Sibiu city is wonderfully rich in experiences but for the ones with a spirit of adventure there are lots of day trips in the surrounding areas. This is where a full immersion into the regions rich history as well as natural landscapes can occur. Where you can disconnect to reconnect to yourself.

Sibiu – Countryside Area (Cisnadioara – Răşinari – Sibiel – Sălişte – Cristian)

If you want to learn more about the region’s history, its multicultural heritage and enjoy the peaceful countryside life, we suggest for you to try a day trip close to Sibiu.Thus, within a few hours and a short drive away, you can explore both traditional Saxon and Romanian villages.  

A visit to the Saxon fortress in Cisnadioara, built on St. Michael’s hill, one of the oldest constructions in Transylvania (12^th century) will be sure not to disappoint. It offers a stunning panoramic view of the mountains and a Game of Thrones inspired picture perfect spot. Also in Cisnadioara, you can enjoy a tranquil walk in the village, a coffee and a hencleş (Saxon delight) at Casa Agora and, if you enjoy hiking, you can even try a hike till the next village, Răşinari. https://kirchenburgen.org/ro/location/michelsberg-cisnadioara/ 

Răşinari

is nominated the World Best TourismVillage by UNWTO, in 2022. A picturesque mountain village with a traditional architecture  well preserved. It features an imposing Orthodox Church with beautiful frescos, lots of guest-houses, delicious gastronomy, various festivals and hiking trails for all levels. Take a few hours to explore the surroundings and enjoy the countryside ambience! http://rasinari.travel/

Sibiel

is a little village, hidden, at the bottom of the mountains. Have a lovely stroll on its quiet, charming streets, admire the old architecture some houses still preserve, visit the old platform scale, the Icon Glass Museum and, why not, have a walk in the orchard, above the village. Due to its traditions and gastronomy, Sibiel has been awarded theGolden Apple by Travel journalists, a sort of an Oscar for eco-tourist destinations.

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Icon Glass Museum Program:

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noiembrie – martie: 8.30 am – 05.00 pm
aprilie – octombrie: 8.30 am – 08.00 pm

Sălişte

is a pretty, little town also at the bottom of the Cindrel mountains. You can enjoy a walk through its main park, along the river and admire the stunning baroque - architecture of the buildings. For those who enjoy hiking, we suggest a great hike from Sălişte until Poiana Soarelui (The Sun Meadow). This an amazing place in the mountains with a former sculpture carving camp and a spectacular view. The trail is quite easy you can get more details here https://aniidrumetiei.ro/

Also, while exploring Sălişte, if you are craft beer lovers, then don’t hesitate and book a visit with a tasting session at SB Craft Beer in Sălişte. You can contact them here

Cristian

Finally, on your way back home stop for a visit at the fortified church in Cristian. A wonderful medieval fortress very well preserved, with lots of great stories and a Bacon Tower where you can taste and even buy lots of delicious products prepared by locals.
Along your way in the village, you’ll notice the storks’ nests on the electric poles. Cristian has one of the biggest stork communities in Romania; the splendid birds can be admired here from March till August.

For any further information, details and opening hours for the fortified churches, please download the Experience the Fortified Churches App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/experience-fortified-churches/id1617807025

Sibiu – Păltiniş Mountain Resort(slow walking/ forest bathing, trekking)

Păltiniş or HoheRinne as it used to be known, is the oldest ski resort in Romania, built at the end of the 19^th century, at about 1400 m altitude.

It is a great day trip in case you want to relax, escape from crowded places, and enjoy some forest bathing. The quality of the air is excellent due to its pine and fir trees forests. From Păltiniş there are lots of trails that take you up further in the mountains and of course enjoy the breathtaking views and mountains. Check the map and try one of these treks, you’ll be sure to feel reinvigorated!

Sibiu – Cârţa Cistercian Abbey –Transfăgărăşan – Balea Lake/ Hotel of Ice – Avrig

A great day trip, spectacular in any season as the Făgăraş Mountains are gorgeous regardless of the weather. Transfăgărăşan is known as one of the most spectacular winding roads in the world so a drive up until the Balea glacier lake will be full of adventure and adrenaline. Enjoy the magnificent views, take lots of pictures and breathe the refreshing air at 2000 m altitude!

On you way back, visit the former Cistercian Abbey in Cârţa, a fascinating construction from the 13^th century. If you have children, we suggest to stop at the Clay Castle and the Upside Down House, as the little ones will be fascinated.

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