Conacul lui Maldăr in Romania

Every year, I try to travel by car to a different destination in Romania. During my April-May visit in 2015, I made a 3-hour drive from Bucharest to Măldărești. Part of that drive was on a beautiful highway, which gave way to magnificent mountain scenery.

Romania has many conaculs (manor houses) that have been purchased by private individuals and turned into guest houses. In Măldăreşti I stayed at Conacul lui Maldăr (Măldăreşti, jud. Vâlcea, 247370, Romania; phone +40 744 394 362, www.conaculmaldar.ro).

This magnificent, 15-bedroom manor house is located on a lovely hilltop outside the village, with views of the mountains in the area. Daniel Vasilescu is the owner/innkeeper.

My suite was incredible. No expense had been spared! It was beautifully furnished with period antiques and carpets. The bedding was superb, as were the bathroom amenities. My room, as did many others, had a private veranda with flower baskets.

For my stay, May 3-5, my room rate was $73 a night, which included a gourmet breakfast. The dining room was in a separate building that was a recent addition. It was beautiful!

The restaurant served breakfast and dinner. Dinner cost about $15 and included a choice of about three entrées plus soup, salad and dessert. Everything was homemade by women who lived in the village. Wine and spirits were available.

The grounds were like a park. There was a large swimming pool with a cabana plus a separate cabana for cookouts. The 25 employees (including the gardeners) were most hospitable.

The manor house was situated near the town of Horezu, whose main street was lined with vendors selling handmade pottery. Also nearby was the beautiful Horezu Monastery, open to the public.

Conacul Maldăr is a place I would definitely like to visit again.

DAVID De MILLE
Wenham, MA