Winter Riding in the Carpathians – Untamed Nature & Rustic Comfort
Celebrate the turn of the year on horseback – surrounded by the snow-covered mountain world of the Romanian Eastern Carpathians.
Imagine riding through deep winter forests, cantering across untouched snowy fields, with the winter sun sparkling on every ice crystal. The crunch of hooves in the snow, your horse’s breath in soft clouds – a winter dream come true.
Tucked away in the mountains, you’ll stay in cozy, wood-fired rooms and rustic log cabins on our Hipparion Ranch. Evenings are spent by the fireplace in the log house, sharing stories, sipping mulled wine, and listening to live guitar music – just as it should be in the mountains.
Unwind in the steaming hot saltwater tub under the open sky or relax in one of our two on-site saunas – the perfect way to warm up after a chilly winter ride.
Savor hearty kettle goulash cooked over an open fire, explore the fairytale landscape of Transylvania in the saddle, and watch snowflakes dance on the frosted windows. Perhaps the scent of gingerbread and mulled wine will even stir nostalgic childhood memories…
This trip is suitable for riders of all levels – and also warmly welcomes non-riding companions.
- 5 riding days / 7 overnight stays
- Daily rides with a duration of 3 to 5 hours
- Reliable, sure-footed horse and the necessary gear
- Experienced, English speaking guide
- rich breakfast and warm, local dinner
- Local, alcoholic beverages are included
- 1 picnic a day
- Accommodated in an oven-heated double- or multibed room
- 1 night in a cozy hotel in the city
- Adventurous off-road drive to our ranch
- Sleigh rides through the snow
- big party on New Year’s Eve (for New Years Ride)
- Hot Pot: wood-heated tub with warm salt water included
- Free and safe parking spaces
- Accompanying non-riders 550€
- Children younger than 5 are free of charge
- Maximum group size is 10
- Discount for groups possible on request
Come with us and discover Transylvania on horseback!
Eight exciting days in a fairytale winter landscape.
Day 1 – Arrival & Welcome Dinner
Individual arrival in Gheorgheni.
In the evening, we meet for a relaxed dinner at a cozy hotel in town. Over a traditional meal, we’ll get to know each other and go through the plan for the days ahead.
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Day 2 – Into the Mountains
After breakfast, we head up into the mountains in our Land Rovers, a 45-minute scenic drive through a snow-covered winter wonderland.
At the ranch, hot tea, coffee, and a light snack await you.
After settling into your rooms, we’ll go over important safety instructions and details about the horses and equipment. Then we’ll visit the horses out on their winter pasture.
Feel free to spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing in the sauna or the hot tub.
In the evening, we gather for a hearty dinner in the cozy log house.
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Day 3 – First Steps in the Snow
Today we head out on our first winter ride.
After breakfast, we bring in the horses from their pasture together. Our destination: Magas Bükk (1,380 m), with stunning panoramic views over the snowy mountain landscape.
On the way back, we enjoy a lively canter through deep snow – an absolute highlight! Afterwards, we warm up with mulled wine and a crackling fire back in the log house.
The evening ends with music and stories in a relaxed atmosphere.
Riding time: approx. 3 hours
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Day 4 – Up to the Heights
After breakfast, we saddle up and head for the highlands of the Carpathians.
Our trail to Csofronka Peak takes us through dramatic winter scenery: steep cliffs, frozen rock faces, and sweeping views accompany us.
We stop for lunch on a small plateau with a breathtaking view over the Hargita Mountains, the legendary “Killer Lake”, and the distant glaciers of the Kelemen Alps.
The return trail offers several stretches for a smooth winter canter.
Back at the ranch, enjoy the sunset over the mountains from the hot saltwater tub with a glass of wine or beer.
Riding time: approx. 5 hours
Day 5 – Valleys & Firelight
Today we ride down into the valley – passing remote mountain farms, crossing small streams, and riding through silent forests.
On a snowy clearing, we pause at a crackling campfire with hot tea, coffee, and mulled wine.
The ride back to the alpine hut is full of energy and joy – expect plenty of snowy fun.
Riding time: approx. 3.5 hours
Day 6 – Campfire & Torchlight Ride
In the afternoon, we saddle up for our final ride through the peaceful winter world.
After about an hour, we take a break at a warming campfire deep in the forest – with hot mulled wine, tea, and homemade cake. A magical moment to simply enjoy the snowy stillness and bond with the horses.
As dusk falls, we light our torches and ride back to the ranch in their soft, flickering glow – an atmospheric and unforgettable experience.
The evening invites you to wind down: take a dip in the warm saltwater tub, relax by the fireplace, or simply enjoy a quiet moment under the stars.
Riding time: approx. 4 hours
Day 7 – Farewell Ride
One last time, we saddle up and ride across snow-covered meadows and hills to a lookout point with sweeping views over the valley’s towns and villages.
The way back takes us along narrow, adventurous trails back to the ranch.
Riding time: approx. 3.5 hours
Day 8 – Departure
After breakfast, our off-road vehicle brings you safely back down to Gheorgheni, where your journey home begins – filled with memories of a winter riding holiday you won’t soon forget.
Requirements:
Open for all riding levels.
Packing:
Good and warm hiking/trekking boots, warm clothes, head lamp.
You will receive a detailed packing list after signing up.
Important notes:
-In special cases vegan, lactose free and gluten free meals can be provided. Please be aware that the meals will be simpler and the diversity reduced. Only possible with a declaration before arrival.
Changes in the program can occur depended on the weather
2025 – 2026:
28.12.2025 – 04.01.2026 New Years Ride: 1.590 € per person
11.01. – 18.01.2026 1.390 € per person
25.01. – 01.02.2026 1.390 € per person
2026 – 2027:
28.12.2026 – 04.01.2027 New Years Ride: 1.590 € per person
11.01. – 18.01. 2027 1.390 € per person
25.01. – 01.02.2027 1.390 € per person
