On the green hills of Feleacu, just steps away from Cluj-Napoca, lies a place that feels like it was taken straight out of a fairytale. Wonderland Resort Cluj is not just a luxury destination, but an entire world where Romanian wine, Transylvanian hospitality, and the boundless imagination of its founder, Darius Mârza, came together to create an unforgettable experience. Here, Wines of Romania hosted an international press trip that brought together journalists, influencers, wine enthusiasts, and travel operators, eager to discover not only flavors and aromas, but also the soul of Transylvania.
The First Encounter with Wonderland
From Monday evening to Tuesday afternoon, 40 guests from 12 different countries crossed the threshold of one of the most spectacular tourist destinations in Europe – Wonderland Resort Cluj. A place where imagination is the only limit, with an array of activities so wide that no regular holiday could ever cover them all.
The day began at a slow pace, with a generous breakfast at Primera Hall, before being quickly filled with laughter and shouts of excitement. Some participants opted for the adrenaline rush of the adventure park – zipline, tubing, or archery – while others retreated into the calm of the SPA and infinity pool.
In the afternoon, the guests uncovered the secrets of the resort, before being officially welcomed by Darius Mârza during an emotional press conference, where the founder of Wonderland shared the story behind the creation of the resort – today spread across 35 hectares and home to several European and world records.
United by Wine
With a sparkling glass of Mysterium by Jidvei as a welcome drink, Marinela Ardelean took the floor to speak about her most recent book, “50 Wines and Dishes from Romania.” Fittingly, Wonderland Resort Cluj is, for now, the only location in the world where all 50 wines featured in the book are listed on the menu.
The highlight of the evening, especially since more than half of the participants came from the world of wine and gastronomy, was a Romanian wine tasting at Wonder Bistro & Bar.
More than 20 labels, from producers such as Avincis, Domeniile Averești, Domeniul Bogdan, Grupul Vintruvian (Caii de la Letea, Olterra, Crama DeMatei), Beciul Domnesc, SERVE, Gramofon Wine, and Jidvei, were presented, tasted, and paired with dishes. This, however, is a story to be told in more detail soon – so stay tuned to Wines of Romania to find out how international journalists discovered the world of Romanian wine.
A Fiery Evening
The first evening turned into a true visual spectacle thanks to the fire dancers – flames and sparks set against the backdrop of Cluj’s city lights, shimmering below from the top of Feleacu Hill. Around the bonfire, the sound of a guitar carried notes far from the usual mountain tunes, drawing everyone together, regardless of nationality. Who could resist singing along to “Under the Bridge” by Red Hot Chili Peppers or Oasis’ “Wonderwall”? Of course, Romanian songs also made their way into the mix – at least until a few Italians took over the microphone, bringing back the unforgettable hits of the 1980s.
Transylvanian Adventure and Culture
The second day came with even more challenges and discoveries. In the morning, each guest chose their own adventure: the bravest set out on horseback rides through the spectacular forests surrounding Wonderland on three sides; others opted for carriage rides or a visit to the equestrian center. Two energetic teams went head-to-head on the paintball field, while some guests relaxed at the SPA or sought thrills with the zipline and a downhill kart ride.
After lunch, the group was guided by a professional through the heart of Cluj-Napoca, uncovering the cultural charm of the city: Unirii Square, St. Michael’s Church, Matthias Corvinus House, and the medieval fortifications, with their surrounding streets lined with cozy cafés.
The evening once again brought everyone together for a festive dinner with local specialties and an extraordinary artistic program: a live saxophone concert, followed by traditional Transylvanian folk dances and, to cap it all off, professional performers who managed to get even the most tired participants back on the dance floor. Between the music, the laughter, and the carefully curated wine selection, time itself seemed to stand still.
Relaxation, Adventure, and Farewell
On the final day, the morning began gently – between the SPA and the infinity pool – for those who wanted to indulge once more in the resort’s comforts, or simply to “recover” after two full days of nonstop activities. A few enthusiasts, however, chose to test their limits at the Adrenaline Tower (also called the Hexagon), where, secured by professional equipment, they explored some of the 120 games and routes hidden across the structure’s five levels.
After a relaxed lunch at Wonder Bistro & Bar, the moment of farewell arrived. Private transfers to Cluj-Napoca International Airport brought the three-day journey to a close, though the memories and stories created here will continue to be shared long after.
There is still so much left to experience at Wonderland Resort Cluj – from survival excursions to helicopter flights, from short hikes to multi-day treks, canoeing, mountain biking, and countless other adventures. Many of the participants left with the promise of returning in the years to come. And we, Wines of Romania and Wonderland Resort, partners in this adventure – will be waiting with open arms and glasses full of fine wine!
Epilogue – A Toast to Romanian Wine
The press trip organized by Wines of Romania at Wonderland Resort Cluj was more than just a journey: it was a true celebration of Romanian wine, of traditions, and of the beauty of Transylvania. In a fairytale setting, participants discovered not only exceptional wines but also a part of Romania’s identity and authenticity.
For many of the guests, Wonderland Resort was not just a destination, but a promise – that Romanian wine and its stories can conquer the world. Yet, as always, wine is best discovered at home: among hospitable people, with local dishes, entrepreneurial tales worthy of cinema, and landscapes that take your breath away.
