A failed trip turns into a beautiful mountain surprise! Sinaia, Romania and Peles Castle (almost...)

Having already passed through the mountains of Romania on my way to Bucharest, I was keen to take a closer look at this part of Romania I barely knew existed. And it was also a nice opportunity to escape the craziness of the big city. What I found was not what I expected and despite a fail to begin with, I'm so glad I came here...
Filmed in Sinaia, Romania on 13/14 March 2023.
Maps courtesy of Google Maps
Music courtesy of epidemicsound.com
('Mountain Spring High' by Gabriel Lewis)
Hi, I’m Steve, a travel reviewer from Scotland. Join me on my adventures as I discover my own country, often visiting places for the first time, so hopefully it's as much of an eye-opener for you as it is for me! Don't expect expert opinion, just a very honest journey of discovery. Sometimes featuring my intrepid sidekick Alicja, sometimes featuring adventures beyond the borders of Scotland. Enjoy!
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/ stevemarsh
#Romania #PelesCastle #SteveMarsh

[@746laurie]

I fell in love with the country and the people after seven visits between 1992 and have now lived in Romania, near Sighișoara, for 13 years after selling my one-man signmaking business in Oxfordshire. The black dresine (car with railway wheels) on the platform at Sinaia was the heavily armoured personal rail transport of a particularly nasty woman who was a member of the Communist elite whose name I can't recall. It still bears the scars of an assassination attempt! There's also a large model railway in the former Royal salon of the station. I live in one of the largely unspoiled Saxon villages between Sighișoara and Mediaș.

[@steve-marsh]

Superb comment and thanks so much for the info! You made a great move in my opinion!

[@mihaiblaga5383]

The woman's name was Hana Pauker(jewish descendant), she was the foreign minister and also the leader of the communist party in the late 40s(unofficially). The car is an early 50s Skoda Vos if I remember correctly.

[@marinelapavel1873]

Is the most beautiful country in Europe where there is no place you will go and will not take your breath away, with friendly and welcoming people. If you want an adventure and amazing things to see or visit just go for it and you will never regret it

[@lovetobeloved2059]

Back in the days like few hundreds years ago Romania was named Dacian Kingdom and was huge It thus roughly corresponds to the present-day countries of Romania, as well as parts of Moldova, Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Slovakia, and Ukraine.

[@Earth-360]

Love to hear that you gave your lunch to hungry street dogs scavenging for food. That is a real human act. Your kindness really counts. I am really touched .❤

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks, I just hope they're okay :(

[@midmiddleton163]

The castles looked like they are out of a fairytale. Magic.

[@steve-marsh]

So true! :)

[@christopherellis2663]

Late Medieval good taste

[@m0t0b33]

well this particular one was a filming location for plenty movies and tv shows... I'm not 100% sure, cause I'm not a fan of the show, but I think even "Wednesday" was shot here.... or parts of it anyways...

[@sticlavoda5632]

@@m0t0b33 I am pretty sure that was another castle, The Cantacuzino Castle situated in Bușteni, Romania.

[@m0t0b33]

@@sticlavoda5632 like I said, I'm not 100% sure, but it was based on the internet chatter created by that article when the actress said she was "forced" to eat non vegan food... anyways... at least one cheesy Christmas movie was shot at Peles with more popular names from Hollywood.

[@jonsmith8582]

Well that has completely changed my perception of Romania on its head , wasn't expecting that at all !

[@steve-marsh]

Same mate!

[@lilianavladescu865]

If you want to see more about Romania please watch the Canadians from Jetlag Warriors about Romania. You'll love it.

[@marinelapavel1873]

Is the most beautiful country in Europe where there is no place you will go and will not take your breath away, with friendly and welcoming people. If you want an adventure and amazing things to see or visit just go for it and you will never regret it

[@lovetobeloved2059]

Back in the days like few hundreds years ago Romania was named Dacian Kingdom and was huge It thus roughly corresponds to the present-day countries of Romania, as well as parts of Moldova, Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Slovakia, and Ukraine.

[@lovetobeloved2059]

More than 530 years later, in 1998, King Charles found out about his links to the Romanian ruler. He is, in fact, his great-grandson 16 times removed, through the consort of George V, Queen Mary, Romania Tour Store reports. A genealogical tree in The British Chronicles written by David Hughes supports this

[@AndrewG1989]

I have to say that Romania is quite a nice country in Europe and I think that the people are quite friendly. I would like to go to Romania as I never been there.

[@omi685]

If you'll ever decide to visit Romania, I recommend that you make a trip to Brasov, Sighișoara, Sibiu (ASTRA Museum is a must see), Sinaia, the castles (Peleș, Bran, Cantacuzino and Corvin), a scenic drive on Transfăgărășan and Transalpina roads, Turda Salt Mine, the Sphinx in the Bucegi Mountains, the painted Monasteries, the Danube Delta, the bear sanctuary, the Bicaz Gorge etc. This is just the beginning. The best period to visit is between May and October, the weather is lovely.

[@elliangi5958]

.... and Danube Delta

[@TzakaNyko]

Iti is great to visit for families, get a nice accomodation form booking, don't fall for the overpriced ones (Timisoara, Sibiu and Brasov has some nice and cheap ones right in the centers) and the sorroundings are great

[@lovetobeloved2059]

It thus roughly corresponds to the present-day countries of Romania, as well as parts of Moldova, Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Slovakia, and Ukraine.

[@lovetobeloved2059]

In fact, a few years ago, the former Prince of Wales declared in the documentary "Wild Carpathia" that he is a "descendant of Vlad the Impaler, according to his bloodline." Vlad III, commonly known also as Vlad the Impaler, was born in Sighisoara, in Transylvania in 1431, and later being the ruler of Wallachia.

[@beachman8106]

This is the best video yet in the Eastern Europe series. Trains, gondolas, ski resorts, mountains, castles, and dogs. What’s not to like? Another video topic could be a review of all the different Eastern European beers that you have sampled on your journeys. Best Wishes from 🇦🇺 👍👍

[@steve-marsh]

Oh now you're talking mate! :) And thanks for the kind words!

[@marinelapavel1873]

Is the most beautiful country in Europe where there is no place you will go and will not take your breath away, with friendly and welcoming people. If you want an adventure and amazing things to see or visit just go for it and you will never regret it

[@amethyst2823]

@@marinelapavel1873 Let's not exaggerate! Top 10 for sure

[@bestopinion9257]

Stray dogs are obsolete in that town. Now stray bears are normal.

[@cjyoung7372]

Now that is my dream holiday unprepared and spontaneous and on a budget. you Europeans are truly blessed with such variety of travel destinations on your doorstep. Much love from New zealand

[@steve-marsh]

Aye we are lucky with that for sure, but never take advantage of it enough, definitely need to come back!

[@marinelapavel1873]

Is the most beautiful country in Europe where there is no place you will go and will not take your breath away, with friendly and welcoming people. If you want an adventure and amazing things to see or visit just go for it and you will never regret it

[@cjyoung7372]

@Marinela Pavel my mother and brother live in the uk and my brother convinced mum to go with him to Romania she was very reluctant but she went anyway and she said it was amazing one of her favorite places in Europe she said

[@marinelapavel1873]

I'm happy that your mum liked it but I'm sure that they was able to see just a very tiny part of the country and you know sometimes if you know someone there, or someone from there like me, they can get valuable informations about places to go and what to see and recommend them what to avoid loosing their time with. Because there are so many beautiful places in different parts of the country and if you know where to go or to experience along the way for you not to need 20 years to visit my country. Me too I live in UK, originally I am from Romania born in Bucharest the capital and I travelled all over my country from caves, waterfalls, castles etc. And I can keep in touch with your brother and mum to help them in the future. Best regards, marinela

[@kirsteneasdale5707]

Thanks for the great video which I stumbled on. What a gorgeous place. I have always wanted to visit Zermatt and take the Matterhorn Express Gondola. Thanks to Covid, that is no longer affordable but perhaps Sinaia is a more affordable option and it looks so beautiful. I will have to start planning for next year. I would love to speak with a Romanian person from that area to get advice first (I’m a bit nervous that there are bears!). Our nearest airport is Glasgow (just over an hour away) so I hope I can get flights from there to Bucharest. Now off to hunt down all the videos and info I can find on Sinaia.

[@kudzumoose3861]

Wow! Amazing. I never considered Romania as a destination. From the moment you got off the train in Sinaia, I was thrilled. What a beautiful location and the old houses. Hope you go back and show us the inside of the castle sometime soon. Wonder why there are two castles, must be some interesting history there. You sure put your legs to the test with all that walking uphill. Loved the entire video including seeing the rooms where you stayed. Thank you.

[@davidionescu2103]

Pelisor Castle has been built as a summer residence for crown prince of Romania and his wife, Ferdinand and Marie of Edinburgh.

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much!

[@marinelapavel1873]

Is the most beautiful country in Europe where there is no place you will go and will not take your breath away, with friendly and welcoming people. If you want an adventure and amazing things to see or visit just go for it and you will never regret it

[@lovetobeloved2059]

In fact, a few years ago, the former Prince of Wales declared in the documentary "Wild Carpathia" that he is a "descendant of Vlad the Impaler, according to his bloodline." Vlad III, commonly known also as Vlad the Impaler, was born in Sighisoara, in Transylvania in 1431, and later being the ruler of Wallachia.

[@lovetobeloved2059]

It thus roughly corresponds to the present-day countries of Romania, as well as parts of Moldova, Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Slovakia, and Ukraine.

[@frankgellenthin3733]

What an adventure, Steve! By blood I'm a quarter Romanian and am blown away by the Carpathian mountain scenery and architecture. Cheers from Wildwood, New Jersey!

[@steve-marsh]

That's good blood to have my friend!

[@L2Xenta]

King Carol was of the House of Hohenzollern - is a German royal (and from 1871 to 1918, imperial) dynasty whose members were variously princes, electors, kings and emperors of Hohenzollern, Brandenburg, Prussia, the German Empire, and Romania. The family came from the area around the town of Hechingen in Swabia during the late 11th century and took their name from Hohenzollern Castle. The first ancestors of the Hohenzollerns were mentioned in 1061. I mention this detail because its clearly also reflected even here in Romania in the Architecture of the surroundings .

[@lovetobeloved2059]

@@L2Xenta More than 530 years later, in 1998, King Charles found out about his links to the Romanian ruler. He is, in fact, his great-grandson 16 times removed, through the consort of George V, Queen Mary, Romania Tour Store reports. A genealogical tree in The British Chronicles written by David Hughes supports this

[@lovetobeloved2059]

@@steve-marsh go much further !!Germany did not even existed when Dacian Kingdom was a huge country !you do some researxh and you will find out tbat Royal family is bloodline to Romanian old Daciam kingdom It thus roughly corresponds to the present-day countries of Romania, as well as parts of Moldova, Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Slovakia, and Ukraine.

[@L2Xenta]

@@lovetobeloved2059 I congratulated King Charles on his Coronation, and wished him -Long live the King! And he decided to come visit Romania on my birthday, next month... in the 2nd of June. Jokes aside, its not a joke that he is coming to Romania on my birthday, I wonder if it will be Romania the first official visit as King... or he will have other visits before that date on a tour maybe. I know he loves Romania, specially certain areas in Transylvanian region, like Viscri.

[@wendycavanagh9370]

Didn't realize Romania was such a beautiful place. Great video Steve once again you nailed it. Thanks 👍👌💙

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Wendy! Full of surprises that country!

[@marinelapavel1873]

Is the most beautiful country in Europe where there is no place you will go and will not take your breath away, with friendly and welcoming people. If you want an adventure and amazing things to see or visit just go for it and you will never regret it

[@lovetobeloved2059]

Back in the days like few hundreds years ago Romania was named Dacian Kingdom and was huge It thus roughly corresponds to the present-day countries of Romania, as well as parts of Moldova, Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Slovakia, and Ukraine.

[@lovetobeloved2059]

It thus roughly corresponds to the present-day countries of Romania, as well as parts of Moldova, Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Slovakia, and Ukraine.

[@lovetobeloved2059]

In fact, a few years ago, the former Prince of Wales declared in the documentary "Wild Carpathia" that he is a "descendant of Vlad the Impaler, according to his bloodline." Vlad III, commonly known also as Vlad the Impaler, was born in Sighisoara, in Transylvania in 1431, and later being the ruler of Wallachia.

[@marchordie21]

People in Romania know quite good English (especially in very touristic areas, like Sinaia). In some areas they even speak good German. So you could have just asked anybody on the street about the gondola 🙂. PS: wild bears are a real issue in mountain towns, the warning sign at the hotel was not a joke...

[@steve-marsh]

Ha if only there had been someone to ask :D

[@Merky-ace22]

stupid politicians sold a lot of forests and poor bears have less homes now and have to come near villages

[@RogEdwardsTV]

That castle is incredible. Like a cross between a fairy tale and a movie set - and yet we know it’s 100% power of history! I suspect I’d have had a jaw drop moment if I’d been there! Epic! 😊

[@steve-marsh]

Roger, it's incredible to think of all these little hidden gems that I was unaware of (apart from a faint recollection from reading about them) here's to more adventures for us both!

[@kevjaffray]

What an absolutely stunning town Sinaia is. Thanks for bringing it to our notice Steve.

[@steve-marsh]

My absolute pleasure Kev!

[@marinelapavel1873]

Is the most beautiful country in Europe where there is no place you will go and will not take your breath away, with friendly and welcoming people. If you want an adventure and amazing things to see or visit just go for it and you will never regret it

[@barrywood2806]

You certainly turned around what could have been a disappointment into a success. How on Earth do they build those cable cars. Incredible engineering.

[@steve-marsh]

Totally incredible mate!

[@luciantatar6931]

Romania is not only Bucharest. U have a lot to travel to discover how beatiful Romania really is.

[@fateful2868]

Absolutely, most of Transylvania puts Bucharest in shade if you're in Romania for tourism.

[@mihaelae.4191]

Yes, go to Iasi and Bucovina!

[@gabix7488]

@@fateful2868 Depends what are you looking for. Bucharest has the best nightlife, big city , you dont get bored there I was shocked to see more than half of the stores in Cluj closed on Sunday.

[@fateful2868]

@@gabix7488 you're not wrong about that but while Bucharest has indeed a great night life, for such purpose there are better options such as Belgrade which in way too close of a proximity to chose Bucharest over.

[@gabix7488]

@@fateful2868 We are talking about Romania. Bucharest has a lot of stuff that other cities doesn't. Including products, books, different types of food , huge parks, plenty of museums, lots of historycal buildings as well, theatres, coffee shops open till late night, bars and pubs till 4 in the morning, better transportation....a lot of things that people dont think about it. And i am.pretty sure Belgrade its not better than Bucharest. I went to Bratislava and i couldnt find an exchange open after 9 pm

[@RobRoy2012]

A great video, Steve. I was totally fascinated by it. The scenery in the Romanian mountains is stunning and the castles and houses are unbelievable.

[@steve-marsh]

Totally agree mate!

[@marinelapavel1873]

Is the most beautiful country in Europe where there is no place you will go and will not take your breath away, with friendly and welcoming people. If you want an adventure and amazing things to see or visit just go for it and you will never regret it

[@RobRoy2012]

I was so ignorant about your beautiful country and Steve's video opened my eyes. Definately worth a visit in the future. Bob

[@johnsmuth5062]

Awesome find. Wow, the castles, fairy tale stuff, didn't look real at first. What a fantastic video thanks for sharing Steve

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much Lyndon!

[@donaldskinner-reid8998]

What a great film. I'd never have thought of Romania for tourism but you've opened my eyes.

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much Donald! A country full of surprises!

[@SFarley15]

The architecture of Peles Castle is simply breathtaking, I could stare at it for hours.

[@marinelapavel1873]

Is the most beautiful country in Europe where there is no place you will go and will not take your breath away, with friendly and welcoming people. If you want an adventure and amazing things to see or visit just go for it and you will never regret it

[@ErinIsReal]

Tartarian.

[@michaelscott2789]

What an amazing place. Pretty sure Disney took a lot of inspiration from this part of the world. Love the sounds of the birds and the peacefulness of the place. Great value as well. 👍

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Michael! A great place to breathe in the mountain air, wish I could've stayed for a week!

[@marinelapavel1873]

Is the most beautiful country in Europe where there is no place you will go and will not take your breath away, with friendly and welcoming people. If you want an adventure and amazing things to see or visit just go for it and you will never regret it

[@georgemacdonald8899]

I never would have guessed that was Romania, such a great surprise! Wow such a lot of treats in just a 2 day adventure, amazingly good! Looks like a great place to live/visit.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheer George! I really lucked out with the weather and the adventure :)

[@lovetobeloved2059]

Back in the days like few hundreds years ago Romania was named Dacian Kingdom and was huge It thus roughly corresponds to the present-day countries of Romania, as well as parts of Moldova, Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Slovakia, and Ukraine.

[@lovetobeloved2059]

More than 530 years later, in 1998, King Charles found out about his links to the Romanian ruler. He is, in fact, his great-grandson 16 times removed, through the consort of George V, Queen Mary, Romania Tour Store reports. A genealogical tree in The British Chronicles written by David Hughes supports this

[@Raven-Claws88]

Stunning nature, fairy tale buildings, affordable accommodation… it’s incredible that more people don’t go to Romania! Definitely adding this to my Bucket List. Nice video Steve :)

[@steve-marsh]

Well said! :)

[@billymiller4586]

Stop beating yersel up steve, you have never failed this channel.. superb as usual.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Billy!

[@simonmason8582]

Our favourite country - in 2016, we finally got to drive over the Transfăgărășan highway or DN7C as it was clear of snow for once.

[@steve-marsh]

Oh a drive I'd love to do!!!

[@valentindarie240]

Romania its really underated country..its beautiful with nice mountains..sea side....

[@thomaswislocki2804]

What a big surprise Romania was Steve....I think your "failure" turned into a big success mate, and it sems to me there was no shortage of attractions to make one of your best continental video's. The appartment you booked was a real bargain at the price you paid....certainly Romania appears to be a place where you get an awful lot for your pound! a bit like Poland was in the 1970's when I was a regular in that country.... Great stuff Steve, thanks again...

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Thomas!

[@celestindimitriu3675]

prices in Poland and Ro are similar. In certain cases Ro can be more expensive and vice versa.

[@djmark143]

Those castlegrounds looked absolutely stunning.. Beautiful built castles, all the wee statues and carved out stones.. That must have been so cool to be able to walk around that place.. Great video and thanks for taking us with you Steve.. 🙏🙂

[@steve-marsh]

Some place mate, blown away by the architecture in Romania!

[@poppyk6182]

Romania 🇷🇴 really! Wow! ❤

[@marinelapavel1873]

Is the most beautiful country in Europe where there is no place you will go and will not take your breath away, with friendly and welcoming people. If you want an adventure and amazing things to see or visit just go for it and you will never regret it

[@f1brianm]

Another great video Steve. Not the Romania I imagined at all. You’ve really whetted my appetite for a bit of Eastern European tourism with your last few vids. Keep up the good work.

[@omi685]

Look up Romania's Brașov, Sighișoara (the birthplace of Vlad the Impaller), Sibiu (must see ASTRA Museum), Sinaia, Constanța, Oradea, Alba Iulia, the Transfăgărășan and Transalpina roads, Romania's Carpathian Mountains with their forests, wildlife, waterfalls, holiday homes, ski resorts, rock climbing, hiking, camping, lakes and rivers, the Bicaz Gorge, the painted Monasteries, the wineries, Romania's main castles (Peleș, Bran, Corvin and Cantacuzino), Turda Salt Mine, Bucharest's old town, the Sphinx, Decebalus Sculpture, Sarmizegetusa Regia, Vidraru Dam, the Danube Delta, the bear sanctuary, etc. Romania has so much to offer!

[@cv5w]

bananas don't grow on trees, there's no such thing as a banana tree

[@marinelapavel1873]

Is the most beautiful country in Europe where there is no place you will go and will not take your breath away, with friendly and welcoming people. If you want an adventure and amazing things to see or visit just go for it and you will never regret it

[@davidionescu2103]

Not far away from Sinaia is Cantacuzino Castle, there is an amaizing view. You shoud check for it next time you visit Romania. For me Peles is the most beautiful castle in Romania, but the best mountain view is from Cantacuzino Castle in Bușteni.

[@steve-marsh]

Writing this down, would love to go back and tour all the castles one day!

[@kelleywoods5244]

What a beautiful place, please promise you'll take us back to look inside the castle 🏰 Bless you for giving the dogs your lunch ❤ Looking forward to the next installment, I wonder where we're going?? 😊

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Kelley! Oh I'll be back for sure!

[@dougzirkle5951]

You pulled the rabbit outta the hat, Steve! Your trip could’ve been memorable for all the wrong reasons. But, again as you do so well, you persevered. And a great video ensued. Very enjoyable!

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks Doug! Romania dug me out a hole there! :)

[@tiinahamalainen4071]

Nothing failed about that one, amazing castles and scenery!

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks Tiina :)

[@crepooscul]

I live in Bucharest and I haven't been to this place in like 15 years despite living so close to it. Your video gave me a huge nostalgia trip, and the reason for that is because you didn't add any silly music over the video like a lot of people do, you left the beautiful sounds of nature. I'm gonna go visit it again this year during the quiet days thanks to your clip.

[@roberttaylor2507]

" What a beautiful place and the surroundings are just " Stunning " ....The " Panoramic " views are " Sublime,"..".Definitely a location worth visiting." ..." Again the video was " Sublime."..." Many Thanks."

[@andreiivan7552]

Hello Steve, as a Romanian I'm very happy you enjoyed your time in this beautiful part of my country! If you still want to see castles, there is the Bran castle (near Brasov), that is also known as the home of Dracula the Vampire!

[@steve-marsh]

I can't wait to get to Brasov and Bran Castle! Superb country!

[@roxanaionescu1974]

@@steve-marsh And another amazing castle to visit would be the Corvins' Castle in Hunedoara (the western part of Transilvania), it was used many times as a filming set.

[@paulphilipempey1]

Sometimes when the trip doesn't go according to plan you see the best sights and gain the best experiences. Very picturesque, especially the views from the cable car and the castles. Romania is beautiful. Thank you for the upload.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Paul, very true mate!

[@MsCroatianCanuck]

That view of the Carpathian Mountains, 😎WOWzer and although I am not a fan of snow that blended in really well. These little gems you come across is what makes your channel mystifying and I'm ready for another adventure ☕🚂

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much, it was a good choice to get off at this station eh!

[@keithfraser9705]

That was one of the best videos you’ve done. Great filming, beautiful scenery, honest commentary and above all you walk around where you are and see so much more of the real country! It’s now on the bucket list. Thank you as always 🙏

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much Keith!

[@erinmcgrathejm4985]

Both those overnight stays looked amazing in their own right. Much more of an experience than your bog standard hotel. The entire area around the castles, the neighborhood, the grounds, all of it, were absolutely fantastic! 100% worth another visit! Sometimes it’s the things that don’t go to plan that become the most memorable. Cheers, and ATB

[@steve-marsh]

So true Erin! I left Romania with a really good impression :)

[@petercharnley7138]

That was absolutely beautiful Steve. You're such a wonderful travel companion mate. I love your gentle way's. You feeding those two stray dogs your lunch, was total class 👏 God bless you & please keep your incredible vlogs coming ❤️

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Peter! Really appreciate it :)

[@timrosenburgh8597]

Absolutely brilliant Steve. From a journey that started not working out very well it turned out well. The view's from the mountain were amazing. Decent accommodation as well. I thought the castle's were out of this world. Your last accommodation was brilliant and a very welcoming host which was lovely to see. And to sit and have a beer with him which i thought was a great gesture. Look forward to seeing the next one. Aura Best.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Tim, he was such a legend!

[@vetworker]

Romania is an exceptionally beautiful country. I went many years ago in 2004 and spent two weeks around Romania in deep snow. This video has bought back many happy memories and sad ones. The amount of stray dogs and very poor people was something I will never forget. I also gave most of my food away to the dogs.

[@omi685]

This is 2024, there are not many stray dogs left on the streets and the people are doing much better.

[@vetworker]

@@omi685 glad to hear it. Can’t wait to return to this beautiful country.

[@4sstg]

Bless you to heaven for feeding the stray dogs. And for making the best videos on KZbin. ✨

[@steve-marsh]

I hope they get plenty feeds :(

[@pjltopfca]

Brilliant video Steve. Best to date I think. Had a few trips to Romania about 20 years ago but not been recently. I did spend a few days in Brasov which was equally stunning but seemed more lively than Sinaia. However it was late December and very very cold and snowy so I spent most of the time indoors. Longing to go back now.

[@steve-marsh]

Really keen on Brasov now! As with many places, you get no IDEA how nice it is from the railway station, but a bit of digging later and I'm hooked!

[@SirPrancelot1]

What an amazing place and great value accommodation! Thanks Steve. And their tourist board should thank you as well!

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers! Really nice surprise that town!

[@legionnairegonk4425]

Value for money, that mountain apartment accomodation is off the scale!

[@steve-marsh]

So true!

[@elainehowell2836]

You have a heart of gold and it is a nice place to stay and walk round and visit and have a ride on a cable car and the restaurant and hotel and the snow and thanks for the day out and beautiful weather

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks Elaine :)

[@michaelbruchas6663]

Amazing engineering on both gondola rides! And of course cel phone towers intermixed with microwave towers. I never would have thought of Romania having ski slopes like that! The castles look more like what I would expect to see in Bohemia…❤❤❤

[@steve-marsh]

So true Michael! Cheers!

[@richardharibo]

Highlight of my week from my favourite 😊 Thanks Steve as always ❤

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks Richard :)

[@onlysily]

You should really find the time to go inside Peles Castle. The architecture and design are unique in the whole of Europe, it was King's Carol tour de force after he was entstated as king.

[@dennisdelgado7350]

The interior of Pelés castle is amazingly sumptuous! I hope you could get to see it someday. I’d like to return, too, and visit some Romanian churches.

[@steve-marsh]

I want to tour ALL these places!!!

[@dennisdelgado7350]

@@steve-marsh you should! I also found the people friendly and beautiful!

[@LauraGargiulo]

and what a fabulous view up the mountains and what a beautiful castle!!

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks Laura!

[@lynnb_and_ky_springer_spaniel]

What a fabulous place to visit. The castles 🏰 and grounds stunning. So glad you had such a great trip Steve and thank you for sharing. Far from a fail, brilliantly filmed 🎥

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks Lynne! It turned out a great station to get off at!

[@lynnb_and_ky_springer_spaniel]

@@steve-marsh indeed 👌

[@siobhancrawford7236]

just goes to show the importance of having faith in humanity! makes everything better xxx

[@BitsofEurope]

I will eventually settle in Sinaia I think. Since moving to Romania 6 years ago, it has always been a go to town given its proximity to Bucharest, and its just a beautiful, clean, and well equipped little place. The mountain air like you say is superb. The cable cars take you up to give stunning views over the Bucegi and Carpathian mountains, good to see you risked the old legacy cable car 😁. At 11:57 is my favourite little terrace restaurant with a great outside seating area looking over the mountains and always that 'gratar' or grill going with tones of smoke and the smell of cooking mici in the air! Yeh its a stunning place and good time of year to visit as not too crowded. 👍

[@steve-marsh]

Such a wonderful place and the fresh mountain air, oh I wish I could bottle it!

[@gigikontra7023]

Sinaia is an example of chaotic urban development. It is nearing the breaking point. And always under corrupt socialist leadership 😢

[@normanvalentin3633]

If you haven't been to Sibiu, Oradea, Cluj Napoca, Timisoara, the Maramures region with traditions and the Bucowina region with monasteries... And of course the Danube Delta!

[@christopherfox735]

Another awesome adventure. You could imagine those castles in a horror movie. Seriously, your Eastern European adventures get better and better.

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much Christopher! Full on but enjoyable!

[@gwc289]

Steve! Once again you’ve come up trumps. What a gem, definitely on my bucket list. Thank you for showing us this amazing place, and indeed all the amazing places you go to 😊.

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much George!

[@gwc289]

@@steve-marsh no, thank you so much my friend. I’ve come up with so many travel goals since I discovered your channel like you wouldn’t believe. I’m off to Weesp in a few weeks, and that’s thanks to you!!

[@mercilessmage7300]

Another fascinating video Steve! Would you consider doing a Romanian grand tour to visit the many impressive castles and villas? There seems to be a wealth of history to see and explore. It would also be great to see more of the beautiful Romanian countryside along the way. I hope that you can return soon!

[@steve-marsh]

After this taste of Romania, absolutely!

[@gigikontra7023]

​@@steve-marsh isn't Romania very corrupt and dangerous?

[@gigikontra7023]

​@@steve-marshand I heard Romanians target primarily foreigners

[@omi685]

​@@gigikontra7023 What are you on about? The Corruption Index tells us that 120 other countries in the world is MORE corrupt than Romania. Also, Romania is ranked as one of the safest countries in Europe, not to mention in the world! Romania as 21 times less crimes than the UK and Germany specifically, 38 times less crimes than the US, 12 times less crimes than France and so on. Most Romanians don't even lock their front door at night and the children are playing outside and going to school unattended. My 15 years old brother and his classmates are travelling by themselves to the capital city Bucharest via train often because its that safe!

[@RaduRadonys]

@@gigikontra7023 You are 100% Romanian considering your name so if you are corrupt and dangerous that doesn't mean the entire country is like that. It's just you.

[@robertrouzaud9814]

Absolutely beautiful area, and that includes the accommodating locals. Reminds me of some high-end mountain resorts here in the US. Thanks for sharing!

[@exileinderby51]

That castle was just stunning, imagine what it's like inside! Great video once again Steve.

[@steve-marsh]

Oh I can only imagine :D

[@cv5w]

one of the highlights inside consists of very intricate wood sculptures in the walls, it’s really impressive! there are also sets of armor, rooms with various decors like the Turkish themed smoking salon, etc but nothing the author wouln't have seen elsewhere in Europe. it's too bad he didn't walk into the inner courtyard to see the frescoes on the walls.

[@normanvalentin3633]

Amazing sounds of nature

[@MP-ck6nx]

Great video of Romanian mountains and well done for not giving up in spite of the castle being closed. I love your voice and humour 👏👏👏 Romania is a fantastic destination, I've been a few times and I'm going back this summer to their Danube Delta. I can't wait to witness the slow life and the wildlife there 😍

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much!

[@elainemcguirk4993]

Thanks for another great one, Steve . It's always interesting to see the different ways houses and castles are built in different countries and the scenery from the top was just spectacular xx

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks Elaine! The architecture was wonderful, I really want to go back sometime and continue the adventure!

[@juliebrooke6099]

Whilst it was a shame you didn’t get to see inside the castles at least you got those beautiful grounds all to yourself which wouldn’t have happened during opening hours. A fantastic discovery.

[@steve-marsh]

A very good point Julie! :)

[@sawdoctor0]

I go to Romania for work every second year to Brasov (your next visit Steve. The people are so generous. When I went to the opera, about half the audience were under 18! Steve, the palace at Sainia is amazing. Well worth returning. I really love your attitude to travel. All such an adventure and you accept things for what they are rather than what they should be (Eastern Airlines apart). Best wishes for all your travels.

[@ycul21]

The Carpathian mountains are beautiful and the landscapes and houses. Best of all was hearing those birds!!

[@wandaenman5630]

Love this. Fantastic filming Steve, those views are amazing. You giving the sandwich to the doggies was my favourite party. You are a good man Steve. :)

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much! There was really no question that's where my lunch was going!

[@DaveyPalmer1]

Those castles were out of this world Steve. Simply stunning, as were your snowy mountain views. BTW, do you get funny looks from people in the gondolas when you are doing a piece to camera? Thanks for sharing your lunch with the street dogs too - they have it tough over there. All in all another lovely vid 👍

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Davey! Hey, I get strange looks all the time, even when I'm not recording :)

[@superally8077]

Stunning video. Glad you fed the stray dogs. They will love that.

[@steve-marsh]

I hope they encounter lots of people with the same idea!

[@tanyah.9131]

My boss is from Romania... I haven't asked her how she came to be in Seattle, but knowing someone from there has piqued my interest, and I love seeing these Eastern European travels.. right now I live vicariously but I really want to plan a trip there someday soon!

[@okcantbelieveit294]

I’ve found some of the best places by becoming completely lost. Another great video!

[@steve-marsh]

Best way to find real adventure eh!

[@allanmorton6022]

What a amazing find Steve. Even though you made your trip more tiring than it needed to be it was so stunning to see the mountains and castle. What a great place. You need to do a dracula themed video next as a sequel to Slains Castle. Terrific gondolas too! I did want to see you on a snowboard though❤ even that apartment was great. Gives me a different view of Romania after seeing this video. Great work, Alan.

[@steve-marsh]

Ah you're spot on mate! A future video for sure! :)

[@daviddymock4686]

Hi Steve just watched your video in Romania 🇷🇴 & wow I was totally blown away by the scenery & the amazing places you stayed in overnight!! Also what struck me most how everywhere seemed so clean with very little or no litter. The castles and grounds are definitely worth a trip of their own!! Thanks for another great video Steve 👍

[@lindao1327]

Sinaia is so beautiful. Great video!

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks Linda!

[@suzannebell51]

Wow 😮 amazing scenery and that looked like a lot of snow for someone from Australia 😂 getting cold weather envy

[@mikecrean8849]

Another great one Steve. So good that we get to see such beautiful and interesting places.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Mike!

[@joebond5012]

Fantastic scenery and architecture, it was also lovely to hear the birds singing. Thanks for an excellent tour.

[@barbp8736]

Awww, Steve, you didn't go the wrong way, you were meant to find the dogs. ❤

[@steve-marsh]

I like to think it like that :)

[@edwardlees4585]

As soon as you said 'I think I've found a shortcut to the castle' my eyes flicked to the timecode to see if this was good news or bad news? 😂 What a fantastic castle!

[@steve-marsh]

Haha brilliant :D

[@normanlong2191]

Yet another great vid Steve and the views from the the heights were amazing , for those of us in the world that are unable to get to these places (and never will) you are a 'must watch' keep doing what your doing best wishes and stay safe

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much for coming along Norman!

[@RandomJane104]

Magnificent castles!

[@cbrun1669]

Lovely stuff, Steve! Shame about the long walk up/down the hill...

[@christopherjordan4812]

Wow Steve I didn’t realise Romania was so nice. Makes our historic sites poor in comparison.

[@steve-marsh]

It was a real eye opener!

[@gigikontra7023]

Sinaia is the former royal residence. The only pretty place in Romania. The rest is as you'd imagine...😢

[@christopherjordan4812]

👍

[@valentinsaitoc5624]

@@gigikontra7023 Realy? What about Cluj, Sighisoara, Brasov, Bran, Oradea, Timisoara, Constanta, Alba Iulia, Craiova, Transfagarasan, Transalpina, Danube delta, Orsova, Cazanele Dunarii. We have many beautifull places but you are blind to see thiose places! probably you are hy all of your time!

[@gigikontra7023]

@@valentinsaitoc5624 you don't even know how to write the names of those places: Brașov, Orșova, Transfăgărășan etc. Very low educational attainment in Romania

[@mihaitacostache7223]

Romania is very beautiful

[@christinaandersen2204]

👍Steve, Thank you for feeding the dogs

[@oggie1967]

Wow! What a fantastic country! The scenery and the buildings were stunning. Although it still seems really quiet and not very touristy. Romania doesn’t seem so depressing as Moldova anyway! Really loved this one Steve, thanks so much for sharing! Grand job!👍😊👏👏👏❤️

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers mate, I believe it gets a lot busier, I was lucky :)

[@gigikontra7023]

That's just the façade ! Romania is a very dangerous country.

[@gigihentz5510]

@@gigikontra7023 on the contrary, one of the safest countries in the world...read some data!

[@gigikontra7023]

@@gigihentz5510 Romania is suuuper dangerous. Stray dogs go on a rampage and kill both locals and foreigners, lots of car theft, murders (and police didn't care), terrorism (car blows up in Arad etc.) . If it didn't happen to this that doesn't mean it's not happening!

[@gigihentz5510]

@@gigikontra7023 this is nothing...really? Again, read the official statistics regarding criminality worldwide...romania is one of the safest countries in the world! Si eu sint gigi, dar tu esti chiar contra evidentei :):):)

[@jackvoda4649]

Great video as always! The view from the mountains were nothing short of incredible. Bit different to Bucharest 😂

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Jack! So glad I finally found the gondola!

[@petracollins8623]

What an interesting town. The architecture is so distinctive. Lovely place to visit. Thanks Steve

[@Passionforkitchen]

Beautiful Romania 🇷🇴

[@rabh6746]

That place was incredibly beautiful, cracking video Steve👍The castle sure looks like a place to visit, it looked amazing👌

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Rab!

[@rehehe2023]

Simply stunning. What a beautiful location. As tiring as it must have been, what an adventure you have had. Highlight of every Sat AM seeing your video.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Hamish! :)

[@anthonypaterson7066]

Hi Steve, If that's a disaster I'll take it every day. Many thanks for some astonishing footage. Travel safely.

[@steve-marsh]

Cheers Anthony! Really appreciated :)

[@vladsandu7408]

Definitely the best place to go if you're in Romania for a short time.

[@steve-marsh]

Glad I stumbled upon it! :)

[@mcallisterk]

Wow Steve what an amazing video certainly looks like a lot more people will be visiting Romania those castles looked beautiful.

[@steve-marsh]

It was a surprising place for sure mate!

[@heeeeeresrossy]

Love your out of Scotland trips. After all, there’s only so much to see. But if you get the chance, I would love to see you guys explore Tiree. I went there as a 14 year old & haven’t been back since. Would love to know what you guys think of it 👍 And apologies if you’ve already explored there, but I just can’t keep up with your adventures, lol. Hope you & Alicja are well ❤

[@steve-marsh]

I flew there once and had a look around, but it was very brief, was thinking at the time how I'd love to go back on the ferry with my bike!

[@heeeeeresrossy]

Tbf, there’s not an awful lot to see from memory. But then again, my dad & my pals dad were more interested in building fires & drinking on the pristine beach, lol. My pal & I dug actual tunnels in the sand! I loved our 2 days there. It’s worth a visit for the beaches alone, Steve 👍

[@Ventus277]

As a romanian, Brasov and Sinaia are in the top of my favorite cities. The thing is, going from one city to another in Romania, most of the time, it feels like going to a whole different country because the architecture and the vibe and the people are completely different. I personally don't like Bucharest at all, even tho I stil live there, the only thing that's good is the nostalgia of my college days lol.

[@steve-marsh]

I really need to go back and visit Brasov!

[@valerielongmore5040]

Romania is very beautiful. I loved going to Sinaia, Brasov etc etc. So much history to see and stunning scenery to see. Quite marvellous.

[@pemarero]

Your pronounciation was very good! You know what an "Ș" is, most English natives can't say it. 😛 Glad you finally enjoyed my country! There is also another castle even better known in the West, the Bran castle, known as Dracula's castle, even if it has nothing to do with Stoker's characters. Sinaia is one the most posh ski resorts in Romania, you were lucky to be there at the beginning of the week, in weekends is very crowded, full of Bucharest people. Next time you'll be in Romania, come to my city, Sibiu (daily Wizzair flights from Luton) and Sighisoara. Cheers!

[@steve-marsh]

Thanks so much for the tips! Would love to come back and explore all the castles!

[@brb4903]

Ofc every English native can pronounce "ș". It's "sh" in English..