Days 11 & 12 - Enjoying the last few days in Romania

DAY 11: Piatra-Neamt – Brasov The first and only stop this morning was at a large farming operation near Piatra-Neamt. The group spent the morning at Ferma Zanesti Grupul de Firme TCE 3 Brazi to better understanding this fully integrated operation producing cereals and other crops on about 6000 ha of land.

What isn’t subsequently used in their dairy, beef, sheep and pig operations is sold/marketed off the farm. The milk produced through the dairy operation (250 cows) is sold in their four independent stores and at a number of dispensing unit locations located in the nearby city and well as further processed into cheese, yoghurt and other dairy products (also sold in their stores). The meat from the beef, sheep and pig operations is further processed in the farm’s abattoir and then sold through their store locations as well.

After learning much about the operation the group enjoyed lunch at the farm, and then it was back on the bus for the return trip across the Carpathians.

Up and over the mountains and back in the Transylvania Region of Romania, the group arrived in Brasov, one of the major cities in the region. Also known as Kronstadt, due to the presence of German colonists as early as the 12th century, Brasov is a beautiful medieval city boasting colourful facades, old ramparts, secret narrow cobble streets and guard towers. At the centre of mountain tourism, today Brasov is one of the most appreciated and visited places in Romania.

After checking in to the Casa Wagner, lodging for the next two nights is located in a medieval building in the city centre, the group enjoyed a short walking tour of the area before heading out on their own for dinner and the evening. Tomorrow is the group's last full day in Romania.

DAY 12 Brasov – Bran – Brasov This morning the AALP Alumni and Friends Tour group visited a food market in Brasov, where local producers are selling their crops and food products.

Brasov is well known for its potato production and all along the roads you can see small stands with bags and bags of potatoes for sale.

Travelling on, the group visited a 700 ha farm wheat, corn, soybeans and triticale. Previously a larger potato farm, the owners determined it was more profitable to downsize and switch from potatoes for processing and for seed to other field crops.

Back on the bus to Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle because of its link to Bram Stoker’s novel. This is a beautiful 14th century castle, restored in the 20th century to its former glory by the Romania’s Royal family. It is an imposing structure guarding the passing point between the two Romanian provinces – Walachia to the south and Transylvania to the north.

Making a stop in Prejmer the group visited its 13th century Gothic style fortified church, which is included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. It is probably the most interesting of all the churches the group has seen on this trip.

Returning to Brasov, the group enjoyed a farewell dinner, local entertainment and some fun with the tour leader. The group's time in Romania is soon drawing to a close.

Comment

You need to be a member of Ontario Agriculture to add comments!

Join Ontario Agriculture

Welcome to
Ontario Agriculture

Sign Up
or Sign In

Agriculture Headlines from Farms.com Canada East News - click on title for full story

Leif Carlson Named Vice President, Markets and Trade

Cereals Canada is pleased to announce the appointment of Leif Carlson to the position of Vice President, Markets and Trade, effective immediately. In this role, Carlson will lead efforts to expand and protect global market opportunities for Canada’s cereal crops. “Leif’s expertise, commitment to agriculture, and proven leadership continue to strengthen the Canadian cereals value chain,” said Dean Dias, Chief Executive Officer of Cereals Canada. “His leadership in this role will support dependable market access and sustained global demand for Canadian wheat, durum, barley, and oats.” In his previous role as Director of Market Intelligence and Trade Policy, Carlson championed the promotion of Canadian cereals and helped protect the interests of the value chain in global markets. Since September 2025, he has also represented the sector as a Director with the Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance (CAFTA), advocating for fair and predictable trade. Carlson holds a Bachelor of Commerce and a

Canada’s Ag Day: Celebrating Farmers Who Grow Their Best for the World

Every year, Canadian farmers combine expertise and innovation to grow their best for the world. Their commitment ensures that Canada continues to deliver wheat that meets the needs of millers, bakers, and consumers here at home and in over eighty countries around the globe. As we celebrate Canada’s Ag Day, we’re proud to recognize the dedication of the people whose work feeds families, supports our economy, strengthens rural communities, and helps sustain Canada’s reputation as a trusted supplier of high-quality wheat. Highly valued for its high protein content, milling performance, and ability to produce great tasting foods—from breads and noodles to pastries and breakfast cereals—Canadian wheat is a top choice for millers and food manufacturers in more than 80 countries. Find out what makes Canadian wheat amongst the best in the world at Canadian Wheat—Quality You Can See and Taste

Grain sector warns of information gaps in AAFC research reductions, calls for immediate program impact disclosure

Grain Growers of Canada is calling on the federal government to provide clarity on the impacts of recent staffing reductions and announced closures or consolidations of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada research facilities, stating that downstream consequences cannot be assessed without clear, program-level information. “Transparency is essential when decisions affect the foundation of Canada’s agricultural research system,” said Scott Hepworth, chair of Grain Growers of Canada and Saskatchewan grain farmer. “Without clear disclosure of what research capacity is being reduced or eliminated, the sector cannot understand the long-term risks to production and competitiveness,” he added. “It must be clear what capacity is being lost, where, and with what consequences.” Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada has cited personnel confidentiality in limiting details on the announced changes. Grain Growers of Canada emphasized that while personnel confidentiality must be respected, it does not,

New Leadership Team Named at OFVGA

Ontario’s fruit and vegetable association appoints a new chair and vice chair to lead advocacy, manage challenges, and support growers across the horticulture industry.

CRSB Launches Certified Beef Producer Incentive Program

CRSB launches a new incentive program offering 400 dollars to certified beef producers in 2026 to reward sustainable practices and strengthen Canada’s responsible beef supply chain.

More…

Badges | Report an Issue | Terms of Service