Hotel Review: Transylvanian Inn

A family affair, run by sisters Laura and Alina, the Transylvanian Inn is a far cry from Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Warm, welcoming, and with wonderful views, it’s a cosy retreat near Bran, gateway to Romania’s mountains.

Check in: Transylvanian Inn

First Impressions 

Climbing the hill (car highly recommended) up to the chalet-style inn, one thought was going through our minds: ‘the view is going to be amazing’. Overlooking Bran, the Castle, and Râşnov Citadel, it didn’t disappoint. On a beautiful autumnal day, the surrounding forests were a sea of burnt oranges, red, and earthy, deep greens, backed by the Bucegi Mountains. The exterior being dressed up in Halloween decorations added to the magical atmosphere, too. Cosy epitomised.

Location

Perfectly peaceful just outside of Bran, in Predeluț, the location of the Transylvanian Inn strikes the important balance of nature and convenience. The town’s shops, restaurants, and bars are around a 5-7-minute drive. Or, you can walk. It’s steep but beautiful, and takes around 25-30 minutes. Brașov Airport is around 35 minutes away by car too. 

Facilities & Services

Every area of this boutique hillside hotel makes use of the gorgeous views of the Bucegi Mountains. The hot tub and sauna were a particular highlight, perfect for soothing post-hike muscles. This area is shared, but the accommodating staff try to manage usage so guests can enjoy privacy. 

The library on the top floor is another standout. A wonderful, cosy spot for a cup of tea and reading with 360-degree views in one of the plush hanging chairs. There’s also a games room, equipped with table tennis, board games and a pool table.

For warm afternoons that roll into chilly evenings, the multi-level landscaped garden is a beautiful place to be. Dotted with chairs and tables and enveloped by lush greenery, with the mountain views always in sight, it’s a special area of the inn. The staff can set the campfire alight while you enjoy a warming glass of local wine.

Rooms

There are 22 rooms, warmly rustic and traditional but kitted out with amenities for a comfortable stay. Big windows and doors shine light onto the bright white walls, while the solid wood and terracotta finishes bring the mountain retreat cosy vibes. Best of all, the hotel is set back from any transit roads, so you fall asleep and wake up to blissful quiet. 

Choose from Standard Rooms, most of which include a balcony with views towards the Piatra Craiului Mountains, Superior Double Rooms with balcony views towards the Bucegi Mountains and Bran Castle, Suites that come with an even bigger balcony, even better views, jacuzzi, swing chair, and more, and the Apartment.

Food & Drink

It’s always a good stay when breakfast is included. And the breakfast here is particularly good. Think selections of meats and cheese, toast, homemade jams, yoghurt, as well as traditional Romanian options. And freshly cooked eggs, as you like them.

Lunch and dinner are served in the restaurant, too – and there’s a terrace with (you guessed it) wonderful mountain views for alfresco moments. The kitchen serves freshly made traditional fare, including veal stew, pumpkin soup, and a regional favourite, sheep pastrami with polenta (mămăligă). There’s a family feel to this place, and that’s shown in many ways, including the kitchen accommodating requests (such as vegetarian or gluten-free dishes) when arranged in advance. They also offer packed lunches for day trips. And don’t leave without trying Laura’s homemade sour cherry liqueur, vișinată.

Value

The Transylvanian Inn does an amazing job of bringing the amenities of a much larger hotel to this 22-room mountain retreat, but with the service of an excellent boutique stay. Guests quickly get to know sisters Laura and Alina by name, and the service is attentive, personalised and warm.

Prices start from £75 per night.

Is the Transylvanian Inn family-friendly?

Yes, the Transylvanian Inn happily welcomes families. Cots and cribs are available on request, and families can book either the one-bedroom suite or the apartment, which comes with a sofa bed. Set away from the traffic, children can explore the garden, and there are board games, children’s books, and puzzles in the games room. The kitchen also caters to children, with kids’ meals and flexible homemade dishes. While this isn’t a high-energy resort targeted to families, the inn is the perfect place to slow down and spend quality time together.

Is the Translyvanian Inn accessible?

There are wheelchair accessible parking spaces, and wheelchair access to public areas, like the lobby and restaurant. The hotel is happy to answer questions regarding specific accessibility requests and questions.

Is the Translyvanian Inn dog-friendly?

No, pets are not permitted at the Transylvanian Inn.