Transylvania’s ice hotel is just one reason you need to visit Romania
With its rich history, romantic cities and captivating mountain landscapes, Romania is an underrated gem for a European winter break.
Its mountainous, castle-dotted Transylvania region is particularly enchanting during the winter months, with frost-dusted forests and medieval villages twinkling with lights and glowing fires in cosy, traditional taverns.
Visitors to Transylvania in winter can have a magical escape by checking in to the unique Hotel of Ice This unique hotel is nestled in the heart of the beautiful Fagaras Mountains and is freshly carved each winter out of ice taken from a nearby glacial lake.
If you're thinking this all sounds rather chilly, you'd be right. Temperatures in the bedrooms hover between 0°C and - 2°C. But don't worry, you'll still be able to spend a perfectly snug night here, with animal furs, multi-layer thermal blankets and sleeping bags in each room.
The hotel has its own chalet, which is warm and toasty, the ideal place to warm yourself up before a night on a bed made of ice.
The restaurant, also carved out of ice, offers traditional cuisine made using ancient Transylvanian recipes and local ingredients served on tables and plates made of ice.
You could tuck into smoked Transylvanian trout tartar, or smoked duck with honey and red berry sauce. These hearty Romanian dishes and mugs of mulled wine are perfect for enjoying the highlights of the country while soaking up the magic of winter.
As for what to do during your stay, guests are rather spoilt for choice up in the Fagaras Mountains.
From whizzing around on a snowmobile, to tubing down the slopes or gliding across the powder on a snow banana, there's plenty for the whole family to take part in when the weather conditions are right.
And to top off a busy day of exploring the mountains, you can head to the sleek Sub Zero Ice Bar for some cool cocktails. As far as winter breaks go, it doesn't get much more unique than this.
STAY AT THE HOTEL OF ICE WITH PRIMA
It's usually only possible to book a one-night stay at the Hotel of Ice, partly for comfort and safety reasons, and so that more guests can experience this unique, temporary hotel.
But don't worry, there are plenty of other parts of Romania to explore once you've had your icy experience.
Transylvania is a beautiful land of towering mountains, mysterious forests, and medieval villages home to legends of vampires.
But don't let any spooky tales put you off. Although Bram Stoker's Dracula was inspired by a real-life Transylvanian prince - the ferocious Vlad Dracula, or Vlad the Impaler - these mountainous lands are perfectly peaceful.
Visiting this Romanian region feels like taking a step back in time. You can explore tiny villages where winding lanes are lined with 15th-century merchant buildings, Gothic churches, and colourful, wooden houses.
In the enchanting Transylvanian city of Brasov, you can wander along cobbled streets, marvel at its towering Gothic-style Black Church and take a break to warm up in one of the town's bohemian cafes tucked away on snow-dusted alleyways.
The region's rich history is also reflected in its many castles and fortresses, some built to defend against invaders, and others built as luxurious and extravagant homes.
The most iconic of all Transylvania's fortresses is Bran Castle, otherwise known as Dracula's Castle. Although Bram Stoker never actually visited Transylvania, his vivid description of Dracula's mysterious abode fits so well with the location of Bran Castle that it's long been marketed as the Count's honorary home.
On Prima's six-day tour of Romania you'll visit Bran Castle, where you can learn its history while walking around its many well-preserved rooms. First built by Saxons in 1377, the castle now displays art and furniture collected by Queen Marie, the last queen of Romania.
Although Transylvania is one of the country's most scenic regions, it's not the only place worth visiting.
The stunning Walachia region is home to another of Romania's most spectacular buildings, the magnificent Peles Castle. This Neo-Renaissance castle is perched in the Carpathian Mountains in the picturesque town of Sinaia.
Built by the first King of Romania, it was the summer residence of Romania's royal family, until 1947. Its incredible 160 rooms are decorated with fine European art, Murano crystal chandeliers, and German stained-glass windows, making it a real delight to explore.
Romania's vibrant capital, Bucharest, is another highlight you can't miss. The city's fascinating and turbulent past has left its mark in the architecture, where Neo-classical and Art Nouveau buildings stand alongside communist-era high-rises.
Bucharest's Old Town, the Lipscani district, is especially charming. This is the city's mediaeval heart, where cobbled streets are lined with lovely cafes and welcoming restaurants serving up traditional treats and warm drinks.
STAY IN THE LIPSCANI DISTRICT WITH PRIMA
There are many famous monuments for history-lovers to visit in Bucharest. The incredible Palace of the Parliament is a must-see. This enormous building is one of the largest office buildings in the world.
The People's Salvation Cathedral is another fascinating building. Technically still under construction, the church is already the tallest Orthodox cathedral in the world.
After a long day's sightseeing, you can return to the Lipscani District to enjoy the buzzing yet relaxed nightlife. Perhaps stop for a drink in one of the many stylish bars, or try some of the delicious local cuisine.
How to visit: Tempted by a winter break in Romania and a stay in Transylvania's unique Ice Hotel? Prima has an unmissable trip to Romania, which takes in some of the country's most stunning scenery and intriguing landmarks.
You'll spend three nights in a boutique hotel in the vibrant capital city of Bucharest, where you'll be staying in the Lipscani district. After your stay in Bucharest you'll head into the heart of mountainous Transylvania and check in to the magical Hotel of Ice.
Here you can get your heart racing with some snow sports like snow rafting or the Tunnel Trek, or simply kick back with a hot drink and enjoy the scenery.
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