35 kilometers south of Sibiu, where the Sadu river valley narrows between conifer forests and mountain meadows, lies one of Romania's most authentic mountain villages: Râu Sadului. A single street winds along the left bank of the river for 7 kilometers, through a landscape that seems frozen in time.

Mărginimea Sibiului — the cradle of traditions

Râu Sadului is part of Mărginimea Sibiului, one of the best-preserved ethnographic areas in Transylvania. Here, shepherding traditions have survived the centuries, and transhumance — the movement of sheep herds between winter and summer pasturess — has been protected since 2023 as UNESCO intangible heritage.

The village was founded in the mid-18th century when shepherding families fled Saxon villages and settled in the Sadu valley. The Ciupariu, Bebera, Mailat and Fleșchin families laid the foundations for the four clusters of houses that make up the commune today.

The Land of Huts

What makes Râu Sadului truly special are the hay huts — traditional wooden structures scattered across the mountain peaks at altitudes between 900 and 1,400 meters. Shepherds spend time around these huts from April to June and from September to February, in a rhythm of life dictated by seasons and their herds.

In 2021, a project to preserve the huts was born through a partnership between the local community, Râu Sadului Town Hall and the My Transylvania Association. Coliba Tăroi, Coliba Hoadrea, Coliba Blezu, Coliba Poplăcean and Coliba Răduț have already been restored, and work continuing.

Things to Do in the Area

Râu Sadului is an excellent starting point for outdoor activities throughout the year:

  • Hiking — trails to Cindrel Peak (2,244 m), Cindrel Glacial Lakes or the traditional shepherds huts
  • Mountain biking — forest roads and trails through beech and spruce forests
  • Ski touring and snowshoeing hiking during winter season
  • Fishing in the Sadu river and mountain lakes
  • Forest bathing, yoga and meditation in nature

Nearby attractions

From Râu Sadului you can easily reach:

  • Barajul Gâtul Berbecului and Lacul Negoveanu — 14 km on the forest road
  • Păltiniș — Arena Platoș — Romania's oldest mountain resort, 25 km away
  • Sibiu — the historic center, Piața Mare, Muzeul ASTRA — 35 km away
  • Transfăgărășan — about 35 km away

Why Choose Pensiunea Valea Pinului

Located right on the village street, in the heart of the village, Pensiunea Valea Pinului is the perfect base for exploring the area. With 15 comfortable rooms, a restaurant with traditional cuisine and a spacious 6,000-square-meter courtyard, we offer the peace and comfort you need after a day spent in nature.