Zabola Estate

The estate itself is beautiful, the dogs were very cute, and we enjoyed the activities. The food was pretty good, though the staff were a mixed bag. Getting around is the real problem: there’s no public transport to or from the hotel, and the estate charged us 600 Lei for a taxi to Braşov. Without your own vehicle, I wouldn’t recommend staying here. With one, it was a fairly good experience.

The spa was modern, with a 95C sauna, jacuzzi and a place to rest. You can book a time, which kept it from feeling crowded. There are only six seats, and we had the place to ourselves when we went. Afternoon massages are available too. Ours was very good, though it’s firm rather than a gentle caress. We stayed in the Zsofia room in the New Castle building, and it was gorgeous and huge. The style mixes rustic elegance with English royal details in the bathroom, plus antique furniture, including a very old closet, table and chairs. There was also a fireplace, so we played cards by the crackling fire with the complimentary German whiskey. The big bathroom had a shower cabin, double sinks, a separate toilet and a bathtub. The common spaces felt classy, with warm lighting and pleasant jazzy music. The chef is skilled, and the countryside-inspired menu includes game, duck, quince, plum and apple. Walking the grounds, seeing the stables, learning about the estate’s history, and relaxing in the spa put us in a different state of mind. It was a unique weekend, unmatched for its look and feel so far. I’d recommend trying it if you get the chance, and we plan to return in summer.

This country manor is incredibly stylish, and it’s still something of a well kept secret. If more people knew about it, it would probably be a Relais & Châteaux or Michelin place and impossible to book. The rooms are ridiculously comfortable, with beds you can sink into, a fireplace and wood for cold winter evenings. I loved the big freestanding bath, the his and hers sinks, and the grand iron and glass showers. The menu had loads of tempting dishes, but I went for the steak. It was tender, bloody and cooked just right. A fab place to relax.

There’s plenty to do indoors and outdoors, from spa services and horse riding to watching bears and deer. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the restaurant dishes are absolutely delicious. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with lovely big beds. Zabola Estate is a marvelous place to experience old Transylvanian bohemian life.