A castle of limestone and forest, the spectacular Piatra Craiului massif invites mountain lovers on tracks secured with chains, along potholes, through caves and deceptive scree. On the way they come across chamois, endemic pink flowers (Dianthus callizonus) or edelweiss (Leontopodium alpinum) and the wonderful surprise from the ridge always leaves them breathless.
The juniper and fir trees accompany them through steep-sided valleys until reaching the sparse mountain villages where people are always happy to have guests. Măgura, Peștera and Zărnești are the most important places where one can stop and rest, where fresh local produce are part of daily meals.
There are mountain biking and hiking trails to be enjoyed here, as well as perfect places for photography, or simply for a break to take it all in and wonder at its beauty.
The area has been an official ecotourism destination in Romania since 2014.
AER in partnership with Zenith Maps develops the best map collection in Romania focused on ecotourism destinations.