A Fairytale Journey in the Surroundings of Sibiu

Located near the city of Sibiu, in the picturesque area of Porumbacu de Sus, lies the Clay Castle of the Valley of the Fairies. This place immediately captivates all visitors, as it exudes a fairytale atmosphere that most have only encountered in the most beautiful books of childhood. The history of this unique construction began in 2014, when a visionary couple from Bucharest, Răzvan and Gabriela Vasile, decided to leave behind the noise of the big city and, in an ecological spirit and with profound respect for nature, realize their dreams in this virgin area. The construction took place under the supervision and creative vision of architect Ileana Mavrodin, who managed to translate the bold and unique ideas of the owners into delicate and organic forms. The walls of the castle were built exclusively from natural materials—clay, stone, and wood—so that the building would integrate perfectly into the surrounding mountain landscape. Its irregular lines and unique, arched windows evoke the magical world of the Brothers Grimm for visitors. This special place is thus a perfect destination for all those who wish to take spectacular photos or simply escape the bustle of modern cities.

(Source: Moo Moo Retreat)

Tastes and Atmospheres

The novelty of the place is the opening of its own restaurant, where you can savor delicious dishes in this fairytale setting. The restaurant offers generous space: 60 people can sit in the welcoming interior, full of warm lights and equipped with a fireplace, while another 60 seats are available on the terrace, right by the creek. On the menu, you will find reinterpreted Transylvanian dishes made from local ingredients sourced from small producers in the area. The offer combines traditional recipes with modern techniques, providing a memorable experience, whether you choose a slow-cooked steak or a homemade dessert.

The interior space of the restaurant is a work of art created with much patience. Everything is handcrafted, from the chairs to the wrought iron cutlery. Light fixtures inspired by beehives and a bar that reinterprets a Transylvanian barn add a special charm. The tableware is also unique: no two espresso cups are alike—one has a handle shaped like a fairy wing, another resembles a heart. Since the castle is extremely popular, it is recommended to book a table in advance on the official website.

(Source: Hotels.com)

(Source: Hotels.com)

Accommodation in the Castle

Previously, the castle could only be admired from the outside, but now you can even stay there. The rooms have been arranged with great care, respecting the natural style of the building, so that everything is focused on comfort and relaxation. Thanks to the natural materials and artisanal details, you can truly feel like you are in a fairytale. A night spent here will remain an unforgettable memory, as you can wake up in the morning to the view of the Făgăraș Mountains.

(Source: Hotels.com)

These accommodation spaces are designed for travelers who want tranquility, away from the noise of technology. The furniture is minimalist but offers a sense of luxury through the purity of the materials. And if you don't find a free room at the castle, don't worry, because in the area a multitude of other excellent accommodation places await you, which you can easily find on the stayhere.ro website!

Why Is It Worth Visiting?

The Clay Castle of the Valley of the Fairies is located relatively close to Romania's major cities, making it an excellent destination for a weekend trip. If you are coming from Sibiu, you can arrive here in about forty-five minutes by car, passing through picturesque Saxon villages. Upon reaching Porumbacu de Sus, signs lead you directly to the bank of the creek where the castle is located. Many tourists choose to walk from the center of the village, as the road offers a magnificent view of the Negoiu Peak. The easy accessibility of the site also makes it a popular spot for those around the Brașov county.

The castle is not just an attraction but a perfect venue for weddings, family celebrations, or even corporate team buildings and social gatherings. This magical environment holds many adventures, and the hosts help ensure your stay is active. Those who love horses can try horseback riding lessons or trail riding, which is a great experience for both beginners and experts. Depending on the season, you can choose between a cozy carriage ride or a winter sleigh ride in the area. Cycling enthusiasts can rent hobby or professional mountain bikes with equipment and a guide to explore the landscape. Whether it's the fresh green of spring or the magical colors of autumn, the castle is a great destination in every season, where scenery, programs, and delicious food meet.

Just a few hundred meters from the Clay Castle lies another must-see attraction: the “Story of the Calendar” theme park. This vibrant and imaginative space features 12 unique cottages, each inspired by a different month of the year, making it the perfect choice for families with children and for those who want to extend their adventure in a fairy-tale world.

(Source: Mesagerul de Sibiu)

Other Tourist Attractions in the Area

If you have already reached the Valley of the Fairies, it is worth exploring the surroundings as well. For history lovers, a mandatory stop is the Brukenthal Summer Residence in Avrig. It is one of the most beautiful Baroque monuments in Transylvania, with a terraced park and fountains nicknamed the "Transylvanian Versailles."

If you want more nature, the Transfăgărășan road awaits you, located just 45-50 minutes away from the Clay Castle. This stunning mountain serpentine leads straight into the heart of the Făgăraș Mountains, where you can go up by car or cable car to Bâlea Lake at an altitude of over 2,000 meters to admire the glacial lake and steep cliffs.

One of the greatest treasures of Sibiu county, however, is the city of Sibiu itself, where it is definitely worth taking a longer walk. The heart of the city is the Large Square (Piața Mare), where the famous "eyes of Sibiu" on the roofs watch over passersby, and the world-famous Brukenthal Museum is also located here. You can truly feel the medieval atmosphere by walking across the Bridge of Lies, while a magnificent view of the entire old town opens up from the Council Tower or the tower of the Gothic Evangelical Cathedral. It is worth walking along the fortress walls on Cetății Street, admiring the old guild towers, or simply enjoying the hustle and bustle of the colorful squares and cozy terraces. This region thus offers much more than just a single afternoon program; it hides an entire weekend’s worth of adventure where fairytales, history, and wild nature meet at every step.