29/12/2013
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Unique, quality holidays near Sibiu, in Saxon Transylvania
Comfortable accommodation, exciting activities and exceptional cuisine
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NOTE: due to the popularity of these holidays we have been advised that availability
is already limited for June - August 2011; Book now for Halloween 2011
'I am writing to thank you very much indeed for arranging what was a wonderful holiday in Romania. Although, I had a good idea of what we werew in for, both of us would say that, without doubt, it exceeded all our expectations. It would be impossible to overemphasize the welcome and friendliness shown to us by Diana and Jeremy at Casa Verde in Cisnadioara, where we spent a wonderful week. The food and accommodation ws superb, and nothing was too much trouble for them. They took us all over what is a very attractive area, and on occasion, out to lunch or dinner in typical Romanian restaurants.' R.& H.H. (Woking)
Click here for further testimonials
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Another Europe Guideline Prices 2014 |
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8 Day INCLUSIVE HOLIDAY 7 nights in Cisnadioara with full-board and activites + transfers from Targu Mures From £ 595.00 per person EXCLUDING flights with Wizz - Luton to T`argu Mures Based on two people sharing a twin or double room SEE BELOW FOR FULL DETAILS + SAMPLE ITINERARY SELF-CATERING Fly- drive options available on request DRACULA TRAIL + ANOTHER EUROPE 11 DAYS from £ 895.00 Excludes flights Transfer from Cluj to Bistrita Overnight at Coroana de Aur Jonathan Harker Trail with unique 4 hours trail by horse and cart up the Borgo Pass to Hotel Castle Dracula Overnight then tour through Transylvania Highlands to Sighisoara Overnight in the mediaeval citadel then 7 nights all inclusive Based on two people sharing a twin or double room Suggest Wizz to Cluj, Blue Air from Sibiu Prices from £ 100.00 return TRANSYLVANIA SPECIAL 11 DAYS from £ 799.00 Excludes flights & Airport Transfers Discover the fascinating legacy of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in Transylvania 1 night in the former Imperial capital of Cluj 7 nights Another Europe with Sibu Intercity train to the lovely city of Timisoara ('Little Vienna') 2 nights in a chic art deco hotel Based on two people sharing a twin or double room Wizz to Cluj, return from Timisoara Prices from £ 100.00 return Alternative combinations or flights and transfers via Bucharest, Sibiu or Timisoara available Private apartment in old Sibiu also available |
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Highlights |
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Quality Accommodation Exceptional Food Lancaster Bar Excursions Adventure Activities English-spoken Transport on demand European City of Culture 2007 Sibiu (Hermannstadt) Bruckental Museum Astra Village Museum Piatra Mare + Piatra Mica Liars Bridge Passage of Stairs Railway Museum Old tram to Rasinari Horse & Carriage rides Sighisoara (Schässburg) Clock Tower & Museum Walls & Fortifications Covered Staircase Church on the Hill Vlad Dracula House Cisnadie (Heltau) Cisnadioara (Michelsberg) Sunset picnic in citadel Cindrel Mountains Rasinari Shepherds Village Valea Frumosului Cibin Gorge Cristian (Grossau) Sibiel Glass Icons Valea Viilor (Würmloch) Mosna (Meschen) Biertan (Bïrthälm) Medias (Mediasch) Târnave Valley (wine region) Hunedoara Fortress Turda Gorge Cluj Fagaras Mountains Carta Abbey Mountain Biking Trekking Wolf & Bear Trails Ghost Walks Hog Roast |
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TRAVEL |
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Austrian Airlines fly via Vienna to Sibiu on most days Tarom fly several days per week from Heathrow to Sibiu via Bucharest Otopeni. Lufthansa flights available from London, Manchester or Birmingham. Alternatively excellent prices from Luton to Cluj direct with Wizz Air (from £ 75.00 per person return) Trains or transfers available from Cluj (3-4 hours) Frequent trains from Bucharest to Sighisoara & Sibiu (5 hours); it is possible to connect with some flights at Bucharest. Trains from Budapest & Vienna call at Sighisoara; frequent trains from Cluj to Sighisoara, and Brasov to Sibiu & Sighisoara |
Sighisoara
This Saxon village on the edge of the Cindrel Mountains, is one of the prettiest villages in Romania. This small Saxon settlement has a sloping square and is clustered round a steep, wooded hill topped by a small, Romanesque church. Local tradition states that any man wishing to marry a girl from the village had to prove his strength by carrying a huge rock from the river bed to the top the hill. There is also a museum here dedicated to the Saxon Transylvanians.
Nearby CISNADIE is reached by a tree-lined avenue. This old Saxon market town with its traditional market square is dominated by an impressive fortress church which has recently been renovated. Also within easy reach of Cisnadioara are the shepherds village of Rasinari, the mountain resort of Paltinis (winter skiing) and the Dumbrava Forest which contains the fabulous ASTRA village museum with its water wheels, windmills, craft shop and traditional restaurant. A back road leads along the edge of the hills from Cisnadie to the Olt Valley, providing panoramic views of the spectacular Fagaras ridge of the Carpathians and over the Transylvanian plateau. The heart of old SIBIU lies just 12 km north of Cisnadioara, beyond the forest.
Another Europe: Your Accommodation
Your hosts in Cisnadioara are Diana and Jeremy, a lovely English couple, who moved to Transylvania and set up their accommodation after falling in love with the region and wishing to share their secret world. Di has a catering background so it comes as no surprise that food plays a very important part in these holidays, and considerable effort is made to provide first class cuisine based on local produce.
The accommodation for the inclusive holidays is divided between two pretty, traditional Saxon village houses in the lower part of Cisnadioara. There are four units each containing a large double bedroom, ensuite bathroom and separate living area. Each unit sleeps 2/4 guests and comes complete with mini bar and tea making facilities. All the units have been recently renovated and refurbished to an exacting modern standard and have access to the dining and barbeque areas and orchard garden, the Lancaster Bar and an outdoor pool.
All accommodation comes with tiwels, bedding, and a personal laundry service is available/
Food is very important with all 'Another Europe' holidays. The best word to sum up Romanian food is wholesome', delicious soups and casseroles. However there is little to tempt the more adventurous palate than breaded sheep brains or various offal dishes. Though our fully inclusive holiday offers ample opportunity to sample local fare Di and Jez pride themselves on their in house cuisine. All ingredients are locally produced and Organic. The meat is reared naturally and bought straight from the farmer. Poultry and Game are free range. In addition to insuring that all food is of the highest quality this also supports the local community and environment.
Another Europe: Suggested Itinerary
Please note that this is a 'suggested' itinerary. It is possible to tailor the programme to individual preferences with any ratio of walking, site seeing or additional activities. Some of these activities will also vary according to the time of the yar. For example winter sports and activities can be incluiding during the winter when we receive heavy snow in the Carpathians, Please see the additional list of activities available below.
Extra activities can include horse and carriage rides in the ASTRA park, night out in Sibou (restaurants, jazz clubs, concerts, etc), and extended trips to the Apuseni Mountains, Turda salt mines, Dracula's real castle at Poienari in the Mountains (summer only due to closure of High Transfagarasan Highway), Brasov, Bran, and even the great fortress of Corvinesti at Hunedoara. Modest extra fees may apply to cover fuel for these longer journeys. We can also offer tailormade honeymoons or an extension for Bear or Wolf tracking in the Bucegi or Piatra Craiului Mounmtains. Call for a quote.
Day 1
Recommended Flight: WIZZ AIR: Luton - Targu Mures. Bookings: www.wizzair.com
Prices from £ 95.00 per person return, including tax
Arrival and transfers from Cluj Napoca airport by Land Rover (3 hours). Lunch at the house and then a chance to relax and explore our pretty village, visit the fortified at Cisnadie (Heltau) and explore the surrounding area. Dinner in the Barn Dining Room or on the Terrace, weather permitting.
Drinks in the 'Lancaster Bar' or complimentary transport into Sibiu.
Day 2
Choice of Full English or Continental Breakfast.
A walk from the village to the mountain cabin at Rosengarden. Picnic lunch enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Carpathian Mountains. The walk is moderate but it may be possible to make the assent by Landrover and descent on foot.
An evening stroll up to our the fortified church, perched on the hill overlooking the village square. Enjoy complimentary Champagne, Canapés and splendid views as the sun sets over the Valley. Evening meal on the terrace.
Drinks in the 'Lancaster Bar' or complimentary transport into Sibiu.
Day 3
Choice of Full English or Continental Breakfast.
A morning visit to the Astra Museum. Set in over 80 acres of forest, surrounding two lakes, the Astra Museum has 360 reconstructed dwellings from every era and area of Romania and is the jewel in the crown of tourism in Sibiu. It also has an excellent souvenir/ folklore shop.
A trip on the Cheese Express Tram from Sibiu to Rasinari, the local shepherds village, to enjoy a lunch of 'gogosi': hot corn doughnuts with a cheese or jam filling. Afterwards an afternoon to relax in cosmopolitan Sibiu before an evening meal in a Traditional Cellar Restaurant.
Transport back to the village and complementary Russian Coffees in the Lancaster Bar.
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Day 4
Choice of Full English or Continental Breakfast.
A day at the Salt Mines. Spas and Mud Baths Romanian style. No more information but bring a swimming costume, you will want to join in!
Time to relax before an evening stroll around the village and up to the amazing Frog Rock.
Evening meal - mediaeval style spit roast in the Orchard to watch storks nesting on the old school house above views of the village at sunset.
Drinks in the Lancaster Bar or complimentary transport into Sibiu.
Day 5
Choice of Full English or Continental Breakfast.
The Mediaeval Cptadel Tour: Visit the fortress churches at Slimnic, Mosna and Biertan. Enjoy a picnic lunch on route to the romantic, walled town of Sighisoara, birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (Dracula). Walk around the spooky old citadel and enjpy a drink in the house where he was born - if you dare! Visit the museum of torture and climb the ancient gatekeeper's tower. Explore the Hill Top Church and Graveyard which houses the only Crypt in Transylvania.
Evening meal in the medieval inn.
Drinks in the Lancaster Bar or complimentary transport into Sibiu.
Day 6
Choice of Full English or Continental Breakfast.
Full days mountain walking in either Paltinis, Cibin Gorges or Fagaras depending on your ability and fitness!
Or a chance to enjoy a cocktail on the sundeck by the pool. Or choose something from trhe list of alternative activities.
Picnic Lunch and Mountain Barbeque, weather permitting.
Drinks in the Lancaster Bar or complimentary transport into Sibiu.
Day 7
Choice of Full English or Continental Breakfast.
Sibiel Glass Icon Museum and historic Fantanele. Visit the Glass Icon Museum then enjoy a stroll around the pretty neighbouring villages of Sibiel and Fantanele, untouched by time and modern ways.
Enjoy a lunch of bread, cheese and cold cuts then sample tuica (homemade plum brandy) in a traditional village house. An opportunity in the afternoon for any last minute shopping or sightseeing in Sibiu.
Four course dinner in the Barn Dining room.
Drinks in the Lancaster Bar or complimentary transport into Sibiu.
Day 8
Choice of Full English or Continental Breakfast.
A morning to relax in the village, then Traditional Cakes and Coffee before transfer to Targu Mures airport for the evening flight to Luton. An earlier start calling at the wine vaillges of the Tarnave Valley is also possible
Cisnadioara (Michelsberg) - old fire station and church
Another Europe: Guideline Prices 2014
7 nights in Cisnadioara with full-board and activites (above or similar tailormade itinerary)
Return transfers between Targu Muresj and Cisnadioara
Airport Transfer
Local Tax and VAT
From £ 595.00 excluding Wizz flights (7 nights)
Prices are based on two people sharing a twin or double room
The price is fully inclusive of all meals while staying in Cisnadioara and drinks with meals
(including local wines, beers and spirits and mixers),.
In addition, the Lancaster Bar stocks a wide range of wines, beers, ales and other alcoholic drinks at very competitive prices.
Please note cafe coffees, snacks and pub drinks are not included.
SUGGESTED EXTENSIONS:
This holidays can be combined perfectly with a week in the Maramures (also with flights to Cluj), or with extra nights in Cluj
SEE ALSO THE TABLE ON THE RIGHT FOR DRACULA TRAIL, CLUJ AND TIMISOARA EXTENDED HOLIDAYS for 2011
To book your
Another Europe holiday
we recommend:
01900 838570
www.travelcounsellors.co.uk
A quaity, personal service by
travel experts in your local area
Another Europe: Additional Activities
The suggested itinerary provides a fabulous overview of Transylvania in a week but for those who stay longer or want to try something else here are the other activities we can offer. Please note there may be an additional charge for some activities available on request. These have been indicated below.
Horse Riding
Horse and Cart Rides
Photography Course
Painting Course
Paint Balling
Quad Biking
4-Wheel Off Roading
Mountain Biking
Bird Watching
Bear Watching
Nature Hunt
Mountain Walking
History Walk
Ghost Walk
Ice Hotel (Nov till April)
Murder Mystery Dinner
Details of some additional activities available in 2014
These can also be taken in conjucnction with B&B or Self-catering breaks in Cisnadioara
All Prices include transport. They are payable locally and are subject to change.
There is a 20% reduction on all additional activities(except Photography) for guests staying on a fully inclusive basis.
Horse Riding and Traditional Hay Cart Rides
With Mihnea Virgolici of Cross Country Farm
With Transylvania being a region still rooted in traditional farming methods there are no shortage of horses. The pick of these equines can be found at Cross Country Farm. Beautifully cared for and well mannered these horses are ideal for novice to advanced riders. The countryside surrounding the ranch is extremely beautiful, rolling cornfields, flower strewn meadows and wooded hills.
There is an option for those wanting to participate in this rural experience but who do not wish to ride. A Traditional Hay Cart covered with hand woven blankets proves a very comfortable alternative.
Costs and Package:
Evening Sunset Ride (min 4 people): Leaving Cisnadioara late afternoon we will have a one and a half hours drive to the ranch by LandRover.
The total cost for riders including a picnic tea on route is 200ron (approx £40) per person.
The total cost for Hay Cart riders including a picnic tea on route is 150ron (approx £30) per person.
Individuals or groups of less than 4 who wish to ride can obtain prices on request.
Riding helmets are provided but optional. Sturdy footwear, preferably with a small heal is necessary.
Individuals are responsible for their own insurance.
Mountain Biking
In the Cindrel Mountains:
The stunning Cindrel Mountains have a multitude of well marked trails. Explore enchanting woodland tracks and open pasture land by mountain bike in a place where you are unlikely to see anyone but shepherds all day!
Costs and Package:
Bike Hire and Transport 75ron (approx £15)
Packed lunch or tea 25ron (approx £5)
Guide (optional) 25ron (approx £5) per hour divided by the group.
Bear Watching
With Simona Munteneau:
Transylvanias pristine forests are inhabited by over 3000 wolves, 5500 bears and 1500 lynx, as well as other large mammals. In summer there are 5 million sheep grazing up in the mountains. It is here where Simona will take you to a secret hide for a chance to watch bears.
There is a possibility to spot bears from a distance during the day-time but the chances are very small. If there is still snow we may have a chance to track them. We do have a possibility to greatly increase your chances of seeing bears however from the hide (app. 90%). When the forest doesnt provide enough natural substance for the bears it is here where the foresters put food. It is therefore ideal for observing the bears (not just spotting them) as they stay and feed.
Package and Costs:
The nature reserve is a two hour drive into the mountains from Sibiu and we will arrive before dusk.
The Ranger will then take you by LandRover to a secret location in the forest. There will be a short (5 minutes) but steep walk to the hide where you will stay to watch bears until darkness has fallen.
These bears are truly wild so although the chances are high there is no guarantee of seeing them.
The total cost including a packed tea is 120 euros (£80) per person (min 2 people).
There is an additional charge of 25 euro per camera. The camera charge applies only if you actually take pictures. The photographs must not be used for commercial purposes.
We can also organise longer nature treks with Simona but please note that she is popular and books well in advance.
Bird Watching and Nature Study
With Colin Shaw of Roving Romania - please refer to our separate ROVING ROMANIA pages. A Roving Romania tour can be combined nicely with Another Europe
STOP PRESS: DRACULA TRAILS
Dracula themed variations available throughout the year including Halloween. These will include and extra night spent as HOTEL CASTEL DRACULA on the Borgo Pass and visits to Bistrita (Bistritz) and to Dracula's birthplace at Sighisoara, Also a wide range of ghoulish activities! Check with your travel agent for further information.
CLICK HERE for our NEW 'Another Europe' AUTUMN COLOUR holidays: experience the spectacular colours in the Cindrel and Fagaras Mountains, walk through the Cibin gorge and take a 4x4 adventure through the remote and picturesque Frumoasa ('beautiful') valley. Take a night trek to listen for wolves, a lantern alk up to the historic Cisnadioara citadel and enjoy an evening in old Sibiu. Special one-week all inclusive holidays throughout October. Depart on Saturdays. PLUS special BONFIRE NIGHT break
CLICK HERE for our NEW 'Another Europe' HALLOWEEN adventure and 'Jonathan Harker' Trail: experience Halloween as a short break in Cisnadioara or start out with the trail to seek outthe mythical Count Dracula in mysterious northern Transylvania. A horse and cart takes you up forest and cart tracks, climbing deeper and deeper into the Carpathians, to arrive at Hotel Castel Dracula on the Borgo Pass. Risk a night in this remote place before continuing through the Transylvanian Highlands to Sighisoara, birthplace of Vald the Impaler - the real Dracula. Overnight in one of the historic hotels in teh romantic walled, citadel then join our special 'Another Europe' break for a Halloween party starting with a lantern lit trail to the historic citadel then a bonfire in the orchards. Additional activities include a full day excursion to the spectacular Corvinesti fortress at Hunedoara, and a ghost walk through mediaeval Sibiu. Book now as places are limited.
CLICK HERE for our SPECIAL 'Another Europe' WINTER adventures which combine the comfort, excellent cuisine and adventure of Another Europe with the excitement of an expedition to spend a night at the ICE HOTEL, high up in the Fagaras Range of the Carpathian Mountains. The hotel is accessible only by ski lift and is usually open until the end of March, sometimes into April, depending on climatic conditions. It is created with ice, carved from the glacial Balea Lac. If it begins to melt we will switch you to the adjacent Balea Cabana for the night or, for the feint of heart, you can visit but return to the comfort of your accommodation in Cisnadioara! These special holidays also include winter landscapes, frozen waterfalls, a lantern lit trek through romantic Sighisoara and a sleigh ride (subject to snow).
Cisnadioara (Michelsberg) / Piata Mica, Sibiu / Lower Town from Liars Bridge, Sibiu / Cisnadie (Heltau)
Another Europe: Sibiu Apartment
In addition to accommodation in Cisnadioara, we can also offer a well-appointed apartment in the historic heart of Sibiu, for self-vatering breaks. The apartment is situated in a pretty courtyard close to the Liars Bridge and Piata Mica, the 'Small Square' - an ideal location to base a Transylvanian holiday from.
The apartment sleeps 2/4 and boasts Internet, Telephone, Cable T.V, Dishwasher and Washing Machine. Friendly English speaking staff are on hand 24 hours a day so it is easy to book excursions. A local English speaking guide costs £15 per day or a car with driver/interpreter costs £25 per day plus petrol.
All accommodation is complete with towels and bedding and a personal laundry servic is available.
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