The Carpathian Mountains and Transylvania represent the largest area of pristine nature in Central and Eastern Europe and riding here is an opportunity to explore a land where people still live much as they have done for centuries.

Romania is an exciting and different riding destination with majestic castles, medieval towns, stunning scenery and wildlife. The impressive Carpathians are the only place in Europe, west of Russia, where widespread populations of wolves, bears, and lynx roam (although there is no guarantee that you will spot any of these rare and elusive species). Time stands still here, shepherds take their flocks up into the mountains as they have done for centuries past. In the evenings, cows and water buffalo are brought back from the pastures to the village and there is little noise except the buzzing of insects and the twittering of sparrows and swallows.

Nestled in the foothills just outside the small village of Sinca Noua is Equus Silvania, an equestrian centre which proudly combines local traditions with Western standards. The centre boasts a recently built, large wooden chalet-style guesthouse. There are nine light and airy bedrooms each with en suite shower room and downstairs, a spacious dining room and living area in which to relax after a good day's ride. You might also want to sit outside on the veranda and enjoy the beautiful scenery and listen to the sounds of nature.

Equus Silvania was established by Barbara and Christoph Promberger who have lived in the area for many years and are now very involved in a number of local conservation and eco tourism projects.

The much-loved horses at Equus Silvania are a selection of part-Lipizzaner, Arab and Shagya-Arab, Kisberi, Gidran and Hungarian Sport Horses. The horses are fit and forward going, with stamina for the mountains.

Each day you ride out from Equus Silvania on day rides with saddlebag picnics. Explore the beautiful and unspoilt countryside surrounding the village of Sinca Noua, ride
along gorges and wind your way through forests of beech and fir; cross alpine meadows and discover remote mountain settlements. Weather permitting; there is one extended ride into the mountains when you camp overnight.

One day is a rest day for the horses and an opportunity for you to experience a little of the history of the area. You drive to the village of Viscri with its famous fortified church from the times of the invasion of the Turks and also visit the medieval city of Sighisoara, one of the cultural centres of the Saxons.

Winter rides are also possible in January and February. Please see the Romania Winter Rides page for further details.