From Sibiu: Villages, Farm Life & Horse Carriage Ride

Discover Authentic Transylvania on a Full-Day Tour from Sibiu

The From Sibiu: Villages, Farm Life & Horse Carriage Ride offers a full-day exploration of some of Transylvania’s most fascinating rural sites. Priced at $162 per person and lasting about 10 hours, this private tour is perfect for those interested in local traditions, historic churches, and scenic landscapes.

Departing from Sibiu, the tour provides a well-rounded experience that combines visits to medieval fortified churches, a sheep farm, a traditional Romanian lunch, and a rustic carriage ride. While the day is packed with highlights, it’s especially suited for travelers eager to see untouched village life and historic architecture. The tour’s focus on authentic craftsmanship and local culture makes it a compelling choice for those looking for an immersive experience.

One thing to consider: the tour involves quite a few stops, and some visitors may prefer a more relaxed pace. However, the combination of cultural visits and natural scenery offers a memorable glimpse into rural Transylvania. This experience appeals to anyone curious about village traditions, historic churches, and local craftsmanship.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $162 per person for a 10-hour tour, it offers a comprehensive day of sightseeing from Sibiu.
• Historic Sites: Visit Câra Monastery, omartin Basilica, and Cincu Fortified Church, all from the 13th century.
• Authentic Farm Experience: Meet animals at a sheep farm, taste fresh cheese and milk, and learn traditional farming methods.
• Culinary Highlights: Enjoy a traditional Romanian lunch made with fresh, local ingredients.
• Scenic Natural and Cultural Stops: Pass through Movile hills with a short hike, and see Stejriu’s fortified church with its unique “Bacon Tower”.
• Transport and Guidance: Travel in a comfortable vehicle with a multilingual, professional guide leading the way.

Starting the Day at Câra’s 13th-Century Monastery

The tour begins with a visit to Câra, home to an impressive 13th-century Cistercian Monastery. Established in 1202, this monastery showcases Gothic architecture built with simple tools and methods similar to those used in traditional construction. Visitors can explore the church and learn about the monks’ dedication and early life.

The monastery’s history offers insight into medieval monastic life and the founding of religious communities in Transylvania. The guide explains how this site remains a vital part of the area’s heritage, highlighting its architectural significance and historical importance. The visit provides a meaningful start to understanding the cultural fabric of the region.

Exploring Omartin’s Romanesque Basilica and Baroque Art

Next, the tour moves to omartin, where a 13th-century Romanesque basilica awaits. This church features a Baroque altar from 1730, created by Johann Martin Stock, and a grand Samuel Mätz organ. Visitors admire the detailed interior craftsmanship and learn about the basilica’s role in local defenses.

The architecture and artworks reflect the layers of history that have shaped Transylvania’s religious and cultural identity. The altar and organ stand out as fine examples of baroque artistry, offering a glimpse into the region’s artistic heritage. The church’s history as a fortification adds an extra layer of interest, connecting spiritual and defensive roles of such structures.

Cincu’s Fortified Church and Its Historical Treasures

The next stop is Cincu, famous for its 13th-century fortified church. The tower reaches over 49 meters high, providing striking views of the surrounding landscape. Inside, the altar from 1521 depicts “Doubting Thomas”, and the church also houses epitaphs and a Renaissance pulpit.

This site exemplifies Transylvania’s medieval defensive architecture. The combination of church fortifications and artistic elements offers a fascinating look at community resilience. The historic interior, with its altar and pulpit, reveals the collective effort of past generations in building and maintaining these structures.

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Taking in Village Life at Selitat and the Sheepfold

The core experience of local traditions unfolds in Selitat, where visitors get an authentic sheepfold visit. Meeting sheep, cows, buffalo, goats, and guardian dogs provides insight into traditional farming that historically supported the community.

Visitors can taste fresh milk and cheeses such as ca, urd, and telemea, directly from the source. This culinary experience emphasizes the freshness and authenticity of local dairy products. The hands-on approach highlights agricultural practices and village livelihood that have persisted over centuries.

Sampling Fresh Dairy and Enjoying Romanian Cuisine

After the farm visit, the tour offers a traditional Romanian lunch. The meal features homemade delicacies prepared with local, fresh ingredients. This generous spread allows visitors to savor the flavors of Transylvania and appreciate the hospitality of rural communities.

The lunch serves as a relaxed break in the day, giving travelers time to reflect on the cultural insights gained so far. The emphasis on authentic ingredients makes this meal a highlight for food lovers seeking a genuine taste of Romanian cuisine.

A Gentle Hike Through Movile’s Natural Mounds

En route to the final stops, the tour passes through Movile, where they undertake a short hike along natural mounds. This landscape features unique geological formations and local legends, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient geological history.

The hike is accessible and provides a peaceful break from the business of the day. It enhances understanding of the natural landscape that has shaped the settlements and culture of the area. Visitors appreciate the scenic views and the stories connected to these natural features.

Stejriu’s 14th-Century Fortified Church and the “Bacon Tower”

The tour culminates in Stejriu, home to a 14th-century fortified church. Visitors explore the church’s architecture and learn about its “Bacon Tower”, a traditional storage area still used for local produce.

The “Bacon Tower” offers a quirky but practical example of local resourcefulness. The fortified church itself provides historic insights into defense strategies and community resilience during turbulent times. The peaceful village atmosphere makes for a fitting end to the day.

The Rustic Carriage Ride in Stejriu Village

Finally, the experience includes a horse-drawn carriage ride through Stejriu, led by a local farmer. The ride offers an authentic glimpse of village life, with scenes of traditional houses, countryside, and everyday activity.

This simple mode of transport connects visitors to past ways of life, making the day feel complete. The serene ride allows for reflection and appreciation of rural Transylvania’s timeless charm.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Sibiu in a comfortable vehicle, and a professional guide speaking multiple languages such as English, Spanish, French, German, and Portuguese. Visitors gain entrance to Câra Monastery, omartin Basilica, Cincu Fortified Church, and Stejriu Fortified Church with the “Bacon Tower”.

The sheepfold visit with cheese and milk tasting, the short hike through Movile, and the horse carriage ride are all part of the experience. All local taxes and fees are included, making this a straightforward, well-organized day.

Considerations and Limitations

While the tour offers a full day of cultural and scenic sights, it is designed for those over 14 years old and under 95, meaning it may not be suitable for very young children or older seniors. The pace involves several stops and some walking or standing, so travelers should be prepared for a moderately active day.

The lunch is not included in the base price, presenting an option for travelers to choose a more elaborate meal if desired. The tour provides great value for those interested in historic churches, farm life, and scenic landscapes, offering a comprehensive look at rural Transylvania.

Exploring the Authentic Side of Transylvania from Sibiu

This private tour from Sibiu offers an appealing blend of history, culture, nature, and local traditions. Its focus on fortified churches, farm life, and village customs makes it ideal for those wanting a deep dive into rural Transylvania.

The guided visits to impressive medieval churches provide educational insights, while the farm experience and local lunch add a tangible connection to daily village life. The carriage ride and natural hike round out a well-paced journey through picturesque landscapes.

This tour is a valuable choice for travelers seeking a rich, authentic day out beyond the typical city sights, especially for those interested in architecture, agriculture, and regional legends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The round-trip transportation, guide, entrance fees to the churches and monastery, sheepfold visit, cheese and milk tasting, a short hike, and a horse carriage ride are included.

Is lunch included?
No, the traditional Romanian lunch is not included but can be added optionally.

What languages does the guide speak?
The guide speaks English, Spanish, French, German, and Portuguese.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 14 years or people over 95.

What is the main focus of the tour?
The focus is on historic fortified churches, farm life, and local village traditions.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
There is a short hike at Movile, so some light walking is involved.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is private, allowing some flexibility, but lunch and extras are optional.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be made through the provider, Agramonia ABF, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of historic churches, authentic farm visits, and the rustic carriage ride offers an immersive look at rural Transylvania that few other tours provide.

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