Although in recent years Romania has often been the object of negative publicity due to issues with corruption or “indiscipline”, it is now enjoying the spotlight for a happy event as this Tuesday, October 7th, Zarnesti-Piatra Craiului has obtained European accreditation for ecotourism. It is the first region to obtain this distinction, along with Mara-Cosau-Creasta Cocosului.
During the General Conference of the European Travel Commission (which was hosted this year by the city of Brasov) between 7 and 8 October 2014, Zarnesti-Piatra Craiului and Mara-Cosau-Creasta Cocosului received European recognition, obtaining certificates mean to attest them as areas of ecotourism.
The Natural Reservation Piatra Craiului, with its Carpathian forested peaks with age-old trees and tall pine trees and peopled by protected species of animals, is a corner of paradise. No wonder thousands of tourists (especially coming from abroad) choose Zarnesti, at the foot of the mountain, as a holiday destination. Zarnesti offers clean air and a moment of quiet, as well as the possibility to practice winter sports (skiing, mountain climbing) and motorcycling.
In Zarnesti you can also visit our furry friends in the bear reservation. The reservation offers sanctuary to nearly 80 bears, all of them saved from a cruel life of abuse and captivity. Plaiul Foii is another extremely popular local destination, enjoying much appreciation from tourists.
The European Travel Commission was founded in Norway in 1948 and counts among its members 33 states of the European Union (including Romania, which became part of the commission in 1998), as well as Brazil, China, Canada and the USA. The fact that the ETC meeting was held in Brasov is an open recognition of Romania’s efforts to increase its visibility on the international tourism market.
Zarnesti is located only 25 km from Brasov and 160 km from Bucuresti (on DN1 and DN73), being accessible through the railway, by bus, by car or if you rent a car to get there.