Transylvania
– in English: ‘ The land behind the forests ‘, as Transylvania is called in Romanian, is located in the centre of Romania. Cincu/Großschenk is only 12km from the geographical centre.
The ‘ Transylvanian Saxons ‘ have settled here since the middle of the 12th century . Summoned by the Hungarian King Géza II, they came from the Rhine plain and the area around the Moselle, and a few Bavarians also settled in northern Transylvania to cultivate the land and defend it against the constant raids of the Ottomans. They brought with them their language, their crafts and their customs, which they preserved and expanded.
Transylvania offers an almost endless variety of nature and culture.
Visit the unique, proud fortified churches of Transylvania – the fortified church in Cincu/Großschenk is the landmark of the town and is considered one of the most powerful Romanesque parish churches in Transylvania. We can organize tours in German, English and Romanian.
Discover the hilly landscape of the Harbach Valley, the volcanic lake with its basalt columns near Racoș, hike or cycle through lovely cultural landscapes or join us on a herbal hike and collect herbs for your very own personal tea blend.
Large parts of the Carpathian arc are covered by untouched forests, where lynx, wolves and bears are at home. Flocks of sheep roam the high pastures and cows and horses are still brought out to pasture in the morning and back home in the evening.
Sit on the bench in front of our gate and watch cows and water buffalo return at sunset.
The area around Cincu is so diverse that we can only name a few key points here. Over time we will create a detailed list of leisure activities, sorted by hiking, cycling, motorcycling, nature, culture and sights.
Sighişoara (Schäßburg)
- UNESCO World Heritage Site : Sighişoara is one of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe. The old town with its narrow streets and colorful houses is simply picturesque.
- Torre de la Școlii (School Tower): A medieval watchtower that now houses a museum. The clock is also worth seeing.
- Birthplace of Vlad the Impaler : According to legend, the famous prince Vlad Drăculea, known as “Vlad the Impaler” or “Dracula”, was born in Sighişoara.
Făgăraș and the Făgăraș Mountains
- Făgăraș Citadel : An imposing Renaissance castle built by the Hungarian kings, it now houses a museum and offers a great insight into the history of the region.
- Făgăraș Massif : If you love nature, the Făgăraș Massif is perfect for hiking and excursions.
- The Transfăgărășan is one of the most spectacular mountain roads in the world. It connects the regions of Transylvania and Wallachia and offers breathtaking views, waterfalls and reservoirs.
- Visit the only Lipizzaner stud farm in Romania in Sâmbăta de Jos , where you can admire around 300 horses in 11 breeding lines. The horses are sold from here all over the world. The complex also offers equestrian events, riding courses, carriage driving courses, cross-country races (routes lasting around 3 hours) for experienced riders, carriage or sleigh rides.
Sibiu (Hermannstadt
- Old Town of Sibiu : One of the most charming cities in Transylvania, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant culture.
- Brukenthal Museum : One of the oldest art museums in Romania with an impressive collection of paintings and works of art.
- Centre for Traditional Crafts : Here you can discover the art of Transylvanian artisans and even buy handmade souvenirs.
Horezu (monastery and crafts
- Horezu Monastery : Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, dating back to the 17th century, it is a beautiful example of Romanian Orthodox architecture.
- Pottery : The region around Horezu is famous for its pottery, and here you can see and buy traditional ceramics.
Cisnădie
- Cisnădioara Castle : A medieval castle that towers over the town and offers great views of the surrounding area. It is one of the oldest and best preserved castles in Transylvania.
Turda and the Salt Mine
- Turda Salt Mine : One of the largest and most impressive salt mines in Europe. Today it is a unique tourist destination with an underground amusement park, a Ferris wheel and a lake where you can take boat trips.
Mărginimea Sibiului
- This region is known for its traditional Transylvanian villages and well-preserved old customs and crafts. It is particularly exciting to visit the shepherds’ festivals and experience rural life in this remote part of Transylvania.
Râu Sadului
- A beautiful valley in the Carpathians, perfect for hikers and nature lovers. Here you can experience the life of the shepherds and the untouched nature.
Călimănești-Căciulata
- A popular spa town known for its healing springs and thermal baths. It is a great place to relax and unwind.
Biertan and the fortified church
- Biertan is famous for its impressive fortified church , also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 15th century, it is a perfect example of the region’s defensive architecture.
Buila-Vânturarița Nature Park
- A wonderful natural park for hikers and nature lovers. There are beautiful mountains, caves and a rich flora and fauna.
Muntele Mare
- A beautiful mountain in western Transylvania, ideal for hiking and nature lovers. The summit offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding valleys.
Poenari Castle (Poenari Fortress)
Often referred to as “Dracula’s Castle”, this fortress is located about 100 km south of Cîncu. Built by Vlad the Impaler, it offers impressive views of the Argeș Valley. The climb requires climbing 1,480 steps, but the view is worth the effort.
Peles Castle
This impressive castle, once the summer residence of the Romanian kings, is located in Sinaia.
It is considered one of the most beautiful castles in Europe and is known for its architecture and art collections.
Bran Castle
Located south of Cîncu, this castle, often associated with the Dracula legend, offers insight into the region’s history and folklore and is a popular tourist destination.
Piatra Craiului National Park
This national park is known for its impressive limestone cliffs and diverse flora and fauna. Ideal for hiking and nature observation.
Râșnov Fortress
This medieval fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and is a fascinating example of the region’s defensive architecture.
Făgăraș Mountains (Făgăraș Massif)
This mountain range offers numerous hiking and climbing opportunities.
The highest peak, Moldoveanu, is the highest point in Romania at 2,544 meters.