The King’s Retreat & Count’s Cottages – Transylvania Tailor-made

In the Carpathian foothills of Transylvania, Romania lies the historic estate of Count Tibor Kalnoky, a long-standing friend of the British Royal Family. Here, discover the private nature retreat of (former Prince of Wales) King Charles III at Zalanpatak, which is now open to welcome individual travellers, and the Count’s Cottages at nearby Miklosvar. Both properties offer the ultimate seclusion: a wonderful opportunity to escape the trappings of modern civilisation and experience a slower, simpler way of life, in harmony with the unspoilt natural surroundings.

The King’s Retreat (7 bedrooms) and Count’s Cottages (10 bedrooms) have been lovingly restored in the style of centuries-old private homes, with a view to preserving their heritage, authenticity and rustic charm. Each is furnished with antique Transylvanian furniture and local textiles; the guest rooms have no television or radio but plenty of books and nature guides on the shelves. Meals are mostly taken with other guests (unless requested separately), giving the feel of a house party with like-minded travellers from around the world. Food is locally sourced and produced where possible, menus are authentic and a wide choice of fine Romanian and Hungarian wines are available a la carte.

The surrounding countryside is idyllic and a real joy at any time of year – a chance to get away from it all and enjoy space, tranquillity and pristine nature. The King’s Retreat offers a wood-fired, salt water hot tub and deck chairs where guests can immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.

There’s an array of activities and excursions on the estate, from bear watching to nature walks, craft activities to picnics in the hills. Horse-riding is available nearby, from beginner lessons and hacks to 5-day trail rides. A visit to the Hodaia Herbalist’s Workshop is highly recommended, oils and elixirs for hair care and skin rejuvenation are lovingly produced here, plus traditional soaps, teas and other magical potions sourced entirely from medicinal plants native to Transylvania. Hodaia’s formulae are derived from age-old recipes passed down through the family of its founder, Raluca Olaru.

This region of Romania is the perfect wintry destination, with its snow-capped hills and festive traditions. Guests can enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides with bells, blankets and mulled wine, booking for Christmas and New Year 2023 are open. Please get in touch for further details for small groups, and bespoke, individual visits.  Guests of all ages are welcome – this is an ideal multi-generational family destination.

• The surrounding countryside is idyllic and a real joy at any time of year - a chance to get away from it all and enjoy space, tranquillity and pristine nature. The King’s Retreat offers a wood-fired, salt water hot tub and deck chairs where guests can immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.
• This region of Romania is the perfect wintry destination, with its snow-capped hills and festive traditions.
• Guests can enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides with bells, blankets and mulled wine.