Don’t Know Much About Romania Beyond Dracula? Let Me Fix That.
If the only thing that comes to mind when you hear “Romania” is a vampire with questionable dental hygiene, then I have fantastic news for you: my home country is so much more than spooky legends and pointy castles.
It’s time to pack your bags and fall in love—with fairytale landscapes, charming villages frozen in nostalgic time, painted monasteries that look like something out of a storybook, fortified churches that whisper secrets of the past, and a national obsession with sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) and mamaliga (our golden maize porridge love child).And because Romanian hospitality is not just a cliché but an actual national superpower, I’ve put together a hand-picked list of 10 extraordinary stays—perfect whether you’re a traveler hunting for your next dream destination or a hotelier on the lookout for some fresh inspiration.
1. Oberwood – Porumbacu de sus, Sibiu
Rustic charm meets tennis courts and sunbathing terraces in this tranquil oasis, just a short drive from the whimsical Clay Castle. Hidden in the heart of Transylvania and only 35 minutes from both Păltiniș ski resort – the highest resort in Romania (1440 m altitude) – and the city of Sibiu, Oberwood is where simplicity gets a luxury upgrade.
Book Oberwood here.
2. Egreta Complex – Berzasca, Caras-Severin
Imagine sleeping above the Danube in floating houses on stilts—welcome to Romania’s first lake resort! From here, you can explore gems like the Bigăr Waterfall, the mighty 55m high rock-carved face of King Decebal, and the surreal beauty of Beiului’s Eye lake. Also: Rudaria watermills, silence, and a sky full of stars.
Book Egreta Complex here.
3. The Hotel of lce – Balea Lac, Sibiu
Want to sleep in a building made entirely of ice? Since 2005, artisans have sculpted this frosty wonder from blocks carved out of Bâlea Lake. It’s a fleeting piece of art that melts each spring, but during winter, it welcomes over 8,000 brave, adventurous guests who like their rooms below zero.
Book The Hotel of Ice here.
4. Wegloo – Azuga, Prahova
If your dream is stargazing from bed, at Wegloo, you can make that happen. You can glamp in style inside a cozy, transparent dome, complete with heating, a hot shower, and Wi-Fi. Nature outside, comfort inside—and the mountains of Azuga right at your feet.
Book Wegloo here.
5. Cob Village – Berca, Buzau
Step into a storybook with these whimsical, hand-sculpted cob houses made from clay, straw, and dreams. Each home is a one-of-a-kind fairytale hideaway, built to echo childhood memories, grandma’s house, and eco-living ideals.
Book a house in Cob Village here.
6. Porumbacu Treehouse – Porumbacu de sus, Sibiu
Book Porumbacu Treahouse here.
7. Raven’s Nest – Sub Piatra, Transylvania
This hidden retreat was lovingly pieced together over the years using salvaged wooden buildings from the Apuseni Mountains. With structures dating back to 1896, it’s rustic, real, and deeply rooted in the land’s spirit. A stay here is like stepping into living history, with modern comfort.
Book Raven’s Nest here.
8. Bethlen Estates – Cris, Mures
What happens when a noble family returns to restore their ancestral lands? A boutique heritage wonderland is born. Countess Gladys and her son Nikolaus have spent years rescuing cottages, granaries, and even schools, transforming them into luxurious rural escapes while honoring their past.
Book Bethlen Estates here.
9. Zaga Zaga Land – Doaga, Vrancea
Between the counties of Vrancea and Galați, an unexpected 82 hectares of delta bloom – the Siret delta. Here, you’ll find floating cabins, boat rides through reeds and forests, golden sunsets, and meals straight from their own fish farm. Nature’s lullaby is included in every overnight stay.
Book Zaga Zaga Land here.
10. Dealul Verde Guesthouse – Porumbacu de Sus, Sibiu
Every room tells a story—literally. At Dealul Verde, you can sleep like a farmer, a blacksmith, or a weaver, each room designed to celebrate Romania’s rich cultural roots. This is not just a place to rest your head—it’s a place to reconnect with what matters.
Book Dealul Verde here.
So, if you’ve only ever associated Romania with vampires and gymnastic gold medals, it’s time to dig a little deeper. Come see the soulful side of this country: the quiet forests, the painted walls, the warm-hearted people, and the steaming pots of sour soup (you’ll learn to love it, promise).
And who knows? You might just end up stealing ideas—or hearts.