Escorted tours of Romania
Exploring the Hidden Gems of Romania
Romania, a land of diverse landscapes and rich history, is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Nestled in Eastern Europe, this country boasts stunning scenery, medieval castles, vibrant cities, and a culture deeply rooted in tradition. Exploring Romania is a journey that promises to be both enchanting and educational, and what better way to experience it than through escorted tours?
Escorted tours in Romania offer a structured and immersive experience, allowing travellers to delve into the heart of this beautiful country while accompanied by knowledgeable guides. These tours ensure a seamless exploration of Romania’s highlights, providing insights into its history, culture, and natural beauty. Let’s embark on a virtual journey through the lens of escorted tours and discover the hidden gems of Romania.
Discovering Romania’s Enchanting Cities
The capital city, Bucharest, is often the starting point of many escorted tours in Romania. This bustling metropolis is a blend of old and new, where grand architecture from the communist era stands alongside modern buildings and parks. A guided tour of Bucharest offers a glimpse into its rich history, including a visit to the massive Palace of the Parliament, a true architectural marvel.
From Bucharest, the tour might venture into the charming city of Brasov, nestled in the Carpathian Mountains. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and the iconic Black Church, Brasov transports visitors back in time. The city’s medieval charm, narrow cobbled streets, and vibrant central square make it a favourite stop for those exploring Romania.
The Wonders of Transylvania
No journey through Romania would be complete without a visit to Transylvania, a region famed for its association with Dracula and its stunning landscapes. Escorted tours through this region often include stops at the medieval Bran Castle, often linked to the Dracula legend. However, the true allure of Transylvania lies in its picturesque landscapes, with the Carpathian Mountains offering breath taking views and opportunities for adventure.
Sibiu, another gem of Transylvania, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Guided tours here might lead visitors through the historic Old Town, showcasing its stunning squares, churches, and fortifications. Each street seems to whisper stories of the past, immersing travellers in the essence of Transylvanian history.
Discover the Bucovina Painted Monasteries
One of the most unique aspects of Romania’s cultural heritage is the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina. These monasteries, adorned with vibrant frescoes depicting religious scenes, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Escorted tours often include a visit to some of these monasteries, such as Voronet, Humor, and Sucevita.
A guided tour brings to life the stories depicted in the vivid frescoes, offering insights into the region’s religious and artistic heritage. The awe-inspiring craftsmanship and historical significance of these monasteries make them a must-see on any journey through Romania.
Exploring the Natural Beauty of the Danube Delta
The Danube Delta, a true ecological paradise, is a natural wonder worth exploring in Romania. Escorted tours often incorporate a visit to this unique region, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. A boat tour through the intricate network of channels and marshes reveals a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers.
The expert guidance during these tours ensures a deeper understanding of the delicate ecosystem and its importance in the global context. It’s a chance to witness nature at its best, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Diving into Romanian Cuisine and Traditions
One of the most delightful aspects of escorted tours in Romania is the opportunity to savour the country’s culinary delights and experience its rich traditions. Traditional Romanian cuisine is a blend of flavours, influenced by various cultures and historical periods. Travelers can enjoy dishes like sarmale (cabbage rolls), mici (grilled sausages), and mici cu muștar (sausages with mustard) while exploring local markets and eateries.
In addition to the gastronomic delights, escorted tours often include visits to traditional villages, where travellers can engage with locals, learn about their customs, and witness traditional crafts. This cultural immersion offers a glimpse into the authentic way of life in rural Romania.
Romania, a land steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, is a captivating destination for travellers seeking a unique and enriching experience. Exploring this remarkable country through escorted tours provides a structured and educational approach, ensuring travellers make the most of their journey.
From the bustling cities to the tranquil countryside, escorted tours offer a well-rounded experience, unveiling the hidden gems of Romania. The guidance of knowledgeable tour guides, the comfort of organized itineraries, and the camaraderie of fellow travellers make these tours a perfect choice for those yearning to uncover the beauty and mysteries of Romania. So, consider embarking on an escorted tour and let Romania enchant you with its wonders.
- Published in Specialist Travel
Why visit Romania?
Why visit Romania?
Forget any preconceptions about Eastern Europe and Romania in particular. Nestled in the heart of Eastern Europe, Romania is a country that offers a unique blend of ancient history, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. From the towering Carpathian Mountains to the shimmering Black Sea coast, Romania has something for every kind of traveller. Here are some reasons why we think that you should consider visiting this hidden gem of Europe.
Romania is full of natural beauty
Romania boasts some of the most breath-taking natural landscapes on the continent. The Carpathian Mountains run through the heart of the country, providing a stunning backdrop to the picturesque towns and villages that dot the countryside. The peaks of the Carpathians offer some of the best hiking and skiing in Europe, with trails that wind through dense forests, past tranquil lakes, and up to snow-capped summits. There is a sense of freedom and remoteness here that is difficult to find elsewhere in Europe.
Romania also contains the Danube Delta, one of the largest wetlands in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The delta is home to over 300 species of birds and numerous other wildlife, including otters, wild boars, and dolphins. The delta is also an important site for conservation, with efforts underway to protect the region’s unique flora and fauna.
The cultural heritage of Romania
Romania has a rich and fascinating history that is reflected in its architecture, museums and in its art. The country’s most famous landmark is the stunning Bran Castle, which is said to have inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula. The castle is perched on a hilltop overlooking the rolling hills of Transylvania, and its imposing towers and battlements make it a must-see for history buffs and vampire enthusiasts alike. Be prepared for tourist stalls selling all types of tacky Halloween style masks and paraphernalia, but get past this and there is a fascinating history to the castle.
Another popular destination are the painted monasteries of Bucovina, which are decorated with vibrant frescoes depicting scenes from the Bible and Romanian folklore. The monasteries were built in the 15th and 16th centuries and are an important example of Byzantine art and architecture. Here it is important to visit with an expert guide, who can explain the stories behind many of the paintings and bring to life the beautiful artwork.
Romania is also home to a thriving folk art scene, with traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving, and wood carving still practiced in many rural communities. Visitors can experience the vibrant colours and intricate designs of these crafts at local markets and festivals. We try and visit a number of them on our Romania tours, depending on your time of travel.
Romanian food and wine
Romanian cuisine is a delightful fusion of influences from its neighbouring countries such as Hungary, Bulgaria and Turkey. The country’s diverse landscape and rich history have also played a significant role in shaping its culinary traditions.
One of the most popular dishes in Romania is sarmale, which is made by wrapping minced meat and rice in cabbage or grape leaves. It may not sound the most appetising but it really is a mouth-watering delicacy that leaves you wanting more. Another must-try dish is mici, a type of grilled minced meat that is often served with mustard and bread. You must also experience a traditional Romanian breakfast that consists of mămăligă (a type of polenta) served with cheese and sour cream. It is not that common in hotels now as the European style buffet is much more common.
When it comes to wine, Romania has a long and storied history dating back over 2000 years. The country is home to several wine-growing regions, including Transylvania and Muntenia. Some of the most famous Romanian wines include Fetească Neagră, a red wine with a deep, complex flavour, and Grasă de Cotnari, a sweet white wine that pairs well with desserts.
During your travels in Romania, be sure to try some of the local specialties and sample the delicious wines. Many restaurants and cafes offer traditional Romanian cuisine, and there are also several wine tours and tastings available throughout the country. Whether you’re a foodie or a wine enthusiast, Romania has plenty to offer.
- Published in Specialist Travel
