Szeklerland Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Szeklerland in Transylvania, Romania with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Szeklerland, along with practical information on transportation, accommodation, and safety.


Introduction to Szeklerland

Szeklerland is a historic region located in the southeastern part of Transylvania, Romania. It is known for its beautiful mountain landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant traditional communities. Despite being a lesser-known destination, it offers a unique and authentic experience for travelers who seek to explore off the beaten path.

List of Places to Visit in Szeklerland

  • Sighisoara: a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. It is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, also known as Dracula.
  • Corund: a village famous for its traditional pottery, handmade by local craftsmen.
  • Lake Saint Anne: a stunning glacial lake surrounded by picturesque forests and mountains.
  • Red Lake: a natural marvel created by a landslide and named after the red clay that colors its water.
  • Bicaz Gorge: a stunning natural reserve with spectacular views, hiking trails, and rock climbing opportunities.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Szekely National Museum: located in Sfantu Gheorghe, it showcases the history, traditions, and art of the Szekely people.
  • Fortified Churches: there are many fortified churches in Szeklerland, built by the Saxons during the Middle Ages and reflecting the region’s multicultural history. Some of them are Prejmer, Harman, and Viscri.
  • Szekelykapuk: traditional wooden gates decorated with mystical symbols, found in front of many houses in Szeklerland.

Natural Attractions of Szeklerland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Harghita and Giurgeu Mountains: ideal for hiking, skiing, and rock climbing. The highest peak is Harghita Madaras, at 1801 meters.
  • Miercurea-Ciuc Botanical Garden: a green oasis in the middle of the city, with over 2000 plant species and beautiful landscapes.
  • Praid Salt Mine: a unique underground attraction with therapeutic properties for respiratory diseases.
  • Tarcu and Cheile Boghii Natural Reserves: protected areas with diverse flora and fauna, popular for their tranquility and natural beauty.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Szeklerland

  • Transylvania Bike Trail: over 600 kilometers of picturesque cycling routes that connect Sighisoara, Sibiu, and Brasov.
  • Harghita Mountain Trails: diverse hiking trails with various difficulty levels, such as the Harghita Tour, the Muntii Ciucului Circuit, and the Harghita Gepard Trail.
  • Poloniny National Park: a large protected area in Slovakia, right across the border from Szeklerland, with stunning mountain landscapes and a rich biodiversity.

Best Things to Do in Szeklerland: Activities and Tours

  • Climb the Harghita Madaras Peak for a stunning view of the surrounding mountains and forests.
  • Take a traditional pottery workshop in Corund to learn the skills and techniques of the local craftsmen.
  • Visit the Szekely National Museum in Sfantu Gheorghe for a deep dive into the region’s history, traditions, and culture.
  • Explore the fortified churches and traditional Szekelykapuk in the villages of Prejmer and Viscri.
  • Join a guided tour of the Praid Salt Mine to learn about its history, geology, and therapeutic properties.

Week-Long Itinerary for Szeklerland

Day 1 Arrival in Sighisoara, walking tour of the medieval town, wine tasting at Lacerta Winery
Day 2 Visit the fortified churches of Prejmer and Harman, traditional lunch in Bodoc
Day 3 Hiking in the Harghita Mountains, visiting the Harghita Madaras Peak and the Csipike Waterfall
Day 4 Explore the Szekely National Museum in Sfantu Gheorghe, visit the traditional Szekelykapuk in the nearby villages
Day 5 Relax at the Praid Salt Mine and enjoy its therapeutic properties, visit the Turda Salt Mine
Day 6 Cycling tour of the Mures Valley, visiting the Ciucelu Mic Castle and the Miercurea-Ciuc Botanical Garden
Day 7 Departure from Targu Mures or Cluj-Napoca airport

Food and Drink Scene of Szeklerland

Must-Try Dishes

  • Varosleves: a hearty soup made with meat, vegetables, and sour cream, typical for the Szekely cuisine.
  • Kürtőskalács: a spiral-shaped pastry, also known as chimney cake, made of sweet dough and coated in cinnamon, sugar, or nuts.
  • Szekelykaposzta: a delicious stew of sauerkraut, pork, and sour cream, usually served with polenta.
  • Chimney Mushroom: a popular dish made of mushrooms, cheese, and sour cream, wrapped in chimney cake dough and baked in an oven.

Local Beverages

  • Palinka: a strong fruit brandy made of plums, apples, or cherries, usually served as an aperitif or a digestif.
  • Bere: a type of beer that is brewed in local microbreweries, characterized by its full flavor and distinct aroma.

Where to Stay in Szeklerland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Castel: a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Sighisoara, within walking distance of the main attractions.
  • Zen Garden Resort: a peaceful retreat in the middle of nature, with comfortable rooms, spa facilities, and organic cuisine.
  • Bella Vita Hotel: a cozy hotel in the center of Targu Mures, with a charming garden and a friendly staff.
  • Dara Guesthouse: a traditional guesthouse in Corund, with authentic Szekely architecture and pottery workshops.

What to Buy in Szeklerland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Szekelykapuk: traditional wooden gates decorated with mystical symbols, handmade by local craftsmen.
  • Pottery: handmade ceramics with intricate patterns and motifs, made in the traditional Corund style.
  • Palinka: a celebrated local spirit, available in many flavors and varieties.

Local Culture and Customs of Szeklerland

Szeklerland is known for its rich culture and traditions, deeply rooted in the history and identity of the Szekely people. The Szekely community has preserved its distinct language, customs, and folklore, which are reflected in the region’s architecture, cuisine, and celebrations. The Szekelys are proud of their unique identity and have a strong sense of community, solidarity, and hospitality towards visitors.

Best Time to Visit Szeklerland

The best time to visit Szeklerland is during the summer months, from June to September when the weather is mild and sunny, and outdoor activities are at their best. However, the region is also beautiful in the winter, with plenty of skiing opportunities, cozy local festivals, and Christmas markets. It is essential to pack warm clothes and appropriate gear for the season, as the weather can be unpredictable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Szeklerland

Do:

  • Respect the local customs, traditions, and architecture.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Learn a few basic words in Hungarian or Romanian.
  • Explore the natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local traditions or beliefs.
  • Litter or damage natural or historical sites.
  • Wear inappropriate clothing in religious or cultural places.
  • Expect everyone to speak English.
  • Over-tip in restaurants or bars.

Safety and Health

Safety in Szeklerland

Szeklerland is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. However, it is essential to take the usual precautions while traveling, such as avoiding secluded areas at night, keeping valuable belongings secure and concealed, and being aware of potential scams or pickpocketing. It is also advisable to have a valid travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies and other unexpected events.

Health in Szeklerland

Szeklerland has a modern healthcare system with well-equipped hospitals and clinics. However, medical services can be expensive, and it is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Travelers should also take the necessary precautions to prevent common illnesses, such as drinking bottled water, avoiding raw or undercooked food, and getting vaccinated against preventable diseases if needed.

Getting to Szeklerland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Szeklerland

  • Targu Mures International Airport (TGM): located about 70 kilometers from Sfantu Gheorghe, with direct flights to several European destinations.
  • Cluj-Napoca International Airport (CLJ): located about 170 kilometers from Sighisoara, with direct flights to several European destinations.
  • Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP): located about 350 kilometers from Szeklerland, with international flights from major cities worldwide.

Bus Stations Near Szeklerland

The most convenient way to get around Szeklerland is by car, as public transportation can be limited and infrequent. However, there are several bus stations that connect the major towns and cities in the region, such as:

  • Sfantu Gheorghe Bus Station: located in the center of the city, with connections to Brasov, Targu Mures, and Cluj-Napoca.
  • Targu Mures Bus Station: located in the center of the city, with connections to several destinations in Romania and Hungary.
  • Sighisoara Bus Station: located near the city center, with connections to several destinations in Transylvania and Romania.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: several international and local car rental companies operate in Romania, offering a wide range of vehicles and rental options.
  • Taxi: taxis are available in all major cities and towns in Szeklerland, but it is essential to use licensed taxis with a visible meter to avoid scams or overcharging.

How to Get Around in Szeklerland

The most convenient way to get around Szeklerland is by car, as public transportation can be limited and infrequent. However, there are several options available, such as:

  • Bus: buses are available between the major towns and cities in Szeklerland, but the schedule and frequency can be irregular.
  • Train: trains are available between the major cities in Romania, but they can be slow and uncomfortable.
  • Taxi: taxis are available in all major cities and towns in Szeklerland, but it is essential to use licensed taxis with a visible meter to avoid scams or overcharging.
  • Bicycle: cycling is an excellent option for exploring the natural landscapes and rural areas of Szeklerland, with several cycling routes and rental options available.
  • Hiking: hiking is a popular activity in the mountains and nature reserves of Szeklerland, with diverse trails and scenic views.

Where to Go Next from Szeklerland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Brasov: a vibrant city in the heart of Transylvania, famous for its medieval architecture, cultural events, and skiing opportunities.
  • Sibiu: a picturesque town with a well-preserved historic center, charming cafes, and a vibrant cultural scene.
  • Danube Delta: a unique natural reserve and UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its diverse flora and fauna, traditional fishermen communities, and birdwatching opportunities.

Conclusion

Szeklerland is an undiscovered gem in Transylvania, Romania, with plenty of natural, cultural, and gastronomic wonders to discover. With this comprehensive tour guide, you can plan your trip to Szeklerland with ease and confidence, knowing what to expect and what to see. Experience the charm and authenticity of Szekely culture, explore the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities, and immerse yourself in the local traditions and flavors. Enjoy your adventure in Szeklerland!



    Covasna County
    Harghita
    Mureș County