When you think of Romania, a few images pop up straight away. Bucharest’s grand boulevards. Bran Castle with its Dracula lore. Maybe the painted monasteries or the medieval charm of Transylvania’s big cities.
But here’s the thing — Romania is so much more than those clichés. There’s a whole world waiting beyond the tourist trail.
And one of the most beautiful, authentic and untouched places is Harghita County.
I recently visited on a press trip with my husband and son. I’ll be honest — before going, I barely knew it existed. Now? I can’t stop talking about it. Harghita has space to breathe, landscapes that make you stop in your tracks, and a pace of life that feels refreshingly real.
If you’re looking for somewhere that blends epic scenery, rich traditions, mouthwatering food and genuine hospitality, this is it. And because hardly anyone outside Romania talks about it, you get the joy of feeling like you’ve discovered it for yourself.
Here’s why you need to Discover Harghita for your next trip.
1. Discover Harghita’s Breathtaking Nature
Harghita’s landscapes are wild, varied and so easy to love. Rolling hills, endless forests and volcanic wonders. You can hike through pine-covered mountains in the morning and relax beside a serene lake in the afternoon.
One of my favourite spots was Lake Sfânta Ana. It’s the only volcanic lake in Eastern Europe and absolutely stunning. The water is calm, the air is crisp and there’s a peaceful stillness you just can’t buy.
Then there’s the Băile Tușnad area. Known for its mineral springs, it’s surrounded by deep green forests that seem to stretch forever. Whether you’re into hiking, cycling or simply wandering, there’s a trail for you.
The best part is that there are hardly any tourists. You can actually hear birdsong instead of camera shutters. In Harghita, nature still feels like nature.
2. Rich and Unique Local Culture
One thing that sets Harghita apart from other Romanian regions is its Székely Hungarian heritage. Most locals here are ethnic Hungarians, so the language, traditions and even the food have a distinctive twist.
You’ll see it in the colourful wooden gates outside homes, in the embroidery on traditional costumes and in the festivals that celebrate age-old customs. It’s not a performance for visitors — people here genuinely live these traditions.
I loved chatting with locals and hearing stories passed down through generations. They’re proud of their heritage, and it shows. If you time your visit for a local fair or market, you’ll get an even deeper glimpse into everyday life.
Harghita also shines through its local artisans. Hand-carved wooden items, traditional pottery and vibrant textiles are made using age-old techniques.
Visiting local workshops or markets gives you a chance to take home a truly authentic souvenir — something made with care and history.
It’s rare to find a place that’s this authentic yet so welcoming to visitors. Harghita has that balance. You feel like a guest, not a tourist. Click here for places to stay.
3. Discover Harghita Through Its Food
If you’re a foodie, Harghita will make you very happy. The dishes here are hearty, fresh and made with local ingredients.
Start with a steaming bowl of goulash — rich, warming and packed with flavour. Pair it with fresh bread straight from a village bakery. Don’t skip the desserts either.
Kürtőskalács, or chimney cake, is a sweet spiral of pastry coated in sugar and cinnamon. It’s as fun to watch being made as it is to eat.
Dairy lovers will swoon over the cheese here. Many small farms still produce it by hand, and you can taste the difference. Pair it with local honey for the perfect afternoon snack.
Everything tastes like it came straight from the farm because, in most cases, it did. There’s no rush, no shortcuts and you can taste the care in every bite.
4. Adventures All Year Round
You can Discover Harghita in any season. Winter brings snow-covered slopes and cosy ski resorts. Harghita Mădăraș is a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding, and it’s far cheaper than the Alps.
In spring and summer, the hills turn green, the flowers bloom and the hiking trails come alive. You can go horse riding, cycling or even paragliding if you’re feeling adventurous.
Autumn is something else entirely. The forests turn gold and red, and the crisp air makes every walk magical. It’s also harvest season, so markets overflow with fresh produce, jams and homemade wine.
No matter when you visit, you’ll find something to do outdoors. And because it’s not overrun with tourists, you get space to really enjoy it.
5. Wild Encounters: Harghita’s Brown Bear Population
Wildlife lovers might be surprised to learn that Harghita has one of the largest brown bear populations in Europe. These powerful animals live deep in the forests, far from most human activity.
Local communities have learned to coexist with them over generations. While you’re unlikely to encounter a bear during a casual hike, their presence adds a fascinating layer to Harghita’s wild and untouched character.
Visitors interested in wildlife should follow responsible tourism guidelines to protect both themselves and the bears. If you do spot a bear, keep your distance and stay calm to stay safe – and don’t offer it food!
6. Visit Harghita for Charming Villages
Don’t miss wandering through Harghita’s small villages like Sânsimion or Praid. Each offers a peaceful glimpse of rural life, with quaint houses, local cafés, and welcoming smiles. These villages are perfect for slowing down and soaking up the genuine atmosphere.
Visitors often mention how the locals’ kindness makes a trip truly special. Székely hospitality means you’re not just a tourist but a welcomed guest, invited to share in traditions and stories.
7. Affordable and Still Undiscovered
Let’s talk money. Travelling in Harghita is refreshingly affordable. Hotels, guesthouses and even spa resorts cost a fraction of what you’d pay in Western Europe. Meals are generous and budget-friendly and activities won’t drain your wallet.
This makes it perfect if you want a richer travel experience without overspending. And because it’s still under the radar, you won’t find inflated tourist prices.
But here’s the flip side — places like this don’t stay undiscovered forever. More travellers are starting to look beyond Romania’s big-name attractions. So if you want to experience Harghita at its most authentic, now’s the time.
Why You Need to Discover Harghita Now
Harghita County is that rare mix of beauty, culture, flavour and authenticity. It’s the kind of place you tell your friends about with a spark in your eye.
In a world where so many destinations feel overexposed, Harghita still feels fresh. It invites you to slow down, connect with people and experience Romania in a deeper way.
It’s also a fantastic choice for families. The region’s gentle hiking trails, safe cycling routes wildlife watching opportunities and welcoming guesthouses make it easy to explore with kids in tow.
Many activities here are hands-on and outdoors, giving your kids the chance to connect with nature and local traditions without the rush and noise of big tourist hubs.
So next time you think about Romania, don’t stop at Bucharest or Dracula’s castle. Go further. Wander into the heart of this hidden gem. And when you do, you’ll see why I can’t stop saying it — Discover Harghita.
If you’re exploring Central and Eastern Europe, you might also enjoy our guide to top things to do in Prague, with tips for a weekend in the city and easy day trips
