Two nights in the Countess’ Boudoir? Don’t mind if we do! Urban Travel Blog sends our intrepid reporter to the Covasna region of Romania, where he checks himself into the ancestral home of the Daniel family…
In A Nutshell
Castle Hotel Daniel is a boutique hotel set in a renovated 17th century Transylvanian castle. It’s around four hours’ drive from Bucharest.
What Makes It Special?
The magic of staying in a centuries-old castle is magnified by the creativity of the hosts. Each room is individually styled, with subtle and spectacular touches, to tell a different story about the noble Daniel family and the history of the building. Features such as a genuine coat-of-arms, king size baldaquin beds, wooden bath tubs and 17th century wall paintings give the hotel a wow factor. In addition to the cosy castle setting, the playful gastronomic experience really warms the heart. On our first evening we enjoyed venison goulash that had been stewed in a cauldron over a log fire in the garden. While on our second night we were serenaded by a choir of local singers, before being served three delicious reinterpretations of traditional Transylvanian recipes – matched with local Romanian wines of course.
Our Stay
We stayed two nights in ‘The Countess’ Boudoir,’ a stylish room with sensual artwork and sturdy timber features. If you can afford it though, we’d recommend the spectacular ‘Constantinople Room,’ with original 17th century wall paintings and lavish velvet curtains, it really stood out as the most interesting room in the castle.
We Loved
The attention to detail in each room, the storytelling, the delicious food, the warm atmosphere at the dinner table each evening, the humble hosts and the local wine.
We’re Not So Sure About…
Whether you could stay in the neighbourhood for a longer trip, even though there are plenty of things to do during a shorter stay…
In the Neighbourhood
For a tiny village, where many locals still get around by horse and kart, there are a surprising number of things to do around Talisoara. We visited a local blacksmith’s workshop, drank palinka shots beside a roaring fire with the local Count, explored The Museum of Transylvanian Life in Count Kalnoky’s Castle, snooped around the Prince of Wales’ guesthouse (yes, Prince Charles regularly stays in the region) and ventured into the Varghis Caves, which have links to the tale of the Pied Piper of Hamelin.
The Guests
80% Romanian residents, mostly couples, looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a slice of traditional Transylvanian hospitality.
It’s Perfect For
Imagining yourself as nobility for a few days either side of a wild city break in Bucharest.
A Final Word of Advice
Download the Visit Covasna app for more information on the region and activities mentioned in this post.
More Details
Josh was invited on a press trip to Covasna county organised by Visit Covasna. His (stress-free) flights between London Luton and Bucharest were kindly provided by Romanian airline Blue Air. His full report on the region is coming soon.