When we visited Romania in October of 2017, there was an early snowfall that totally caught us off guard just before Halloween when we were in Sibiu. A few days later, we arrived in a glistening white, snow-covered Poiana Brasov: imagine our surprise and delight that we lucked out enough to see snow in October in Romania!
Poiana Brasov remains one of my favorite memories from a Romania trip that was otherwise full of ups and downs. It’s such a relaxing place that it practically begs you to take a spa day, relax, and forget about the craziness of the world around you.
I stayed in Ana Hotels Sport and loved my stay — I felt like a princess in my enormous room with a gorgeous view of the mountains, and the spa facilities were fantastic. Stephanie was not a fan of the hotel she stayed in, so we’ve excluded it from this list. We both spent a lovely spa day at Hotel Teleferic, and we both wished we had stayed there: we think it’s the best ski resort in Poiana Brasov!
Non-skiers, don’t be wary about spending your time in a ski resort: we aren’t skiers, and we found there was plenty to do in Poiana Brasov to fill our time.
From ample day trip opportunities like visiting nearby Brasov (30 minutes by car or taxi, an hour by bus), Bran Castle, Rasnov Citadel, and more — or just simply relaxing in your Poiana Brasov ski resort, reading books with a view of the mountains and enjoying the spa facilities — there’s no shortage of good things to do in the greater Brasov area.
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So, now to why you’re here — here are the best ski resorts in Poiana Brasov for every budget, from chic hostels to comfortable guesthouses to luxury 5-star ski resorts!
Budget Hotels & Ski Resorts in Poiana Brasov (Under $100 USD/night)
TreeZ Hostel
TreeZ Hostel has a rustic appeal and a little bit of bohemian chic ambiance in their lobby. It has some vintage décor elements like old radios and posters framed on the walls which give the hostel a unique and mature vibe.
All rooms (a total of 22) are very clean, and most have a balcony with a view of the mountains — all for a budget price that ranges around $38 USD for a double. You also get private bathrooms (which come with a hairdryer), but remember to carry some toiletries with you, as they are not provided. Cabinets and wardrobes also make the interior ultra-functional.
You can also keep your ski gear and equipment organized in their storages for free, which is fantastic if you’re coming to Romania to ski. If you get lazy and just want to watch some TV, you can be a couch potato in their shared lounge!
It’s also a nice place where you can have conversations with other travelers. There are also some books you can read if you haven’t brought your own. The shared kitchen also has some utensils where you can cook any easy meal — note that breakfast is not included.
Poiana Brasov is quiet and about 30 minutes outside of Brasov, so you are guaranteed a peaceful and quiet next-to-nature accommodation that past guests have loved. There are also nearby parking options for free, great if this is part of a larger winter Transylvania itinerary.
»» Check out guest reviews, prices, and availability at TreeZ Hotel here ««
Hotel Ruia
Hotel Ruia offers a lovely garden filled with roses on the façade during summer, but it gets more lovely during winter when the snow starts to cover it, making it look like something out of a wintery fairytale.
Wooden swing benches are scattered outdoors so you can enjoy the stunning mountains views. There are also some indoor plants strategically placed in most of the common areas of this hotel, offering greenery to refresh the eye. A choice of doubles and suites are available.
Each room is equipped with a seating area and desk so you can use it as a work desk or just to have some coffee in the morning. The style is furnished with wooden pieces and earth tones. Another thing you will notice is the choice of bold colors: from maroon sofa covers to navy blue carpets to ochre-colored sheets and curtains, all harmonizing well. One nice perk is that their wardrobe with a huge mirror on its door — I hate it when my hotel room lacks a full-length mirror!
The on-site restaurant, Ruia Restaurant, serves a simple local à la carte menu, so don’t expect too much. However, the atmosphere inside is amazing, especially in the morning when the windows showcase the views as you eat! It also has a bar feature where you can order some wine or champagne if you’re feeling fancy!. The breakfast is plain but hearty and will help energize you before you ski.
»» Check out guest reviews, prices, and availability at Hotel Ruia here ««
Alpin Resort Hotel
This ski resort in Poiana Brasov is composed of three interconnected buildings. World-class facilities and modern style that meets advanced technology await guests who plan to book here. They like to describe their services as “all-inclusive” because everything you need is almost included in your stay! The view of the town, with a background of either the green hills during summer or the white snow-covered mountains during winter, is stunning from the hotel.
Shuttle services are available every 5 minutes to the slopes, so you won’t have to wait long! Ski rental facilities are good. Just make sure to inform the hotel if you wish to book their ski school as it usually gets filled in the peak season, and the worst-case scenario is that they can’t accommodate you l ast minute. Ski instructors are also very professional and really know how to teach the basic tips and techniques can help you learn fast. There’s also an après ski bar where you can just have a nice drink and chat with other skiers!
Aside from the excellent ski facilities, you can also enjoy their different amenities like an Olympic-size swimming pool, sauna, gymnastics room, and a fitness center. Vitarium Spa is where you can optionally get energizing treatments and relaxing massages.
They have four restaurants on-site, and you can have a gastronomic adventure with the different cuisines and dishes they offer. You can choose from Apropo (serves international dishes plus French and Mediterranean wines), Tosca (this is where you can eat your free breakfast buffet), Forest (serves local cuisine) and Gatsby Restaurant (serves Italian cuisine).
Visitors have found their kids entertained with the indoor and outdoor play areas, but you can also leave them under the supervision of a trained staff for babysitting. There are just so many things you can do here and you surely will not run out of things to do!
»» Check out guest reviews, prices, and availability at Alpin Resort Hotel here ««
Rizzo Boutique Hotel
This boutique hotel has 46 rooms where you can choose a double or twin room or a one-bedroom suite (all with designer styles). Interiors are elegant and they have well-designed and tastefully matching curtains, sheets, and headboards. All floors are made from shiny polished hardwood. The ensuite bathrooms have superb amenities: from jet-shower heads and glass that covers the shower area. The only downside of the bathroom is its size, but the rest of the room is so spacious that it makes up for it.
It is ultra-convenient for skiers because they can purchase ski access vouchers inside, plus winter sport equipment rentals and a ski school are available too. Aside from skiing, you can also enjoy their rooftop heated pool with a sauna and a Jacuzzi! Amazing. There’s also a mini garden with a terrace here, where you can see picturesque views of the fir trees in the woods.
The restaurant has classic and elegant styles with a little inspiration from French decors. It has blue-flourished tiles on the floor, and the windows are huge. On the other side of the restaurant is a corner where the bar is located. You can order different kinds of alcoholic drinks here and watch as the bartender mixes your cocktails.
Activities can also be arranged at their concierge service. One of the most exciting (and a little spooky) would be a tour of Bran Castle which is famous for being known as Dracula’s Castle! Don’t worry though – Dracula never actually lived here (mostly because he’s just a fictional character!).
»» Check out guest reviews, prices, and availability at Rizzo Boutique Hotel here ««
Mid-Range Hotels & Ski Resorts in Poiana Hotels ($100-200 USD per Night)
Ana Hotels Sport Poiana Brasov
This is one of the lower mid-range 4-star ski resorts in Poiana Brasov, which nevertheless has superb facilities and amenities. This is actually where I stayed in Poiana Brasov, and despite the slightly dated look of the hotel, it’s extremely excellent and comfortable.
The property covers a huge area and you can immediately notice its big red roof. It has a total of 112 rooms, all of which have a sofa which can be converted into a bed – perfect for kids or extra guests!
Skiers can also order packed lunches, so they can eat anytime they feel hungry while on the slopes without needing to take a bunch of time out of their ski runs for a sit-down lunch. The on-site ski storage will also help them safely store their equipment. Just like most premier hotels in Poiana Brasov, they do offer a ski school.
A proper vacation should always include some time to relax, and you can do that at their swimming pool (closed during winter), indoor pool, fitness center, or by getting those tired and aching muscles and joints eased with a nice massage!
For the ultimate in comfort and relaxation (though admittedly out of the mid-range price tier!), check into one of their fully equipped King Suites, which also has free access to an indoor pool, sauna, indoor hot tub, and outdoor hot tub! It also comes with a €75 voucher that you can use for spa therapies (this is per room and per night of stay). Availing this room will also entitle you to a 10% discount to other spa services. You also get designer Chopard toiletries in your bathroom!
They have one restaurant named Altitude and a lobby bar. Altitude serves a tasty breakfast buffet, and at other times of the day, skillful chefs prepare the food which is a fusion of international recipes and local Transylvanian. I didn’t get a chance to eat here except for breakfast during my stay, but their Ana Cake and Brasov-style pancakes are supposed to be great!
The only thing that guests found to be lacking during the summer season is the A/Cs — though in the winter, that won’t be a problem. An ATM on-site will give you better rates should you need additional cash, but you can also exchange currency there just in case you need it. Parking is also free, and it’s great because it has charging stations for electric vehicles!
»» Check out guest reviews, prices, and availability at Ana Hotels Sport Poiana Brasov here ««
Pensiunea Orizont
Pensiunea Orizont offers a stunning view of its surroundings – it’s a perfect place to connect your senses with nature and enjoy it with family or friends. While normally “pensuineas” in Romania are rather small, this hotel has a total of 4 floors, plus a basement and ground floor.
The color palette used for the room makes it feel warm and relaxing. The reception area welcomes you with some shortcakes and bread that you can try. All rooms have a private bathroom and its own balcony and hall. There’s also a minibar, wardrobe, and a separate living area with a leather couch. Breakfast is usually served a bit late (around 8:30 AM), but if there are a lot of guests who will go out to ski early, then they will usually adjust and serve it earlier. Breakfast is a selection of different meats and cheeses, bread, fresh fruits, salads, and yummy desserts.
The restaurant also serves as a function room for corporate or business events, weddings, or other special occasions. There’s also a separate conference room for business meetings with projectors and a long table.
There are also 25 parking spaces, and it is also free for guests. However, pets are not allowed in the property, but you will see two cute dogs (a bit ironic, but I’ll never be mad about a hotel with pets) that you can snuggle!
»» Check out guest reviews, prices, and availability at Pensiunea Orizont here ««
Hotel Crisalpin
This apartment-type 3-star hotel in the woods opened in 2013, so it is on the new end of the spectrum, with a capacity of 40 rooms. The rooms all have extra large beds and private bathrooms with a separate shower area plus toiletries.
The floors are carpeted (you can tell it is thick once you step on it — great for winter!) and underfloor heating, made to keep the temperature of the rooms cozy during winter. Some rooms have a balcony with a view of the mountains plus nice seating areas. Most of the furniture used are made of wood, giving you that lovely cabin feel. The balcony has outdoor furniture where you can just mesmerize with the lovely view of the Postavaru Mountain.
Free ski storage is provided where you can store your equipment, safe and dry. Guests can enjoy their fitness center (though it is quite small) and sauna for an additional charge. The spiral stairs aren’t friendly to guests with mobility needs, but they also have a lift (which only goes up to 4th floor) where guests can reach the higher levels. Outdoors there is a children’s playground – simple, yet enough to keep kids busy.
The fitness center and sauna are both optional, and fees will apply. You won’t see a restaurant inside, but there is a nearby one that you can check. However, in case you want to grill or roast meats, then they have a grill outdoors!
»» Check out guest reviews, prices, and availability at Hotel Crisalpin here ««
Luxury Hotels & Ski Resorts in Poiana Brasov
Teleferic Grand Hotel
Teleferic is your terrific escape for the ski season! It offers 127 rooms with a choice of economy and premium suite type rooms. It has been consistently awarded as the “Best Luxury Hotel” from 2016 – 2019 by the Romanian Top Hotel Awards!
They have multiple configurations for both their rooms and apartments. All are complete with the privacy and furnishings you need to have a very comfortable and relaxing vacation during the ski season.
The 4 Seasons Restaurant won an award in 2014 as the “Third Best Culinary Experience in a Restaurant”. Stephanie and I ate there with some of our friends during our two-week long trip through Romania. It may have just been delirium from all the polenta that we ate during those weeks, but their spring rolls were some of the best I’ve ever tasted in my life. We adored the restaurant and found it to be worth the admittedly high prices.
The hotel restaurant also serve a delicious and huge selection at their breakfast buffet. There is another restaurant, Coroana Gourmet, which offers exquisite fine dining which you could also try. For a perfectly brewed coffee of expertly mixed cocktail, you can check their Grand Lobby Café Bar.
During summer, you can try their Uţu House, which is cooking traditional Romanian dishes outdoors on a campfire (the only acceptable way to eat polenta, IMHO). There’s also a spa bar where you can get detoxifying teas and refreshments. At night, you can visit the Teleferic Arena, where you can party with live music from DJs as you dance along with the colorful strobe lights.
There is a ski center for those who want to refresh their skills and storage is provided for free. Skiers can also rest, relax or have a drink at their après-ski bar – it is a social sport after all!
You can also renew your mind, body, and spirit with the vast selection of services at their spa. I had an amazing massage here and found the spa to be beautiful, modern, and complete with everything I wanted. The sauna has 3 choices: a wet, dry, and infrared sauna.
Someone who wants to exercise can check their fitness center which has some basic workout equipment, and it has free access for all guests.
Everyone surely loved their stay here and guests said that they have one of the best breakfasts in Poiana Brasov. If you can afford the higher price tag, it’s certainly the best ski resort in Poiana Brasov by a long shot.
»» Check out guest reviews, prices, and availability at Teleferic Grand Hotel here ««
Aurelius Imparatul Romanilor
Aurelius Imparatul Romanilor opened its doors in 2006. It is a ski-to-door access hotel that provides stunning views of the Miorita Lake and the mountains.
They have a total of 88 rooms overflowing with style. You will also see most rooms have a chandelier and dim lights on the side! Some rooms have a balcony. They used classic French 18th-century style furniture as their inspiration, which adds a more regal aesthetic to the rooms. The ensuite bathrooms are huge, and the bigger rooms even have a tub inside!
You can also dine at their 4 restaurants: the Traditional Restaurant, the Miorita Salon, the Imperial Salon, and the Belvedere Salon. They all serve international and local cuisine perfect for those who tend to get bored with just one option. The atmosphere of the restaurants is elegant but relaxed, great for a meal after a long day of skiing.
Wellness facilities include free access to the swimming pool, Jacuzzi, gym, and sauna. These facilities are all superb and huge — it is indeed a luxury accommodation!
»» Check out guest reviews, prices, and availability at Aurelius Imparatul Romanilor here ««
Family Apartments
LuxApartment
This is quite far from the ski slopes, but you can be guaranteed a peaceful ambiance with the pleasant smell of fir trees. If you have a car, it’s a great choice. However, skiers don’t have to worry cause shuttle services are available every 30 minutes, and it only takes around 15 mins to arrive at the slopes.
The private apartments in the building are perfect even for large families. Each unit comes complete with a kitchenette, dining table, oven, microwave, and a fridge.
The balcony has some outdoor rattan seating where you can connect with nature through the views. Although heating is provided, the fireplace just adds coziness and additional warmth to family conversations in the fully decorated living area. There’s also a fluffy carpet here where can kids can sit.
Pets are also allowed on request – they’re part of the family too! Guests with special needs will feel comfortable with their raised toilets and elevators. Last minute shopping for souvenirs can also be done at their gift shop. A garage is also available for guests who have brought a car.
»» Check out guest reviews, prices, and availability at LuxApartment here ««
M.O.C. 5*
This apartment offers 2 bedrooms with a calm and beautiful view of the fir trees and the mountains. The bathroom has two sinks, which is not common, but it is something useful for larger-sized families. It features complete facilities, and most of them are new!
It has a mini kitchen with a microwave, oven, and stovetop. You can also use the washing machine to clean your dirty laundry if you plan to stay for a longer period of time. Unlike most family apartments, toiletries are provided here, which is a big convenience – especially if you’ve packed lightly.
In the same building is the Silver Mountain Restaurant, where you can order an a la carte meal. They also serve huge portions of food for their guests – perfect when you are hungry from an all-day of skiing!
The spa facilities open a bit late. It is not quite on par with hotels, but it is decent enough. You can also use the gym equipment if you want to do some exercise. You need to cross outside to use them since it is not in the same building. It can be a bit of a pain during the winter if it gets too cold, but it’s not too inconvenient.
Overall, guests loved how the owner is very easy to approach and said that any concerns were given immediate attention and action.
»» Check out guest reviews, prices, and availability at M.O.C. 5* In Silver Mountain here ««
What to Pack for Serbia in Winter
We have a full Romania packing list, but in case you just want the quick version, here are a few essentials you shouldn’t forget to pack!
A good guidebook: While travel blogs are great, we still think a good guidebook is always handy. We own and recommend the Lonely Planet Romania & Bulgaria — it’s full of helpful travel tips for the Brasov region and beyond.
One or two swimsuits: While swimsuits may not come to mind for ski season, if you’re staying in a ski resort with a sauna, indoor pool, or steam room, you’ll likely want one! We suggest bringing two so you never have to put a cold wet one back on. We love this one.
Plenty of winter clothing: You can check our packing list above for our full winter packing suggestions for men and women. At a minimum, you’ll want to bring a warm winter jacket (I love this North Face parka), cozy snow boots, warm wool socks, touch-screen friendly gloves, a scarf, and a winter hat.
Any ski equipment and clothing: We’re not skiers ourselves, so we don’t have specific ski gear equipment, but special ski clothes — waterproof pants and jackets, goggles, etc. — and ski gear obviously should be on your packing list, unless you have decided to rent it all when you arrive at your Romania ski resort.
Moisturizer: Travel will beat your skin up in the best of times — and winter travel in addition to skiing will really do a number on it! If you use a moisturizer at home, bring it. If you’ve never used a moisturizer before, you really should start. You’ll be happy to give your face a boost before heading outside in the cold all day.
Sunscreen: We strongly suggest wearing sunscreen when you spend time outdoors, no matter the weather outside. The higher altitudes combined with the reflection of the sun off the snow can lead to unexpected sunburns. I love this solid Neutrogena sunscreen – it’s mess-free, works well in carry-ons, is ultra-protective, and blends in well.
More Romania Resources
If you’re going to Romania, we have a goldmine of resources for you to take advantage of! First, check out this guide to planning a trip to Romania. It’s a good starting point for planning your trip.
For general winter in Romania inspiration, check out our guide to things to. do in Romania in winter! We also have a specific winter guide to Bucharest already published, and guides to Brasov and Sibiu on the way!
Next, check out all the things to do in Transylvania and things to do in Bucharest. You can also check out our Instagram guides to Sibiu, Brasov, and Bucharest.
You can also read about the best Romanian castles, the Romanian food you should try on your trip, or how to plan some epic day trips from Bucharest.
We publish new content nearly every day! Bookmark our pages on Romania and the Balkans so that you don’t miss out on any new info or resources that we publish before your trip!
Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!
I’m sure you’re aware that travel insurance is a good idea for traveling in Romania (or really, any part of the world)! Stephanie and I have both been paying customers of World Nomads for the last three years. We love the peace of mind it gives us in case of emergencies, accidents, illnesses, theft, or trip cancellation or disruption.
While Romania is perfectly safe to travel around, there’s always a risk inherent in everyday travel – especially winter travel! – so it’s better to play it safe rather than chance having your vacation ruined by a lapse of judgment.
If you’re planning to do winter sports, be sure to check that your specific policy covers ski or snowboard accidents or if you require a higher level of coverage. For example, with World Nomads, ski and snowboarding coverage is only provided on the higher-tier Explorer plan, so be sure to consider that when deciding what insurance plan to purchase if you’re doing winter sports.
>> Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here <<
Originally from California, Allison has been living in Bulgaria for the last two years and is obsessed with traveling around the Balkans. She has been published in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, Matador Network, and the Huffington Post. She loves befriending dogs, drinking coffee, geeking out about wine, and cooking food from around the world.
