access to a car. Here’s how:

• From Hațeg: The reserve is located about 3 km from the city center.

• Directions: If you’re driving on DN 66 from Simeria toward Hațeg, look for a right turn just before entering Hațeg. Follow this road, and you’ll arrive at the reserve in a few minutes.

• Parking: There is a small parking area near the entrance.

Pro Tip: Combine your visit to the Bison Reserve with other nearby attractions in the Hațeg region for a full day of exploration! Here is a list of places you can visit near Hațeg: What To Visit In The Land of Hateg

Towards the bisons

After we parked our car in the free parking lot conveniently located near the main entrance of the reserve, we purchased our tickets at the entrance. Once inside, we followed a clearly marked path that winds through the peaceful forest towards the bisons.

Useful information: Visiting Hours: Daily between 08:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Entrance Fee: 6 lei – adults, 4 lei – children

The walk itself was quite relaxing, with the tall trees providing shade and the sounds of nature adding to the experience. While visitors aren’t allowed to enter the bison enclosure for safety reasons, there are plenty of great viewing spots along the fence. If you’re lucky enough, you might spot the bison up close, especially near the barn, where they often gather to eat.

Watching these majestic animals in such a serene setting is a truly memorable experience.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, the Bison Reserve from Haţeg is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. This natural reserve offers a unique opportunity to observe one of Europe’s most magnificent animals, the European bison, in its natural habitat.

Nearby attractions to visit

After visiting the bison, you can explore other destinations located not far from the city of Hațeg:

• The Malaiesti Citadel – this is one of the smallest citadels that I’ve visited so far.

• The Densus Stone Church – this is one of the oldest church in Romania, you will find it in the village of Densus which is not very far from the city of Hateg.

• Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa – explore the old ruins of the former ancient Roman city of Ulpia Traiana.

After visiting the historic Cistercian Monastery in Cârța, our next stop was the enchanting Clay Castle in the Valley of Fairies. Nestled in the charming village of Porumbacu de Sus in the Făgăraș region, this unique attraction feels like stepping into a fairy tale.

Why Visit the Clay Castle?

The Clay Castle is unlike any other. Built almost entirely from natural materials such as clay, wood, and straw, its unique architecture evokes images of storybook castles. The rounded edges and earthy tones blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape, making it a dreamlike destination.

It’s no wonder this spot attracts visitors from across Romania. During our visit, it was bustling with tourists, all eager to experience the magic of this one-of-a-kind castle. All in all, we enjoyed our short stop there and I highly encourage you to check this place out especially if you are in the nearby area.

The Porumbacu River

Right next to the Clay Castle you will find a nicely decorated garden with many wooden stools which and benches mad out of hay. This place is actually located right in front of the Porumbacu River which flows from the nearby Făgăraș Mountains. This is the perfect place for relaxation especially when you have such a beautiful landscape right in front of you.

The Făgăraș Mountains in the background

Since the Făgăraș Mountains are actually pretty close to the Clay Castle, if you visit this place in early spring as I did, you will have the chance the see snow on the peaks of the mountains.

Nearby Attractions

1. The Cârța Monastery

A historic 12th-century Cistercian abbey located just a short drive away.
Known for its ruins, Evangelical Lutheran Church, and scenic setting.

2. The Transfăgărășan Road

One of Romania’s most famous roads, offering breathtaking views of the Făgăraș Mountains.

3. Bâlea Waterfall

Stunning natural landmarks located higher up in the Făgăraș Mountains, perfect for hiking and photography.

Final Thoughts

The Clay Castle in the Valley of Fairies is a magical destination that will delight visitors of all ages. Whether you’re drawn by the fairy tale architecture or the stunning views of the Făgăraș Mountains, this unique spot is well worth a visit. I think the best time to visit this place is in early spring. During this season, the weather is fresh, and the landscape is especially beautiful. One of the highlights is the snow-covered peaks of the Făgăraș Mountains, which create a stunning contrast with the greenery in the valley below. The mix of snowy mountain tops and blooming nature makes the scenery feel magical, like something out of a fairy tale. If you’re lucky enough to catch the mountains on a clear day, the views will be truly unforgettable.

Important tip: Don’t forget to bring your camera—the castle, the river, and the mountains make for unforgettable photos!

The Carta Monastery or Carta Abbey is another important tourist attraction in Transylvania. Located in the picturesque village of Carta which is about 43 km away from Sibiu and about 73 km away from the medieval citadel of Sighisoara. Today among the old ruins, you will find an interesting Evangelical Lutheran church that belongs to the local Saxon community.

Right behind the village of Carta, you will find the beautiful Fagaras Mountains. If you visit this place in early spring or in autumn then the scenery becomes even more beautiful especially if you are lucky enough to find snow on the peaks of the mountains.

Before you go, you should know:

Before visiting this place you should know that it is open from Monday to Sunday, from 11:00 to 20:00. You also have to pay a fee, 5 RON for children and 10 RON for adults.

Short story of the monastery

The building date of the Carta Monastery is unknown, however, according to some old documents, it is believed that it was built in the 12th century by the Cistercian monks. After the Mongol invasion from 1241, the Carta Monastery unfortunately was left in ruins. During the reign of King Matthias Corvinus, on his orders, the abbey was closed in 1474, and the Cistercian monks had to leave because the order’s properties were confiscated.

The Monastery Tower

To visit the cemetery and the Evangelical Lutheran church, you will have to go through the wooden door located next to the Monastery Tower.

The cemetery

In the small churchyard, you will find a small cemetery where are buried fallen German soldiers from World War I.

The Evangelical Lutheran Church

In the back of the churchyard, there is the Evangelical Lutheran Church that was built for the local Saxon community. As you enter the church it feels like you are traveling back in time. The altar is the main focus. It’s lit up with a warm, golden light, and it’s detailed with carvings and small statues showing stories from the Bible. Right above the entrance, you will find an old pipe organ.

Visit the old ruins

Next to the Lutheran church, you will find the old ruins that once belonged to the nave of a much larger church. Today only a part of the wall remained.

How to reach the village of Carta

In order to reach the village and of course the former Cistercian Monastery, if you are coming from Sibiu on E68, you will have to make a left turn after the village of Scoreiu and drive towards Carta.

Here you will find the exact location of the charming Transylvanian village: https://maps.app.goo.gl/w8UycSwoTJaEYZEe6

Nearby Attractions

The southern part of Transylvania offers you a lot of interesting places to discover. The closest objectives to the former Cistercian Monastery in Carta are the following:

Balea Waterfall – This is a popular waterfall up in the Fagaras mountains. To reach this place you will have to drive a portion on the famous Transfagaras road which links the historical region of Transylvania to Muntenia.

The Clay Castle From The Valley Of Fairies – It’s a very popular place located in Porumbacu de Sus which is not far from Carta. Over there you will find an interesting castle made out of natural materials.

The Brukenthal Summer Palace in Avrig – In Avrig you will find the Summer Palace of Samuel von Brukenthal.

After visiting the charming Clay Castle in Porumbacu de Sus, my next stop in the Fagaras region was the small town of Avrig, located about 30 km from Sibiu and just 15 km from the Clay Castle.

Avrig might seem modest at first glance, but it’s home to one of Transylvania’s hidden gems: the Brukenthal Summer Palace. Once a retreat for Transylvanian nobility, this historic site offers a glimpse into the opulence of 18th-century aristocracy.

The Summer Palace

The palace, shaped like a “U,” was inspired by two iconic European landmarks: Luxembourg Palace in Paris and Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna. Construction began under Governor Adolf Nicolaus von Bucow and was completed by Samuel von Brukenthal, who later became Governor of Transylvania.

Today, the palace houses a collection of 18th-century artworks and artifacts, giving visitors a chance to experience the era’s cultural richness. While some parts of the palace are currently inaccessible to the public, you can still explore the central building and enjoy its historical charm.

Interesting Fact: During WWII, the palace was converted into a military hospital—a testament to its long and varied history

The Palace Gardens

The Brukenthal Palace Gardens are a highlight of the estate. As you walk up the stairs near the fountain, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the entire property. The gardens are beautifully landscaped, offering a peaceful escape and plenty of photo opportunities.

Insider Tip: On the right side of the property, you’ll find a cozy restaurant where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine or a refreshing drink. It’s a perfect spot to relax after exploring the grounds.

How to reach this place?

Finding the Brukenthal Summer Palace is straightforward:

Head to Gării Street, just 200 meters from the intersection with Săsilor Street.
If you’re driving, there’s ample parking nearby. For public transport users, buses from Sibiu often pass through Avrig.

To be easier for you to find it, below I’ve shared a link with the exact location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TRvFGmvsSWW3mksc8

Additional Tips for Your Visit

Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the gardens in full bloom.
Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Clay Castle, the Carta Monastery or the city of Sibiu for a full day of exploration.

The Fagaras Mountains are a part of the Southern Carpathians range and are located almost in the center of Romania. The Fagaras Mountains are a range of mountains in Romania that span over 70 kilometers in length and rise to a height of 2,544 meters at their highest point. The highest peak is called Moldoveanu. These mountains are a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning views of rugged peaks, deep valleys, and glacial lakes. The mountains are home to a variety of wildlife, including brown bears, lynx, wolves, and eagles. The vegetation in the area is also diverse, with forests of beech, spruce, and fir trees covering much of the lower slopes and meadows of wildflowers dotting the higher elevations. The Fagaras Mountains offer a range of outdoor activities, from hiking to rock climbing, mountaineering to skiing. The region is home to over 200 km of marked trails that lead hikers through stunning scenery and past glacial lakes, waterfalls, and traditional Romanian villages. Some of the most popular hiking routes in the area include the Transfagarasan road, which winds through the mountains and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. If you plan to drive on the Transfagarasan road then you should definitely make a short stop at Balea Cascada and explore this charming place.

The Mountains in the Fagaras region

A couple years ago, I visited a couple of popular places in the Fagaras region like the the former Cistercian monastery in Carta and The Clay Castle Valley Of The Fairies located close to the Transylvanian village of Porumbacu de Sus. Since the mountains were close to the main road, I had many opportunities to capture some interesting photos of the mountains with their snow covered peaks.

In conclusion, the Fagaras Mountains are a stunning and diverse mountain range that offers a range of outdoor activities for all skill levels. From hiking and rock climbing to skiing and snowboarding, the Fagaras Mountains are a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Romania’s natural landscape.