Have you ever considered whether the setting of the action in the Netflix original film “A Christmas Prince” is based on a real place? In fact, the Aldovia castle is none other than the Peles Castle located in Sinaia, Romania. During the winter, when everything is blanketed in snow, the “Kingdom of Aldovia” takes on a magical atmosphere that’s one of the reasons I enjoyed the movie so much.
About Peles Castle
Peles Castle was originally constructed to serve as a royal residence for Romania’s first king, Carol I. Within the castle’s walls lies a true masterpiece, featuring more than 150 rooms, secret passages, and a remarkable collection of art amassed over generations by the royal family. Today, Peles Castle is open to the public and stands as one of the most captivating attractions in Romania.
As you stroll along the graceful pathways within the castle, you can behold the snow-capped peaks of the Bucegi Mountains, which watch over the castle like devoted guardians.
A mere stone’s throw from Peles Castle, nestled discreetly within the forest, you will discover Pelisor Castle, or “Little Peles.” Designed by Queen Mary, this castle was erected as a royal family residence and boasts an interior steeped in history, art, and splendor. Pelisor Castle exudes the appearance of a grand Bavarian house rather than a conventional castle.
Outfit details/similar: Coat / Belt bag / Wool scarf /Wool mittens / Wool beanie
Where is located Peles Castle and how to get there
Peles Castle is located in Sinaia a small mountain resort in Romania, 127 km away from Bucharest and 40 km away from Brasov.
Peles Castle is easily accessible by car or by train. There are 2 hours and a half by train from Bucharest to Sinaia. Once arrived at Sinaia Train Station it’s a walk in the park to get to the castle.
If you get by car, there are 2 main parking areas nearby the castle. Once you will enter to the street leading to the castle there are employees who will guide you to the less busy parking spots. The entrance fee for 1 day is 20 Ron (about 4 euro).
If you opt for train, you should note some inside tips regarding the trains railways in Romania. Beside the national train railways , there are private trains companies which work better: they are more comfortable, the prices are lower and the delays are lesser. For this trip, I arrived by train, with Softrans private train line. The tickets could be bought on line or directly from the train controller.
How much time is best to spend there
If you are staying overnight I would recommend looking for accommodation in Sinaia, Azuga or Busteni.
Peles Castle is a great option for a day trip since Sinaia is a very small resort. The main sights are Peles Castle and Pelisor Castle but the area is perfect to spend some quality time close to the nature offering lots of walking trails into the forest and mountain hikes.
Discover the best hotels and resorts near Peles Castle
Great ways to spent one day at Peles Castle
Here are my recommendations to make the most of your day at Peles Castle with a perfect blend of historic charm, cultural exploration, and delectable Romanian flavors:
- Visit The Peles Castle and The Pelisor Castle
- Vist George Enescu Memorial House (the biggest Romanian composer and musician)
- Visit Sinaia Monastery which impress by its Byzantine architecture
- Mountain hikes or walking trails into the forest
- Sinaia is a great place to eat Romanian traditional food. Here are some must try Romanian flavours:
- Beans soup with smoked pork served bread
- Polenta with cheese, sour cream and fried eggs
- Smokey eggplant Zakusca
- Plescoi sausages
- Bean ragout served with smoked grilled sausages
- Mixed minced meat rolled in cabbage with polenta and sour cream
- Romanian doughnuts with sweet cheese, sour cream and jam (papanasi).
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