27 Feb 2020
Be aware this trip is for a driver only. You are dropped off at the two venues and still need to buy tickets at the sanctuary and castle.
Buying tickets to the sanctuary in advance is recommended as they only take small groups and only 2 tours a day. We didn't know this and our driver was shocked and concerned we didn't have tickets. We were lucky that we were the only people on this trip so got to the sanctuary early and got tickets.
The bear sanctuary was definitely the highlight of our trip to Romania and I am recommending to everyone! The story of the sanctuary and each bear is really special and those that work there are so caring and passionate.
The castle was disappointing. It was very busy and inside had lots of small rooms and narrow staircases which resulted in lots of queuing to go up and down the stairs and not being able to read any of the information because people were in the way or barging past. The view of the iconic castle from the bottom of the hill was the best bit.
I would recommend the restaurant at the bottom of the castle too, it had a variety of options all cooked to a really high standard and very reasonably priced. Staff were friendly and it was a nice cosy setting after walking around the cold castle. I would recommend the carrot cake for dessert!
Also the drive to and from Bran is pretty special. The drive up and down the snowy mountains and the views are amazing.