luxury real estate for sale Satu Mare, Romania

Far from the noise of the city, but still connected to the urban beauty with an amazing view, on the N-V Cornești plateau, at the edge of the forest is located this exclusive villa, right in the center of the premium area of Târgu Mureș. The property is located in the zoo area, which is the main attraction of the area. The Cornești Plateau (Hungarian: Somostető) is located in the eastern part of Târgu Mureș, 488 m above the Black Sea and 197 m above the city, being covered by oak and hornbeam forest. The plateau opens a wide panorama over the cities and the valley of the Mureș river. The plateau forest is landscaped with a running track and various signposted tourist routes. Among the routes offered are: ``Ursul de piatră from Platoul Cornești - Vârful Terebics - Vârful Cinege - Sângeorgiu de Mureș`` , ``Mașini de calculi (Strada Livezeni) - Platoul Cornești - Universitatea de Medicină`` and ``Cartierul Tudor - Ursul de piatră from Platoul Cornești``. The villa consists of basement+semi-basement+ground-floor+attic with a land of 1867 sqm, share of 800 sqm of the private road, 400 sqm usable area and the footprint of 280 sqm. The basement of the property consists of a cellar of 60 sqm and 3 rooms. In the semi-basement we have 3 technical spaces, a summer kitchen right next to the fitness room with sauna and bathroom. The ground floor offers a generous living room of 60 sqm with a spectacular 24 sqm Swiss crystal stained glass window, which gives a panoramic view of the city and creates the passage to the spacious 110 sqm terrace, a modern kitchen, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and a garage for 2 cars and upstairs there is a living room, 2 bedrooms with 2 bathrooms. Outside the property we have a 54 sqm (9x6) pool, a generous relaxation area and a barbeque lounge, ideal for warm seasons. The villa is equipped with the finest meranti wood joinery. We can see this aspect on railings, windows, doors and stairs. Its equipment is multiple and well chosen, from 2CT heating, gas and electric, present in the floor and in the radiant bodies, heat blowers with cold or hot chiller, to video surveillance and security alarms. Not less than 1.5 km from the city center is this property located, which is special not only for the luxury view and the tranquility of the area, but also for its extravagant finishes and modern facilities.

The settlement known today as Bod has its first documentary evidence around 1211, the archaeological records of life found here dating back to the Neolithic. After the Cumans invaded the village for several times, in 1241 it was conquered and burned down by the Tartars, this being the reason why the Saxon gave it the name ‘’Brenndorf’’, which means ‘’the burned village’’. Being just 16 km away from the center of Brasov (10 km from the ring road), Bod is easily accessible, which makes it a favorite target for both the idea of a permanent residence and a holiday home in the proximity of Brasov. The house has a typical Saxon architecture and the current owners have been extremely careful with the renovation process, following mainly two things: on one hand to preserve its character and historical charm, and on the other hand to add all the comfort and facilities necessary for the modern man today. The property consists of 2 houses, with a total of 848 sqm of build area, both completely renovated to a high quality standard. The main house dates back to the early 19th century, as shown by the inscription ‘’1803’’ on one of the solid oak beams, and was built in the specific style of that time, with thick, massive walls and high rooms. The original elements of the house were carefully restored, such as the large solid wood cabinets or the brick arches in the basement. The basement is empty, renovated and clean and can be used as a wine cellar or a spa. The ground floor s rather the living area of the house, with a beautiful and fully equipped kitchen, a dining room, a large, bright and extremely welcoming living room and a well-equipped fitness room that includes a mini-spa with sauna and a shower. The master bedroom can be found upstairs, along with an en-suite bathroom, a dressing and a large terrace that offers a dreamy view over the mountain ridges and also 2 more bedrooms, a bathroom, a desk and a lounge area where you can read or relax in front of the TV. The other house is actually an apartment, where a kitchen, a bathroom, a living room and a bedroom can be found, all of them being fully equipped and tastefully furnished. The 31sqm basement here can also have a useful function, depending on the future destination that the house will receive. The courtyard is completely landscaped with stone, lawn and ornamental shrubs, the automatic irrigation system serving both the inner courtyard and the back garden. The courtyard is also completed with a dining area and a BBQ. Behind the property’s stone walls is a garden that can be used voluntarily by the future owners. The electrically operated gates, the surveillance system with video cameras and the super-efficient heating system complete the comfort and safety need of the modern man, while the stove and the firepit will bring everyone together around the joyos wooden fire in the winter nights. The property enjoys easy access to and from Brasov, and also the newly opened International Airport in Ghimbav is only minutes away offering a quick connection with the world.

A trees covered hill in the back, a lazy river flowing nearby, plenty of fresh green from the forest, a clear blue sky and the feeling of that perfect vacation home! We are in Covasna, at Mereni, an old village situated at an altitude of 607 meters, and this property looks exactly like in our grandparents fairytales. With a great location on the river banks, surrounded by hills and forests, with a great view over the valley, it has all it needs for a perfect retreat: a large enough yard for all sorts of activities, plenty of rooms for the entire family, a cozy fireplace for the winter nights, a BBQ, a swing and a small pond to cover everyone’s interests. The yard has 1439 sqm and is nicely landscaped while the interior of the house offers all the needed comfort: a kitchen, a large living room, three bedrooms, plenty of terrace space to admire the surroundings, and a garage. Very well located in a dreamy natural landscape, the house in Mereni can quickly become the favourite place of the entire family.

When you hear ”Saxon house” the first thing that comes to your mind might be Prince Charles and his property in Viscri. An important unit of the local heritage, the Saxon houses are much more than that. More than 200 villages and many cities in Transylvania bear the mark of the Germanic civilization. And the Saxon house in Codlea, built between 1905-1907, makes no exception. The high gates, which shield the property from any indiscretion, allow for an impressive house to meet the curious eyes with its large windows, wooden beams and poles in sight, with the air of a miniature fortress. With a usable area of 450 sqm, the property is completely restored and the current owner paid a special attention to the preservation of the original architectural details. The oak carpentry has been refurbished, but for a better thermal comfort, another row of laminated wood windows has been added. The wooden doors and door frames are also modern additions, high quality replicas of the original elements. Two rows of parallel beams pass, at a height of 3.5 meters, the ceiling of the house. The attic, an open space of 130 sqm, has its own bathroom and is protected by a recently rebuilt roof with double-glazed tiles. The garage with automated access and separate central heating on each level are just some discreet elements of modernity in a context that preserves the charm of a traditional Saxon dwelling. And the property benefits from a real bonus: in the same yard there is a completely separate house with an area of more than 200 sqm, disposed on two levels. Built in 1973, this home is fully modernized and equipped. The land on which the property is located is also impressive. Spread over an area of 1826 square meters, it is composed of two distinct parts: a pretty cobbled courtyard, confined by ornamental plants, and a terraced garden with fruit trees. The areas are separated by massive walls that enhance the appearance of the typical fortified Saxon properties. In addition, the location, a keyword on the real estate market, is a special one. The property is in the downtown of Codlea, 15 kilometers away from Brasov and only 5 kilometers from the future Ghimbav airport. From the yard of the Saxon House you can admire the Postăvaru massif, and the proximity of the DN1 national road makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate mobility.

Sânpetru, one of the 14 establishments founded by Saxon colonists in 1211 in Țara Bârsei, was known throughout history as Petersburg, Sant Petru or Mons Sancti Petri. Called by the locals „The Old School”, one of the most important buildings in Sânpetru hosted the Evangelical Saxon School for more than a century. The now private property is undergoing a renovation process in order to receive a new function in the near future: hotel and event center. The two buildings are built in L shape on the edges of a 2500 sqm land that offers plenty of usage options. The location is very fortunate, in the historical area of Sânpetru, in the vicinity of the Evangelical Fortified Church built in 1794 on the foundation of a 13th-century church. The access to and from Brașov is facil and the view towards Lempeș Hill nearby ensures a relaxing sight. The main building facing the street, built in the second half of the 19th century, is the former school and bears an important historic value. Its main façade, recently renovated, contains neoclassic elements. The balanced proportions and symmetrical composition embellish it, with the two entrances mirroring each other. The total built surface is 1058 sqm and the four levels are basement, ground floor, first floor and attic. The conversion project implies creating a winery, dining areas and generous rooms with en-suite bathrooms and dressings. The secondary building fully renovated with premium finishings, and is fully furnished and utilated. There are 408 sqm built on two levels. At the groundfloor we have the kitchen and an big events hall. At the first floor we have two apartments that are ready to use. . With a generous land and two renovated buildings, in the immediate vicinity of Brașov but offering the fresh air that climbs down from Lempeș at twilight and the picturesque panorama of Țara Bârsei, the former Saxon School in Sânpetru can shortly become one of the touristic landmarks of the area.

Luxury and uncompromising quality require attention to the smallest details and a commitment to ensuring that every finishing touch, piece of furniture, or decorative element is of the highest standard and stylistically blends perfectly to create an ensemble that exceeds all expectations. This extraordinary house in Brașov perfectly embodies the description above. Everything, from the wall and floor finishes to the uniqueness of the furniture and decorations, breathes a modern style focused on uncompromising quality. Situated on a 230-square-meter plot, the property offers a built area of 215 square meters and has been completely renovated, furnished, equipped, and remains unoccupied, awaiting future owners who will appreciate and enjoy everything it has to offer. On the ground floor, there is the kitchen, living room, a small office, laundry room, and a technical room, while the attic serves as a master suite, featuring a spacious bedroom, a hallway with a dressing area, a nearly 14-square-meter bathroom, and another large room currently set up as a dressing room but easily convertible into a second bedroom. Separately, there is an annex building with a nearly 18-square-meter open space designed to function as a gym, though it can be adapted for any other purpose. The house is fully functional, with air purifiers and dehumidifiers in each room, underfloor heating, and lighting systems that can be controlled remotely, adding extra comfort for everyday living. Designer furniture pieces and fixtures complete the image of a truly special property that can satisfy even the most discerning tastes.

If we are to look for the right penthouse, then the one on Mihai Viteazu Street in Brasov should be the closest benchmark. Central location with fast access both to the historical center and to the business area of the city, plenty of room to accommodate even a large family, quality finishing and furniture, and on top of everything an amazingly large total area of terrace, by far the largest terrace area in Brasov. From areas point of view, we have a total of 195 sqm split on two floors. The upper level, accessible by an elevator that opens directly inside the apartment, consists mainly of the daytime area with a large living room with full size windows that bring the Tampa inside the home. The kitchen is open and fully fitted with top tier appliances and furniture. Also at this level we have the master bedroom with its own bathroom and dressing, an additional bedroom, a bathroom, and an additional large dressing room converted from and extra unused bedroom. The master bedroom opens on a 56 sqm terrace, while the living room is flanked on both sides by two terraces , a 48 sqm one and a smaller one of only 15 sqm but with a great view towards the mountains. Also from this level, one can access the rooftop terrace, a huge 360 degrees, 128 sqm area that offers an unobstructed view over the city and towards the mountains. At the lower level we have 3 rooms and a bathroom that can be used at separate bedrooms, or the entire floor can be used as a separate apartment. Also at this level we have plenty of sunshine that we can catch on the 93 sqm terrace or on the smaller balcony of 9 sqm. On top of everything, the penthouse comes with two underground parking spaces plus two very useful storage units of 4 sqm each. Very well located and having an unmatched terrace area, this penthouse can easily become a very special permanent residence or can successfully be used for long-term or short-term renting.

Located in one of the best residential areas of Brasov, ideally placed at the edge of the forest, this is one of the most attractive available properties of the city not only due to its positioning but also due to the large land plot and overall amenities. The 2686 sqm land plot offers access to two streets and are split as such to serve different purposes: there is a part that is beautifully landscaped with ornamental plants and trees, there is also an area with a small orchard with fruit trees and vine, there is a large terrace that can be fitted and used to enjoy the amazing view of the mountains and there is also an extra large 8-car garage. The building is monumental, with a very distinct architecture where the four large pillars on the main façade are the highlights. The size of the house is big, with a footprint area of 629 sqm and a total built area of 2127 sqm, split on four levels. The ground floor is dedicated to relaxation and well being, this is why here is where we find the spa, with a large pool, a sauna and a hot tub, then we have a living area, a very large kitchen and a nice hall way with a monumental stairway connecting the upper levels. The first and second floors are where the very large bedrooms, designed as small apartments are located. The attic is a large open space area that can be turned into whatever the next owner will need it to be. The interior is classic, with marble floors and bamboo wooden floorings, with classical pieces of furniture, stained glass or custom made chandeliers nd even an elevator.

Imagine a weekend getaway at home, in Poiana Brașov. It starts with morning light being lazily filtered through the eyelashes; the bedrooms’ walls are covered with wood which makes the light look like liquid honey. Breakfast is served in the summer on the generous balcony that surrounds the house - the coffee enhances the visual acuity and the mountains in front are distinguished in dozens of shades and hues of bright green. A few poppy and vanilla croissants from a good bakery put the smile in its place even in winter, when the fire keeps the cold away but not the thrill - Poiana Brașov is the best destination for snow sports. The resort is located at the foot of Postavarul at an altitude of 1030m and evokes hiking in the mountains in the cool of summer, the dizzying brass of autumn leaves and the squeaking of snow under boots in winter. It is certainly the place where concepts such as burnout vanish in thin air. Active rest in the strong ozone-rich air has therapeutic effects even when walking means simply foraging for mushrooms or blackberries in the forest, having a picnic in the pasture or reading on a meadow. The mountain routes Cristianul Mare and Pietrele lui Solomon start right from Poiana Brașov; however, the cable car and the ski lift allow you to enjoy the landscapes with minimal effort. Poiana means not only natural areas but also modern infrastructure suitable for the expectations of today’s tourist - being a premium destination the resort enjoys a vibrant life in its restaurants, hotels with heated pools and attractive clubs, in addition to options such as a horse riding center and a tourist sheepfold. Poiana Brașov manages to effortlessly keep its image as the most famous, attractive and envied mountain holiday location in the country. After a full day on one or more of the nine slopes (skiing is officially documented here since 1895) the sight of the silver fir trees guarding the entrance to the house is a joy to the eye and the promise of total relaxation in the sauna. The fire is burning in the fireplaces, the tea is bubbling in the samovar and friends are starting to gather at a long table that promises a memorable conviviality. The property is a redefinition of luxury in mountain terms, in which natural materials such as wood, stone, wool and fur invite nature inside and create a calm hunting cottage-like atmosphere.The house is well integrated in the landscape, both chromatically and volumetrically. Its garden’s perimeter is smartly demarcated by high vegetation thus obtaining a soothing view for the eyes but also intimacy. In addition, the property is located in a low-density area which offers a low level of visual and auditory stress. The five en suite bedrooms make it suitable for an extended family or groups, with a usable built area of 600 square meters (ten rooms in total) providing space and privacy for everyone. The house was built in 2008 and the interior design easily allows for re-decoration that gives a more personal touch. The property can be used as a holiday home but also as a long-term refuge, away from the noisy city, dusty to the point of dehydration in summer or dominated by mud and concrete in winter. Things to do in the area: • Local gastronomy - try the ischler, a cookie with walnuts and chocolate, available in countless variants proposed by Brasov restaurants. • The medieval fortress of Râșnov, one of the best preserved and restored peasant fortresses in Transylvania. It was here that famous movie scenes were shot (The Immortals”, Dacii, Mihai Viteazul, or Columna but also Oscar-winner “Cold Mountain, starring Jude Law and Nicole Kidman). • Prejmer Fortified Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, 700 years old, the first line of defence against the attacks of the Turks coming through the Buzău Pass (don't miss the organ of death). Bonus - go before Lent to enjoy fasching, the pancake festival specific to this village. Photo & video: Tudor Prisecaru

Bune ș ti, Bundorf, Bondorf, Bondref, Bodndref, Bodendorf, Budendorf, Sz á szbuda - Romanian, German, Hungarian. All these names indicate the same village in Bra ș ov, Transylvania, conveniently located between medieval Sighi ș oara (36 km) and famous Viscri (6 km). Lunca Popii mansion is located here, magically overlooking the village’s fortified church. It has a typical Saxon fence that blocks the view of the curious and keeps the household quiet. The tall, rounded gate and the property fence retain their original brick roof, one that has been blown away by the wind, washed away by the rain, and covered with moss of the yesteryear. Two huge boulders guard the gate like two sheepfolds. Everything inspires a quiet life, clear directions and an attitude of looking life straight in the eye. Only the bench leaning timidly on one side of the gate speaks of the fragility of human nature, always looking for closeness to the other. The stones leading to the house with the raised porch are from local, from a nearby riverbed or ridge, not bought from a DIY store. In the evening, the outdoor lighting springs from the grass and projects a warm light that invites to storytelling and stargazing. Although the construction is recent, it give the impression of a wealthy Saxon peasant household - the cleanliness of the white and the warmth of the wood create that rare air of seriousness and stability. The winter here is snowy just like in our grandparents' childhood stories. In summer, on the other hand, the yard is filled with tall grass, flowers and trees with rich canopy; the sunbeds and the table with stone chairs are overwhelmed by this domestic green, vibrant, refreshing and restful. As in any organised household, the bread oven and the fountain with a handmade clay jug cannot be missing. The wood stack promises warm winters but also deliciously smoked grill ed food. The courtyard is configured on the typical Saxon model, divided by the large house and adjacent buildings, in this case a garage for two cars and a private parking space for another five. Enjoying an excellent position in the country’s hot area of ​​ rural tourism, the property can function both as a single-family holiday home and as a tourist cottage for groups of up to 14 people. If desired, there is the possibility of extension with constructions on a similar surface - the property includes a plot of 1221 sqm adjacent to the current courtyard of 1233 sqm. The villa has 700 sqm; was built in 2009 which gives it all the facilities of a modern, comfortable home. Exposed oak beams mark the impeccable white of the walls. Crafted tile stoves and generous fireplaces cozy up the atmosphere. The interior has an almost spartan air in the bedrooms, but this austerity is broken by small details with the glamor of faded bronze from other times. Three bedrooms on the ground floor have access to a bathroom and a bathroom, while the fourth has its own bathroom. Three other bedrooms are upstairs, with access to an impeccably polished solid wood staircase. Two of these bedrooms of about 16 sqm each share a bathroom but the strong point here is the master bedroom which surprises not only by it 40 sqm -area but also by the wooden bed canopy, dressing room, bathroom and private terrace. The view is dreamy - the hills of Transylvania are green and look like pastel watercolours from afar. The living space, with a library and living room of 80 sqm, includes a table for 12 people, a fireplace and a game table. In summertime the 60 sqm terrace on the porch becomes an al fresco living-room. The kitchen offers ample space ( 40 square meters ) ready to receive between its walls laughter, warmth and stories (the traditional stove in the well-equipped kitchen has a supply of wood on the right side, hidden from view by a curtain wrinkled like grandma's skirts).

Somewhere on the way from Brașov to Intorsura Buzaului, a small river bravely dug his way through the mountains and created one of the most beautiful sceneries in Barsov's vicinity : Valea Dobarlaului. The village with the same name, located 33 km away from Brasov, managed to maintain its authentic beauty unaltered by the tourist exploitation that we see in Bran or Prahova Valley. Leaving the main road and going towards the end of the village, we will reach a small complex of vacation houses that seem to be straight out of an Alps postcard. Surrounded by forest, with the mountain rising straight at the backdoor of the houses, with alleys and common areas beautifully landscaped, with wooden and stone elements happily blended in. Only one of the six houses is fully independent from the energy point of view, with solar panels and heat pump that provide all the necessary energy resources. The house is set on a 1.000 sqm land plot, with a beautifully landscaped garden, with plants, stone, pine trees and fruit trees. In the garden we also find a winter house with a brick BBQ. The house has 4 levels, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a big living room with a fireplace and a kitchen, a huge dining room for parties and gatherings, and a covered terrace with an amazing view of the mountains. The house is fully furnished, utilated and connected to utilities and therefore fully functional. There are 3 parking places and also public transport that connects the house with Brasov. The scenery is truly spectacular while the options to spend the time are plentiful: hiking or biking the mountains around or the valley, or enjoying the available facilities like the terrace, the BBQ, the garden, the sport pitch or the small lake.The house is waiting for a family who enjoys nature and friends, who enjoy secluding in the mountains in the comfort of a vacation home that offers all facilities needed for modern life.

Located in the heart of Brasov and offering a picturesque view of the mountains, this penthouse is close to representing the perfect definition of a home, with all that entails: warmth, comfort, privacy, and a touch of authentic Brasov. All of this is complemented by a high level of quality, from finishes to furniture and decor. The apartment was completed in 2024, has never been lived in, so it is practically new and ready to welcome its owners into their dream home. It is situated on the 9th and 10th floors out of 10, ideal for providing a spectacular view of Piatra Mare, which the 129 square meter terrace truly highlights, taking the joy of a quiet evening to another level. Spread over two levels, the penthouse is divided into two areas with different functions. On the lower level, there is the living area, with an open space kitchen that opens to the dining area, the living room, a bathroom, and a room that can be an office or guest room. The living room is spectacular, both through its double height, which offers that truly sophisticated space, and through the large glazed surfaces and the opening to the terrace, which continues the feeling of endless space outside as well as inside. On the upper level, there is the master bedroom with a dressing room and en-suite bathroom, plus another bedroom and another bathroom. The interior is designed and arranged by a team of interior design professionals and is both practical, modern, and full of warmth and ingenuity. The furniture is designer, and all the electrical appliances are from top brands. Underfloor heating and air conditioning in all rooms are mandatory comfort elements that are part of the many facilities this apartment offers. A parking space is also available as an extra, it is underground and accessible by an elevator. Adjacent to the apartment there is also a storage room of 12 square meters, to be discussed separately. With a built-up area of 354 square meters and a usable area of 142 square meters, this penthouse offers both the space and facilities necessary for modern family life, a vibrant living space furnished and decorated with great taste, with a superb terrace for outdoor relaxation and a superb view characteristic of Brasov.

Any old edifice properly restored brings joy and fulfillment, but the satisfaction is even greater when the building in question keeps the memory of the community alive and Rica Villa is such an emblem for Slanic-Moldova resort. Perched on a rock since the 1930s, it looks out over the city's central park with the benevolent pride of an ancestor who lived a long interesting life. On August 21-22, 1944, Marshal Ion Antonescu, commander of the Romanian army, was in Slanic-Moldova for talks with Hans Friessner, commander of the Southern Ukraine Army Group. The talks took place at Rica Villa, the German's headquarters, the topic of the day being the entry of Soviet troops into the front line *. Those from Slănic-Moldova have not forgotten this. The property has an imposing allure warmed up by its bright walls and size- it is a small and intimate castle with slender towers inhabited by tourists delighted to gaze over the resort’s park and its famous casino and further up to the mountains in the distance. The generous terraces on different levels attract tourists to lazy cafes during the day, while at night, richly illuminated, they transform the property into a focal point of the city. The architecture combines elements of Western medieval with neo-Romanian and allows for a reconversion of the current tourist unit into a private/ holiday home, if desired. The villa was built as a private residence in the 1930s and underwent an impeccable renovation in 2018. There are 5 apartments and 4 double rooms on two floors and an attic. This guarantees a comfortable stay for an extended family or many friends. Honoring their past, the rooms welcome their guests with the surprise of a classic carved solid wood furniture, with arched legs, satin upholstery and delicate inlays. The Arad-based furniture manufacturer is the same one previously chosen by Ceausescu’s family for their homes. The bathrooms are modern and comfortable and some of the walls bear the optimistic handwriting of motivational writing. Situated on the Slanic River, a tributary of the Trotus, Slanic-Moldova resort is located in a depression packed with fir and beech forests. This and the 530m altitude in the Nemira massif in the Eastern Carpathians make the town enjoy clean, ozonated air as well as beneficial natural springs. Over 20 sources of carbonated, chlorinated, sodium, hyper or hypotonic, sulphurous or oligomineral waters, the benefits of which have been discovered since the 19th century, are the subject of exceptional spa operations. Saline microclimate and mofeta gas complete the broad spectrum of health procedures that can be performed in the area. Winter sports add to the area’s charm - the most recent development in the area being the Nemira slope with a length of 1414m at 724m altitude (240m level difference), in other words a light slope with a high degree of attractiveness. Obviously, all of them place Slanic-Moldova on pole position as the flagship resort of Moldova. In addition, Bacau city is only 84 km away, which puts Rica Villa in the range of easily accessible holiday homes for the weekend. Area attractions: • the 2022-launched Nemira slope • mountain trails and hikes - Three hundred steps, Uzea Valley, Nemira Mare, etc. • Târgu Ocna salt mine • Măgura Ocnei monastery • Valea Uzului dam * Source: August 23, 1944. The end of the Romanian-German comrades-in-arms“ in the Yearbook of the Cluj-Napoca Institute of History, Cluj-Napoca, 2006, 45, pp. 179–224 Photo: Tudor Prisecaru

The year of construction isn’t precisely noted, most likely being somewhere between 1913-1914. Situated on a highland at 600 m altitude and integrated in the picturesque landscape, the Stirbey Palace was designed by architect Nicolae Ghika-Budești and built with Italian craftsmen. Architect Ghika-Budești was a promoter of old Romanian architecture, with a personal style, a synthesis between Wallachian and Moldavian architecture. Specific for his constructions are the use of face brick, enamelled ceramic, the insertion of neo-gothic frames at doors and windows, the tower of monasterial inspiration, the horseshoe bow, the saw teeth decoration and the geometric motifs. The Palace from Dărmănești, with a surface of 4500 sqm, is disposed on four levels – basement, ground floor and two other floors, with a semicircular terrace. The annexes occupy approximately 1500 sqm. Water basins were built near the palace, and the buildings had a water supply system that is still preserved, the oldest in Bacău County, where water is brought from the mountain from a distance of nearly 8 km. Following the early death of Prince George, who lost his life due to typhus during the First World War, Elisabeta will spend most of her time at Dărmănești with her two daughters, Sanda and Marina. „She used to arrive here in May, with her daughters, governesses, chauffeurs and maids; she had an entire team brought from abroad, which included butlers and chefs as well. Until September she received here visits from relatives and friends.” The Royal visitors at The Dărmănești Palace include Queen Elisabeth of Romania and Queen Marie of Romania, photographed in national costumes in the garden and inside the residence. Queen Marie invokes Elisabeta Știrbey in her notes: Elisabeta is a beautiful and mild woman, born Băleanu. She has good taste, she likes beautiful things and is a real country life loving woman. Queen Marie records some other details about the residence, with the occasion of her August 1926 visit: Dărmănești is everything I expected it to be. A house with a beautiful position and a splendid garden, designed with perfect taste and concept. It has something that I have never seen before which is fantastic, enormous flower beds, almost like fields of garden mistletoe, hundreds and hundreds of flowers in huge groups, absolutely gorgeous and also its home is full of flowers arranged in large vases, pots and cans. Nothing can be more spectacular [...] The house is also beautiful and well designed.” The rehabilitation and restoration started in 2014 and the process took three years and sought to restore and preserve as many original items as possible. The solid wood stairway was kept – every square inch was cleaned and restored. The original solid oak carpentry was saved as well. To meet the current comfort requirements, the glass was replaced with a double-glazed window, but the original oak wood frame was preserved. The total of over 1000 windows have been refurbished one by one. It was possible to preserve and restore the Italian-style steel shutters (unique elements in the country), which had the role of protection in case of a siege. These were cleaned and painted. The façade is the original one as well – the bricks were refurbished to preserve the particular style of architect Nicolae Ghika-Budești. The space was furnished with French and Florentine furniture, the paintings exhibited in the palace include valuable works of art from the 17th century, signed by Italian, Flemish and Romanian artists. Due to this great effort, we can today savour a unique piece of jewellery of the Romanian built heritage, ready to start a new journey as a 40 rooms hotel with events, cuisine and spa facilities or as a most exquisite private retreat.

Step into a realm of sensorial delight as you enter this magnificent property in Peștera, Brașov County. Just a quarter minutes away from the iconic Bran Castle, also known as Dracula Castle, the location alone will transport you into a world of wonder and fascination. Picture-perfect nature surroundings and breathtaking views of the majestic Bucegi Mountains set the stage for a retreat that awaits your discovery. Every inch of this property has been carefully crafted with the precision and elegance of a master artist. As you step inside, you are greeted by a classic interior adorned with neutral cromatic tones, reminiscent of a canvas waiting to be filled with life. The play of light and shadows, expertly orchestrated by the expansive windows, creates a harmonious dance between the outside world and the sanctuary within. Each room is a work of art in itself, meticulously designed to awaken your senses. The double rooms, adorned with tasteful furnishings and adorned with local artwork, invite you to relax and unwind in a tranquil ambiance. The apartments, with their sophisticated charm and exquisite attention to detail, offer a haven of comfort and luxury. But this property is not just about serene living spaces. It is a sanctuary of leisure and entertainment. From the cozy atmosphere of the living room, where you can curl up with a good book and bask in the warmth of the fireplace, to the vibrant kids' playground, where laughter and joy fill the air, there is something for everyone. Indulge your senses in the sauna area, where the aroma of fragrant wood and the gentle steam envelop you in a world of relaxation and rejuvenation. Feel the tension melt away as you immerse yourself in the soothing embrace of this sensory oasis. For those seeking a balance between work and play, the conference area offers a seamless blend of functionality and inspiration. Conduct productive meetings or host engaging team-building activities while surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of nature. Let the tranquil surroundings and invigorating energy of the property spark creativity and foster collaboration. Beyond the borders of this enchanting property lies a world waiting to be explored. Take a step outside and embark on a mystical journey through the land of legends and enchantment. Wander the ancient halls of Dracula Castle, where history whispers secrets of the past. Lose yourself in the captivating folklore that permeates every village and valley, or venture into the untamed wilderness of the Carpathian Mountains, where nature's grandeur reigns supreme.

Without a doubt, Predeal is one of the most attractive mountain resort from Romania, its history being usually compared with the ones of Sinaia. Frontier locality by 1918, and major railway route at the end of the XIXth century, Predeal was about to become in the interwar period, an important touristic hub, attracting along with Sinaia, the new social strata - sportsmen, lawyers, doctors, professional military. During this modernisation period, many of the villas were erected in the famous neighbourhood Cioplea that was becoming even from the 30’s a true touristic-sport quarter - the first installation of a trampoline (1933), the first tele-ski from the country (1934). The Gen. Cartianu Villa was built in 1937, four houses down the road from ”Căprioara” Villa, the famous holiday home of Marshal Ion Antonescu, the superior of General Cartianu. The residence has been planned with the character of a holiday house, its distinct appearance being enhanced by the used materials - the wood and the wooden crafted elements, river stones and the extraordinary roof.