Romania has a new officially recognized ecotourism destination. Craiului Forest, an area in Bihor County known for caves, gorges, hiking trails, and traditional villages, has received this status for the next three years. It is the seventh recognized ecotourism destination in the country.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Minister of Economy, Digitalization, Entrepreneurship, and Tourism, Irineu Darău, who signed the recognition document.
The new destination includes eight localities in Bihor: Măgești, Vadu Crișului, Șuncuiuș, Bratca, Bulz, Remeți, Căbești, and Roșia.
What does the ecotourism destination status mean
The official recognition involves promoting tourism that emphasizes nature conservation, preserving traditions, and involving local communities. The goal is for tourism development to bring economic benefits to residents without harming the environment and the area's heritage.
"It's not just a title. It's the acknowledgment of a model in which nature, heritage, local communities, and the economy must develop together," Irineu Darău conveyed in a post on Facebook.
The minister emphasized that the natural beauty of a place is not enough to attract tourists in the long term. Infrastructure, quality services, efficient management, and promotion are also needed. "Tourism should mean more for the communities hosting these destinations: more tourists mean opportunities for local entrepreneurs, jobs, and income that stays in the community," Darău added.
What can tourists discover in Craiului Forest
Located in Craiului Mountains, the area offers numerous opportunities for nature tourism, from hiking and cycling to exploring caves, rafting, and other outdoor activities.
Among the well-known attractions are Meziad Cave, Crystal Cave in Farcu Mine, and the Crișul Repede Gorge in Vadu Crișului - Șuncuiuș area.
Visitors can also discover traditional villages, local products, and crafts preserved in the communities in the area.
The other six officially recognized ecotourism destinations in Romania are the Danube Delta, Țara Dornelor, Eco Maramureș, Transylvanian Hills, Zimbrului Land, and Băile Tușnad and Surroundings.