Discover Romania's Jaw-Dropping Natural Parks!

Romania is renowned for its awe-inspiring natural beauty, diverse landscape, and rich biodiversity. The country offers a mesmerizing array of sights, from the majestic Carpathian Mountains to the untouched Danube Delta. Its lush forests are home to a wide range of wildlife, rare plant species, and protected areas, making Romania a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife connoisseurs.

Natural Parks and National Parks in Romania serve distinct purposes in conserving the country’s natural wonders. Natural Parks are established to protect unique landscapes, geological formations, and representative ecosystems. They focus on preserving natural features, promoting sustainable tourism, and providing educational opportunities.

In contrast, National Parks in Romania encompass larger areas and have a broader conservation scope. They are designated to safeguard entire ecosystems, protect biodiversity, and preserve important cultural and historical sites.

Natural Parks and National Parks play vital roles in preserving Romania’s natural heritage, allowing visitors to experience and appreciate its diversity. Read on to discover some of the most spectacular Natural Parks in Romania:

Bucegi Natural Park – Spectacular Alpine Peaks and Glacial Lakes

This is one of Romania’s most beautiful and important parks, covers 326.63 km², and is highly protected due to its rare and rich diversity of flora and fauna. Nestled in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains, Bucegi Natural Park in Romania is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

This breathtaking park is renowned for its spectacular alpine peaks and mesmerizing glacial lakes like Lacul Țigănești or the ones spread in “Cătunul Urșilor” area. There are also artificial lakes, like Scropoasa or Bolboci, with their crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountain peaks – these are considered popular areas where hikers gather to take stunning photos.

The Sphinx

Another stop in the Bucegi mountains, where visitors can marvel at iconic landmarks, is the Sphinx and Babele rock formations – shaped by centuries of natural erosion. Bucegi Natural Park captures the essence of Romania’s alpine beauty, inviting adventurers to explore its majestic landscapes and immerse themselves in its pristine wilderness.

Munții Maramureșului Natural Park – Rich Flora and Fauna in a Rugged Mountain Landscape

Located in northern Romania, Munții Maramureșului Natural Park truly showcases a rugged mountain landscape rich in diverse flora and fauna. The park’s unique ecosystem supports many plant and animal species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and a significant area for biodiversity conservation.

Exploring the park’s dense forests, visitors can witness cascading waterfalls and picturesque valleys while encountering various wildlife, such as brown bears, gray wolves, and Eurasian lynxes.

Eurasian Lynx in Maramureș Mountains

A hike through these mountains might be one of the most rewarding nature walks you ever took. If you want to read more about flora and fauna and the geology of the area, visit the park’s website.

Do visit their office in Vişeu de Sus if you happen to pass by that way – the staff are amiable and will provide you with free maps and advice. It is here that you’ll also discover Mocănița, an ancient steam train running through the thick forest, taking you back in time.

Muntii Apuseni Natural Park – Amazing Canyons, Gorges, and Cave Systems

Nestled in the heart of Romania, Muntii Apuseni Natural Park is a true gem for adventurers. This beautiful park is renowned for its amazing canyons, gorges, and intricate cave systems that weave through its rugged terrain.

One of the park’s highlights is the breathtaking Scărișoara Ice Cave, boasting an awe-inspiring underground ice chamber frozen throughout the year. With its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, the cave is a mesmerizing sight.

Scărișoara Cave Entrance

Several other cave systems can be found in Apuseni, but another that stands out and it’s worth seeing is the Bears’ Cave. This fascinating system also holds archaeological significance, as the remains of cave bears were discovered here, offering a glimpse into the region’s prehistoric past. However, this landmark does not have any English-speaking personnel, so make sure to consider that or go with a romanian guide!

Bears’ Cave

Iron Gates Natural Park – Incredible Lakes, Spectacular Gorges, and Caves

Are you looking for a memorable experience? Iron Gates Natural Park, situated along the Danube River, is a hidden gem that only a few tourists get to visit. It is indeed a remarkable destination to consider for your trip, and if you book with Balkan Trails, you can have it as an add-on to your customized tour.

One of the best things you can do to spice up your time in Iron Gates Natural Park is to take a boat trip! Kazan Gorges, located along the Danube River, is a captivating natural wonder. These dramatic gorges showcase steep cliffs and narrow passages, with the river flowing through the rocky terrain.

Another spectacular site is the Majestic Rock Sculpture of Decebal! The tribute to Decebal, the last king of Dacia and a prominent ruler, takes the form of a remarkable sculpture of his head. Standing at an impressive height of 55 meters and spanning 25 meters in width, this sculpture was commissioned by a Romanian businessman and history enthusiast.

While the work on the sculpture remains incomplete, with noticeable unfinished portions like the mustache and nose, it has nonetheless become a prominent landmark in the area. It is also one of the tallest rock sculptures in Europe.

Decebal’s Head

Putna-Vrancea Natural Park – Abundant Wildlife and Breathtaking Views

This captivating park showcases a diverse range of ecosystems, including dense forests, meandering rivers, and rolling hills. Visitors can embark on immersive nature trails and encounter a myriad of species, including rare birds, elusive mammals, and colorful wildflowers.

Putna-Vrancea Natural Park is a sanctuary where nature thrives, inviting explorers to witness its beauty and immerse themselves in its tranquil ambiance. Here you can explore 9 hiking trails of different difficulty ranges, and you can also practice horse riding, cycling, or fishing.

And, if you’re already in the area, visit Negrilesti or Barsesti traditional villages to witness some of the oldest Romanian customs from the area.

Gradistea-Muncelului Cioclovina Natural Park – Unmatched Beauty of the Carpathians intertwines with ancient historical landmarks.

Gradistea-Muncelului Cioclovina Natural Park is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends the unmatched beauty of the Carpathians with ancient historical landmarks. This remarkable park offers a tapestry of enchanting landscapes, from lush forests to majestic peaks. Visitors traverse its trails and encounter remnants of ancient civilizations, including megalithic monuments and archaeological sites.

Gradistea-Muncelului Cioclovina Natural Park

In the vicinity of this park, there are lots of mysterious archaeological Dacian sites, marking this area as a rich ethnographic one. The most sought-after site is the capital of pre-Roman Dacia: Sarmizegetusa. (People consider it to be “the Stonehenge of Romania”)

Sarmizegetusa ruins – photo credits: Diana Condrea

To truly experience the unmatched beauty and natural richness of Romania, look no further than Balkan Trails, the ideal tour operator for off-the-beaten-path adventures and unique natural landscapes. From the majestic Carpathian Mountains to the enchanting Danube River and its stunning Natural and National Parks, Romania is a true paradise for nature lovers. Take advantage of this extraordinary opportunity.