Now that only a few days separate us from winter, with its convoy of snow and ice, it is time for a summer dream: Ovidiu Island. What do you think about an imaginary cruise towards one of the most quiet and pleasant (and virtually unknown) locations by the Black Sea?
Mamaia resort is full of colour and entertainment, but if you need a day off to someplace private, you need a day on Ovidiu Island, on Siutghiol Lake. Ovidiu Island is the only natural island by our sea. Populated by fishermen since time immemorial, it has served as haven and inspiration spot to the poet Ovidius Publius Naso, exiled on the shores of the Black Sea by Caesar. Ovidius lived here from the year 8 until 17 AD and wrote most of his later works here. In “Tristes et Ponticas”, he mourns his exile and the rough cold winters in Dacia, but also talks about the population and the life he finds here.
The Roman was a remarkable character, loved by the locals, who named the legendary island in his honor. Today, the University of Constanta bears his name as well.
Visiting Ovidiu Island is worth the slight effort. On the quay of Siutghiol Lake, you will find the little ship called “Ovidiu”, performing transport and cruises to Ovidiu Island. After 20 minutes of navigation, you will reach a haven of peace on this patch of sand, reed and wild flowers and animals. There is a fish restaurant, but if you take the cruise, you can also enjoy an “improvised” fish meal, cooked by the crew.
The tourist complex on the island comprises the restaurant, a traditional terrace, fishing spots and playgrounds for children, as well as 10 little 3-star jouses designed to accommodate a total of 20 persons.
You can easily go from Constanta to Mamaia and Siutghiol renting a car. Now all we have to do is wait for the summer!