Explore Romania’s fascinating Transylvania for a true adventure
Located in central Romania, Transylvania is known for its mountains, medieval towns and castles like Bran Castle. The Gothic fortress has been associated with the legend of Count Dracula, thanks to Bram Stoker’s novel about the iconic vampire and the many films the story inspired. However, Transylvania is also known for its beautiful scenery and rich history, with the city of Brasov and its Saxon bastions and walls, the Gothic Black Church and many baroque buildings and cafes. We list below some of Transylvania’s most fascinating attractions, which are must-see locations on a visit to the country.
One beautiful way to explore the area is on a adventurous trek through Transylvania, exploring the rugged mountains, alpine grasslands, glacial lakes and woodlands. While exploring the beautiful, natural scenery and visiting the many attractions, a visitor can enjoy a true adventure and experience the history of the area.
Bran Castle and Vlad the Impaler
One must-see attraction is Bran Castle, located in the city of Bran, which is believed to have once held Vlad Tepes Dracula, commonly known as “Vlad the Impaler” as a prisoner. The history is likely what inspired the castle’s nickname of “Dracula’s Castle.” In fact, the brutal Romania ruler was the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel, “Dracula.” Ironically, Stoker is said to have never visited central Europe and there are many other castles with claims to Dracula’s legend. However, the underground passages, ancient armor and weapons, along with the creepy sounds the building makes do make Bran Castle a likely contender for the home of the vampire Count Dracula.
Bran Castle was built between 1377 and 1388 and overlooks a mountain pass between Transylvania and Wallachia, the land ruled by Vlad the Impaler in the 15th century. These days, the castle is owned by the descendants of Queen Marie, who received the property in 1920 as a token of appreciation for her efforts in unifying Romania.
These days, Bran Castle is open as a museum and is largely devoted to Queen Marie. However, the vampire myths and legends continue, with the castle a popular location for Halloween events. Back in 2016, a competition was held with the prize a chance to stay in the castle overnight on Halloween, much like Jonathan Harker’s experience in the opening pages of Bran Stoker’s novel.
Up in the Bucegi Mountains of Romania stands a rock formation, shrouded in conspiracy theories and mystery. When seen from a certain angle, it resembles the Great Sphinx of Giza in Egypt. Over a period of millions of years, the 40-foot-tall rock was carved to resemble a woman’s face. However, while this is one of the “Seven Wonders of Romania,” the appearance of the rock isn’t its main attraction.
Also dubbed the Sphinx of Busteni, the rock formation is surrounded by conspiracy theories and folklore. Some believe it has a strong energetic force field and is one of Earth’s supposed chakras. Others believe it was carved by an ancient civilization, said to represent some kind of supreme god. Naturally, others claim aliens were somehow involved in the Mountain Sphinx.
Whichever legend you believe, the trek to the Sphinx of Busteni is a worthwhile journey and is perfect for the latest Instagram post. The sphinx can be accessed by a number of hiking trails from the towns of Busteni and Sinaia and it is also possible to take a cable car up to the site.
Brasov ‘Hollywood’ sign, Transylvania
The charming old town of Brasov features a “Hollywood” sign on the hill above the town. This kitsch landmark is likely an appropriate homage to the repeated use of the area as a film set. For example, the 2003 movie “Cold Mountain” was filmed in the town’s surrounding fields and the farmland of the Carpathian Mountains.
Brasov’s sign is located on top of Mount Tampa and can be viewed from all over the old medieval town. It can easily be accessed by cable car from Casa Padurarului at the base of the mountain. From there, a short, five-minute walk along a rough path takes visitors right behind the giant letters, with spectacular views over the countryside.
Explore Transylvania on your next European tour – take in the history, beautiful scenery and the legends of Count Dracula and so much more.
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