by Lonely Planet author Leif Pettersen

Gura Humorului Hotels/Hostels

Painted Monasteries Moldavia

The town of Gura Humorului is an excellent base to visit Voronet and Humor Monasteries. Sucevita Moldovita are a little trickier to get to from here, but it's possible. More and more enterprising locals are taking in tourists and each year rates soar higher. Some private places have gotten a little carried away and started advertising themselves as 'four star' properties, despite the distinct lack of four star amenities. Hopefully, EU membership will scare these people straight, but for now, be sure you know what you're paying for before forking over cash.

The usual rate per person per night in an unlicensed ‘vila’ is about 15-20 euros. Roughly 500m south of Gura Humorului's bus station (follow the only path) is a spot for wild camping on the south bank of the River Moldova, as well as a few cafes and a small tourist complex.

Pensuinea Lions
Tel. +40 (0) 230 235 226
Str Stefan cel Mare 39
Singles 23 euros
Doubles 29 euros
Open in early 2006, this three-star pension/restaurant mini-complex is unexpectedly homey and clean. Beds are decent and all rooms have a balcony. Discounts offered for multi-night stays. Traffic noise (read: the typical Romanian chorus of car horns) from the main road is clearly audible and music from the restaurant can be heard until 11pm.

Hotel Simeria
Tel. +40 (0) 230 230 227
Mihail Kogalniceanu 2
Singles 27 euros
Doubles per person 30 euros
This is a modern, impeccably clean and pleasant three-storey hotel. Some rooms have balconies, all have refrigerator and TV.

Casa Elena
Tel. +40 (0) 230 230 651
Singles 44 euros
Doubles 59 euros
This four-star option is 3.5km from Gura Humorului, on the northern edge of Voronet Monastery. There are 31 rooms in five different villas, all in a large, luxurious complex. The hotel also has a billiard room, sauna and 24-hour restaurant.

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