Casa Zollo

Our cottages 'Casa Vale' are situated in the shepherd's village of Vale, directly at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains. On the one hand far away from the pulse of time, on the other hand just around the corner from Sibiu, the european capital of culture 2007. A good choice for lovers of special places who want to spice up their experience with a pinch of Romanian serenity.

The village is nestled between the wooded mountains overlooking the Transylvanian plain. No through traffic, in an absolutely peaceful spot. After a few steps you already find yourself on your way up to the mountain pastures, hiking through the oldest beech forest of the continent. You will experience a unique flora and fauna. Alternatively, take advantage of the central location in the heart of Romania for trips in all directions.

Do you feel addressed? So take a break and treat yourself to a place where unspoiled nature meets the breath of the past and traditions.

Each cottage features a fully equipped kitchen for self catering, WiFi Internet, a washing machine, and TV. Airport transfer is included. On request: rental car, children's cot, breakfast, traditional menus, farm products, trips in horse cart.

We live in Vale and have joined together in a family-type construction company, whereby we've given five holiday cottages a complete overhaul or constructed them from scratch. We worked with attention to detail all along, with respect towards the traditional style of the area, as well with a view to modern building materials and contemporary housing needs. After eight years we've put trowels and planing aside for a while and breathe a sigh.

Today, we care for you as a team. In case of problems or questions you can always get in touch. Furthermore, we might have one or the other tip for you, but also master the art of discrete retreat.

Of the income of the houses (your money) on the one hand the 'investor' is served. On the other hand, administration and care allow several families a secure income. When we cook for you, if you order local products or go shopping in the local grocery, also a number of other villagers have a benefit. Finally, we are planning a soup kitchen for the less well-off families in the village which also will be financed from the proceeds of our holiday homes.

We foster a climate of openness and equality-based relationships.

Transylvania is the land of the legendary places, the churches, castles, fortresses and monasteries. Here are some examples for sights in the area:

• In 15 minutes you leave the village below you, passing dozens of hand-carved wooden sculptures in the Poiana Soarelui on your ascent, to arrive at the mountain meadows and enjoy a unique view across the Transylvanian Plain.

• The medieval fortifications of Sibiu embrace the old town with its historic alleys and restaurants, cafés and bars, some of them set in vaulted cellars or courtyards.

• In the saltwater lakes and spas of Ocna Sibiului you can soothe your aching bones in brine, stretch out in saltwater, and then coat yourself in mud.

• The way back leads you past Cristian, where a fortified church gives you an impression of how centuries ago, people barricaded themselves against Mongols, Turks and Kuruc irregulars.

• The Transalpina, the highest trafficable road across the Carpathian Mountains, starts just 2 km away from Vale. Created by the Romans in their campaign against the Dacians, it was rebuilt during World War, then forgotten, and today winds through one of the few untouched mountain regions in Europe.