Sóvárad

Sovárad (in Romanian, Sovata-Sat) is a village located in the western part of Harghita County, in Székely Land, near the upper course of the Kis-Küküllő River, 4 km from Sovata. While often mentioned in the shadow of its famous neighbouring spa town, Sovárad is a village with its own unique character and rich traditions, increasingly attracting visitors interested in rural tourism, pilgrimages, and natural attractions. The settlement existed as far back as the Middle Ages, and its name reflects the region's salt-rich geological features. The village boasts a traditional Székely settlement structure, with homesteads nestled on hillsides and carefully maintained peasant houses. The population is predominantly Hungarian-speaking. Sovárad is an important stop on the Mária Route – a section of the European pilgrimage route passes through here – making it significant from a religious perspective as well. The village is close to the foothills of the Gurghiu Mountains, making it an ideal starting point for hiking and cycling tours. The village has a few rural guesthouses and chalets, offering excellent opportunities for quiet, nature-oriented relaxation. The nearby town of Sovata caters to fans of wellness and health tourism, making Sovárad a perfect base for combining spa-town experiences with the Székely rural lifestyle. Sovárad is particularly recommended for those who wish to explore the lesser-known but highly authentic villages of the Kis-Küküllő Valley and are looking for a place where the traditional Székely way of life remains a natural part of everyday living.