SURA CU DOR
(Bacau), Moldavia
Tel: 0740 521900 (No website) for reservations

Think 'Big Sur' in the 1960-1970s and you can imagine the place. Very eclectic - but completely Romanian. Built by the hands of the owner-artist and his wife, this is the place to go for Bacau locals for good wine, drink - and of course tuica (Romanian 'eau de vie').

Along the main road as one enters the Carpathian forests, but far from Bucharest, its worth the detour. There are only a few rooms so call ahead; very funky decorations that are hard to describe. Rustic and unforgetable. The pension's name is after the discovery of 830 Roman Augustus-era silver coins nearby. The owners prefer the designation "boarding house and restaurant."

UNIQUE APPEAL
This is not boutique chic - but rural-hip. Along a beautiful road rising west into the Carpathian, the first view of the wooden facade is more Sierra Nevada back-road bar-stop than anything else. But walk in ...

LOCATION/ACCESS
This place is 8-9 hours from Bucharest by car driving north. A good stopping stop on your way to the Moldavian painted monasteries further north.

SERVICE & ORDER
Informal check-in but effervescent hospitality at meal-time from the owner's wife who manages the place.

COMFORT
These are not the must comfortable rooms or modern bathrooms. But everything works and you'll enjoy the experience.

CULINARY QUALITIES
This is a place for ample Romanian fare and alot to drink.

Sura cu Dor: Tel: 0740 521900 (No website)