I haven't taken you around Romania anymore lately, have I? Well, now it's the time for me to make it up to you. Especially now, that I am about to present you a destination which is worth the visit in any season.
Have you been to Sinaia? For the inhabitants of Bucharest and southern Romania in general, it's probably the most popular mountain venue and ski resort, as it is only a couple of hours away from the capital city. By taking a look at the pictures, you probably wouldn't even believe that it's not Switzerland, or Bavaria, or similar, but just good 'ole Romania.
Apart from trekking and skiing, Sinaia offers also lots of opportunities for cultural activities to the less sporty types (Gee, why did I feel the need to mention that myself? :P ). The town is very clean, with lots of green spaces, but what stands out the most are its charming houses, from various periods in history, of which most of them are of national patrimony value. And of course, its touristic attractions which you absolutely must not miss.
Peleș Castle:
The absolute masterpiece, built under the reign of King Carol I as the summer residence of the Royal Family, from 1874 to 1914. The castle is open to visits from Tuesday (Wednesday in winter) to Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and tourists are organized into groups with a limited number and led by a guide through all its chambers. Apart from Romanian, guides are available also in other languages, such as English, French, Spanish and Italian. My personal advice is to visit both ground floor and first floor, although it would cost you a little bit more: 50 RON in total for adults (about 12 euros), with discounts for children, students or pensioners. Be aware that taking pictures is not included in this entrance fee, and if you wish to do that, you have to pay an extra 32 RON (8 euros). Again, yes, taking pictures would be cool, but I must warn you that it will be pretty uncomfortable. Tourist groups tend to be numerous, and it will be a big effort to follow the guide, admire the view, be careful enough to watch your steps without bumping into the other tourists AND take pictures.
Instead, listen to the history of Romania's Royal family, the episodes that marked their lives and their reign, or the routines of the royal couple. Admire all the chambers full of collections brought from all the corners world, weapons, carpets, books, furniture, artwork and so much more. From the outside, however, you can take as many pictures as you like, and, thank goodness, it will be a lot to photograph, from panoramic view of the castle, to all its sides, angles, and artistic details.
Pelișor Castle:
As the name suggests, it is like the little brother of Peleș Castle. Not by far as imposing as the latter, Pelișor must not be neglected either. It is situated within walking distance from Peleș, and its innauguration took place in 1903, with the role of summer residence for Prince (and future King) Ferdinand and his wife, Queen Maria. On the outside, the castle looks more like an aristocratic house in Tudor style, and on the inside, although it still contains precious works of art and furniture, it looks more cozy, resembling an actual home. The full entrance fee is 20 RON (less than 5 euros), with the same discounts applicable as for Peleș Castle, and guided tours are also organized in groups. Same rules and same fee apply also for taking pictures, and, of course, I will give you the same advice as above.
For some reasons, these two castles have always given me a sense of warmth and a sense of national pride. For a Romanian wallet, they are not particularly cheap to visit, but it will be always worth it. Moreover, I think I will do it again someday. And perhaps, who, knows... I may actually do the heroic extreme-sport of taking pictures and show them to you. ;)
In part two, we'll be back with other touristic attractions, as well as general informations about Sinaia.
