Day Trip to Dealu Mare: Wine, Manor House and Monastery

If you want to discover one of Romania's most beautiful vineyard regions without leaving for a whole weekend, the day trip to Dealu Mare is the perfect solution. We leave in the morning from Bucharest and return in the evening, after visiting the wineries in Valea Călugărească, tasting local wines, entering the manor house of a boyar family and stopping at a monastery with a wooden church from the 18th century. It's a day suited for couples, groups of friends or anyone who wants to combine relaxation with a bit of history and culture. Let's see what awaits us.

What we visit

The first stop we make is at Domeniul Aristitei, a modern boutique winery in the village of Nicovani, in the heart of Valea Călugărești. Here we get to taste wines directly from the producer, in a relaxed space designed especially for tastings. The tour shows us how wine is made, from harvesting the grapes to bottling, and explains what makes the wines from this area so appreciated. Did you know that the village of Nicovani, part of the Valea Călugărească locality, dates back to the 15th century, according to Crama România? The Dealu Mare vineyard region extends over approximately 15,000 hectares and is renowned especially for red wines, according to Observatorul Prahovean.

We continue with Muzeul Crama 1777, one of the oldest wineries in the country. It's the only winery from the 18th century that has been preserved and restored – the current building is a reproduction of an original winery from 1777, which survived until 1985, according to Agerpres. Here we learn how wine was produced in the past and see the tools and installations that winemakers used over the centuries.

The next stop is at Conacul Bellu in Urlați, an architectural monument built in old Romanian style in the mid-19th century. It was the home of the family of baron Alexandru Bellu, and in 1926 his wife, Alexandrina, donated the entire estate to the Romanian Academy, according to Muzeul de Istorie Prahova. Inside we discover collections of painting and sculpture, authentic period furniture and decorative objects that recreate the atmosphere of boyar life. The manor's garden, laid out in romantic style, is the perfect place for a peaceful break.

The last stop we make is at Mănăstirea Sfânta Maria Jercălăi, situated on the Wine Road, a few hundred metres from Urlați. The wooden church, dating from 1731, had an unusual story: it was moved several times – from Luieriu (Mureș), to Toplița, then to Bran and finally to Urlați, according to Cale Bătută. It preserves the character of traditional Maramureș architecture and is a place of peace and spirituality before we return to Bucharest.

What the price includes

The fare of 99 RON per person includes:

• Transport by coach classified for tourism
• Accompanying guide from the agency on the route
• Travel and baggage insurance during transport

The fare does not include:

• Entrance fees to attractions (Domeniul Aristitei, Muzeul Crama 1777, Conacul Bellu, Mănăstirea Jercălăi)
• Wine tasting
• Lunch
• Medical and cancellation insurance (not mandatory, but we recommend it)

Departure is at 07:00 from the car park at Piața Victoriei, Bucharest, and we return during the evening, depending on traffic.

Who is it recommended for

The trip is suitable for couples who want a relaxing day away from Bucharest, for groups of friends passionate about wines and local stories, but also for families who want to combine nature with culture. If you like discovering authentic places, without rushing, and learning stories about how wine was made in Romania 250 years ago, you'll feel excellent. The pace is leisurely, we have time for photos and conversations, and the atmosphere on the coach is friendly. If you've been on the Corvin Castle and Prislop Monastery tour, you'll like this one too – it's shorter, but just as full of stories.

How to make a reservation

The next confirmed departure is on 25 October 2026, at 07:00, from Piața Victoriei. The price is 99 RON per person, and places are limited – the coach isn't huge, so if you want to catch a particular date, it's good to book in advance. You can see all the details and book directly on the day trip to Dealu Mare vineyard region page. If you want to check other departures from the same period, have a look at our calendar.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the trip last?

We leave at 07:00 from Bucharest and return during the evening, depending on traffic. In total, it's a full day, but you get home at a decent hour.

Do I have to pay separately for entrance fees to attractions?

Yes, entrance fees to Domeniul Aristitei, Muzeul Crama 1777, Conacul Bellu and Mănăstirea Jercălăi are paid separately, on the spot. Same for wine tasting.

Can I take children with me?

Yes, the trip is suitable for families too. Conacul Bellu and the monastery are interesting places for children as well, and the atmosphere is relaxed.

Is lunch included in the price?

No, lunch is not included. We stop at a place where you can eat, or you can bring something from home.

How do I get to the meeting place?

We meet in the car park at Piața Victoriei, Bucharest, at 07:00. Our guide is waiting for you there with Autocarul Veseliei. If you need directions, you'll find details on the contact page.

Can I cancel my reservation if plans change?

Yes, but it's good to check the cancellation conditions when you make the reservation. Cancellation insurance, although not mandatory, helps you if last-minute problems arise. Details about payment can be found here.

Book now

If you want a day away from Bucharest, among vineyards, manor houses and monasteries, book your place now. Places are limited, and the October departure fills up quickly. We're waiting for you on Autocarul Veseliei!