General Description

These rides take place in Transylvania, not far from the town of Brasov, and are based from Sepsikorospatak which was the centre of the Kalnoky family’s country estate. The rides are run by Count Tibor Kalnoky and his wife Anna and are a trip back into the past, to a wonderfully unspoilt horse-drawn rural society that has scarcely changed in generations. The forested hills are home to bears, wolves and deer and there is a great variety of bird life. The region you visit is Sekler country, an area settled by the Hungarian army centuries ago, where Hungarian is still the most widely spoken language. Medieval Saxon villages established in the 14th and 15th centuries are a famous feature of the region, and there is time to visit some of these. The 8 night trips are run from set dates during spring, summer and autumn months. For 2008, itineraries of 8 nights start with meeting in Bucharest then a night in the historic city of Brasov before starting the ride. Family rides can be organised and non riders are welcome.

Summary

Horses and Riding

The horses are locally bred mountain horses and Lipizzaner crosses. They are tough, strong and well-suited to the extreme winters and mountainous terrain. These horses include examples of the rare Huzul breed, a robust historic breed unique to the Carpathian mountains. They are quite small and range from around 14hh to about 15.2hh, and are of a medium build. They are adaptable, well mannered and sensible to handle. English general purpose and endurance saddles are used. The horses are ridden in snaffle bits.

This is an adventurous trip for those wishing to experience Romania's unspoilt countryside and unique culture rather than a challenging ride for the experienced horseman. Rides are normally limited to a maximum of 8 guests.

Hours: There is usually between 4 and 6 hours riding a day, broken up with rest stops and a break for lunch.

Pace and experience required: These rides are for riders of various abilities. The horses are calm and easy to ride so will suit the less experienced rider although a reasonable amount of previous experience will ensure you cope well with the hours in the saddle. The pace is moderate overall but slow on some days due to the terrain. There are places to trot and canter every day.

Accommodation

Accommodation on the ride is quite varied and you will experience the life the locals live in the villages as well as the privacy of Ceausescu’s hunting lodge.  Rural guesthouses in villages are roughly equivalent to British ‘B&Bs’ and you are staying with a family.  They are simple but clean and well maintained, with inside plumbing, bathrooms and loos, hot water and central heating.  Bathrooms are often shared and may be along the corridor or through the kitchen.  Most bathrooms have showers rather than tubs but are clean with plenty of hot water.  Ceaucescu’s hunting lodge is set in the forest far from any village and has double bedrooms with en suite bathrooms.  The last two nights are usually spent at Miklosvar in houses which your host, Tibor, has restored with great care and attention to detail.  Each room is different with lovely antique furniture and woodburning stoves typical of the region.  Rooms are twin bedded and if you would like a single room then this is sometimes possible although cannot be guaranteed.

Rates & Travel

Travel
The meeting point for the rides is Bucharest airport. Romanian Airlines (Tarom) or British Airways both fly daily direct from London Heathrow to Bucharest with fares from around £300 per person return including tax.

Itinerary in Brief

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