Posted on May 27, 2026
I’m Lucy, and I’ve just returned from an incredible riding holiday in Romania.
If you’re looking for a riding adventure that combines spectacular scenery, fit and forward-going horses, and genuine hospitality, a ride at Equus Silvania should be high on your list. From rolling hills and snow-capped mountains to villages that feel untouched by time, this is a true escape into the wild countryside of Transylvania.
I was lucky enough to join the Transylvania Trail at the end of April 2026. Over the course of the week, we covered around 180 km, staying in a mix of local farmhouses, village guesthouses, and a remote hunters’ lodge deep in the hills.
If you prefer a centre-based itinerary with slightly fewer hours in the saddle, the centre-based Equus Silvania stay offers plenty of riding alongside visits to Bran Castle – better known as Dracula’s Castle – as well as the chance to visit a wildlife hide to look for native brown bears and other wildlife.
For something completely different, the Winter Ride offers crisp morning rides through snowy landscapes before returning to the warmth of the fire for a hearty lunch.
My adventure began at Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP), where our driver, Suri, greeted us with a warm welcome and plenty of fascinating insights into Romanian history, culture, and daily life.
After the 3.5 hour drive (which can sometimes take up to 5 hours due to traffic) to Equus Silvania where the horses are based, the first thing that struck me was the accommodation – a beautifully restored farmhouse that felt both cosy and modern, full of character without sacrificing comfort.
Equus Silvania’s main building, including guest accommodation, dining area and the main kitchen. All rooms are en-suite with hot showers and Wi-Fi throughout.
With a glass of welcome champagne in hand, we met our guides and fellow riders who were an international group from places including Poland, the Netherlands, and Norway. Before dinner, I wandered around the tidy stables and paddocks, trying to guess which horses I’d be riding during the week ahead.
Before riding began, we discussed our own experience and horse preferences with horse manager and guide Catherine. I was immediately impressed with her detailed knowledge of each horse, and the care taken to ensure they were healthy, strong and fit for the journey ahead. The herd of 25 ridden horses included Shagya Arabs, the heavier-set Hungarian breeds and crossbreeds – all robust and suited to long, challenging trail rides.
A range of horses joined us on the trail – from smaller Shagya Arabs like Verona the grey mare, to more stocky types like Nairobi, the chestnut Hungarian Half-bred.
Guests are responsible for grooming and tacking up – a great bonding opportunity that allows you to truly connect with your horse. With help always on hand from the team, we quickly got into the routine. The majority are ridden in snaffle bits with the head collar underneath. Most have fabric reins which I actually prefer to ride in with gloves. The saddles are Podium endurance saddles, designed with extra padding around the knees for comfort. If you have a sensitive bum like me, I would recommend taking your own seat-saver for that extra bit of luxury. A simple sheep-skin seat-saver with Velcro through the gullet seems to work well.
By mid-week the first horses were rested and we were introduced to a fresh group of horses for the remaining days – a practice that reflects the care taken to ensure no horse is overworked. Experiencing a mid-week horse swap was a first for me and it was a delight to ride new mounts with fresh energy.
The horses were incredibly fit and forward-going, confident in all situations – from river crossings to uneven terrain, hill climbs, and open plains. They inspired confidence while still offering a challenge for experienced riders – perfect for those seeking a genuine trail experience over varied terrain.
During the week, another thoughtful touch was always letting the horses roll and graze at each lunch spot, prioritizing their comfort and well being before we guests tucked into our saddle-bag picnic (made from the variety of breakfast ingredients each morning). Not being met by a support vehicle each lunch really added to the feel of a true trail ride for me – just the group and our horses, no vehicles or fancy tables to spoil the illusion of being off the beaten track.
Always the perfect lunch spots, with beautiful views and shade for the horses.
From the very first ride the views were truly breath-taking – “the pictures really don’t do it justice” phrase was heard many times throughout the week. Riding in late April the countryside was bursting with spring colours. Fresh meadows, bright wildflowers including the abundance of purple orchids, and snow still topping the Făgăraș Mountains, creating a dramatic backdrop.
Cantering is in a single line and the guides explained where each horse would be the most comfortable, usually due to their natural pace and speed. Where space allowed, we had two wonderful more forward canters where we could take our own line and really let the horses open up.
Over the course of the week, we covered around 180 km, riding between three and seven hours a day depending on the terrain. Only one or two electric fences were encountered the entire week – the land felt so open and expansive that it was like riding across a private estate or a ‘National Trust’ property the entire time – endless horizons, open meadows, and uninterrupted riding.
Riding through open fields and forests, covering differing terrain and wide views.
Wildlife sightings added to the sense of adventure. Near the hunters’ lodge we spotted deer, and elsewhere came across foxes, bear prints, and the lesser spotted eagle having recently returned from it’s winter home in Africa. The local bee-eaters would soon be returning to Romania too, adding the promise of even more vibrant life later in the season.
A special part of riding in Romania is encountering the local way of life first-hand. As we walked past flocks of sheep with their shepherds watching over them, their shepherd dogs would bark and run alongside the horses, adding a lively, authentic touch to each day. On one occasion, a young boy riding bareback, with two yearlings following closely behind, joined our route back into the village. While these encounters could have been a little unnerving, the horses remained confident and never broke stride, making it a charming and immersive glimpse into rural Transylvanian life.
Riding through near-deserted villages, local farmers and shepherds in the hills.
Part of the charm of this trail ride was the variety of accommodations. We stayed in local farmhouses, sharing dinners with the owners in their kitchens; a historical village house in Viscri; and a hunters’ lodge tucked away in the hills. Each had its own character but all had the modern comforts of Wi-Fi and hot showers alongside their original furniture and log-burning stoves. All the people we encountered were so welcoming, with a passion for Romania and everything it has to offer.
The food throughout the week was diverse and tasty, from hearty soups and traditional Romanian dishes to fresh vegetables and homemade desserts. Meals were shared with the riding group, guides, and sometimes local families, creating a warm, communal atmosphere that enhanced the overall experience, and made meal-time conversations always interesting and diverse. Dinner together was a lovely end to each day, sharing pictures and learning more about the Romanian way of life in these remote villages.
Soup features high on the menu, which is very welcomed after a long day in the saddle.
A strong emphasis on organic and locally sourced produce, matched to the season, added to the authenticity and cultural experience.
Equally impressive were the guides. Catherine and the team combined professionalism with a personal touch, ensuring that everyone felt confident and supported. Their knowledge of the terrain and the horses’ abilities made every ride smooth, safe, and enjoyable. Catherine would also take time to point out landmarks, explain the routes we had taken and where we were heading next, and answer questions about Romanian culture. She was always honest and thorough, keeping us informed about changes in pace, estimated time to lunch, and how long remaining before the day’s ride ended, which made the experience feel both engaging and well-managed.
Catherine – the horse manager and our guide for the week. Here she is with Vamo, the gorgeous chestnut Gidran breed, and a total gentle giant.
The Transylvania Trail isn’t just about horseback riding – it’s about immersion. Immersion in a land of dramatic scenery from horseback and in the history and culture of villages that feel untouched by time. It’s an adventure that challenges and delights, leaving you with memories of riding across the Transylvanian region, surrounded by mountains, forests, and vibrant local life.
For more information about any of the itineraries in Romania, please email lucy@inthesaddle.com or call our office on 01299 272 997.
