Transylvania evokes visions of towering Gothic castles set in densely forested mountains, but this atmospheric ‘land beyond the forest’, deep in the heart of Romania, holds countless wonders waiting to be discovered. In contrast is the bustling capital city, Bucharest, which proudly bears the scars of a communist past – just one of the many intriguing chapters of the nation’s rich and lengthy history. The modern-day Romanians are a colourful tapestry of historic tribes that have invaded and conquered, including ancient Roman, Dacian, Magyar and Saxon. Fierce resistance to foreign domination resulted in the founding of Transylvania, Wallachia and Moldovia, independent principalities that became Christendom’s front line against the Ottomans. Unbeknownst to many are the courageous military leaders, who spearheaded the defence against relentless Turkish invasions during the 15th century – safeguarding much of Western Europe in the process. One of these formidable rulers was Vlad Ţepeş or Vlad the Impaler, known to the world as the inspiration for Count Dracula, but revered by locals as a hero. Romania’s neighbours and past rulers have left more than a captivating cultural legacy – they have also greatly influenced the country’s cuisine. Romanian dishes are hearty and reflect the country’s agricultural roots. Bucharest, in particular, has an evolving gastronomic scene worthy of a growing capital. For a typical Romanian dish, try some sarmale or cabbage leaves stuffed with a tasty mix of meat, rice and herbs. Our eye-opening tour begins in the legendary Carpathian Mountains of Transylvania, one of Eastern Europe’s most enchanting regions. It stretches for more than 550 miles in a sweeping arch, isolating Transylvania from the rest of the country. Covered by pristine forests, the area is home to the continent’s largest bear population, as well as lynx, chamois and wolves. Beyond the majestic peaks are quaint villages and crumbling citadels forgotten by time, concealed in lush valleys dappled with wildflower meadows. Journey back in time with us to old-world villages in wonderfully remote countryside, where a centuries-old lifestyle happily co-exists with an increasingly modern one. Prince Charles, who first visited Romania in 1998, found it impossible to resist the charms of traditional village living. Believing this to be the last corner of Europe where ‘true sustainability and complete resilience’ can still be found, he is a passionate advocate for preserving this unique way of life. Discover one of Romania’s most charming medieval towns, UNESCO-listed Sighişoara with its walled historic centre, ornate churches, colourful houses and outstanding clock tower. We explore two of Transylvania’s most celebrated castles: Peleş Castle and Bran Castle, the magnificent summer residences of King Carol and British-born Queen Marie of Romania respectively. We also visit two remarkable churches with extraordinary fortifications, testaments to long-fought battles against neighbouring states. We stay in Bucharest, a vivacious capital city of astonishing contrasts. Dotted among the utilitarian architectural legacy of communist rule are elegant belle-époque villas, which echo the hedonistic 1900s when Bucharest was nicknamed ‘the Paris of the East’. We’ll examine the city’s exciting past with an expert guide and tour Nicolae Ceauşescu’s Palace of the Parliament, an extravagance that continues to dominate Bucharest’s skyline. During our tour, you’ll encounter the warm and welcoming locals, known for their incredible hospitality. With all this and more, a visit to enchanting Romania is certain to be an unforgettable adventure.