Last week, we took our first trip to Harghita County and fell in love with its charm. Stunning landscapes, delicious traditional cuisine, and warm, welcoming people made it unforgettable. We were lucky to enjoy both snowy and sunny days as we visited beautiful accommodations full of character and local charm, rode the bobsleigh, went off-road through the mountains, relaxed at the spa, experienced a bit of sound therapy, and had fun bowling. We were even treated to a captivating little concert of handmade instruments, some with strings made from sheep intestine, which was truly amazing, and it added a unique, unforgettable touch to our time in Harghita.

Harghita’s gastronomy was a true delight. We loved the bulz (roasted polenta) stuffed with local cheese and topped with crispy lard that we enjoyed outdoors. The rich tarragon pork soup or the seasonal pork soup with sour cabbage juice, was pure comfort food, as were the hearty stews like the venison stew we tried for the first time. For dessert, we indulged in traditional alivanca (a moist polenta cake), the beautifully layered Dobos cake, and even modern creations that were just as impressive. We also savored homemade digestives made from local herbs, along with palincă (fruit brandy) and afinată (blueberry brandy). Even the coffee was perfect everywhere we went.

Harghita’s rise as a culinary hub is driven by local entrepreneurs, farmers, and producers dedicated to sustainable agriculture and authentic flavors blending Hungarian, Romanian, Armenian, and Szekler traditions. The Taste of Transylvania festival has played a pivotal role in promoting the region’s unique dishes and tastes. With its rich food scene, Harghita now holds the prestigious title of ‘European Gastronomic Region,’ offering a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. The variety of dining options in Harghita is also impressive, from home-cooked meals with locals to characteristic inns and fine dining experiences. Visitors can even take cooking courses to explore traditional recipes in more depth.

In 2023, Visit Harghita submitted its candidacy for the European Gastronomic Region title, and after a visit by the IGCAT jury (International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism) in October 2024, Harghita was awarded the prestigious title on February 6, 2025, during a ceremony in Miercurea Ciuc, which we had the pleasure of attending. This title places Harghita among Europe’s elite regions, known for its gastronomic heritage, sustainable food networks, and rich cultural traditions, further enhancing its growing reputation both locally and internationally.

We can’t wait to visit this lovely county again in summer and indulge in more of its delicious foods. Thank you Visit Harghita & Travel Communication Romania for inviting us to this beautiful trip. You can find all the necessary information on all these lovely places and restaurants on the Visit Harghita website.