Top 5 wonderful activities to try in Transylvania during the winter

The morning sun is mellow and pale, the leaves have fallen from the trees and every morning you wake up to notice the fractal patterns of ice flowers in the windows. This can only mean one thing: winter is taking its toll on the south of Transylvania.

Winter in Romania is one of the most magical things you can experience, so instead of hiding under the covers waiting for spring to return, put on your warm clothes and take advantage of all the wonders the season has to offer.

The pristine winter scenes of the Transylvania holidays, the cosy feeling of sitting by a crackling fire with a glass of aged wine and horse-drawn carriage rides through the snow are just some experiences that should be on your bucket list this year.

Sit back, unwind and discover our top 5 activities that you should experience during your all inclusive holiday to Transylvania.

Heliskiing in the Carpathian mountains

One thing that you probably didn’t know about Romania tourism is that it offers the chance of a lifetime adventure, which is heliskiing in the heart of the Carpathian mountains.

If you’re a fan of skiing, snowboarding or just pure adrenaline, you can gain exclusive access to remote slopes filled with virgin, powdered snow. On the top of the mountains, an off-piste skiing adventure awaits. You just have to allow yourself to be immersed into the magical white wilderness.

Private VIP helicopter transfers available upon request for the best Romania luxury holidays.

Horseback riding in the snow

There’s something very serene about heading out on horseback in the crisp winter air, on snow covered hills with nothing but the sound of hooves in the snow to break the deep silence.

As the temperatures go lower, you can still enjoy equestrian activities in the Transylvanian countryside. The majestic beauty of snowy, white landscapes is one of the best parts of winter holidays in Romania.

With the right attention and special care from our partners at Villa Abbatis, winter riding can be a very delightful experience.

Local wines tasting at Bethlen Estates

Transylvania’s alcoholic offerings are quite unique and plentiful: from fruit-based spirits and craft beers to wines coming from old historic vineyards, you can explore them all while you are on a holiday to Transylvania.

Wine-making has been a crucial activity for the locals from ancient times, and it remains one of the many reasons why Romania is a must-visit destination for oenophiles all across the world.

Transylvania is the source of important vine varieties like Feteasca Regală, a white grape natural crossing of Grasă and Fetească albă, identified in the 1920’s in Daneș (Dános;Dunnesdorf), a village that is just a stone’s throw from Bethlen Estates.

Mentions as early as the 6th century BC reveal that viticulture, along with shepherding and plowing were the main activities of the inhabitants who settled in the valley of the Mureș and Târnava rivers. Transylvanian wines have been well known since the feudal era, when Transylvania was also called the “Wine Country” (Weinland).

We invite you to explore the unique taste of local wines, deeply influenced by the ancient history behind Romanian wine-making along with our experienced sommelier.

Highlights for oenophiles requesting a private wine tasting at Bethlen Estates include delicious bottles from Balla Géza and Ana wine from Jidvei Winery, based in Cetatea de Baltă [Küküllövár; Kokelburg].

Discover more about alcoholic beverages in Transylvania here.

Get a taste of Transylvania’s traditional cuisine

Holidays to Transylvania wouldn’t be the same without the full experience of the local cuisine. Heavily influenced by Hungarian, Saxon, Turkish, Balkan and Serbian cuisines, the Transylvanya’s food is varied, filling and very savory.

If you book lunch or dinner during your Transylvania accommodation at Bethlen Estates our master Chef Robert will take you on a delicious journey across the local gastronomy.

Learn more about food and drinks at Bethlen Estates here.

Visit the Local Christmas Markets

If you are not one to skimp on the holiday spirit, the Romanian Christmas Market are the best places to start your yearly celebration.

The Sibiu Christmas market is one of the international favourites. The main square is adorned with fairy lights and it’s inviting you in with irresistible smells of mulled wine and gingerbread, while the surrounding Baroque buildings create a wonderland atmosphere. Traditional carousel, ice skating and merchandise from local craftsmen are just some other details painting the perfect holiday escape.

While we’re at it, the Brasov Christmas market is also worth a visit. Placed in the heart of Brasov’s old town, the main square surrounds visitors with pastel-colored buildings inviting them to travel back in time. Walk through the old town’s streets to find carolers singing old Romanian songs and let yourself be charmed by the festive atmosphere.

Are you looking for Transylvania holiday homes? Request a customized offer for a luxury stay at Bethlen Estates Transylvania, here.