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Casa Viorel: Peace in Poiana Brasov
Casa Viorel's website offered a 'superior double room for single use' for 35 euro, but I was informed by phone that the price was 50 euro, the same as if two people were staying there. Despite this I went ahead and booked two rooms, one superior double for my friend and one 'standard double for single use' (30 euro) for me. As we were staying on Friday and Saturday night the accommodation was 10% more expensive. Still, we thought 55 and 33 per night was okay, so a phone booking was made. No deposit required, and no confimation e-mail was necessary. However, when we were checking in they quoted a more expensive price to us. Lack of paperwork meant I had no proof of the price agreed by phone.
Then we asked about their facilities as advertised (with photos) on the webiste, namely the sauna, fitness room and jacuzzi. They were being refurbished and weren't available! It was one of the deciding factors in booking the place. We were peeved. They should have informed us about that on the phone.
Wrong prices, lack of facilities, this wasn't getting off to a good start. After negotiation the manageress settled the price at 55 and 33, and offered us a free horse-drawn carriage ride. Casa Viorel has its own stables with 5 beautiful horses and 2 Shetland ponies. I think they should advertise this on their website, as it was a big plus for us to be able to visit the magnificent horses, and their gorgeous Coibanesc (Carpatian Shepherd) dog called Codrin.
Casa Viorel is right next to the forest, so it was peaceful, with beautiful views of the mountains. Both rooms were large and had balconies. There is a sort of 'day room', with a pool table and a PC with internet connection. The reception staff were friendly and offered good honest advice.
Breakfast buffet was a good selection of cheeses, meats, tomatoes, cucumber and cereals. They also cooked eggs to order. Lovely little puff pastries came with breakfast.
I would recommend Casa Viorel, and I hope they update their website soon.
The views were splendid.
The stables were a pleasant surprise, where else would you be able to stroke the most magnificent horses?
As it is almost the last building on the road, it was a peaceful place and offered easy access to the local hiking trails.
The staff were friendly, and willing to make amends for the lack of fitness facilities.
