There is a place in Romania where nature whispers through ancient forests, where hills roll endlessly into the horizon, and where time is measured not in hours but in quiet moments of wonder. This is Transylvania—a region alive with legend, beauty, and authenticity, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Here, in this breathtaking landscape, you will find hidden villages untouched by modern rush, winding trails leading to panoramic views, and a silence that feels sacred. The air is pure, the pace is slow, and every corner tells a story—of tradition, nature, and simple joys.

Transylvania — a name that echoes with mystery, beauty, and legend — is far more than just the land of Dracula. It is a living tapestry of rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. At its core, Transylvania is a place where the past and present coexist in harmony and where every road leads to a story.

Often called the “unofficial capital of Transylvania,” Cluj-Napoca is a dynamic city with deep historical roots. Once a Roman settlement known as Napoca, and later a medieval Saxon stronghold, today Cluj blends Gothic and Baroque architecture with a vibrant, youthful energy.

Walk through Unirii Square, gaze up at the imposing St. Michael’s Church, and explore the Central Park, where locals and visitors gather beneath centuries-old trees. The city is also a cradle of culture — home to some of Romania’s top universities, art galleries, jazz festivals, and the internationally acclaimed Transilvania International Film Festival (TIFF).

But Cluj's magic goes beyond its streets. Just outside the city lie stories waiting to be rediscovered.

A short drive from Cluj brings you to Turda, a town whose fame dates to Roman times. Here, beneath the earth, lies the Turda Salt Mine (Salina Turda) — a surreal, cathedral-like space carved in salt. Once an active mine, it’ is now an underground world of healing air, mirrored lakes, and mesmerizing acoustics.

Pair your visit with a stay at ISSA Resort, a premium wellness retreat nestled near the Salt Mine. Offering curated access to Turda Salt Mine and the surrounding nature, ISSA is more than a place to rest — it is where the rhythm of nature meets the comfort of design.

Venture further into the Apuseni Mountains, and you will find villages like Băișoara and Rimetea, where traditions are preserved like precious heirlooms. In Rimetea, white houses with green shutters sit against a backdrop of dramatic cliffs. The locals here still speak Hungarian, and the village has received recognition from UNESCO for its cultural preservation.

The forests of the Apuseni are steeped in folklore. Locals speak of hidden treasures, fairy wells, and ancient shepherd paths that lead to soul-stirring vistas. The caves of Scărișoara and Padiș are gateways into the Earth, holding secrets older than memory.

The Cluj region is alive with stories. From the ghosts said to haunt the Hoia Forest, one of the most mysterious woodlands in Europe, to folk tales of giants and saints who shaped the land with footsteps and tears — this is a land where the fantastic feels real.

Even the people carry the legend forward. Warm-hearted, resilient, and proud of their heritage, the locals blend old-world wisdom with modern hospitality, inviting you to listen, taste, feel, and belong — even if just for a little while. Their warmth will make you feel like a part of the community.

At the very center of this magical setting lies ISSA Resort, a premium retreat embraced by nature. It is more than a place to rest — it's a doorway into the soul of Transylvania. With refined design, serene surroundings, and heartfelt hospitality, ISSA Resort invites you to experience the region in its most authentic and elevated form.

Whether you're sipping your morning coffee overlooking ISSA Resort beautiful surroundings, exploring the nearby Turda Salt Mine, wandering the vibrant streets of Cluj-Napoca, or simply listening to the wind through the trees, Transylvania isn't just a place to visit — it's a place to feel, to explore, and to remember. Let ISSA Resort be the beginning of your unforgettable Transylvanian story.