Zabola - The estate of a Count family in Transylvania
Zabala, Covasna County, Romania
The Machine House was built in the 18th century and hosted the machinery of the estate. Today it offers a unique combination of bygone elegance, modern comforts and exceptional cuisine.
The six guest rooms - 5 spacious double rooms and one twin room have been individually designed with style that has mastered the ever popular 'shabby chic' ambience. Each room has its own en suite bathroom, and a large dining room and lounge both with open chimneys are yours to enjoy for meals and winding down.
The 34 ha park, with lakes and ponds, at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains offers a splendid view both to the mountains and the "Three chairs" Highland. The park was first designed to have its current shape at the beginning of the 18th century, and was then adapted and modified by each following generation.
Depending on the season there are plenty activities you can do: bear watching, coach/ slade tour in the village, hiking tour with a guide, draw the bows (hand made after the ancient bows of the Magyar tribes), guided tours in the region or ice skate on the lake and ponds.
Optional trips:
1. St. Ann's lake is the only intact volcanic lake in Europe. Enjoy a picnic at the lakeside and listen to the legend of St. Anna, a truly archaic tale about how the lake was filled with tears of virgin girls. The rare Mohos peat bog can be found right next to the lake. Local guides will accompany you to explain the unique flora and fauna which has survived here since tens of thousands of years. There is also the possibility to visit the sulphur caves in the nearby forest which provide an unforgettable sensory experience.
Enjoy the Transylvanian countryside taking a horse carriage tour in Zabola village, rowing on the lake and drawing the bows (hand made after the ancient bows of the Magyar tribes).
2. A hiking trip in the Carpathian Mountains - Before we start our hiking tour to the meteorological station in Lacauti (Lakoca) - Covasna County highest point, we sip a cup of coffee in the local pub of Commandau village. The picturesque mountain village, located in a mountain depression, might be isolated for weeks during the winter.
