Rural Romania National Rural Development Network

ISSUE 24 Year II, April 2015

MIOARA VIȘAN STOIAN Those who haven’t been on holiday to the countryside, have lived in vain! THE HOSPITALITY OF THE SAXONS FROM CRIŢ AND HAFERLAND WEEK

KLAUS EHRLICH Romania is one of my favorite countries in regards to rural tourism

ROOTS OF A EUROPEAN COUNTRY

Ministerul Agriculturii și Dezvoltării Rurale Rural Romania – no. 24

REGIONAL OFFICES Support Unit for the National Network of Rural Development TABLE OF CONTENTS

BRĂILA EDITORIAL...... 3 No. 282 Independenței Blvd., 1st Floor, postal code 810124, [email protected] Tel.: 0339 732 009, Fax: 0339 732 016 INTERVIEW CRAIOVA Klaus Ehrlich – EuroGites General Secretary: „ Romania is one of my favorite countries in regards to rural tourism”...... 4 No. 19 Libertății Str., postal code 200421, [email protected] Tel.: 0251 460 377, Fax: 0251 423 651 RURAL DEVELOPMENT ZALĂU Traditional festivals and their contribution to the development of local communities...... 8 No. 49 Kossuth Lajos Str., postal code 450010, [email protected] On the wine route, at the “La Butoaie” (At the Barrels’) guesthouse...... 12 Tel.: 0360 404 056, Fax: 0360 404 158 The hospitality of the Saxons from Criţ and Haferland Week...... 14 The Danube Gorge – nature, leisure and hospitality in the Canyon area...... 18 TÂRGU MUREȘ Spring calendar...... 20 Mioara Vișan Stoian, president of ANTREC (the National Association of Rural Ecological and Cultural Tourism) Brașov: No. 60 Mihai Eminescu Str., postal code 540331, [email protected] „Those who haven’t been on holiday to the countryside, have lived in vain!”...... 22 Tel.: 0365 430 349, Fax: 0365 430 351 Travel experiences promoted by Sibiu County Council...... 26 IAȘI Ciric Recreation Area – Ciric Recreation Complex, postal code 700064, [email protected] Tel.: 0332 PEOPLE 881 281, Fax: 0332 881 282 Ionela Lungu – folk artisan in the Humulești of Ion Creangă...... 28 TIMIȘOARA EXPERIENCES No. 53 Take Ionescu Blvd., 2nd Floor, Office 26, postal code 300074, [email protected] My farm: „Regalina” layer hen farm, from Râșnov...... 30 Tel.: 0356 460 982, Fax: 0356 460 983 My business: Invitation to „Bran House” Complex- Hospitality, refinement and pleasure for all the tourists...... 32 My community: Apuseni Mountains– Agricultural tourism, ecological tourism, cultural and historical tourism...... 36 TÂRGOVIȘTE No. 7A Vărzaru Armașu Str., postal code 130169, [email protected] Tel.: 0345 100 605, Fax: 0345 100 025 Up-to-date leader „Central Dobrogea” Local Action Group...... 40 BUCHAREST „Niraj valley” Leader Association LAG...... 42 No. 39-41 Nicolae Filipescu Str., 6th Floor, 2nd District, postal code 020961, [email protected] NEWS AND EVENTS Tel.: 0316 900 214, Fax: 0316 900 215 News...... 44 NRDN meetings regarding rural tourism...... 46 The text of this publication is for information purposes only and is not legally binding. Additional information on MARD and NSU may be accessed on the Internet: www.rndr.ro NSU, Publications NRDN MEMBERS INTRODUCE THEMSELVES...... 48 Department, April 2015 ISSN 2393 – 123X ISSN-L 2393 – 123X © NRDN, 2015

The reproduction of texts in this publication is authorized provided the source is acknowledged. Printed in Romania.

Copyright for the photographs: Cristian-Alexandru Catană, Monica Anghelovici, EuroGites, ANTREC (the National Association for Rural, Ecological and Cultural Tourism in Romania), ‘Michael Schmidt ‘Foundation,’La Butoaie’ (‘At the Barrels’) Guesthouse, Sibiu County Council, Hosman Mihai Dragomir, Irina Cristian, Marius Miclea, Daniel Secărescu, Călărași County Association of Agrotourism, Rural and Ecological Tourism.

1 Rural Romania – no. 24

Editorial

Rural tourism – the key to developing Romanian tourism

Rural tourism is gaining more and more ground in the preferences of Romanian tourists, but also among the foreign ones. If in the early 90’s rural tourism was preferred mostly around the Holidays, nowadays more and more tourists are interested in Network has organized a series of of history and a tourist attraction. the experiences offered by this type meetings on the topic of rural tour- Within this issue, we provide you of tourism, in any time of the year. ism and national patrimony, whose with more details about Criț Village Rural tourism offers a wide variety of conclusions you may read in this is- in the parish of Bunești, where in the services, from the typical hospitality sue. area known as „Țara Ovăzului” (Oat of guesthouses, to the relaxation and Country), the “Haferland Week” is leisure services, to the gastronomy Gastronomy and crafts represent organized, holiday specific for the or promoting local craft arts. elements of the rural tourism con- Saxons. We continue the series of cept. Over time, a series of events is experiences from the Danube Gorge, In Romania, rural tourism is the organized in the rural areas, in order where the river leisure and also the only type of tourism developed from to highlight the works of folk crafts- gastronomy, play an important role scratch, thanks to ANTREC (the Na- men, the beauty of the outfits specific in promoting the entire area. The tional Association of Rural Ecologi- to each singular region and the taste journey through the key areas of cal and Cultural Tourism) Romania, of local food. We suggest a few ex- the rural tourism continues in the an association member of the Euro- amples of traditional festivals from Apuseni Mountains. We suggest that pean Federation for Rural Tourism areas like the Danube Delta, Bucovi- you read about trips through caves – EuroGites. From the interview na, Ardeal, Moldova, Muntenia and and through the Moților Land, but with Klaus Ehrlich, EuroGites Gen- Oltenia, as well as a calendar with also about the accommodation con- eral Secretary, we find out about the this spring’s events. And since we ditions in the agro touristic guest- evolution of the rural tourism at Eu- mentioned craft arts, we invite you houses. ropean level connected with the ten- to discover the story of Ionela Lungu dencies in this sector. Also, we point from Humulești, folk crafts woman We will find out information about out the advantages that Romania that brings back to life the “Memo- the „Casa din Bran” (Bran House) Guesthouse and the „Bran Villas” has, in the offer for rural tourism, ries” of Creangă. complex, locations that combine the compared to other European States. More and more tourists look for concept of traditional with the noble Beginning with 1994, ANTREC (the unique experiences, when they foretime atmosphere. National Association of Rural Eco- choose to spend their holidays in Wine tourism comes into shape more logical and Cultural Tourism) Ro- the rural environment. The sector and more, especially among the for- mania has facilitated the crossover for leisure and free time activities is eign tourists. You will read about the from a simple holiday in the country- an important link in developing and „Drumul vinului” (Wine Route) in side, with a landlord, to the concept promoting the concept of rural tour- Romania, making a stopover at the of rural tourism. Mrs. Mioara Vișan ism. In the pages of this magazine we „La Butoaie” (At the Barrels) Guest- Stoian, President of ANTREC Brașov present travel experiences in the Sib- house, in Pietroasele. and Vicepresident of ANTREC Ro- iu county, programs promoted with- mania, tells us the story of how the in a brochure created by the County daisies became a standard of guest- Council of Sibiu, highly appreciated houses’ hospitality, on the map of within the tourism fairs. Viviana Vasile, Team Leader for Romanian tourism. the project „Setting up and running The historical and cultural patrimo- of the National Rural Development The National Rural Development ny of the Saxons represents a part Network”

2 3 Rural Romania – no. 24

interview

into tangible businesses and reve- Klaus Ehrlich – EuroGites General nue not only for the members of the organization, but also for the rural economy of each country. For this, a Secretary few challenges must be tackled: dig- italizing the touristic economy and the problem of connections in the rural areas, improving infrastructure, „Romania is one of my favorite countries in raising the capacity of the suppliers and of the local population to ensure a satisfactory and even surprising regards to rural tourism” touristic experience, to attract new markets within and outside Europe, What does rural tourism mean especially in the off season. In a nut- for you? Why this type of tour- shell, a wide and dynamic area where we are actively involved, in many EU ism? tractive. Rural tourism puts them on in 1991. This organization joined the map and generates solid revenues EuroGites in 1992. I have always policies. Klaus Ehrlich: My parents spent that flow directly into the local econ- dreamed of working in an interna- their holidays in a hotel in the rural omy. tional context, afterwards came the elections for the executive committee Alps, where the owners would also What are the instruments at the perform activities specific to farm- in 2002 and I successfully ran, first disposal of EuroGites in order houses. My mother went there since for president, and then, since 2012, she was little and she told me how the Could you tell us about a few key for General Secretary. to assist and promote the mem- place looked like, back when it was moments from your career and ber associations? just a simple farm that welcomed about how you became general guests during the summer. Also, I secretary of EuroGites? Klaus Ehrlich: The 36 member or- was raised in the Allgäu region in What is the most important pur- ganizations create a vast experience the South of Germany, where rural Klaus Ehrlich: During my college pose of the EuroGites organiza- and knowledge for the others that tourism is the essence of local devel- years, I spent a year in Seville – back tion in a post-recession Europe? are maybe one step behind. Our an- opment. Not least, I studied regional then, a region that looked a lot like nual meetings, as well as the Euro- economy, and when I graduated from the Romania from ten years ago. I Klaus Ehrlich: During the reces- pean Rural Tourism Congress, held the university, integrated rural tour- have seen many opportunities since sion, tourism was one of the few sec- once every two years, are excellent ism was a natural choice. I graduated and I initially came back tors that held up and made a profit opportunities to make contact and for some field research, regarding the in certain areas. Consumers have exchange experience. We have also regional development, in Almeria. I learned to be more critical regarding drafted international recommenda- quickly decided to apply the theory the quality price balance. This is a fa- tions for the quality of the services Why is rural tourism import- I had learned, so together with some vorable side that makes rural tourism and equipment, or some online in- ant for countries all around the colleagues, I started the association very competitive in many countries. struments for self-evaluation with world? for regional rural tourism RAAR, We want to transform this potential visual examples from various countries, available on the www.quality. Klaus Ehrlich: Despite the fact eurogites.org site. Recently, through that the world population is rising, the Sen GoR - Seniors Go Rural the rural areas are dealing with a - project, we anticipate the demo- reduction in the number of inhabi- graphic trends and advise the Eu- tants. Modern farms reduce the need roGites members on how to prepare for manual work, while traditional services for seniors. This year we are agriculture has become the equiv- also launching a new site that, for the alent of low salaries and hard labor first time, will allow the presentation conditions – they are not attractive of local, regional or national rural for the young generation, who each tourism products. year becomes better qualified. Still, the rural territories in the European Union sum up to 92% of the territory. Here, we can find a rich human Do you think that the Common and cultural legacy and we must not Agricultural Policy 2014-2020 forget the concern for the environ- brings support for those in- ment and the natural values, such as volved in rural tourism? What sceneries, biodiversity and special are the improvements and habitats. An increase in the sensibil- where is there room for more ity of the urban population – whose work? children think that milk comes from cartboard boxes – with regards to Klaus Ehrlich: We see a lot of good their roots makes these places at- intentions, though the reality leaves

4 5 Rural Romania – no. 24

The European Federation for Rural Tourism (EuroGites) is made up of 34 professional and commercial organizations from26 European countries. EuroGites represents a tourism sector that contains approximately 500.000 micro companies and around 6,5 million accommodation units. These vary from the Bed&Breakfast system, to rentals of houses or private farms, to small hotel or holiday houses and are blended much to be desired. An example may How would you characterize the Can you see any change, any with the restauration and tour- be the coordination of the structur- relationship between EuroGites progress? ism services. In total, this sec- al funds within a common strategic and the European institutions tor represents approximately frame. It is pretty in theory, yet in and decisional bodies? Klaus Ehrlich: My first visit to practice these funds continue to op- Romania was in 1998, when rural 15% from the tourism capacity erate independently, as in the past. Klaus Ehrlich: Actively partici- tourism was just getting started due of continental Europe. The LEADER Concept and the Local pating in the European institutions to ANTREC (the National Associa- The federation’s objectives are Action Groups seldom limit them- is an important part of our activity. tion of Rural Ecological and Cultural diverse, taking into account the selves to managing FEADR (Euro- We have committed to transmit the Tourism) . Since then I have been transnational character of this impressed by the country’s huge po- pean Agricultural Fund for Rural experiences, success stories but also sector that requires support tential for rural and natural tourism, Development) funds, but now they the problems from the local and re- and representation in multi- can assume an important and dy- gional level and to look for the best based on authenticity, varied resources and on top of all, Romanian ple areas. Its statute defines namic role by combining the support solutions. EuroGites is the repre- the main tasks and activities from various European funds and sentative of micro services at the hospitality. I have returned almost of the federation: informing initiative within their territories. In level of the general directions of the once every two years to different and communicating within the PAC (Common Agricultural Policy), European Commission. We have parts of the country and I was able to many things depend on the nation- been actively involved in setting the notice a quick development of a small network among member or- al or regional programs that will be policies for European tourism at DG variety of rural tourism services. The ganizations, professional rep- weak points remain communication approved. Grow, and we will do the same in resentation next to European the near future. In the PAC context, and marketing to present this offer to organizations (private and we are active in the Group for Civil international markets as well. interests must be put aside in order erage in Romania. And solving these public), harmonizing the field Dialogue on Rural Development, in to sustain a vaster European cause. problems doesn’t have so much to information and terminology, What feedback do you get from the European Rural Network and in do with the financial resources, but defining common quality stan- with a commercial perspective and member associations? What a few work groups regarding owner- dards, training and research in How was the collaboration with pragmatic management that puts the are their demands, needs as ship and innovation. These activities ANTREC (the National Associ- What advice would you give to professional purposes, etc. are completed by the fact that we are customer’s expectation, needs and EuroGites members? ation of Rural Ecological and entrepreneurs in Romanian ru- Within the European Union, members in umbrella organizations comfort first. Cultural Tourism) Romania? ral tourism? What should they Klaus Ehrlich: The daily issues at a European level, such as the Euro- EuroGites is involved in the always have priority; questions and pean Group for Consultancy in Tour- consider when developing such Civil Dialogue Group for Rural Klaus Ehrlich: EuroGites had a a business? Development of the European feedback about practical situations. ism (GECT) and the European Move- long and positive experience with What places in Romania im- We try to be updated on their is- ment for Rurality (MER). We also Commission, as well as in ANTREC (the National Association Klaus Ehrlich: Gone are the days pressed you and what was your sues by organizing round tables, we maintain good relationships with other ad-hoc committees and of Rural Ecological and Cultural when you could make rural tourism experience there? work groups on topics related invite them to make proposals, to professional European organiza- Tourism) Romania, member of our just by offering daily accommoda- take part in projects as SenGoR, and tions in the area of small enterprises federation since 1994. They were tion services to a tourist. In Romania Klaus Ehrlich: I have already to rural tourism. we involve them in thematic work (UEAPME - European Association president of EuroGites between there is an infrastructure and cul- visited many places and liked all www.eurogites.org groups for branding and marketing. of Craft, Small and Medium-sized 1997-1999 by means of Mrs. Marilena tural and natural resources. Hospi- of them: Slobozia, the Bran Castle We prepare thematic reports, for ex- Enterprises) or hotel services (HO- Stoian, founder of ANTREC, whose tality is proverbial, and the services that is already over exploited, Ținu- ample, for alcoholic beverages made TREC - European trade association effort I value, being extremely active provide a good quality-price balance. tul Neamțului, Suceava, Alba-Iulia. within the household or for selling of hotels, restaurants and cafes). although she has formally retired But very few people know this. Han- One thing is permanent in Romania: homemade products; these are use- from an executive position – yet she dle coherent news, well translated people’s hospitality. There are many ful when new national restrictions remains an important component of and easy to find. Join regional and places where I wish to go, like the appear, because they show the best the soul and spirit of the Association. national networks like ANTREC (the Danube Delta, Maramureș and the practices. Also, we have a trimestral You have been to Romania During all these years we have en- National Association of Rural Eco- entire West part beyond Sibiu. I hope survey about developing businesses several times. How would you joyed the professional attitude and logical and Cultural Tourism). The I get the chance to visit them because in the past and future perspectives, describe the country’s touris- full commitment of the ANTREC possibility of booking directly on the Romania is one of my favorite coun- in parallel with the World Tourism tic potential and the practical representatives, who understood mobile phone is a standard in most tries in Europe regarding rural tour- Barometer. accomplishments in this field? that national, regional or individual of Europe - but it has very little cov- ism.

6 7 Rural Romania – no. 24

Rural development

Danube space”, said Silviu Gheor- Traditional festivals and their contribution ghe, president of ANTREC (the Na- tional Association of Rural Ecologi- to the development of local communities cal and Cultural Tourism) Tulcea.

hours, participating teams from countries like Hungary, Slovakia, The Sheep Mix-up – The Croatia and Romania compete in the cheese and pastrami fes- art of cooking. The organizers place at the participants’ disposal a pig for tival every two teams. They will then pre- The sheep mix-up, the symbolical pare as many tasteful dishes as they holiday that marks the ending of the can, specific to the area they repre- pastoral year, is celebrated during sent. The teams are formed the night the last weekend of the month of Traditional goodies from the cabbage, catfish belly with a side before. Within the Cetate restaurant September, on the „Inima Reginei” they organize presentations of tra- Delta area found in the gastro- of sauté mushrooms, catfish stew, (Queen’s Heart) highlands, in Bran. ditional outfits, representative ob- nomic competition: fish borsch, Ukrainian cake, boiled sweet Ten editions of the cheese and pas- jects from the participating area and stuffed pike, zander pudding, her- gnocchi with sour cream, tradi- trami festival were organized on this tastings of culinary products. The ring salad, carp on tempered tional grape cake. occasion by ANTREC (the National evening destined for choosing the Association of Rural Ecological and teams ends with a show of dancing and singing. During the second day, The fish borsch festival in at dawn, the competition is opened the Danube Delta by a parade of the teams, all wearing outfits specific to areas where they Already at its second edition, the fish come from and the flag of their re- borsch festival in the Danube Delta, gion/country. organized by ANTREC (the Nation- al Association of Rural Ecological „Each year, by organizing this festi- and Cultural Tourism) Tulcea in the val, we intend to promote the tradi- village of Crișan, asserted itself as a tions and culinary variety, of Roma- Delta tradition and an extra attrac- nia but also those of the other par- tion for the tourists who come to see ticipating countries. I am extremely the allure of the area. happy that each year we have over 10-12 participating teams, during Over the course of two days, visitors some editions we even have 16. Be- discover the cultural and culinary sides the culinary part, we also pro- mosaic specific to this area. The out- mote during this event the traditions door gastronomic cooking competi- from each area, the craft arts and tion is transformed into a true exhib- the authentic clothing. Also, the fes- it and tasting of fish based goodies, tival is an extra line of promotion for prepared by the teams who proud- the area of Turia - Băile Balvanyos, ly represent the cohabitant ethnic a land extremely attractive from a groups from the Delta area. Each touristic point of view”, said Attila Traditional festivals organized in the also on an international one. team, besides the outdoor cook- Daraguș, president of ANTREC (the ing activity, presents its outfits and rural areas are a good opportunity National Association of Rural Eco- to promote the local sites as touristic performs artistic dance shows and logical and Cultural Tourism) Co- folklore interpretations. From the destinations. Rural tourism doesn’t vasna and mayor of Turia. mean only the hospitality specific to The international food villages that come every year to the festival we can mention: Crișan, Ju- guesthouses, but it represents more festival „Pomana porcu- than that. Craft arts, natural and his- rilovca, Mila 23, Maliuc, Murighiol, torical patrimony, gastronomy, folk- lui” (Pig’s Alms) Bloodwurst, Hungarian Sfântu-Gheorghe and Caraorman. stews, fat with paprika, liverw- lore, folk clothing represent elements „The event is a lot more than a cook- Already at its 10th edition, the fes- urst, pork fillet rolls filled with that, if included in a program with ing competition. The fish borsch fes- a good promotion, may have a deci- tival initiated and organized by smoked curd, polenta in kettle, ANTREC (the National Association tival means a promotion of the life sive contribution to the development 18 metres long sausages and in Danube Delta, with its customs, of local communities. During its 21 of Rural Ecological and Cultural steaks are only few of the deli- Tourism) Covasna within the Cetate traditional clothing, the hospitality years of existence, ANTREC (the Na- catessen judged yearly during of the ANTREC (the National Asso- Complex in Balvanyos gathers each tional Association of Rural Ecologi- the „Pig Alms” International ciation of Rural Ecological and Cul- year hundreds, even thousands of cal and Cultural Tourism) Romania Festival. tural Tourism) Tulcea guesthouses, has initiated, organized and promot- visitors. The event organized in Feb- and, not least, with the presentation ed traditional festivals that are now ruary takes the shape of a culinary of this ethnic and cultural mosaic of recognized on a national level, but outdoor contest. During six to eight the cohabitant ethnic groups in the

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Cultural Tourism) Brașov, with the (Bucovina area) started in the sum- at 100%, fact that confirms the tour- sen the village of Hârja as host for help of Bran City Hall, of the Ranch- mer of 2004, when, on the banks of ists’ interest for the festival started the festival. We really wish to pre- ers’ Association of the Bran area and the Bistrița Aurie (Golden Bistrița), by ANTREC (the National Associa- serve and promote the traditions of of the Administration of the Bran Mrs. Marilena Stoian, founding tion of Rural Ecological and Cultur- this small village, located in a pic- estate – Bran Castle. At the end of president of ANTREC Romania, Co- al Tourism)”, said Niculina Vasiluț, turesque natural setting, with good the event, a show competition is or- rina Cubleșan, president of ANTREC president of ANTREC Suceava. hearted, hardworking and talented ganized for the most beautiful ex- Suceava, and Mr. Tomoioagă, mayor people. We receive help in organiz- amples of ovine, cattle, equines and of Ciocănești, organized the first edi- ing the festival from the children in sheepherding dogs. tion of this event. the Foundation “Children in the soul Pies’ Festival of the family”, in the village, who Year to year, the Trout Festival has According to the custom, at the end we encourage to meet, present and of September, once the sheep men gained a very diversified program, In the picturesque area of the Oituz maintain the traditions of the place. return with their sheep from the making Ciocănești one of the most Valley in the Bacău county the pies’ We also bring along to the festival mountains, this pastoral celebra- appreciated and visited parish- festival is held, event organized by elderly people, like Auntie Tica (88 tion takes place, when the young es from Bucovina. Here, more and ANTREC (the National Association sheep are chosen, or “mixed up” by more agrotouristic guesthouses have of Rural Ecological and Cultural years old), who participates in the their owners. They will also choose, been classified and are waiting for Tourism) Bacău. During two days, gastronomic competition with pies under the form of trading with the their tourists. representatives from all the counties made from original and old recipes”, sheep men, the produce obtained in the country take part in the pie said Betty Grigoris, president of AN- during the summer (cheese, milk). „Bucovina is an area blessed by na- making culinary competition. TREC (the National Association of At the same time, the holiday spirit is ture, history and tradition. These Rural Ecological and Cultural Tour- shown by the sheep men’s return to are the three elements appreciated „In the last few years we have cho- ism) Bacău. way of presenting them. It is specif- an art the preparation of the cold by tourists who come every year to their families, occasion for dancing ic for the area to serve the cold cuts cuts. An art of the Oltenia area. The and joy. the National Trout Festival. The raft together with the warm meat rolls in villages that have hosted each year tradition, rooted in these areas, is cabbage leaves that also accompany the Cold cuts Festival have reasons brought back to life and we can once „I am happy that together with the during this festival the various types local authorities and guesthouse to be proud, and the gastronomy is more see the rafts making their way of aspic dishes. At the same time, the only one detail in the so diversified on the Bistrița Aurie, throughout the owners we have built a true tradition culinary contest represents an expe- by organizing this festival so dear general offer of the Gorj area”, stat- festival. I am delighted to hear that rience exchange among the partic- ed Radu Ciobanu, president of AN- in the Ciocănești guesthouses and to the people in the Bran area. The ipants, but also a good opportunity ranchers in the Bran-Moieciu-Fun- TREC (the National Association of in the area the occupancy degree is to promote each participant guest- Rural Ecological and Cultural Tour- data area can capitalize their pro- house. duce obtained from the fold, as well ism) Gorj. as from their own households, by From the goodies that never miss From the previous editions presenting and trading them during from the culinary show we can find of the Trout Festival we men- the cheese and pastrami festival. the cold cuts made of pork, chicken, tion: the gastronomic com- Each year, thousands of visitors turkey, beef and even fish, hot meat National trout festival show their appreciation for the rus- rolls in wine or cabbage leaves, bo- petition show based on trout, tic, outdoor holidays, for the local letus mushrooms cold stew, pies, The event initiated by ANTREC (the fly fishing competition, raft- gastronomy and folklore, elements roasted chestnuts and other prod- National Association of Rural Eco- ing workshops (building rafts, that never miss from this event”, ucts specific for the Oltenia area be- logical and Cultural Tourism) Roma- steering techniques), display of tells us Mioara Vișan Stoian, presi- nia and ANTREC Suceava is already low the mountains. dowry crates, hiking up to the dent of ANTREC (the National Asso- at its 9th edition. The story of the ciation of Rural Ecological and Cul- „Each time, we manage to turn into festival from the Ciocănești parish sheepfolds from the Suhard tural Tourism) Brașov. mountains, competition dedicated to guesthouses (“The most beautiful garden”, “The most beautiful traditional Cold cuts festival house”), a parade of folk outfits Initiated in 2009, the Cold cuts Fes- and folk music recitals. tival organized by ANTREC (the Na- tional Association of Rural Ecologi- cal and Cultural Tourism) Gorj had its 6th edition last fall. Every year, Goodies from the pies’ festi- the event was held in turn by the val: pie with fennel and olives, villages of Arcani, Peștișani and Tis- pie with pumpkin in sugar, mana, landmark areas for the hospi- caramel and nuts, pie with fish, tality of the rural guesthouses in the mushrooms and spinach, pie Gorj area. with cream cheese and lemon, The festival is a mix of recipes for plum doughnuts, cabbage pies, preparing the cold cuts in various meat and mushroom pies. areas of Oltenia and of the original

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On the wine route, at the “La Butoaie” (At the Barrels’) guesthouse

The territory of the LAG (Local Action Group) „The Wine Route” in the Buzău county covers an area of 639,95 square kilometers, having 44.713 inhabitants. The parishes that make up the LAG „The Wine Route” are Breaza, Costești, Gherăseni, Gura Vadului (Prahova county), Merei, Năeni, Pietroasele, Săhăteni, Stâlpu, Ulmeni and Vernești.

The „La Butoaie” (At the Barrels) guesthouse, Pietroasele – an experience to try at least once in a Tasting programs of „Our activity started in the year 2006, The tourist groups may take lifetime awarded wines after we transformed these barrels part in tastings on the „Drumul into accommodation units. We wanted Cramelor buzoiene” (“The Route Romania is among the top ten wine tourism, highly appreciated by foreign The story of the traditional guesthouse to attract as many tourists as possible of the Buzău cellars”) in the fol- from number 461 in the Pietroasele The cozy wine cellar of the “La Butoaie “ producing countries in the world. Even groups and visitors. to the area, in order to allow them to lowing locations: the Pietroasa village has become known not only in guesthouse is a true oenology landmark if the existence and growing of vine for the Buzău area. In the underground meet the village world and to take part research station, Vinarte, „ At the dates back to the times of Dacians and „The Wine Route” represents a very Romania, but also in the entire world. in its daily activities. The guesthouse is cellar, tourists are tempted to discover Barrels” guesthouse, „LacertA” Romans, it was only shortly after the well maintained and marked route, in Accommodation facilities and units directed to all those who wish to find for meal serving can be found all over the house wines, beyond the cool walls. Cellar (Fințești-Năeni), the year 2000 that Romania started to an area with a wine tradition, enjoying It will be a true bacchic journey, among out the secrets of the wine from Piet- Romania, but what is new about this roasele, but also to those who want a Săhăteni Estate, Franco- promote heavily this concept of wine the presence of various wine cellars the aromas and varieties that will satis- cultural tourism. The program “Roma- “La Butoaie” concept is the experience. unique experience”, says Daniela Roș- Romanian Estate (Săhăteni), the that, besides the visiting and tasting fy even the most pretentious tastes, as nia – country of wines”, initiated by the During the last few years, the tour- ca, administrator of the „ La Butoaie” Bucur Cellar. hours, also provide accommodation we are speaking about award winning Ministry of Tourism, had as purpose ists have become more emancipated, guesthouse. and meal facilities. wines. to organize visits and tastings for the becoming more and more dynamic. When choosing a touristic site they fo- foreign tourists at the cellars and vine- The Buzău county benefits from such cus on the experiences they live. As it was expected, the offer of the yards from Valea Călugărească, Vânju a wine route due to the involvement of guesthouse’s cellar promotes local va- Mare, Murfatlar, Niculițel and Ostrov. ANTREC (the National Association of rieties, specific to the Pietroasele area: During that period, Romania partici- The “La Butoaie” guesthouse in Piet- Rural Ecological and Cultural Tourism) roasele answers the wishes of the visi- Feteasca albă (White Maiden), Fetea- pated within the various international sca regală (Royal Maiden), Riesling, fairs and shows on vine topics. Buzău and the local guesthouses, with tors to discover an area with a wine his- the support of local authorities and tory, enjoying a concept of nonconven- Merlot, Tămâioasa românească (Ro- wine cellars. The program, suggestively tional accommodation, in a big wine manian Incensed Maiden), Busuioaca named „The Cellar Route” is approx- barrel with two places. There are also de Bohotin and Feteasca neagră (Black „The Wine Route” – an imately 60 km long, starting from the regular conditions, in the rooms inside Maiden). The named wines are from the guesthouse. the guesthouse’s own production, as it attractive program for national road DN 10 and reaching the Pietroasele-Monteoru area. The AN- owns over 20 hectares of vine and has The guesthouse from the Buzău area wine production equipment of the lat- tourists TREC guesthouses within the county offers its tourists 12 places in the six est generation. The touristic programs and packages make available for the tourists a map respective barrels that are placed in a have gotten more and more shape, once where the existent cellars are mapped circle in the guesthouse’s yard and an- The star wine of the area is „Tămâioa- accommodations units were developed for that route. A similar program can be other 10 places in the five double rooms sa românească” (Romanian Incensed within the local cellars and vineyards. seen also in the Prahova and Vrancea in the guesthouse. The tourists enjoy a Maiden), true landmark of the Pietroa- The program gets very good promotion, counties. ANTREC Vrancea has also fully equipped kitchen, terrace, a grill sele area, that be found at the guest- more and more tourism and events created within their county a similar in the yard, pool table and, of course, house as dry, but also medium-dry agencies are taking up this type of project – “The Vine Growers’ Route”. the must have wine cellar. wine.

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bicycle contest with the start and The hospitality of the Saxons from Criț finish in Criț. The traditional Sax- on ball, with live German music, will also be this year’s main attrac- and Haferland Week tion of the 8th of August evening. • 09.08.2015 - Roadeș: open doors day. The Tabaluga Foundation presents a few of the social and cultural projects performed in this area within a dedicated program. • 10.08.2015 - Meșendorf: visit to an untouched village. The day dedicated to this village will include the guided visit to the cattle ranch “devil’s pit” and the fortified church inaugurated in 2014.

The touristic impact of the Haferland Week

Every year, the number of visitors who come to the Transylvania areas for the Haferland week increases. The traditional houses in the area, transformed into touristic accommodation units, may ensure the accommodation for up to 150-200 tourists. The impact of the tourist flow into the Saxon community is a positive one, contributing to promoting the entire area as a highly tempt- ing touristic destination.

„The locals have been with us since the first edition of the event, this being a good opportunity to actively Criț Village (Deutsch-Kreuz) be- tural implication, would be written namic as always and will include the contribute to the area’s promotion. longs to the parish Bunești in Brașov in the year 2012, when the popular following visits and activities: Many come to us as volunteers, County, being a picturesque settle- German singer Peter Maffay togeth- participating to the event either ment, with old Saxon houses, some er with the business man Michael • 06.08.2015 - Fischer: visiting with trade works and crafts pre- dating back over 200 years ago. Sur- Schmidt decided to capitalize and the church sponsored retirement sentations, either with all kinds of rounded by hills full of forests and promote the initiative or various or- home. The elders tell their capti- culinary products prepared from pastures where the animals of the lo- ganizations that acted in the Transyl- vating stories, about life in the for- old recipes, which they take pride cal townsmen graze, Criț keeps that vania area Haferland (Țara Ovăzului Other programs for the tour- on. We have Mrs. Rozi, famous in mer days of Haferland. ists in the area: medieval flavor of the villages in old- - Oats Country). The annual event Where is „Țara Ovăzului” the community for her jams and er Transylvania. 800 years ago, the has as main purpose to promote the • 07.08.2015 - Viscri: visit to an au- tea mixes. The tourists keep in con- (Oats Country) and how was it • thematic workshop and Saxons would colonize these realms, cultural values and revitalize the old thentic village. Visitors are invited crafts workrooms at the tact with her, ordering delicacies all formed? the fortified church in Criț and the customs and crafts from areas like to meet the Viscri village within house of craftsmen; year round from the lady in Criț. remaining fortification in the sur- Viscri, Criț, Rupea, Saschiz, Roadeș, a special program for Haferland Oats Country or „Haferland” • hikes and touristic orienta- The Suciu family, traditional village rounding area being a testimony of Fișer, Meșendorf. This year, the Ha- week. represents the territory be- tion for children and young family, who also manages part of those times. ferland week will take place between • 08.08.2015 - Criț: open doors day. ones in the Carpathian the traditional houses in Viscri, is the 6th and the 10th of August 2015. tween Rupea and Sighișoara. The „Michael-Schmidt” Founda- forests; another example in this matter. The Being an area with a harsher beekeepers in the area are also very tion proposes a diversified cultural • tours for watching wild life climate, not suitable for vine, known and appreciated, their prod- program that will take place inside in their natural habitat; The Saxon holiday in the the local communities reori- ucts being very sought for”, stated the fortified church ensemble and • classical music and organ heart of Transylvania Activities performed in ented towards oats cultures. Wolfgang Köber, from the „Michael the Saxon villages the former vicarial house, inaugu- concerts in the Criț church; Schmidt” Foundation. The story of the „ Haferland Week”, rated in 2014. On the same day, the • themed exhibitions. project with an important socio-cul- The 2015 edition strives to be as dy- ADEPT Foundation is organizing a

14 15 Rural Romania – no. 24

Various leisure programs German, by supplying educational materials for 19 schools in the Sibiu During the last couple of years, cy- county. During the year 2015, the clotourism has become an attrac- project continues with the endow- tion more and more desired by both ment of schools in the Brașov area. the Romanian and foreign tourists. The project of the ADEPT Founda- tion enjoys a real success, opening the way for mountain bikes towards „Peter Maffay –Tabaluga” themed tours to discover the medieval citadels of the old Saxon villages. Foundation The mountain bike route has as final point the city of Sighișioara. The „Tabaluga” Foundation, in Road- eș, was set up in 2008. The first At the initiative of the „Michael project initiated and finished by the Schmidt” Foundation, beginning association had in mind setting up a with May, there will be “medieval protective settlement for less favored brunches” in the Saxon households children. Functioning by the model of each village in the Bunești parish. of a holiday house, the former parish These will be held in the first Satur- house of the evangelic church com- day of each month, from May to Sep- munity in Roadeș became a tempo- tember. rary home for 14 children. The building has ten spacious rooms, painted in happy, therapeutic colors. The space grew in 2013 with a new con- The Kraus house in Criț – struction, an ecological rural house- the place that writes sto- hold that ensures a superior quality ries from a long time ago of the products and capitalizing local production. Touristic activities are A heart project of the „Michael organized for the children, as well as Schmidt” Foundation was to build trips in the Carpathian hills areas, to the parish house in Criț, according observe the fauna specific for these to the plan of the initial architecture. lands, visits to the bears’ reservation To accomplish the project there were in Zărnești and tours to the Saxon brought craftsmen from Maramureș, two Saxon yards were purchased, Organizations involved in citadels. Also, creation workshops specialized in building brick arches, where the members of the „Michael are organized (pottery, weaving, but also local handymen, from Criț Schmidt” Foundation intend to bring preserving and restoring as well as from neighboring villages. back to life the outdoor cooking ac- the Saxon patrimony in baking bread, painting). tivities, crafts workshops and other Țara Ovăzului (Oats Coun- The Foundation „Mihai Eminescu „We pretty much use local work- projects. force. While rebuilding the Kraus try) Trust” set up in 2000, implements house we had a team of 10-15 peo- „We will organize workshops in car- projects for patrimony conservation The „Michael Schmidt” Foundation, ple from the parish who started as pentry, horse shoeing, leather pro- and for the revitalization of villages. set up in 2010, has as main goal to helpers on the site, and today, after cessing. The housewives will teach The focus is on the concept of dura- proper training and preparation, the tourists how to make and bake a preserve the cultural Saxon patrimo- ble tourism and encouraging local ny and initiate educational projects. they became qualified workers on home bread, how to prepare the Sax- craftwork. The Viscri village is an One of the foundation’s projects was other sites”, said Wolfgang. on sweets, how to process and what example of the accomplishments of spices to use to cook meat products. about restoring the baroque organ in Criț, where the costs went as high as the projects initiated by the „Mihai We will also setup a farm where the Eminescu Trust” Foundation. little ones will learn how to milk the over 50.000 euros. Upon the 200th anniversary of the organ in Criț, its At the „Casa Kraus” cows or goats, feed the birds and The ADEPT Foundation seeks to inauguration took place by means (Kraus House) the holi- they will take part to other house- protect the most important pastoral hold education projects. We want of a concert held on the occasion of day in the countryside in a Haferland week. A part of the so- ecosystems in Transylvania, their for the people who stay with us to biodiversity, as well as the protection detach themselves from the day to cial projects where the foundation „mini-childhood” of the farmers’ community. The area day world. In the fall we will take was involved had as purpose to re- The Kraus House in Criț offers its the tourists on a search for earth integrate the less favored minorities around the Saxon villages comprises guests nine double rooms decorated nuts, developing a culinary pro- into the community they were part the last medieval, natural sceneries with painted furniture, in the Sax- gram based on this activity, while of. The organization facilitated their in Europe. The ADEPT Foundation, on style. The restaurant is equipped in the winter to ride in the carriages access to school and professional by its projects, wishes to transmit according to the current legal regu- pulled by horses and enjoy mulled training in various skills workshops. information and knowledge to the lations, while also maintaining the wine inside the Kraus House”, says The foundation was also involved in farmers, in order to obtain ecological traditional look. At the same time, Wolfgang. developing the education system in agricultural productions.

16 17 Rural Romania – no. 24

Leisure services provided The Danube Gorge – nature, leisure and by the guesthouses The vast majority of guesthouses in hospitality in the Canyon area the area of the Danube Canyon offer boat rides and cruises with their own ships. The length of these routes is of approximately 9km, taking around 2 hours. The ships have a capacity of 10 – 14 people. The offers also contain guided tours, cyclotourism, mountain routes and water sports.

For the active tourists, there are marked circuits for cyclotourism and mountain biking within the pe- rimeter of the National Park the Iron Gates. Also, the parks administration has created paths for hiking, the main attraction in the area being the Ciucaru Mare Peak (318 m), where the tourists can enjoy a lovely view over the Canyon area of the Danube.

Attractions to explore during the cruises on the Danube and the boat rides: • Cazanele Mici (3,6 km); • Tabula Traiana; In 2013 and 2014, on the European The Danube Canyon – of view of touristic offers. Since the • Decebal’s face carved in continent, more and more tourists The Natural Reservation mid 90’s and until today, more and rock; have chosen the tourism services more touristic, rural and agrotour- • Mraconia Monastery and of river cruises. Out of these, over Cazanele Mari and istic guesthouses, from two to four one million, representing almost Cazanele Mici daisies, have been awaiting their Dubova bay; 33%, have chosen the Danube River. tourists. Their positioning, on the • Cazanele Mari (3,8 km); During the last two years, on Roma- The area of the Danube Gorge is part Danube banks, the restaurants with • Veterani Cave (guided tour); nia’s territory, there was an average of the natural Reservation Cazanele traditional fish, but also internation- • Ponicova Cave. of 160.000 visitors, according to the Mari and Cazanele Mici, mixed type al menus, as well as the leisure ser- data by the National Statistics Insti- reservation, located between the vices are bonus points for most of the tute. The average amount that one valleys Ogradena and Ogașul Turcu- guesthouses. tourist has set aside for expenses, on lui. Spreading on 215 hectares, the Romanian territory, was of 35 – 40 Danube land is characterized by im- Doru Oniga, owner of the Steaua euros/day (optional trips and entry posing scenery formed by the river Dunării guesthouse and member of fees to touristic points, meal and lei- that opened its way by carving into ANTREC (the National Association units. These will tempt them with sure services, souvenirs). the tall rock walls. So, a pass was of Rural Ecological and Cultural gazebos suspended over the Danube, formed, known as the Danube Gorge Tourism) Mehedinți is one of the where they will be able to have lunch, Currently, authorities are looking or the Danube Canyon. first few people who were actively in- with outdoor pools and with sailing into creating an own brand for the volved in promoting the Eșelnița-Du- sport for them to practice. Danube River, associated with a suc- bova area as a destination for rural cessful promotion on the interna- and ecological tourism. This area is Currently, Mrs. Mariana Molnar, tional market. Investment in infra- Rural tourism in the suitable both for the segment of ac- president of ANTREC (the National structure, developing the harbor fa- tive tourists, but also for the families Association of Rural Ecological and cilities, promoting touristic circuits Gorge area – an array and groups who are looking for relax- Cultural Tourism) Mehedinți, is the close to the harbors, investments in of guesthouses on the ation. Guesthouses like „Melba” and one in charge of promoting the offers the entertainment and leisure areas Danube bank „Septembrie” (September), ranked of the guesthouses, the tours and lei- are a few of the measures that should at four daisies are ideal for tourists sure packages in the area, the tradi- be taken into account in order to at- The Danube Gorge is one of the looking for indulgement and relax- tional festivals within tourism fairs tract a higher number of tourists. most varied areas from the point ation within luxury accommodation and other events.

18 19 Rural Romania – no. 24

Spring calendar

24th – 26th of April 2015 – „Tu- 24th of April 2015 Herring Fes- 2nd – 3rd of May 2015 – The Ro- lips’ Symphony”, Pitești tival, Galați man Festival „Apulum”, Alba Iulia

Already at its 38th edition, the inter- The festival is organized by the Galați The festival was set up in 2013 and national exhibit „ Tulips’ Symphony”, City Hall, the Musical Theatre „Nae takes place in Alba Carolina Citadel. organized by the Pitești City Hall Leonard” and SC PAFmedia S.R.L. Over the course of three days, the his- and the Local Council of Pitești is the on the lower quay of the Danube, in torical reenactment groups from the most important floral, socially-cul- the Pescarul area. country and from abroad recreate the tural, artistic, sportive and commer- habits and rituals from the times of cial of the city. Pitești, the Tulip city, Within this event, outdoor concerts the Dacians and Romans. During this is also known under the name of „ are organized, with the participation event there is a torch parade, presenta- 8th – 9th of April 2015 – Gastro- products: gulaș (Hungarian stew), displayed and offers for hunting and Romania’s Holland”. The celebration of the „Doina Covurluiului” Ensem- tions of military techniques, gladiator cultural Fair „Ozosep”, 6th kürtős kalács (pastry rolls), types fishing tourism offers are presented. takes place over the course of three ble and that of Sofia Vicoveanca. battles and pankration, a battle sport, edition, Bucharest of cheese, honey, home bread and days, when a series of artistic and dating back from the time of the first chocolate, pălincă (liquor), natural 19th of April 2015 – “Brașov’s cultural events take place, such as The festival represents much more Athens Olympics. The theatre plays, The fair is organized by the Agri- syrups. young ones” celebration international scientific symposiums, than a focus on the specific gastron- historical exhibits and concerts recre- cultural Chamber of the Harghita flower parade, folklore and music omy, promoting also the fishermen ate the atmosphere of the glory years county together with the Hungari- 16th – 19th of April 2015 – The celebration is a tradition held shows, as well as floral and painting customs in the harbor area of Galați of the Alba Carolina citadel, therefore an Economists’ Association in Ro- Spring Fair, Arad in Brașov since 1910. Every year, exhibits. as well as the folklore of the area. completing this festival’s program. mania, Bucharest branch, being groups of young people parade rid- destined to Saxon products. The The Chamber of Commerce, Indus- ing horses through the middle of the try and Agriculture of Arad County visitors have the opportunity to dis- town, in the first Sunday after Eas- is launching, at the Exhibit Complex cover delicacies made after ancient ter, celebrating this way the arrival EXPO Arad, under a new concept, recipes, as well as a large variety of of Spring and nature’s rebirth. natural cosmetics, wooden toys and the Spring Fair. Within this event, there will be held the 16th edition of other handmade objects The “Brașov’s young ones” celebra- the flowers and gardening fair, Gar- The event takes place in the interi- denia, as well as the 12th edition of tion is one of the most beautiful or yard of the Balassi Institute – the the Tourism Fair – Festival, some of outdoor parades in Romania. Sym- Hungarian Institute in Bucharest the most important events in this bolizing the beginning of Spring, (Gina Patrichi street– previously area in the West of the country. At the show combines the traditions Orlando – nr.8, District 1), space the same time, the first edition of passed on from their forefathers, the where the visitors have the possi- the international hunting and fish- dancing and the music of the groups bility to taste food cooked on the ing fair is organized, where hunting of young people with the beauty of spot, as well as various traditional and fishing and camping items are the town below Tâmpa.

20 21 Rural Romania – no. 24

I taught the locals what the conduct Mioara Vișan Stoian, president of toward the tourists meant. The teacher experience helped me very much in this dialogue with the locals. Even ANTREC (the National Association of Rural if at first the people from Bran were sceptical, stubbornly holding on to the idea of ownership, step by step they Ecological and Cultural Tourism) Brașov trusted our initiative. By the power of example, noticing that the neighbours started to win from this activity, other Those who haven’t been on holiday to the people from Bran and Moieciu turned to us in their turn wanting to be also part from the story we wrote together. countryside, have lived in vain! At first it was difficult with the organization. The lack of telephones in the nu-Severin. It was an unique time in houses, heat in some households, oth- my life, a period which I nostalgically er facilities in the rooms represented remember. I loved leaving the city to impediments which taught us some dedicate myself to my grandparents’ lessons. I trained the hosts to settle works. My paternal grandmother these issues, continuously fighting had several sheep. In the morning I to offer the tourists the long wanted would go barefoot to take the sheep hospitality. Back then the carpets put to the pasture. During my childhood on the walls illustrating the Kidnap I learned to milk the sheep, to spin, to from Serai were in trend. The locals knit socks, to make bake stone bread appreciated them very much, but we and many more. I would often go pick wanted something else for the guests, up mushrooms in the forest, and I Turnu Severin was the place where and a bathroom in the yard we would to focus on the crafts and traditions of particularly loved picking up the nuts, Mrs. Mioara Stoian attended lower make our holiday house. This was the these places. So I would tell the hosts putting them in the bag and bringing secondary school and high school. beginning of a dream come true that that those carpets were very beautiful and they should keep them in their them to my grandmother, «mammy». Graduating higher education at Craio- subsequently was called “Santa-Ma- rooms, and in the tourist’ rooms they We would also put together apples, va, Mrs. Stoian followed the career ria” Guesthouse, Mrs. Mioara Vișan of schoolteacher, librarian and Ro- Stoian tells us. should put traditional rugs woven pears, quinces to dry, ranged on a manian language teacher in Băilești, by the women in the area, icons and thread, for the «winter»”, Mrs. Stoian Otopeni and Bucharest. When every- other popular objects”, Mrs. Mioara recalls. thing seemed to have calmed down, recalls. a holiday in the countryside, in Bran, Initiation of the concept of along with her daughter, would change „Is was all destiny. After 36 years of rural tourism in Romania their destiny. But Bran’s destiny was teaching in Bucharest, supporting an about to change at that point, starting From the rural tourism idea of my daughter by the power of The authenticity of the places, the from the summer of 1989. personal example, I confidently pro- return to the nature, traditions and in the Bran households gastronomy have been the ingredients moted this concept of rural tourism” „Man always wants what he does to the General Meeting – Mioara Vișan Stoian. of a recipe started from scratch, but a of EuroGites (European not have. I wanted to be a teacher in recipe that would ripen into a concept We dearly remember the holidays a mountain village, because I came – rural tourism. federation of Rural in the countryside at the grandpar- from the plain; but I did not make it. Tourism) in Germany ents. There were poor, hard times, My daughter wanted this holiday in Motivated by the initiative of her but with diligent, God-fearing people, the countryside, that I offered to her daughter and by the potential of these 1992 marks the setting up of the re- who cherished work and the gifts of and this was about to change our places, Mrs. Mioara started to wander gional association form Bran area led the land. This was also the case of the destiny. We had come to Bran before through Bran and Moieciu with the by Mrs. Mioara Vișan Stoian. Bene- grandparents and parents of Mioara on the occasion of the camps for my purpose of convincing more and more fiting from this organization, more Vișan Stoian, now also mother of the pupils. But that year everything was locals to open their doors to the tour- and more guesthouses participated „mother of Romanian rural tourism” different. We found accommodation ists. It was a new opportunity for them to various meetings, debating the is- – Marilena Stoian. She is at the same at an old lady, in a house located on to increase their income, income that sues of the community, organizing the time grandmother for the two grand- a hill top. All around us I could see was then achieved just by raising ani- local events and searching solutions daughters, Valeria and Teodora. In the green lawns with flowers every- mals. So after 36 of teaching, arrived at for the promotion of their services. Bran’s present, Mrs. Mioara remem- where. The two tops of Bucegi and Pi- the age of 54 years, the hearty woman The next year, on the occasion of the bers the childhood holidays spent in atra Craiului unfolded around us and from Oltenia continued to be teacher, participation within a symposium the Oltenia natal lands, on Danube I realised that it was Heaven on earth. but his time a teacher for the people in having as subject traditional architec- shores at Turnu-Severin. In 1990 we decided to take a plot of the long dreamed of mountain village. ture carried out at Peleș Castle, Mrs. land for us in Bran, to build a house. Mioara meets Maria Meier Gresshoff, „I would spend my holidays in the Well, this is how I discovered Podul Și- „I wanted to do something with the President of the European Association countryside at my grandparents monului (Șimon Bridge), where from people, for the people. In Bran and of Tourism – EuroGites (European from Malovăț, 14 km away from Tur- a little girder house with two rooms in Moieicu, along with my daughter Federation of Rural Tourism). It was

22 23 Rural Romania – no. 24

velopment, to analyse the last regulations in the field of tourism. The group communication is extraordinary and it is one of the keys to the development of this area for the Romanian rural tourism. I dearly remember an action we carried out with Mister Mironov, former minister of Youth. Along with him, we organized camps for the ped- agogic high schools, the future city schoolteachers getting into contact with the authenticity of countryside life. Another large-scale event was the International Congress for Rural Tourism that we organized in 2004 at Cheile Grădiștei (Grădiște Gorg- es) complex, from Moieciu. Assisted by state secretary Nicu Rădulescu, who trusted our organizational ca- pacities, we showed the beauties and the first sign that the activity begun „After the set up of ANTREC România ism) and after many meetings within traditions of these regions to the hun- at Bran started to have echoes at na- the Ministry of Tourism, in the period (the National Association of Rural dreds of participants. Our colleagues tional as well as international level. On Ecological and Cultural Tourism 1994 – 2000, guesthouses were ex- from the territories helped us very the invitation of EuroGites (European from Romania), in 1994, the first empted from the payment of profit/ much. Alphorn women singers came Federation of Rural Tourism) presi- classifications of guesthouses were income taxes. Thus, the guesthouse from Alba, welcoming the guests with dent, the two Mrs. Stoian actively par- made, signed by Mister Dan Matei owners could reinvest their profit, songs, Bucovina brought the tradi- ticipated within the federal Meeting Agathon, minister of Tourism at that building new rooms, laying out gar- tional trout based preparations, Ar- of EuroGites (European Federation time. The first classified guesthouse dens, extending by restaurant or meal geș prepared crafting workshops and of Rural Tourism), event carried out was Santa-Maria – our dream come serving rooms and new utilities for the many more. Furthermore, visits were in Germany. In 1993, Marilena Stoian true. Guesthouses from Rucăr, Praid, tourists. In the same time, the building was co-opted within the staff of -Eu paid to the guesthouses in the area, Vatra Dornei, Apuseni Mountains of a guesthouse and its classification where the hosts proudly wore the folk roGites (European Federation of Rural etc. followed. Along with my grand- brought a priority on the set up of the Tourism), appointment that decisively costume”, Mrs. Mioara Vișan Stoian daughters, Valeria and Teodora, and fixed telephone, so important in that tells us. contributed to the organization of the specialised committees, we would go period. future activities of Romanian rural from house to house through Bran tourism. and Moieciu to check if everything annually celebrated festivity; corresponded for those houses to be- Actions for the promotion • Organization of International Rural ANTREC Romania (the come the guesthouses that today are Events that contribute National Association of Rural of rural tourism and Tourism Conference at Brașov in also proud with the ANTREC ( the Na- to the promotion and 1997; Ecological and Cultural Standard of rural tourism tional Association of Rural Ecological development of local Tourism) was set up 43 years development of rural • Set up and promotion of folkloric hospitality and Cultural Tourism) emblem. The after its homologation in communities ensembles in Bran area and their owners started to raise more animals, tourism concept France, Gîtes de France, first Following the presentations sat by certified the achieved products and • Experience exchanges and study participation within the various association of rural tourism in Marilena and Mioara Stoian on the Along the 21 years of existence, AN- traded them in a mercantile manner. visits for the guesthouse owners. events in the country and abroad; the world. Such organizations occasion of the participations within TREC România (the National Associ- In all these years, tourists got used to Starting from 1996, they visited • Partnerships and common actions the events organised by the Ministry ation of Rural Ecological and Cultural existed in countries such as order comfitures, cheeses, sheep jerky areas specific to the rural tourism with the Ministry of Tourism and Austria, Belgium, Luxemburg, of Tourism and Ministry of Agricul- or lard preserved meat. I am glad to Tourism) initiated and organised a from France (Alsace region), Spain, Ministry of Agriculture and NRDN Italy. ture, more and more persons form the see that ANTREC (the National As- series of events meant to support the (National Rural Development Net- entire country became interested in sociation of Rural Ecological and guesthouse owners and the crafts- Italy, Poland. In Romania experi- this new segment of tourism. All these Cultural Tourism) has managed to men, also members of the association. ence exchanges took place with the work) on rural development and ideas, initiatives and achievements contribute to the promotion of gastro- They were offered good visibility and branches from Alba, Sibiu, Neamț, preservation of patrimony; were gathered in a new form dedi- nomic products from own farm”, Mrs. promotion within the various events, Covasna, Prahova, Suceava. • Organization of traditional and gas- cated to the promotion of rural tour- contributing thus to the development Mioara tells us. • Partnership in training and qualifi- tronomic festivals and their promo- ism, cultural values, crafts and green of the local community. tourism. Thus, on the 28th of August cation programs in the field of tour- tion on the media channels; 1994, at Moieciu, ANTREC România „Along with the guesthouse own- ism (owners/managers of guest- • Participations within national and houses, cooks, receptionists, room (the National Association of Rural Bond between the ers and the housewives, we set up « international tourism fairs; Ecological and Cultural Tourism from Bran-Moieciu ANTREC (the National attendants, guesthouse animators); legislative frame and the • Permanent consulting for the 5000 Romania) family was born, led by Association of Rural Ecological and • Support of set up of the National Cultural Tourism) Club». We gather members of ANTREC (the National Marilena Stoian, president and Mrs. guesthouse owners Women Association in the Rural Mioara – vice-president and president every month to exchange recipes, to Association of Rural Ecological and Environment, at Bran, in 1997; of ANTREC (the National Association Due to the lobbies made by ANTREC prepare various activities and pro- Cultural Tourism) (National Asso- of Rural Ecological and Cultural Tour- România (National Association of grams for the tourists, to apply for • Organization of National Woman ciation of Rural Ecological and Cul- ism) Brașov. Rural Ecological and Cultural Tour- new projects in the community de- Day in, on the 15th of October 1997, tural Tourism) from the territories.

24 25 Rural Romania – no. 24

camping, dinner with traditional Travel experiences promoted by Sibiu products and music mixed by a DJ at… height; • Visit to Cistercian abbey from County Council Cârța; • mountain bike. „The Cheese road” – Mărginimea Sibiului

This land with a rich and long pas- „The Nature Road” – toral history represents a standard Hârtibaci Valley of tourists’ interaction with the hos- Bordered by cities Sibiu, Brașov and pitality and traditions specific to Sighișoara, Hârtibaci Valley is a land rural tourism. Mărginimea Sibiului where the biodiversity of the mi- is composed of a series of localities cro-region, the traditional crafts and (Boița, Tălmăcel, Sadu, Râu-Sadu- the landscape with medieval accents lui, Rășinari, Poplaca, Orlat, Gura harmoniously combine. All these Râului, Săliște, Tilișca, Rod, Poiana elements are comprised in the pro- Sibiului and Jina) of which foot paths grams to which the tourists can take start to the sheep yards from Lotru- part for the discovery of the authen- lui and Cindrel mountains. Sever- ticity of Hârtibaci land. al local festivals and festivities are events meant to offer the local com- Programs for the tourists „The Fortification Road” from Bazna balneal station; munity the possibility of valorising –Târnave Valley • „From tower to tower on Târnave” the achieved products (mainly chees- • visit by moto-draisine to the Old – visits to the fortified churches; es, dairies, sheep jerky) after an old Mill; For the categories of tourists pas- • „Transylvania card” - key of the inherited recipe. • „Transylvanian Brunch” – a com- sionate about cultural and historical bination of gastronomic culture tourism, Târnave Valley represents fortified churches Programs for the tourists Sibiu County Council (by County where the wanderer will interact and tradition in the village world; the most appropriate land for brows- • „At full trot on Târnave Valley” - Tourism Association) set up a true with the customs, gastronomy and • Hiking and picnics at the sheep • Visits to Cornățel farm school; ing the history pages of these lands. riding programs at Cross-Country nature of the places. These identi- Whether they explore by foot or by Farm of Prod. travel guide for all the categories of yard; • Observation of the mosaic of habi- ties turned the Romanians and the bike, the visitors shall discover a va- tourists interested in discovering • Participations to the traditional tats and birds (bird watching); the natural, cultural and historical Saxons into brothers, in a land that riety of tourist programs. weddings from Sibiel; • Picking medicinal plants; patrimony of the Sibiu land. Within will never stop wear after year draw- „The Salt Road” – The Holiday experiences „Tourist itineraries– Holiday experi- ing visitors both from the country as • visits at the cloches workshop from • Visits at craftsmen and traditional land of Secașe well as from abroad. Săliște; crafts workshops: felimongering, ences in Sibiu County” brochure, the • Esoteric circuits on Târnave in • pleasure flights over Mărginimea; smithery, carpentry, leather pro- In the Southern Transylvania, in a traveller will start to a true return in The brochure focuses on the travel Mediaș area – Dumbrăveni; time, in the times when the history • participation to traditional fes- cessing, folk costume doll making, mainly hilly area, the Land of Secașe experiences from Sibiu County, of- vegetal kitting. • Discover the energy of the salt pages of the medieval citadels were fering us five perspectives of knowl- tivals and festivities, specific to appears to us as a cultural-historical written, citadels that are found today edge of these lands: „The Cheese shepherding mosaic with many Roman remains, in UNESCO patrimony. The travel road”, „The Făgăraș mountain pass- fortified citadels and traditional shall carry on by the universe of the es”, „The nature road”, „The Fortifi- wooden churches. From the oldest autochthonous village traditions, cation road” and „Ten Salt road”. „Vămile Făgărașului” times, salt exploitation is practised (The Făgăraș mountain in the area. passes) – The land of Olt Holiday experiences The old access gate between the historical empires and Wallachia, com- • Health and relaxation cures in the prised between Făgăraș mountains open air salty pools and lakes from and Olt river, the land of Oltul pro- Ocna Sibiului; poses various programs for pleasure • Discover the Land of Secașe by and spending spare time, particu- bike; larly to the active tourists which are • „Photo raid on Secașe” – vegeta- well physically trained and passionate about nature hiking. tion island observation tour specific to the steppe on Zakel hill from Programs for the tourists Slimnic (reservation area); • „Mysteries of the citadel from • Hiking to Făgăraș crests, escalade Slimnic” – visit at the fortified cit- to the rock or ice and accommoda- adel on Burgbaesch hill. tion at Bâlea Lake; • „Electric Camping” – hiking, www.sibiu-turism.ro

26 27 Rural Romania – no. 24

People

bag with two coins. I have put at each Ionela Lungu – folk artisan in the key of the rooms a hanging little bag, in which there are actually two coins. The rooms bear no number, but fairy Humulești of Ion Creangă tale names such as Ion Roată old man, and on the walls I have placed figurines with the characters from the concerned stories. Moreover, in each room there are little fairy tale books to the delight of the parents and children. Besides these figurines, I also make tapestries with the subject of Ion Creangă’s Childhood Mem- ories. I have two images illustrating The Hoopoe in the linden tree and Nică in the cherry. These are purchased by the guesthouses in Neamț area or by the Romanians that left the country. One of the guesthouses that has bought such tapestry is Aris- tocratis guesthouse, one of the most famous and awarded guesthouses in the area”, the Neamț craftsman states.

Graduate of „Gh. Asachi” Technical the head of the little clay man. We The participation University of Iași – Faculty of Ma- both exclaimed: «This is Păcală!» It within the Tourism chine Construction Technology – was the beginning of the faces made Fairs has contributed and MA student in Nonconventional of clay, depicting fairy tale charac- to the development Technologies, Ionela Lungu is a folk ters”, Ionela Lungu says. craftsman who ignored the mecha- and promotion of the nisms by choosing crafts and partic- craftsmen in Neamț area ularly, their promotion at their true value. „Rural tourism without A consequence of Ionela’s participation crafts is like a flower in a to the various tourism events (fairs, „You can never forget the place where festivals, conferences) is that the num- you were born, but home is where vase without water. You ber of the tourists knocking at the door er read to them Creangă’s fairy tale „We have a small workshop at the your family is. Now my home is at enjoy it for a day, but the of the craftsmen form Neamț starts to was triggered. This entitled me to say base of Cetatea Neamțului (Neamț Humulești, along with my husband. second day, it dies” grow. It is time the guesthouses also that Nică’s memories are universal, Citadel) in Târgu-Neamț, were we Here, in the world of authentic vil- realised the importance of these „visits they are our memories, of the child in exhibit folk art objects and where lage, I have discovered myself as hu- For Ionela Lungu, the bond between to the craftsmen” type programs that us. Two Romanians that crossed my tourists can see me working. They man, interacting with extraordinary rural tourism and crafts is a very they can initiate and organize. workshop and who reside in Holly- can also buy what they like. The area tight one. Moreover, in the course persons. Not for nothing do they say wood have these tapestries. Another is like a small house, with wider ve- of time she managed to make many „We also have an Association of Folk randa, where I have a little table that you learn all your life. At Hu- extremely interesting memory, that mulești I have learned to model, to guesthouse owners understand how Craftsmen in Neamț land, that we where I work, model or paint. I eas- I have from the participation to the understand crafts, to get close to the important authenticity is and how tried to make visible following our ac- ily interact with the tourists, many of village world, a world that I knew too imperative the preservation of the tivities and our participations to the Tourism Fair from Germany, is relat- them becoming my friends. Some of little in my childhood. traditional specificity is. tourism fairs. The tourists do not rush ed to a Thai tourist woman, mother of them return particularly to see what into our workshops, but it seems that two children, who purchased the tap- I have been working since their last One day, I took some clay on Ozana „What can be more sterile than go- step by step something changes. May- estry with Nică and the hoopoe. Here, visit while others want to develop banks. It was fine, soft and easy to ing to a rural guesthouse and not be slowly but we are on the good track. she did not know who the represented their character collection. It is won- model. I think I did exactly what a see objects made by folk craftsmen? Guesthouses should change a little bit character was and still she wanted it. derful how crafts unite people! child would have done. I created Guesthouses should have the mark their optic, realizing that only togeth- It is an appreciation of my work and a human face with nose, ears and of the place, tell a story of the con- er, them and us the craftsmen, can we a promotion of Humulești stories”, Io- I conclude by sounding the alarm on mouth. With a little branch a carved cerned place. The tourist leaves home improve tourism, rendering it more nela says. the word - handicraft. It has become off the eyes and left it to dry. The for the purpose of knowing authentic attractive for the tourist that passes pejorative. Not everything sols as clay cracked a bit, but this did not places and new people, exactly how by our area. At the events I attended I «worked by hand» is folk art. We, discourage me from going on. After they live there, with their customs. I saw tourists suddenly stopping when the craftsmen must fight so that folk a while I painted these faces. One dearly remember the guesthouse of a they saw my tapestry work. Some The workshop, at the foot art does not become a lie. It is up to day, my husband, Costin, cut an as- friend from Agapia, guesthouse that of them even tear dropped, because us to encourage what is authentic”, trakhan cap of my father in law and I have decorated and to which I have that memory from childhood when of Cetatea Neamțului craftsman Ionela Lungu from Neamț made me a smaller cap that I put on even given a fairy tale name– Little their mother or their schoolteach- (Neamț Citadel) concludes.

28 29 Rural Romania – no. 24

Experiences: My farm Production valorisation

Due to its own distribution fleet, Re- „Regalina” layer hen farm, from Râșnov galina farm from Râșnov daily deliv- ers fresh eggs in about 250 locations from Argeș, Brașov, Covasna, Har- Trade and Industry of Brașov, at the ghita, Ilfov, Prahova counties, as well specific activity of meat chicken rais- as in Bucharest. In time, distribution ing. contracts with hypermarkets such as Selgros and Billa, as well as with food stores with tradition such as Sergia- na, Avicod, Derisan were concluded. From the meat chicken to On the list of trade units many hotels, the raising of layer hens guesthouses and public institutions that purchase eggs coming from the Starting from 2002, the company gave Râșnov farm are added. The company up raising meat chicken, focusing its trades eggs on the markets of Brașov resources on raising and holding egg by the special egg automaton system. hens. Three years later, the company started on the tourist market, building with SAPARD funds „ Bran house – Villas” guesthouse, in Bran resort. The Quality eggs, from well series of the investments by European taken care of hens Projects carried on in 2008, when NE- CRI SAN started the modernization at Regalina brand eggs come from early European standards of two of the four raised hens within the farm. Regalina halls form the layer hen farm. After prides itself on the Lohmann Brown equipment with new modern batter- Classic, Lohmann LSL or Isa Brown ies, the two halls were peopled with Isa race hens. They have been purchased Brown race hens. Due to the achieve- from partners with old tradition in the ment of immediate profit, moderniza- field, from countries such as Germany, tions also continued to the other two Austria, Czech Republic or Slovakia. halls of the farm. Once arrived at the farm from the origin countries, the chickens benefit from permanent veterinary care. Ac- cording to a well dressed up plan, they Farm extension and are checked and vaccinated, in order development stage by to eliminate the risk of getting sick. 16- 17 weeks later, the chickens reach the European funds big farm, joining the other already egg making hens. In 2011-2012, the company accessed European funds by Measure 121 „Mod- Within the sorting centre, eggs are in- ernisation of agricultural holdings” - spected at the egg tester, subsequently NRDP 2007-2013, extending the farm searching for the elimination of the and equipping it with a new hall des- cracked, dirty or deformed ones. Sort- tined to the raising of the total number ing according to weight follows, the of young replacement chickens and eggs being framed in the categories S with an egg sorting, marking, packing (below 53g), M (53-62g), L (63-72g) and storing centre. In the same time, and XL (over 73g). The eggs will be investments continued by the acquisi- packed into 30 piece cartons or into tion of state of the art equipment. ten or six piece casseroles. The la- Constituted in 1994, having as main belled and foiled cartons stay for little object of activity the raising of meat time in the storage being then loaded in the distribution fleet equipped with chickens, NECRI SAN company has isothermal machines with cold aggre- become a standard of chicken meat gates, providing the transport to the production quality on the Romanian clients. market. In that year, Regalina farm from Râșnov was structured into four Regalina eggs represent one of the production halls era. As time passed ingredients of the preparations that by, the excellent results classified the the tourists will enjoy within „ Bran company in the top of the Chamber of House” guesthouse restaurant.

30 31 Rural Romania – no. 24

Experiences:

My community with a remarkable interior design. The complex also benefits from restaurants where traditional and Invitation to „Bran House” Complex international specialties are served. They totalize 150 places being ideal for the organization of festive meals, Hospitality, refinement and pleasure for all the anniversaries etc. „Gastronomy occupies an import- tourists ant role among the services offered by our complex. We think that gastronomy represents a manner of knowing the culture and tradition of an area, arts, skill, a manner of eat- ing healthily and tastily. Our menu is mainly composed of traditional food, from own farm, “homely” cooked. We propose to the Roma- nian as well as to the foreign tourists a menu form the area composed of „Bran House” traditional snack, composed of Bran specific products (sheepskin cheese, cottage cheese, ewe-cheese, bacon, onion, sau- sage, pork scraps), mountain like beef soup, yard chicken soup, peasant soup with bacon and tarragon, shepherd polenta ball, polenta with cheese and cream, cabbage stuffed meat rolls, cottage cheese boiled dumplings with forest fruit comfi- ture, home cake, home-made ice- cream”, the complex owners state.

Ever since 2005, the attention paid to the personnel qualification is an essential criterion in offering quality services. The owners have perma- nently invested in their employees, organizing for them training and improvement courses. The work Recommended tourist at- Other facilities of „Bran equipment is always appropriate and tractions and objectives: Since 2005, Bran-Sohodol area has hygienised, the owners being very house Villas” complex benefited from a new complex of • Visiting of Bran Castle and rigorous with the provisions related • Own, private, watched and guesthouses and villas, increasing Bran Village Museum; to the conduct and hygiene of the closed parking; the charm of the Romanian rural personnel getting in contact with • visit at Râșnov citadel; tourism cradle. „Bran House” guest • Own thermal station; the culinary preparations. The entire • practising winter sports on house represented the start on this personnel of the complex fluently • non-smoker rooms; ling road from hospitality industry. Zănoaga-Bran ski slope; speak at least one foreign language. • breakfast saloon; The inauguration of the „Bran house • hiking in Piatra Craiului na- Villas” bodies, from Sohodol, in tional park and in the Bucegi • conference/business meet- 2009 came next, and the extension mountains; ing/training room; of the complex is in progress even „Bran Pension House” – • speleological tour- • access to fax, copier and at present, the most recent example the old time royal charm ism at Dâmbovicioara printer; being „Bran Pension House”. By the cave and visiting of • WI-FI Internet; creation of this complex of villas, the „Bran Pension House” is the perfect Cheile Dâmbovicioarei owners address to all the categories choice for the tourists searching for • fitness room; (Dâmbovicioarei gorges); of tourists, from the families with moments of relaxation in an elegant • table tennis; children or individual tourists to the set, recalling the royal atmosphere • visiting of bear reservation • sauna; team building an camp organization. from other times. The location of the from Zărnești. guesthouse five minute walk from The total capacity of the complex Bran Castle represents an advan- from Bran-Sohodol area is 75 places, tage for those who want to discover each villa having a specific theme, by foot Bran’s beauties. The different

32 33 Rural Romania – no. 24

style of each single room, the spec- per villa, in six double rooms with ensembles from the area, camp fire, tacular architecture, the attention matrimonial bed, two triple rooms off-road tours in the surroundings, paid to details, the refinement of the and two apartments with matrimo- mountain bike bicycle tours, riding equipment are the attributes that nial bed and extensible sofa. The program, paraglide flights and paint- Other facilities offered by • exterior terrace; • playground for the little ones; recommend „Bran Pension House” rooms are equipped with Wi-Fi In- ball. as an excellent destination in an area ternet, telephone, TV, minibar, bath- „Bran Pension House”: • minibar and safe at the front • tours at Bran tourist objectives; with rich rural tradition. room with shower and hair dryer and On the renting of a villa from „Casa desk; • tours with the carriage pulled by din Bran Villas” complex tourists they have terrace. Tourists can relax • Library with reading room; • video watched parking; horses The 12 rooms, each having a unique in the generous living of each villa, benefit from a completely equipped theme, bears a fairy tale name. The with access on panoramic terrace. sports room with machines for gym- rooms benefit from Wi-Fi Internet, nastics, force, fitness and aerobic. cable television, sanitary group, air At „ Bran house Villas”, the three Furthermore, one of the main at- conditioning and terraces offering meals of the day can be ordered „à la tractions of the complex is the multi- perspectives to Bran’s attractions. carte”, the served preparations being sport land, an impressive panoramic The massive wood furniture and the cooked in the „ Bran House” guest- construction, in open air, above So- carefully made finishes by famous house restaurant. Furthermore, hodol. designers provide the plus of visual tourist also benefit from barbecue relaxation, irrespective of the room with all necessary tools and a mod- for which the tourist opts. ern, completely equipped kitchen. 11 fairy tale rooms, in a royal „Vila 3” from Sohodol is the right set choice for the camp segment or for „Bran House Villas” – the groups that want to organize a • Grandparents room; private. The villa has a dining hall, • Knight room; closer to the nature completely equipped kitchen, barbecue in open air and 18 places of ac- • Count room; The two identical villas from Sohodol commodation distributed into four • Duchess room; village offer the advantages of a re- rooms with superposed beds. fined complex, in an isolated place, • Chancellor room; offering perspectives to the tops of • King room; Bucegi, Postăvaru, Piatra Craiului • Queen room; and Măgura Codlei mountains. To Pleasure – from the two bodies „Villa 3” is added, an • Spatharus room; traditional music to accommodation unit ideal for the or- • Guards room; ganization of pupil camps, for groups paraglide flights or other activities destined to plea- • Treasurer room; sure or event organization. On request, for the groups of tour- • Steward room. ist accommodated at „ Bran house The two villas provide an accommo- Villas” thematic parties are orga- dation capacity for 12 – 15 persons nized with traditional music and

34 35 Rural Romania – no. 24

Experiences:

My community The cave is part of the Gla- cier-Ocoale-Dobrești carstic system, the glacier name coming from the fact Apuseni Mountains– Agricultural that it hides the biggest underground glacier in Romania, being the first cave tourism, ecological tourism, cultural and in our country declared natural monument ever since 1938. historical tourism The entry into the gate is impressive, by an arcade with diameter of about 60 meters, 48 meters deep, which was fitted with 270 pretty abrupt metallic steps. Only 260 meters can be visited, the rest of the route up to 720 being destined to the speologists, the tourist sector that can be visited being Aven, Big room, Church. The ice at the surface of the big room is over 4000 year and Codru-Moma mountains on the Cheile Poșăgii (Poșaga gorges), Chei- old. South-West. le Runcului (Runcu gorges), Cheile Someșului (Someș gorges) or Cheile In Apuseni Natural Park equestri- On the territorial of the park Cloș- Râmețului (Râmeț gorges), the latter an activities, on Muntele Mare (Big ca memorial house is located, from being declared natural reservation, Mountain) and Vlădeasa, as well as Cărpiniș village, a museum erected equally fascinate. Cheile Râmețu- ecological tourist type activities, activ- near Ion Oargă Cloșca house. He was lui (Râmeț gorges) are located on the ities involving the observation of flora one of the leaders of Transylvanian Eastern part of Trăscău mountains, and fauna or cyclotourism are also bondman rebellion from 1784. Anoth- up the Geoagiu or Râmeț valley the performed. er important objective is the municipal way the river that squeezed through museum from Beiuș, which has eth- the limestone slips of the mountains. nography and history section. The area of the reservation is about 150 hectares. Throughout the sum- A land of historical and Besides caves like Scărișoara, Poar- mer, the crossing can be also partial- natural monuments ta lui Ionele (Ionele’s gate), Urșilor ly made through the bed of Geoagiu (Bears) Cave, Meziad cave, Ghețarul river, with the possibility of reaching, Apuseni Natural Park is located in (Glacier) cave from Focul Viu (Live due to the low level of the water, Cheia the Western part of the country, in fire) and Poarta Zmeilor (Dragons’ village and then Huda lui Papară cave. the Central-Eastern part of Apuse- gate) cave, Vârtop glacier or the gorges The vertical walls, naturally sculpted ni mountains and it is surrounded that create unique picturesque land- in the course of time impress by their by Vlădeasa massive on the North, scapes, such as Cheile Turzii (Turda momentousness. Pădurea Craiului mountains on the gorges), Cheile Turului (Tur gorges), North-West, Bihor mountains on the Cheile Borzești (Borzești gorges), Close to Cheile Râmețului (Râmeț gorges) Râmeț monastery is located. South, Gilău mountains on the East Cheile Vălișoarei (Vălișoara gorges), Apuseni Mountains, part of the Occi- formations, impressive rooms, all from an outlaw called Ionel, who hided The latter holds a museum constitut- dental Carpathians, are delimited at form a distinct world, a true paradise in it until he was caught. True or not, ed by priest Dometie, who exhibits in the North by Barcău river, at the South not only for the speologists but also for the cave preserved their name and the exterior various representative by Mureș river, at the West by West- the tourists. draws the visitors passing by. objects, as well as a stone from the ern Hills and Plain, and at the East by Holy Golgota brought from Jerusa- Transylvanian Hilly Depression. Their Ghețarul de la Scărișoara (Scărișoara Declared natural monument ever lem, a stone with the Virgin Mary beauty is no longer a secret for who glacier), Huda lui Papară and Poarta since 1999, Poarta lui Ionele (Ionele’s pyre brought from Sinai Mountain, loves Romania and starts on the road lui Ionele (Ionele’s gate) caves, locat- Gate) Cave has only one gallery that evidence of the existence of a seabed in order to fully enjoy everything these ed on the territory of Alba County, are can be visited, 60 meter ling and 32 at the Holy Church from Geoagiu de lands can offer. just a few examples. meters high, the cave being sculpted in Sus (Upper Geoagiu). Inside we can white limestone. find clothing items with ethnographic „The land below earth”: Once arrived in Apuseni Natural Park, character specific to the areas, as well on whose territory a part of the cave is The Glacier Cave from Scărișoara, the as leather peasant sandals, costumes, thousands of caves cross located, it is impossible not to remain most famous cave on Gârda valley, can embroidered peasant blouses, cult fascinated by all the natural attrac- Apuseni Mountains be reached by crossing Cheile Ordân- garments. tions met wherever one goes. Apuseni mountains hide many trea- cușii (Ordâncușa Gorges), on an as- In Apuseni, the traveller also remains sures in the underground, some of Poarta lui Ionele (Ionele’s Gate) is a phalted road which is 18 km long, at an fascinated by the amazing falls, such them already becoming tourist objec- cave located in Bihor Mountains, at an altitude of 1165 meters. From Gârda de as Răchițele falls. The water fall mea- tives very sought after by the tourists. altitude of about 800 meters, close to Sus commune one can also climb and sures over 30 meters and in the win- Alba County abounds in caves, a rea- Arieș valley, in the very Southern part on a path on Mununa hill which leads ter, when the rocky wall is frozen it son why it is known as „the land below of Apuseni Natural Park. The legend to the glacier within about two hours becomes an excellent place for ice earth”. Underground falls, fascinating says that the name of the cave comes (red cross marking). climbing. Another famous falls con-

36 37 Rural Romania – no. 24

Geological formations and amazing landscapes Those who arrive in the agricultural tourist area of Arieș valley can pene- trate not only into a spectacular carstic world, but can also discover forgotten villages in the mountains, where the traditional communities preserve that authentic and simple lifestyle. Am- ateur or Professional fishermen can relax at trout fishing. Those who love winter sports can ski on the slope near Vârtop clough, also equipped with platter lift.

Anyone who decides to go hiking on the Apuseni Mountains will remain sidered one of the largest in Transylva- exhibition with costumes attesting the astonished by every place he meets on nia, is located on the territory of Vidra moti garment. The complex also com- his way. On Ampoi valley, that crosses locality, in the very vicinity of Dealul prises the school and the church in the Șard, Meteș, Feneș, Zlatna and Izvorul cu melci (snail hill), another tourist at- locality, founded in 1792. In the muse- Ampoiului (Ampoi source), a pictur- traction. It is Pișoaia falls, also known um underground, tools certifying the esque area opens on the road to the as Miresii falls (Bride falls), declared traditional occupation of the Moti peo- land of the Moti. It is impossible not to landscape reservation, which spreads ple, from pasturing, wood processing, always take halt admiring the forested still make pails and coops, and the on a surface of 2.5 hectares. Located in fishing, hunting to agricultural activi- slopes where you discover stone blocks alphorns to which the Moti women a gorgeous beech tree forest, the water ty, are distinguished. located here and there, that seem to sing still keep the secret of their man- fall of 25 meters overflows a rock made have got out of the landscape, confer- ufacture. Whether we talk about the of crystalline limestone. Not far from The lakes are other attraction points, ring it a unique note. balmoș (cheese polenta) or the slab the falls, near Arieș shore, in a house the heaven of those passionate about pie, baked on hot rock, the traditional from Incești village, Avram Iancu was nautical ski, but also of the fishermen Ampoi valley is an area rich in tourist preparation of the Moti people satisfy born and raised. Now, the commune being Tarnița accumulation lake, one attractions that offer us spectacular the most pretentious tastes. bears the name of the great leader. of the most sought after tourist areas gorges, caves but also many other nat- in Cluj County. On the lake supplied by ural monuments, veiled in legends. The guesthouses members of AN- „Avram Iancu” museum complex is the waters of Someșului Cald (Warm TREC (the National Association of another tourist objective that deserves Someș) valley, having an area of 215 One of the most unusual landscapes Rural Ecological and Cultural Tour- to be visited. Besides the museum that hectares and being about 8 kilometres in the Carpathians is also Detunata ism) Alba, organization led by Emil includes the house in which the 1848 long, tours by boat and jet ski included Golașă (Naked Detunata), located in Comșa, expect their tourists coming to revolutionary lived, the ethnography are organised. the North of Metalliferous mountains, that was declared reservation ever discover the charm of Apuseni moun- since 1936. Detunata Golașă (Naked tains. Among them we can enumerate Detunata) represents bursts of de ba- „Danciu” guesthouse from Gârda de salts, having the shape of some volca- Sus (Upper Gârda), „Steaua Arieșu- nic hills, having at the base coniferous lui (Arieș star)” guest house, Albac, forests and a gigantic area of crushed „Casa Moțului” (Moti house) from basalts. Arieșeni, „Bitai Panzio” guesthouse, Rimetea guesthouse, „Casa Ecologică” (Ecological House) guesthouse from Cetea, „Sub Piatră” (Under the stone) guesthouse, Sălciua, „Casa Butnaru- Handmade traditions and lui” (Butnarului house) guesthouse sensational gastronomy from Geoagiu de Sus (Upper Geoagiu), „Conacul Secuiesc” etc. The fairs and festivals that are held in the Apuseni villages carry on old tra- Any tourist who chooses to spend a ditions and customs such as Harvest few days in this realm full of charm Festival from Ampoița, The Girl fair and mystery shall have the occasion to from Găina (Hen) Mountain, Fășangii meet traditional houses and tenths of from Cetea or the National Fair of Ru- guesthouses with warm and welcom- ral Tourism from Albac. At the latter ing people, shall discover the sensa- fair, besides the tourist offers of the tional gastronomy and the incompara- area one can also admire and buy tra- ble beauty of Apuseni mountains, one ditional products made of authentic of the most attractive tourist destina- artisans. Today too, the Moti people tions from Romania.

38 39 Rural Romania – no. 24

Up-to-date leader

„Central Dobrogea” Local Action Group

„Central Dobrogea” LAG territory is LAG territory is 133,092 hectares, of specific traditions and customs are the fairs, met on the cultural-histori- agricultural tourism combined with 15.12.2014 – 09.01.2015. The maxi- located in the South-Eastern region which 108,475 ha in Constanța Coun- met which are kept from old times cal route of the area highlight the tra- riding programs, tours by using the mal value of non-repayable funding and reunites 11 rural communities ty and 24,617 ha in Tulcea County. and which are still practised, such ditional treasure between the Danube traditional means, sports fishing and that can be granted to a project is from Constanța and Tulcea counties, as „Pottery”, ritual met in Casimcea and the Black Sea. The multi ethnical hunting in the meadows and lakes on EUR 10,000, and the intensity of the its high agricultural potential being The cultural patrimony of Central Saraiu and practised before the start village museum from Cobadin, the the Danube shore. non-repayable support is 100%. favourable for animal raising and ag- Dobrogea territory is rich in archaeo- of the Lent, for air purification and Village museum from Dervent Mon- riculture practise, particularly high logical sites, the oldest objectives dat- chasing away of the evil spirits from astery, as well as Peștera Sfântului The proprieties, the objectives and Furthermore, the selection appeal cultures and horticulture. ing from the very antique era. the locality area. „Caloian (rain mak- Andrei (Andrew Saint Cave) and Der- the measures implemented by proj- for Measure 411-112 „Installation er ritual)”, custom practised after vent Monasteries can be valorised in ects in “Central Dobrogea” LAG ter- of young farmers”, in the period The crafts performed in this territory In the same time, besides the land- Easter, symbolises fertility, the abun- the tourist offer. ritory follow the valorisation of the 15.12.2014 – 09.01.2015 was also determined a big affluence of tourists scapes dominated by agricultural dance of cultures and regeneration of agricultural potential of the territory, launched. The available funds for areas, the territory benefits from pro- before 1989, this is why „Central Do- vegetation. Other customs practised With regard to the route of the crafts- the support of vocational education Measure 411-112 in this session tected areas located along the Dan- brogea” LAG grants a special impor- in Central Dobrogea are: „Paparu- men, all the villages of the Danube for the increase of the individual per- amounted to EUR 80,000, grant- ube, which confers it a high potential tance to the care and preservation of da (Rainmaker)”, in Crucea, Horia limes are envisaged, an example formance and the improvement of ing funding for two projects. The not only with regard to agricultural cultural resources, including the mu- and Peștera communes, „Carolling”, being the rural workshop from Ra- labour occupation, the tourism devel- but also tourist development. seum collection, archives, sites and „Bear”, „Brezaia”, „Goat”, practised sova. The cultural tourism based on opment, the environment protection maximal value of the non-repayable landscapes. around winter holidays, in all the lo- crafts allows the folk artisans to sell and the valorisation of natural and funding that can be granted is EUR Out of the 11 communes of „Central calities of „Central Dobrogea” LAG their local products on an organised cultural potential and the consolida- 40,000, and the intensity of the Dobrogea” LAG 10 are part of Con- Thus, the functioning of LAG focuses territory. market. With regard to the fairs, as tion of the social and care services for non-repayable support shall be 100%. stanța County (Ciocârlia, Peștera, on the achievement and promotion of organization proposals, National fair the population and rural communi- Tortoman, Mircea Vodă, Saligny, Sei- a conjugated program of perception The rural area of the Local Action of Folk Craftsmen but also Crop Fes- ties. The vision of economic development meni, Crucea, Horia, Saraiu, Rasova), of patrimonial values, meant to direct Group is important not only because tivity and Danube Wine Festivity to within “Central Dobrogea” LAG (Lo- and Casimcea commune is part of the public’s attention to national cul- of the high agricultural potential, but which Bread Festivity is added are The Local Action Group launched cal Action Group) territory is focused Tulcea County. ture. also because of the cultural –ethno- taken into consideration. the session of project demands for on key projects that shall offer a new graphic values and objectives form Measure 421 „Implementation of evolution and a nee dynamic to rural The total area of „Central Dobrogea” On „Central Dobrogea” LAG territory the patrimony. Traditional crafts and Another form of local promotion is cooperation projects”, in the period life.

40 41 Rural Romania – no. 24

„ Niraj valley” Leader Association LAG (Local Action Group)

Niraj Valley is one of the areas with Miercurea-Nirajului, the historical micro region (Bereni, Măgherani and the highest density of the population and socio-cultural centre of the mi- Eremitu communes), animal raising from Transylvania. The villages range cro-region. It is located 20 kilometres representing the main activity. on the two shores of Niraj and its away from Târgu-Mureș. confluents. Câmpul Cetății (Citadel The cultural patrimony of Niraj Val- field) represents the largest hatchery „Niraj Valley” micro region is located ley micro region comprises several Due to this investment, in Hodoșa multifunctional, a special and origi- Niraj valley territory also enjoys tour- complex in the country, having in its along Niraj river valley, a left con- objectives, from archaeological re- commune there is an objective with nal space being created for shows and ist importance by the fact that in the composition several trout farms form fluent of Mureș. In the valley that mains, churches and public buildings a particular interest, as the park con- cultural manifestation in the open air. micro region in the area of „Bekecs” almost 50 basins with source water. is about 2 km wide in the lower and with particular architectural value, tains innovative and unique architec- mountain, the tracks of the Roman middle area and in the secondary up to customs, traditions and vari- tonic objects in the micro region. The Among the final beneficiaries of the road called „The Salt road” can be „ Niraj valley” LEADER Association valleys 66 village are located, most of ous elements of the folk culture (folk objects placed in the park have tradi- project is also the young generation identified even today. The largest part was registered in 2010 as legal entity the inhabitants being of Hungarian clothing, folk music and dances). An tional sculptural elements, but the or- of the road, which is 60 km long, con- from the commune, the children, who representing the Local Action Group. nationality. important factor of the socio cultural ganic architecture is also reresented necting Sângeorgiu de Mureș locality Its purpose is to use the development life is represented by the traditional in this area. have at their disposal a playground to Praid locality, is even in the Niraj opportunities within the fourth An- „ Niraj Valley” micro region is divid- cultural programs that are annually with various attractive and educative valley micro region, crossing it in the nex of the National Rural Develop- ed into two areas, Lower Niraj valley organised in the micro region. Besides the esthetic value, the park is areas. most picturesque areas. ment Plan. and Upper Niraj valley, the middle part that divides the area after the The main mission of the Association „ Niraj Valley” LEADER Association local tradition being Acățari com- is represented by the creation of the Project title: „Setting up green areas and innovative playgrounds in • Total number of submitted reunites 53 members of which 13 are mune. The administrative-territorial bases for sustainable economic and Hodoșa commune”; projects: 58; administrative-territorial units, 20 units of the micro region are Eremitu, social development, by partnership • Signed funding contracts: are private partners (representing Hodoșa, Vărgata, Măgherani, Bereni, and collaboration at local level, taking Location: Region 7 Centre, Mureș County, Hodoșa locality; trade companies, individual enter- Gălești, Corunca, Livezeni, Păsăreni, into consideration the existing local 58; prises, natural persons and coopera- Acățari, Crăciunești and Gheorghe resources and possibilities. Project carried out within NRDP (National Rural Development Program), • Total amount of the projects: tive companies), and 20 members are Doja communes, as well as Miercurea Axis III, measure 322, session I of 2012, finalised project. EUR 2,311,161; part of the civil sector (NGOs). Nirajului town. One of the successful projects of „Niraj valley” LEADER Association • Total amount of contracted The territory of the micro region com- In Upper Niraj Valley there are large is „Setting up green areas and inno- Total amount of the project: EUR 101,000, of which EUR 54,967 - non re- non-repayable funding: EUR prises 13 administrative-territorial areas of pastures, these being deter- vative playgrounds in Hodoșa com- payable funding, assembly construction project. 2,320,751. units, 12 communes and one town, mining in the mountain area of the mune”.

42 43 Rural Romania – no. 24

News and events

National Day of Rural Tourism, at Râșnov Foreign tourists spent over 5 billion lei On the Palm weekend, ANTREC bloggers, but also tourists. The event ensemble, an equestrian show, a gas- in Romania, in 2014 România (the National Association of is organised under the form of an ad- tronomic exhibition with tasting of Rural Ecological and Cultural Tour- hoc meeting between the specialists traditional products, but also visits ism) , along with Brașov branch and from rural tourism and potential cli- at the guesthouses and other tourist The number of the foreign tourists Râșnov city hall, organised a new ents. The discussions are focused on objectives from Râșnov. accommodated in the tourist units edition of the National Rural Tour- subjects such as the opportunities from Romania was nearly 2 million The event is annually organised start- ism Day, at Pănicel Râșnov Tourist from agricultural tourism and rural in 2014, and their total expenses ing with 2004, and at the past edi- complex, also having the support of development, trends in the field, pro- exceeded 5 billion lei, according to Rosenau Tourism Association. motion of rural tourist activities, as tions it was hosted by localities such the data published by the National well as the importance of the tradi- as Fundata, Șirnea, Moieciu, Bran, Institute of Statistics. Like in the other years, the owners tions and crafts. Prejmer, Întorsura Buzăului, Cristian, of guesthouses gather along with Sărata Monteoru, Iași, Tismana or Al- the folk crafts, dance ensembles and The National Tourism Day has a var- bac. Râșnov town was chosen host of The main reason for the foreign folk music, local officials and officials ious calendar of activities, compris- this year due to the development of tourists’ stay in Romania is busi- from other areas of the country, AN- ing exhibitions of photography and guesthouse system particularly in the ness, participation to congresses, TREC (the National Association of folk art (handicraft, folk costumes, vicinity of the historical centre and at conferences, courses, fairs and Rural Ecological and Cultural Tour- wool weaves, demonstrations with the periphery of the locality, in practi- exhibitions, their expenses repre- ism) representatives and journalists, folk craftsmen), a show of Mugurel cally rural areas. senting 68% of the total. The second reason for the foreign tourists’ stay in Romania was represented by the personal purpose travels (38.7% of the total number of tourists), their expenses representing 32% of the total. The personal purpose travels include holidays, travels for shopping, participation to cultural and sports events, visiting of the friends and relatives, medical treatment, reli- gion, transit and others.

Out of all the expenses for business, the most expensive were those for accommodation (over 50%), the accommodation with breakfast included being preferred in over 90% of the cases. The foreign tourists also spent money in Projects of maximum EUR 200,000 for non- restaurants and bars, reaching 16% of the expenses, and some of them agricultural activities in the rural environment also spent time shopping (nearly 12%). When they went through The National Rural Development These sub-measures lead to the de- of maximum five years, amounting the stores, the foreigners preferred Program (NRDP) 2014-2020 makes velopment of the services and the cre- to EUR 50,000 per project and maxi- buying cloth wear and footwear, available two sub-measures to those ation of jobs in the rural area, but also mum EUR 70,000 de euro per project, beverages and food (33.5%). The who want to get European funds in to the reduction of the differences be- in the case the production activities, exp0enses regarding the rental of the non-agricultural field. tween the rural and the urban, as well medical services , sanitary-veterinary cars weighted 57.1% out of all the as the development of some non-agri- and agricultural tourism activities. Within NRDP (the National Rural transport expenses and the ex- cultural activities. The support shall be granted in two Development Program) sub-mea- p0enses regarding the access to instalments as follows: 70 percent of sures 6.2 „Support for the constitu- The two sub-measures particularly entertainment parks, fairs, casi- the maximal quantum of the support tion of non-agricultural activities in regard the farmers or the members of nos, mechanic game rooms repre- upon the receipt of the funding deci- the rural areas” and sub-measure 6.4 the agricultural households that want sented 76.9% out of all the recre- „Investments for the creation and de- to diversify their economic activities sion and 30% of the quantum of the ation expenses. velopment of non-agricultural activi- by practising non-agricultural activ- support shall be granted provided the ties” have been included. They follow ities, in order to increase their reve- business plan should be appropriate- Out of the total number of foreign the diversification of rural econo- nues and create alternative jobs. ly implemented. By sub-measure 6.4, tourists arrived in Romania in my by the increase of the number of the non-repayable support shall not 2014, nearly 45% organised their small and medium enterprises in the By sub-measure 6.2, the non-repay- exceed EUR 200,000 on a three year stay by tourism agencies and 32.8% non-agricultural sector. able support is granted for a period period. planned it by themselves.

44 45 Rural Romania – no. 24

NRDN (National Rural Development Network) meetings regarding rural tourism

strategic orientations for the sustainable development of the underprivi- leged mountain area as well as cluster model in the European rural tourism were brought in the foreground. The focus was on the importance of the promotion of architecture and cultural patrimony as success factor for the development of sustainable tourism in the Thus, the need to differentiate the tax Among the debated subjects, the val- rural environment, the comfort specific on buildings according to the turnover, orisation of the uniqueness elements to modern times being also consi9d- the number of employees and season form the rural tourism were envis- ered. was highlighted, given the fact that not aged, as well as crafts, folklore, and all guesthouses are opened all year long the landscape, the valorisation of the Within this framework, Mrs. Maria and the occupation degree differs ac- traditional and culinary art by agri- Conclusions Stoian sat a presentation on tradition cording to the season. Another propo- cultural tourism, the increase of the and comfort in Romanian rural tour- • The profile of the investor in sition involved the prioritization of the degree of occupation of the tourist and ism, the two terms being mutually sup- rural environment is a dy- projects regarding local architecture, agricultural tourist guesthouses by the plemented. „Romanian rural tourism namic one, receptive to the the ecological tourism destinations improvement of the tourist product can offer a lot in terms of traditions, new an focused on sustain- GLT 3 (Thematic work (the National Association of Rural Eco- were presented and a SWOT analysis and intensification of promotion, an also focusing on the tourists’ comfort”, able long term development ; logical and Cultural Tourism) , Liviu with regard to sustainable tourism was important role in agricultural tourism group) „Promotion of she highlighted. Mureșan – CODCR (Council of Danube made. being occupied by local, regional and • The guesthouse directors sustainable tourism in the Cities and regions), Raluca Munteanu – feel the need to associative The vent proposed to be an open space national associations. The increase of rural environment” OAR (Romanian Order of architects), support and positively an- of discussions and debates on subjects competitiveness in rural tourism also Iuliana Grumăzescu– SGG (Govern- represents a priority premise for the in- swer the conferences and The meeting was held in Bucharest, in related to the integrated promotion of ment General Secretariat)– TBC (net- Ad-hoc seminar crease of service quality. seminars of the type, con- the period 9th-10th of February 2015, work of regional tourism innovation tourism in the rural environment, chal- „Agricultural tourism in lenges in promoting a sustainable tour- sidering them useful and at- following an integrated approach of centres), Cristian Hristea –Amphithe- In the same time, the thematic classifi- ism in the rural environment, funding NRDP (National Rural tractive, being a goiis occa- tourism in the rural environment. To atre Foundation. cation of the guesthouses must be en- this GLT (thematic work group) various opportunities within NRDP (National Development Program) sion of experience exchanges visaged, taking into consideration the strategies in the field were presented On this occasion the strategy of devel- Rural Development Program) 2014- among them; perspective 2014-2020” European models corroborated with by Maria Stoian - ANTREC România opment of Danube region and nation al 2020. the specificity from Romania. • interesting success models In the period 26th-27th of March 2015, as well as cases in which in- at Cheile Grădiștei (Grădiște gorges), An essential component in the rural novation and marketing is NRDN (National Rural Development tourism product is represented by plea- necessary have been iden- Network) by the Network Support Unit sure, the more that rural areas are fa- tified, interest existing in organised the seminar called „Agricul- vourable for carrying out activities in searching for solutions; tural tourism from NRDP perspective the open air. 2014-2020”. • in rural tourism the ne- The harmonization of the educational cessity of some financial The seminar proposed to approach training (pre-university and university mechanisms supported by some current subjects of great interest training) curriculum with the require- European projects that ad- both for the rural development in gen- ments of the labour market in the rural dress the new investments eral as well as for the programming pe- and the development of the riod 2014-2020. tourism that does not fully cover the existing needs is also required. existing ones is required; Within the seminar Mioara Vișan • for the widening of the vision Stoian, president of ANTREC Brașov The agenda of the seminar also includ- and facilitation of the experi- (the National Association of Rural Eco- ed the visiting of „Mama Cozonacilor” ence exchange, it is useful to (Romanian sweet bread mother) guest- logical and Cultural Tourism), Conf. organise infotrips; Univ. Dr. Maria Stoian, ANTREC house, including of the laboratory for • it is necessary to simplify leg- România (the National Association of sweet bread and bread manufacturing, Rural Ecological and Cultural Tourism), the guests tasting traditional products islation and regulations. Ovidiu Gârbacea, from Cheile Grădiștei such as sweet bread, pies and milk. The (Grădiște gorges) complex, Dr. Ion An- pleasure base, the sports room and drei, from the National Association for the biathlon track of Cheile Grădiștei the Service in Tourism, and Prof. Dr. (Grădiște gorges) resort were visited, Manoela Popescu, from Dimitrie Can- under the direction of mister Ovidiu temir Christian University took the floor. Gârbacea.

46 47 Rural Romania – no. 24

NRDN members introduce themselves County Association of Agricultural Tourism, Rural and Ecological Tourism from Călărași

at the International Scientific Sym- of Agricultural Tourism, rural and members went on a study and docu- posium organised by the Faculty of ecological tourism from Călărași, mentation visit - „Exchange of good Management, Economic Engineer- along with other public and profes- practises” on the route Călărași – ing in Agriculture and Rural Devel- sional entities initiated the Open Tulcea – Danube Delta. The next opment, Bucharest on the subject Informal Alliance of NGOs from month the members of the associa- „Perspectives of agriculture and Călărași, part of the Group for deci- tion participated with presentation the rural areas within the frame sional transparency. stand to the Fall Fair on the occasion of sustainable development” with of Călărași town days. three research papers: „Economic • Activity for editing of the promo- and social development in the rural tional materials and update of the In November 2014, along with the communities from Călărași County, association’s web page. students of the Faculty of Manage- case study Cuza Vodă village”, „Val- ment, Economic Engineering in Ag- orisation of the tourist potential in Throughout 2014, The Association riculture and Rural Development– protected areas from Călărași Coun- of Agricultural tourism, rural and Călărași branch, the association ty” and „Sustainable valorisation of ecological tourism from Călărași members paid a visit in Austria, at local resources by ecological tourism updated its web page- www.calara- Renexpo-Hydro. County Association of Agricultural opment of agricultural tourism, cultural tourism, rural and ecolog- in Călărași County”. siagroturism.net an elaborated some Tourism, rural and ecological tour- rural and ecological tourism in ical tourism; sheets, flyers and the association At present, the income of the Asso- ciation of Agricultural tourism, rural ism from Călărași, constituted in Călărași County; • Activity of promotion of coopera- brochure. and ecological tourism from Călărași 2008, has the status of Romanian • organization of seminars, confer- tion with the local administration legal entity of private law. It was • Carrying out of the research-de- ences, public debates as well as • Activities of promotion and ex- is composed of the contribution of and an effective communication the association members and of the constituted as a result of the ac- velopment activity; organization of marches, public change of good practises. tivities carried out by the project between governmental and non- direction to the association by a few manifestations and other activi- governmental institutions and members of the 2% from the salary „Sustainable development of rural • Carrying out of own programs and In July 2013, the association mem- ties for the awareness of the public organization of seminars, debates tax. communities by the promotion of projects and in partnership with bers went on a study and documen- agricultural activities”, project fund- opinion, according to the law etc. and round tables. the public authorities from the tation visit - „Exchange of good prac- ed by PHARE Program 2005/017- tises” on the route Călărași – Brașov country and abroad that increase 553.04.02.01.01.313 and implement- In April 2013, The Association of Ag- – Maramuraș – Iași – Călărași, route ed by the University of Agronomic the accessibility of agricultural ricultural tourism, rural and ecolog- on which the practising of agricul- Sciences and Veterinary Medicine tourism, rural and ecological tour- Activities carried out by ical tourism from Călărași organised tural tourism already a lifestyle. from Bucharest – Faculty of Man- ism in Călărași County; the County Association of in the amphitheatre room of the Fac- agement, Economic Engineering Agricultural Tourism, rural ulty of Management, Economic En- In November 2013, along with the in Agriculture and Rural Develop- • Granting of consulting and coun- and ecological tourism gineering in Agriculture and Rural students from the Faculty of Man- ment– Călărași branch. selling to the interested persons from Călărași in the period Development – Călărași branch, the agement, Economic Engineering seminar with the subject: „Funding in the field of agricultural tourism, 2013- 2014 in Agriculture and Rural Develop- rural and ecological tourism and for the development of agricultural ment– Călărași branch, the associa- tourism and the possibility of elab- in other field of general interest • Activity of research-development tion members went on a study to the General objectives of Coun- orating projects to the benefit of the most important international fair in that regard the tourism activity or and elaboration of studies and ty Association of Agricultural members of the association”. The ac- the field of agricultural machines, Tourism, rural and ecological other related services; analyses in fields of agricultural tion was carried out in partnership AgriTechnica, carried out in Ha- tourism from Călărași tourism, rural and ecological tour- with the Agricultural Chamber of nover, Germany, event organised by • organization of training, qualifica- ism. Călărași County. the German Society for Agriculture. • The elaboration of strategies re- tion and improvement courses for garding the promotion and devel- the personnel from/and for agri- The Association was present in June In September 2013, The Association In August last year, the association

48 49 Rural Romania – no. 24

NRDN members introduce themselves

Domașnea, Berzasca, Bocșa – Dan Tea and Daria Tailoring and Embroidery Liuț, Semenicul, Bocșana, Datina, Fîrliug, Găvăjdia, Nădrag, Recaș, Tomești, Săvârșin, Curtea, Cenad, Bethausen, Firdea, Bolvașnița, Cor- nereva, Coșava, Bigăr, Brebu, Oha- ba, Berzovia, Lăpușnicel and Got- tlob ensembles. The portfolio also comprises costumes for Ukrainian, German, Hungarian, Serbian, Ro- mani and Czech ethnics.

Among the singers and artists that resorted to the services of Tea & Daria we can enumerate Petrică and Ramona Vița, Titian Puchiță, Doriana Talpeș, Andrei Marinescu, Miloș brothers, Mircea Mioc, Gabi Zaharia, Dana Basarab, etc.

Besides these activities, tailor also makes school uniforms, work equipment and protection overall customised, on any colour. Fur- thermore, arrangements for event rooms can be also made: table cloths, chair coverings, foldings, crinkles and other decorative elements.

Liliana Ionașcu founded her tai- for Culture, Cults and Cultural Pat- models of the female folk garment loring and embroidery business by rimony from Caraș-Severin decid- which made career in internation- focusing on Romanian traditional ed in 2010 that the activity of Lili- al fashion– embroidered women garments, in Reșița, Câlnic neigh- ana Ionașcu could be fitted within blouses. The embroidered woman bourhood. The workshop is located „creative industry” category. This blouse being the most important in the dwelling of Ionașcu family, conclusion was also supported by part of the Romanian female tra- where old and new folk costumes the participation of Mrs. Ionașcu to ditional folk costume that fascinat- garnish the walls. IN fact, Liliana fairs, festivals and presentations of ed painters, photographers, royal Ionașcu is also authorised folk art Romanian traditional art. characters and international de- creator, specialized in Banat spe- signers as well, they all got inspired cific tailoring, sewing and embroi- Tea & Daria Tailoring and Embroi- and left themselves mesmerised by dery. dery functions based on orders re- embroidered woman blouse or em- ceived from the clients by phone or broidered shirt how it is called”, it Inspired by the traditional mod- online. The main activity is as the is shown on the site. els characteristic to all the seven name also betrays it, the carrying folkloric regions of Caraș-Severin out of Romanian folk costumes– With regard to the embroideries, County, Liliana Ionașcu brings into and even though Liliana Ionașcu is these can be sewn directly on bags, contemporaneity the distinctive di- recognised for the Banat ones, the weds, table cloths, handkerchiefs, mensions of the folk garment and tailors from Tea & Daria can make little pillows, goblets, sheets or any of the treasure sewing from the tra- any costume specific to any ethnic other products requested by the ditional house, according to the in- group. „The bottom drawers of the clients. So far, tailoring carried out formation available on the business old people from our villages also folk costumes for the Dubasi (duba- official site. Thus, the Directorate hide besides other treasures, true drums players) from Săvârșin,

50 51 Rural Romania – no. 24 We invite you to participate in the Elaboration of the Magazine

Do you want to share from your rural development experiences for a possible publication in the magazine?

Photos and images Participation • The images must illustrate an experience. Guide • The images will be sent as separate electronic files (high These indications are for orientation, for the homogenization of the resolution >300 dpi and > 850 KB). contributions. The authors understand that the editorial staff may amend the • All the files containing images will be sent in.JPEG format. received text, for better comprehension. • We are asking you to include a short title for each sent photo / • Author: He/she must be identified by surname, first name and current image, as well as the photographer’s /author’s name. occupation.

• Introduction: A short introduction must be included to reveal the relevance of the presented topic. Letters to the Editorial Staff

• Article length: 400 – 800 words • The letters must be related to a rural • Correct information: Present only development theme and not exceed 200 words. information that you are 100% sure of and that you can support. Mention • The editors may intervene on the text, in order the source of the information when to adjust it to the necessary style, length, clarity you present data coming from other institutions or organizations. and accuracy and does not guarantee that all the letters will be published. • Style: Speaking of a magazine article, it is desirable for the text not • When space is insufficient, the letters which to resemble a report. That is why, the are not published in the magazine can be following are indicated: »»Simple expression. published on the website of NRDN. »»Relevant data to support the main idea of the article, and not all the details of the project. »»Avoidance of the excess of acronyms. »»The full denomination, followed by the acronym, must be inserted when it appears in the text for the first time. We invite you to send us your »»Avoidance of comments and experiences, photos, letters and articles external references which may be controversial or misunderstood. at the e-mail address: [email protected]

52 Open to the Future

ROOTS OF A EUROPEAN COUNTRY

CONTACT: National Head Office of the Network Support Unit (NSU) 39-41, Nicolae Filipescu St., 6th floor, 2nd District, Bucharest, postal code 020961 Tel.: 031 690 0214, Facsimile: 031 690 0215 E-mail: [email protected], Internet: www.rndr.ro

This publication was created by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Romania, within the project entitled “Establishment and Support of the National Rural Development Network”. Project co- financed by FEADR by Measure 511 within the 2007 – 2013 National Rural Development Programme. April 2015 The content of this material does not necessarily represent the official position of the European Union. It is distributed free of charge.