Zone I - ECEAT

Sustainable Tourism
Development Strategy
for
the Retezat National
Park Region
Strategy developed in the
framework of the PAN Park
Programmes
Final Draft November 7, 2006.
This document is open for comments and recommendation.
This report was prepared by:
 James MacGregor,
Sustainable Tourism Specialist, Romanian Agribusiness Development
Program – United State Agency for International Development
(RADP-USAID)
 Andrei Blumer,
Project Coordinator, Association of Ecotourism of Romania - USAID,
and assisted by
 Bogdan Florescu,
Green Cross Romania.
The report
was elaborated in collaboration with
the Retezat National Park Administration
under the supervision of
 Zoran Acimov
Park Director.
2
Acknowledgements
This Retezat Sustainable Tourism Development Strategy (STDS) was prepared
in the framework of Retezat National Park's application for entry into the PAN
Park Network.
The preparation of the present report was financed by the United State Agency
for International Development (USAID) - Romania Agribusiness Development
Project (RADP) and was executed in the frame of the Project “Ecotourism a tool
for nature conservation and tourism in Romania”, developed in partnership by the
Association of Ecotourism in Romania, USAID and Environment Partnership
Foundation.
The authors would like to acknowledge the participation of many stakeholders in
the process of development of the present strategy, such as:
a) Retezat National Park Administration,
b) Various pension owners and operators in the Retezat region,
c) Local and County Municipalities;
c) Environment Protection Agency;
d) Mountain Rescue representatives,
The authors would like to express their thanks for the participation of Retezat
National Park staff during different phases of strategy preparation: Zoran Acimov
(Park Director), Alin “Zmeu” Ivasca (Ranger), Alin Alimpesc (Tourism and
Community Outreach Officer), Florin (Hombre) Halastauan (Ranger) and Grigore
Opritoiu (ex- Tourism and Community Outreach Officer).
Special thanks for his contribution to Ovidiu Bodean, Head of the Hunedoara
Mountain Rescue Team that become the President of the new born Retezat
Tourism Association.
Authors‟ special gratitude is addressed to Lorna Babby, Peace Corp Volunteer,
who took her time to intensively review the final draft.
The authors would also like to thank all those who participated during the
consultation and participation process of developing the present strategy.
3
Content
Executive Summary ...................................................................................................... 6
1. Introduction ............................................................................................................. 11
1.1 Retezat Region and the International Travel Industry..................................... 11
1.2 The European Travel Context ........................................................................... 13
1.3 The Creation of the European PAN Park Network ........................................... 14
1.4 Insight into Sustainable Tourism Development Context ................................ 15
1.5 The Importance of Sustainable Tourism in the Retezat Region ..................... 17
1.6 Ecotourism issues............................................................................................. 18
2. Methodology ............................................................................................................ 20
3. Resources of Retezat National Park and Adjacent Area ...................................... 22
3.1 Geographical and Biophysical Attractions of Retezat National Park Region 22
3.2 Socio-Economic Considerations ...................................................................... 26
3.3 Tourism facilities and services......................................................................... 27
4. SWOT Analysis ........................................................................................................ 31
5. Market Analysis and Branding ............................................................................... 34
5.1 Visitor Survey .................................................................................................... 34
5.2
Visitor Projections ....................................................................................... 37
5.2
International Tourism Trends affecting Retezat National Park and
Surrounding Region ................................................................................................ 38
5.2 Positioning Retezat National Park and Region................................................ 43
5.2.1 Potential Market Segments ........................................................................ 43
5.2.2 Positioning the individual market segments ............................................ 45
5.3 Positioning Retezat as a sustainable tourism destination ............................. 54
5.3.2 Proposed Positioning Statement ............................................................... 56
6. Retezat Regional Tourism Development Concept ................................................ 58
6.1 A Development Zone Approach ....................................................................... 58
7. Sustainable Tourism Development Plan............................................................... 64
7.1. Development Proposals by Individual Zones ................................................. 64
7.2. Development proposals specific for Retezat National Park .......................... 71
7.3. Regional Level Recommendations.................................................................. 73
7.3 Linkages and Corridors ................................................................................... 81
7.4 Implementation Strategy ................................................................................... 81
7.5 Next steps ......................................................................................................... 87
8. Main Implementation Body and Monitoring .......................................................... 89
8.1 Developing the Retezat Tourism Association ................................................. 89
8.2 The Local PAN Park Standards ........................................................................ 89
8.3 Monitoring .......................................................................................................... 90
Conclusions................................................................................................................. 91
Appendix 1 : Retezat National Park Ecological Zones.............................................. 92
Appendix 2: Description Resources of the Retezat NP and Adjacent Area ............ 96
Appendix 3: The Land Ownership structure within the Park ................................. 106
Appendix 4: Tour package development criteria .................................................... 108
Appendix 5: Retezat Responsible Tourist Code ..................................................... 116
Appendix 6: Guidelines for the Retezat Sustainable Tourism Development Policies
and Practices ............................................................................................................. 117
4
List of Figures
Figure 1: Sustainability graphic ................................................................... 16
Figure 2: Map of the allowed camping site within the National Park
borders ............................................................................................................... 28
Figure 3: Age distribution of the current tourists in the Retezat
National Park ..................................................................................................... 35
Figure 4: Type of accommodation used by tourists in the Retezat
National Park ..................................................................................................... 36
Figure 5: The entrances to the Retezat National Park used by current
tourists ................................................................................................................ 36
List of Tables
Table 1: Results of the SWOT analysis with stakeholders in the
Retezat Region .................................................................................... 32
Table 2: Estimate of increase rate of visor nights in the Retezat
Region ................................................................................................. 38
Table 3: Retezat Product/Market: Matching and Positioning .......... 53
Table 4: Positioning the image of the Retezat region...................... 56
Table 5: Activity implementation ....................................................... 87
5
Executive Summary
The Sustainable Tourism Development Strategy (STDS) for Retezat National
Park (RNP) and adjacent region has been prepared to assist RNP in its
application for entry into the PAN Park Network.
1. OVERVIEW
RNP and the surrounding region, including the gateway community of Hateg,
could potentially become a premier tourism destination in Romania. The national
park, with its pristine wilderness, spectacular alpine and sub-alpine landscapes,
and rich variety of fauna and flora (including over 1/3 rd of all the flora in
Romania), offers an exceptional resource mix that can contribute to the
successful long-term tourism development of this area.
Developing a sustainable tourism industry will require the private sector, in
partnership with the park administration, to successfully integrate the surrounding
historic, cultural, and community resources with the natural resources of the park
into a cohesive tourism product.
It is also critical that the destination be positioned as one that reflects the highest
sustainable tourism principles and practices, both within and beyond the park
boundaries.
The STDS offers a blueprint for developing this sustainable tourism industry.
2. MARKET DEMAND and POSITIONING
RNP visitation is very low compared to most national parks in Europe. It currently
receives only 10,000 visitors per year, and consequently makes only a modest
contribution to the regional economy. Most visitors (80%) are Romanian; the
majority of international visitors to RNP are from Hungary and the Czech
Republic. These foreign visitors tend to spend 3- 4 days hiking in the park, but
because they use relatively few local goods and services, they have little
economic impact on the region.
Tourism trends in Romania and Western Europe suggest that the demand for the
type of wilderness experiences and outdoor activities offered in RNP, along with
the rich cultural heritage of the surrounding region, could double tourist arrivals
within the next five years. However, increasing visitation will require a robust
development plan and a targeted marketing campaign to attract those segments
of the tourist market that can build a sustainable industry over the next decade.
The most promising market segments for RNP and the surrounding region
include ecotourists, geotourists, adventure travellers, cultural heritage tourists, as
well as scientific and educational travellers. Romanian families and study groups
also hold high potential and should be among the targeted segments.
6
In order to achieve its development goals, the region must position itself as a
destination that can satisfy the specific interests and desires of these market
segments. Thus, the Retezat region will be marketed as a unique wilderness
area with a backdrop of authentic villages and ancient heritage sites, offering
opportunities for learning and discovery, inspiration, relaxation, exercise,
solitude, excitement and challenge.
3. DEVELOPMENT ZONES
For the purpose of identifying the type and scale of development necessary to
accommodate the targeted market segments, the Retezat region has been
divided into four activity development zones: Zone I includes the Hateg area,
north of RNP, as well as the southern part of the park, where the RNP Visitor
Centre is located; Zone II is structured around the main hiking trails in the centre
of RNP; Zone III includes RNP‟s remote Godeanu and Retezatul Mic Mountain
area; and Zone IV is comprised of the mountain resort area at Rausor. Each of
these Zones reflects a different resource mix, market interest and carrying
capacity, allowing for different visitor volumes and types of activities.
4. RETEZAT REGIONAL TOURISM DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT
DEVELOPMENT PLAN BY INDIVIDUAL ZONES
The STDS for the Retezat region follows the structure established by the four
development zones, and specific development proposals reflect and build upon
the community, cultural and natural resources available in each Zone. Together,
the Zones will attract a variety of existing and potential market segments while
allowing for the effective management and protection of the resource base.
Zone I: Hateg and Jiul de Ves (West Jiul) Areas
Zone I will be developed for high-volume, low-yield tourism, and will offer such
activities as cultural heritage tours, nature interpretation trails, and horse riding.
In order to encourage visitors to stay in the region longer, and thereby to create
new jobs and stimulate the growth of tourism-related business in the area, a
number of new facilities and activities must be developed in Zone I.
The community of Hateg will serve as the principle Staging Area or Gateway to
the services and activities of the entire Retezat region. A key element in the
development strategy for Zone I is the establishment of a Tourist Information
Centre (TIC) in Hateg that will distribute information to arriving visitors on the
various activity areas and attractions within the region, including Retezat
National Park; on accommodations and restaurant facilities in the area; and on
local tour operators, packages and itineraries. The Hateg TIC will be the center
of an integrated regional tourism information network that includes satellite
tourist information kiosks in additional communities of Zone I, coordinated print
materials, and an independent regional website and database.
7
The type of tourism for which this Zone will be developed requires more
opportunities for outdoor recreation (e.g. a multi-use trail system in the Hateg
area), and better opportunities for nature and cultural education (e.g. a
completed and fully equipped RNP Visitor Centre, nature interpretation trails in
the park, and cultural heritage tours throughout the surrounding region).
Also part of the development plan for Zone I are workshops on environmentally
sustainable hotel and restaurant management, and on “green” guesthouse
operations and marketing.
Zone II: Central Park Area
Zone II will be geared toward the domestic and international hiking market, and
will offer well-marked trails and maintained campgrounds.
In order to increase the quality of experience for visitors to RNP, improved
camping facilities are an essential element of the development strategy for Zone
II. This will involve the upgrading and expansion of existing primitive
campgrounds in the park, the construction of one new campground, and the
possible development of a semi-permanent Eco-tent camp. The construction and
upgrade of mountain shelters for use by the mountain rescue service, as well as
by hikers under bad weather conditions, is also part of the development plan for
this Zone.
Zone III: Godeanu and Retezatul Mic Mountain Area
Zone III will provide a high value wilderness experience to low volumes of
visitors, and will include guide services.
This sensitive RNP area will be kept as natural as possible given its high
wilderness value, and will thus require the least development of all of the Zones.
What will be necessary is construction and upgrade of mountain shelters for use
by the mountain rescue service, and by hikers under bad weather conditions.
In addition, a variety of quality programmes (such as bird watching and wildlife
viewing excursions, botanical and medicinal plant tours, and organized hiking
trips) must be developed and offered by responsible tour operators who are
committed to environmental protection and education, and to the preservation of
park values.
Zone IV: Rausor Mountain Resort Area
Zone IV is designated for high numbers of tourists and will offer such activities as
skiing, hiking, and mountain biking.
The development plan for Zone IV involves the creation of an integrated yearround mountain tourism destination aimed at increasing visitor volume and
occupancy rates. This will entail the construction of summer-based facilities, such
as a trail network and campground. Also planned for this area is the
8
establishment of a major national/international interpretive and educational
facility which will focus on the ecology and resources of the Carpathian
Mountains, as well as the further development of RNP‟s existing nature trail from
Rausor.
Given the high volume of visitors this area is expected to receive, special
emphasis must be placed on identifying and implementing necessary resource
protection measures in developing Zone IV.
PROPOSALS SPECIFIC TO RETEZAT NATIONAL PARK
RNP possesses an adequate resource base to be developed as one of the main
tourism attractions in Hunedoara County. However, much remains to be
accomplished both to protect its natural values and to position the park as an
international attraction within the PAN Park Network.
The park requires a set of sustainable development guidelines to control and
guide construction, to deal with the issue of waste management, and to identify
ways in which the park administration can introduce environmentally responsible
practices into its day-to-day operations.
RNP must also develop additional park trails. These trails should form a
comprehensive network which takes different uses (such as hiking, mountain
biking and wildlife viewing) into consideration, and which is cognizant of the
ecologically-sensitive areas of the park.
Finally, a park-centered public awareness program is necessary to enhance
appreciation among local residents for the natural and cultural values of the
Retezat region, as well as to educate the public on the economic benefits that
could be secured from the preservation of these values.
REGIONAL LEVEL RECOMMENDATIONS
Many elements of the Retezat STDS are not specific to any one Zone or area.
They include a series of key activities relating to increasing the capacity of the
Retezat Tourism Association, the preparation and implementation of a
comprehensive marketing strategy, and tour product development. Also included
among the STDS regional recommendations are additional training workshops
and a series of public forums on STDS implementation,
5. IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING
Implementation and monitoring of the STDS will be the task of the Retezat
Tourism Association, in partnership with the Association for Ecotourism in
Romania and the Retezat National Park administration. Because implementation
of the strategy will take five (over even more) years to complete, it is to be
expected that adjustments will need to be made along the way to as conditions
9
change. Regular reviews of the implementation strategy will be an essential tool
for determining which activities are having impacts and which are not.
The STDS sets out a tentative implementation timeframe and benchmarks which
should form the basis for monitoring progress. The timeframe was set with
several critical factors in mind, including the park administration‟s immediate
need to respond to PAN Park Network requirements; the importance of
increasing park visitation rates; and the need to establish and implement
environmental protection and restoration measures before further degradation of
the natural and cultural resource base occurs.
6. CONCLUSION
This report represents the culmination of a consultation and facilitation process
that succeeded in bringing to light the visions and desires of various stakeholders
with respect to the sustainable development of the Retezat region. The STDS
combines these diverse views into a unified and comprehensive implementation
strategy, which will require continued communication and cooperation among the
stakeholders. With a firm commitment to this ongoing process, the stakeholders
can look forward to a not-too-distant future in which Retezat National Park and
the surrounding region is known nationally and internationally as a premier tourist
destination.
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1. Introduction
1.1 Retezat Region and the International Travel Industry
Retezat National Park is the first national park created in Romania and one of the
oldest in Eastern Europe. It was established in 1935 and was eventually
proposed as Biosphere Reserve (RNP-BR) because of its unique biodiversity
and national significance to the Romanian people. However, the first park
administration was not set up until 1999. The new management structure was
supported within the framework of the Biodiversity Conservation Project. The
National Park is now recognized as a UNESCO site.
The Retezat Mountains offer one of the most spectacular landscapes in Romania
and hold enormous potential for the development of both national and
international tourism. The park is surrounded by adequate infrastructure which
provides access to the perimeter of the protected area, as well as relatively easy
access to the centre of the park itself. Furthermore, there are several tourism
suppliers who have recently recognised the importance of the National Park as
an attraction that can provide a focus to their business activities. For the most
part, these operations offer lodging and limited guide services into the park. But
they can also be a strong voice for park development and environmental
protection. To solidify their interest in the appropriate development of park
resources, several have joined the PAN Park Group, thus assuring that the park
will play an important role as an economic catalyst for the region.
RNP has yet to attract substantial visitor volumes. However, it is reasonable to
expect an increase over the next decade both in the demand for access to park
resources, and in the park‟s economic contribution to the surrounding region.
While management emphasis must always be on the long-term protection of park
resources, the Retezat park administration is in the fortunate position of attracting
an adventure travel and ecotourism market that is interested in supporting
conservation of the park‟s biodiversity, while at the same time contributing to
local social and economic development.
This would appear to allow for substantial growth on the part of the park and the
region over the 5-year duration of this strategy (2007 to 2011). There are
currently only 10,000 visitors entering the park each year. Because half of these
visitors are day users only, the park could reasonably absorb as many as 2 to 3
times the current number of visitors without any loss to its biodiversity integrity.
Although the park has relatively little impact on the regional economy at this time,
a substantial increase in visitor volume would start to position it as an important
source of jobs and salaries.
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With the implementation of the STDS, Retezat National Park will become an
active player in the world‟s largest industry: tourism. Recent estimates by the
World Tourism and Travel Council (WTTC) suggest that the sector generated
approximately $US6 trillion in economic activity in 2005. In the same year, 808
million individuals travelled to another country, two-thirds of them for vacation or
leisure. That number is expected to surpass one billion by 2010. Furthermore,
the WTTC estimates that Romania will be the third fastest growing tourism
destination in the world over the next decade.
As environmental issues move higher on the public agenda (particularly in the
tourism-generating countries of Europe and America), tourism planners are
becoming sensitive to the increased interest in natural and protected areas, as
well as the impact tourists can have on these fragile environments, especially in
wilderness areas such as RNP, with its alpine meadows, virgin forests and
pristine ecosystems.
The importance of parks and protected areas
The tourism industry will increasingly be directing their clients to some of the
most environmentally fragile areas of the planet. The World Resources Institute
reports that nature-related travel has increased 20% to 30% in the last decade. In
addition, approximately 40% of all international tourism is in developing countries
and economies-in-transition such as Romania, where many of these parks and
protected areas are located. This is an astounding increase from a mere 3% in
1950. These emerging destinations are frequently considered as "biodiversity
hotspots," and while they cover only 2% of the earth‟s land surface, they contain
more than half of the planet's biodiversity. As fragile ecosystems are
overwhelmed by traffic (human and vehicular) and their associated pollutants,
their very appeal is threatened with damage or destruction. The challenge for the
Romanian travel industry, therefore, is to maintain a balance between responding
to increasing demand for parks and protected areas while maintaining the
environmental integrity of the destination.
Tourist interest in environmental protection
Despite the potentially negative effects of travel to national parks and protected
areas, there is good news. Tourists are becoming increasingly concerned about
their impact on these natural and cultural environments. For instance, according
to the 2004 US Geotourism Study by the Travel Industry Association of America,
funded by the National Geographic Society, a majority of the travelling public
(71%) believes it is important that their visits to a destination not damage its
environment. Similar or higher levels of support for environmentally-responsible
travel can be found in Western Europe. As United Nations Secretary-General
Kofi Annan pointed out recently, "we now perceive a more complex relationship
between human society and the natural environment that recognizes the
potential of the planet's privileged 20 percent to benefit the balance of humanity."
12
The fact that more travel-related companies are becoming a force in sustainable
development is also good news. Environmentally responsible tourism-related
enterprises increasingly recognize that they can have an enormous impact not
only on the natural environment, but also on the social and economic
development of communities. They can also play a proactive role the
preservation of traditional cultures. Many tourism businesses want to be good
corporate citizens, and countless hotels and resorts, large and small, have
instituted energy/water-saving and pollutant-diminishing practices, thus providing
leadership in their communities. At the same time that these companies are
helping to maintain the quality of emerging destinations for future customers,
they are also enhancing brand loyalty and their public image.
Travellers to national parks in particular can make a substantial contribution to
the protection of local resources. Through interpretation programs and other
forms of education, park users are learning how their financial contributions can
help to preserve vulnerable park and regional ecosystems, maintain local
biodiversity and cultural heritage, and contribute to the well being of the local
people and their communities.
Some tour operators are making direct contributions to the conservation of
protected areas. Lindblad Expeditions, for instance. established the Galapagos
Conservation Fund to help preserve the unique ecosystem of the archipelago. By
educating its clients during their voyage to the islands' unique features, the
company encourages numerous travellers to make donations, which the Fund
distributes through the Charles Darwin Foundation.
Travellers to the Retezat region can therefore become agents for positive change
by improving the regional economy (including Hunedoara County), as well as by
ensuring the long-term status of RNP as a protected wilderness for future
generations of Romanians and international travellers.
1.2 The European Travel Context
The European Union still maintains its leading position in world tourism as a main
source and a main destination of international tourist flows. The accession of
Romania and Bulgaria in 2007 will further consolidate that position. In 2005 five
EU countries were among the 10 leading tourist destinations in the world, and in
2004 the EU accounted for approximately 40% of arrivals and receipts in nondomestic world tourism.
This is good news for Romania, as Eastern European countries are increasingly
viewed as favoured destinations because of their natural and cultural resources
and attractive price structure.
A remarkable eight million people are directly employed in the EU tourism sector,
and tourism also has an important indirect effect on employment in related
13
services. Some sources estimate that tourism-related jobs will increase by more
than 2.5 million over the next ten years. Tourism thus represents a major
opportunity for job creation in coming years - in particularly in Romania. Job
growth is not the only beneficial impact of tourism. Travel and leisure activities
are also social factors, since tourism is no longer an activity for the privileged
few, but rather a widespread experience for the great majority of EU citizens.
The role of RNP in Romania and within European Union should not be
underestimated. The European Tourism Commission recently presented its ideas
on how best to exploit the European tourism sector's competitive potential. It
identified the need to enhance consistent co-operation on tourism policies among
all stakeholders involved in tourism, including the European Commission,
Member States, regional and local authorities, industry, associations, and tourist
destinations such as Retezat. Specifically, the Commission aims to improve
tourism's competitiveness and sustainability. Commission members have
stressed tourism's contribution to sustainable development with a special focus
on environmental and cultural resources and the application of the Agenda 21
guidelines.
Five key competitive issues have been identified, and they provide a focus for the
implementation of the STDS. They included:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
Information exchange,
Training,
Quality Products and Services,
Sustainable development and
New technologies.
Initiatives such as the PAN Park Network support EU tourism interests. With the
Commission‟s support for a quality tourism delivery system, highly trained staff,
and a commitment to operate in accordance with sustainable tourism principles,
there is an excellent opportunity to establish Retezat as a model for Romania‟s
contribution to EU tourism development.
1.3 The Creation of the European PAN Park Network
World Wide Fund for Nature has a long history of direct an indirect involvement in
the tourism industry. In the late 90‟s they collaborated with the Dutch Leisure
Company Molecaten Group to establish the Protected Area Network (PAN)
Parks concept. The initiative was designed to combine nature conservation with
tourism through the creation of a European network of protected areas that is
meant to attract tourists, but at all times allows nature conservation to prevail
over aspects related to the use of a protected area.1 PAN Parks is a way to
identify the economic value of the natural integrity of the park, as well as to
1
http://www.panparks.com/panintro.htm
14
contribute to the protection of the area. It consolidates and integrates some of
Europe‟s most valuable national parks and protected areas into a coordinated
network of well-managed, internationally-recognized protected areas. The PAN
Parks have identified sustainable tourism as a vehicle to stimulate the local
economy. Parks serve as an attraction, or hook, to bring visitors to the region and
consequently stimulate the local economy through the direct and indirect
purchases. PAN Parks also offer unique, high quality nature-based experiences
for tourists.2
The PAN Parks project aims to provide a nature conservation-based response to
the growing market of nature-oriented tourism by creating a quality brand, which
stands for: 3
 An expanding network of well-managed protected areas with high
conservation value;
 Areas which are widely known by Europeans as natural capitals of our
continent, which they know and are proud of;
 „Must see‟ sites for visitors and wildlife lovers. They stand for responsible
high quality nature-based experiences for visitors;
 Wider public and political support for the protected areas through
changing attitudes and growing economic value of protected areas;
 New income for parks and, in particular, new jobs for people in rural areas.
1.4 Insight into Sustainable Tourism Development Context
There are many definitions of sustainable tourism development. The following
definition adapted from “Our Common Future” report defines sustainable tourism
development for RNP and surrounding region as:
"development that responds to the socio-economic and environmental
needs of present residents of the Retezat region, visitors and travel
industry without compromising the future ability of Romania’s travel
industry and their guests to meet their respective business and vacation
requirements as well as to maintain the natural value of the Park and the
surrounding region."
This definition is subsequently supported by 8 sustainable tourism principles 4:
1. Restrict the tourism impact to within the carrying capacity of the national
park‟s resources and those of the surrounding communities and territory.
2
WWF, PAN Parks – The Vision. WWF Zeist, The Netherlands, 2000
WWF, PAN Parks – A synergy between Nature Conservation and Tourism in Europe’s Protected Areas.
WWF fact sheet. WWF, December 1999
4
The Encyclopedia of Hospitality and Tourism, “Sustainable Tourism Principles,” James Mac Gregor; Van
Nostrand Reinhold, New York, 1993.
3
15
2. Maintain and enhance the stock of biological wealth within National Park and
surrounding area.
3. Minimize the depletion of non-renewable and extremely fragile mountain
resources.
4. Promote long-term tourism development that increases the economic and
educational benefits from the natural resources and maintains the biodiversity
of Retezat National Park.
5. Achieve an equitable distribution of the benefits and costs of resource use
and environmental management.
6. Provide for effective participation of local residents, local government and
communities and interest groups, including the PAAN Park Group in
environmental protection decisions and policy implementation.
7. Promote those values and ethics that contribute to sustainable tourism in the
park and surrounding territory, Romania and Europe.
8. Define a clear and comprehensive strategy that leads to the successful
adoption and implementation of a Retezat Sustainable Tourism development
strategy.
Figure 1: Sustainability graphic
16
1.5 The Importance of Sustainable Tourism in the Retezat
Region
Sustainable tourism can make a substantial contribution to the development of
the Retezat region. In order to achieve its full potential it must:
1. Make optimal use of the unique mountain environmental resources that
constitute the central attraction in tourism development, maintaining essential
ecological processes and helping to conserve natural heritage and biodiversity of
the National Park.
2. Respect the socio-cultural authenticity of the surrounding communities,
particularly these that serve as hosts and service centres for the park. It must
conserve the community‟s cultural heritage and traditional values, and contribute
to inter-cultural understanding and tolerance.
3. Ensure viable, long-term economic operations, providing socio-economic
benefits to all stakeholders that are fairly distributed, including stable employment
and income-earning opportunities and social services to host communities, and
contributing to poverty alleviation.
Sustainable tourism development requires the informed participation of all
relevant stakeholders, an engaged park administration and strong political
leadership (particularly at the county level) to ensure wide participation and
consensus building.
To achieve sustainable tourism for Retezat, the PAN Park Group and Park
Administration must embark on a continuous process that will require on-going
monitoring of visitor impacts and introducing the necessary preventive and/or
corrective measures whenever necessary.
Sustainable tourism should also maintain a high level of tourist satisfaction and
ensure a meaningful park experience for the tourists. It should raise their
awareness about sustainability issues at the park and regional level and promote
sustainable tourism practices to visitors and tourism suppliers.
Sustainable tourism in RNP and surrounding area must:

Be educational and informative. Park visitors are particularly interested
in discovering and learning about the park and adjacent region. For the
most part, they also want to learn how to help sustain its character while
deepening their own visitor experiences. Residents will also learn the
value of resources they may have been taking for granted.

Support the Values of the Region. International travellers to the region
and the park are particularly interested in supporting the local values and
17
resources. Therefore, they seek out businesses that emphasize local
character in terms of architecture, cuisine, heritage, aesthetics, and
ecology. Tourism revenues in turn raise local perceived value of those
assets.

Benefit local residents. Tour operators, particularly those from Romania,
should try to employ and train local people, buy local supplies, and use
local services.

Conserve resources. Environmentally responsible tourists prefer to
support businesses that minimize pollution, waste and energy
consumption, water usage, chemicals and toxic materials, and that
provide accommodation which is respectful of the environment.

Be sensitive to local conditions. Stakeholders anticipate development
pressures and apply limits and management techniques to prevent
unnecessary changes to the existing conditions. Local and external
businesses cooperate to sustain natural habitats, heritage sites, scenic
appeal, and local culture.

Emphasize quality over quantity. Communities measure tourism
success not by sheer numbers of visitors, but by length of stay, money
spent, and quality of experience.
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Provide a quality travel experience. Satisfied, excited visitors bring new
knowledge home and send their friends and relatives off to experience the
same thing - which will provide continuing business for the Retezat region.
1.6 Ecotourism issues
The Retezat Park‟s interest in the development of tourist activities is closely
related to ecotourism. Ecotourism offers responsible sustainable nature based
tourism, with specific ethical and practical rules: respect for natural values
(responsible travel in the nature), help in preserving nature unchanged over time
(a flow of income to assist biodiversity and cultural conservation), and
contributions to improving local community welfare (through participation in
tourist activities)
At national level ecotourism activities are developed and promoted by the
Association of Ecotourism in Romania (AER) that developed an extensive
program covering different regions of Romania. Retezat is one of the targeted
region as well as Caliman National Park, Apuseni Natural Park or Danube Delta
Biosphere Reserve.
18
AER implemented the Ecotourism Certification System in 2006. This System was
developed based on the best international available practices, such as: Nature
and Ecotourism Accreditation Program (Australian Ecotourism Association) and
Nature’s Best (Swedish Ecotourism Association). The model adopted have been
tuned according to the Romanian context through extensive consultation with the
private sector (e.g. tour-operators, guesthouse), nature conservation organisation
(e.g. World Wide Fund for Nature - WWF), National Park Service or individual
Parks, National Tourism Authority, Environment Ministry. The staff of the Retezat
National park was directly involved from the initial phase of the process.
National Tourism Authority showed interest in the ecotourism field and has
started the process of developing an Ecotourism National Strategy. There is a
special interest at the National Tourism Authority for promoting ecotourism
activities.
The growth of the ecotourism industry at international level constitutes a very
important and potentially positive factor for the Park and its communities. More
and more people are choosing ecotourism destinations, seeking involvement in
nature conservation activities, and in promoting and appreciating traditional
cultures and ways of life.
19
2. Methodology
The process of developing the current sustainable tourism strategy includes two
main phases:
1. Preparation of the Initial Version of the Sustainable Tourism
Development Strategy (STDS), Sept 2004 – Dec 2005. The process was
coordinated by the administration of Retezat National Park, and was based on
two documents:
 the draft Sustainable Tourism Strategy developed in 2003 in the
framework of the World Bank GEF project for Romanian national parks.
 a Feasibility Study on Tourism around Retezat National Park developed
under the authority of the Hunedoara County Council, with support from
Belgium, in 2003 – 2004. As a result of this study, a Land-Use
Management Plan (PUG) for RNP and the surrounding area was
developed.
2. Consultation Phase and Development of the Final Version of the STDS,
Dec 2005 – Oct 2006
Beginning in April 2006, a series of consultation and working sessions were held
in areas surrounding the park to allow local stakeholders to contribute directly to
the STDS. This phase was coordinated by the park administration, with the
assistance of the United State Agency for International Development (USAID) –
Romanian Agribusiness Development Program, the Association of Ecotourism in
Romania (AER), and Green Cross Romania.
Retezat National Park and the surrounding area was included in AER‟s priority
list for direct interventions in 2006. Pursuant to this listing, an extensive effort has
been undertaken to assist RNP in elaborating the Sustainable Tourism
Development Strategy. AER, in partnership with USAID, has led this effort, and
has already put some of the identified activities into practice (e.g. organising a
familiarisation trip in Retezat region for journalists and tour operators from United
Kingdom).
Additionally, Green Cross Romania, in partnership with the park administration,
has designed a project that creates alternative economic activities appropriate for
the region. The project is co-financed by PAN Park Foundation and UNDP, and
has already provided financial support for some of the identified activities.
The milestones of the process are listed below:


April 3, 2006, workshop facilitated by USAID-AER with RNP staff to
identify the PAN Park region, and to develop the first draft for activity and
experience based zoning of the PAN Park region;
April 4-5, 2006, workshop facilitated by USAID-AER and the park
administration with the local stakeholders;
20
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April – June 2006, development of the Sustainable Tourism Development
Strategy draft by USAID-AER;
August 23, 2006, workshop with local stakeholders facilitated by USAIDAER and the park administration;
Aug – Oct 2006, development of the Retezat Tourism Association;
Sept 2006, meeting of local stakeholders, facilitated by GCR and the park
administration;
October 16, 2006, meeting of local stakeholders for final approval of the
zoning, action plans and local PAN Park certification system;
October 16-31, 2006, elaboration of the final version of the strategy.
The resources of the region have been analysed based on available
documentation from RNP (e.g. the Park Management Plan), direct field
observation, and discussions with park staff and local tourism operators.
Specific meetings were held with park representatives and local stakeholders to
define the PAN Park region and the internal zoning. The following criteria were
considered to identify the PAN Park region:
 Manageability of the destination and the local standards,
 Readiness of stakeholders to cooperate in the framework of the PAN Park
initiative,
 Sufficient capacity for directing future tourism pressures to the area
outside Retezat National Park,
 Benefits of sustainable tourism for the surrounding communities and the
county,
 Possibility of establishing and maintaining “Retezat” as a recognisable
brand.
The internal zoning was defined according to the different types of experience
opportunities specific to the region. The zones were initially defined during
interactive workshops with park staff, and were further developed and agreed
upon during a meeting with local stakeholders in Sept 2006.
The internal zoning was designed in consideration of the Ecological Zones
identified in the Park Management Plan. Special attention was given to not
creating conflict situations between different recreation and tourism activities and
the ecological zoning of the national park (for more information on the Ecological
Zones and acceptable activities and infrastructure in the park please see
Appendix 1).
The gathering of information concerning activities in the overall context of the
region was performed using a SWOT analysis and a prioritisation. The
information was structured and analysed in the process of developing the current
document, and strategic activities were formulated as a way to guide the tourism
development for the next five years.
21
3. Resources of Retezat National Park and Adjacent
Area
There has been extensive documentation of RNP resources, and to a lesser
degree, those of the surrounding region. In reviewing these resources, this
document will borrow directly from the Retezat National Park Management
Plan prepared by the Park administration. A complete description of the natural
resource base is found in APPENDIX 2. The following presentation identifies
those assets that are of significant value to the proposed sustainable tourism
development strategy. It is important to note that a central management
responsibility of RNP is to protect and conserve biogeographically representative
samples at the national level, including natural elements with high value from the
geography, flora, fauna, hydrology, geology, palaeontology, and speleological
points of view.
3.1 Geographical and Biophysical Attractions of Retezat National
Park Region
3.1.1 Geology
Retezat National Park holds substantial interest for those interested in geology.
The Park is largely composed of the Retezat- Godeanu mountain ranges, two
large eruptive blocks that stretch out in the direction of the Lapusnicul Mare and
Barbat Rivers. The Retezat Mountains are made up of a combination of
Magamatic rock in the centre of RNP, and limestone rock in the south southwest.
3.1.2 Geomorphology
Retezat National Park is characterized by a great diversity of forms, which makes
the landscape peculiarly spectacular and attractive to hikers and nature
photographers. The large U-shaped valleys reflect the landscape structure
created by the glacier era. The most representative forms are located in the
centre of the Park.
3.1.3 Hydrology
The major watercourse is Lapusnicul Mare. Waterfalls can be found on all the
brooks within the Park.
The relic natural lakes play an important role in the hydrologic network of the
Park. Approximately 38% of the Romanian glacial lakes are situated within the
Retezat National Park. Bucura is the largest glacial lake and Zanoaga is the
deepest in Romania. A total of 58 permanent glacial lakes exist in the Retezat
22
Mountains, located between 1700 and 2300 m.
attraction for both tourists and scientists.
They represent a major
As a result of the 20th century anthropic interventions, river drainage is controlled
by reservoirs on Rau Mare.
Swamps frequently appear in the Park adjacent to springs and alpine brooks, or
as the result of the partial clogging of some glacial lakes .
3.1.4 Climate
Retezat National Park has a complex mountain climate, and its numerous
climatic conditions are determined in large part by altitude.
January is the coldest month (with temperatures between -11 and -50 C), July is
the warmest (between +16 0C and +60C) below the altitude of 1800 m and
August at higher altitudes. The coldest temperatures can be measured on the
Peleaga , Păapuşa , Retezat, Bucura peaks.
3.1.5 Flora and Vegetation
Retezat is well known nationally for its floral diversity, offering 1190 of the 3450
superior plant species known in Romania, including numerous rare species. In
fact, Retezat was declared a national park in part because more than 1/3 rd of the
flora in Romania can be found within its borders.
The alpine pastures are of a special importance because most alpine flora
species are found here, including Gentiana, Potentilla, Pulsatilla, edelweiss
(Leontopodium alpinum) and others.
The area between the cliffs and the alpine pastures is another area of special
interest, where the rose bay, Rhododendron kotschii, and dwarf pine, Pinus
mugo, can be found. The dwarf pine is a protected species in Romania and is
spread across the steep slopes of Retezat. The European pine (Pinus cembra), a
rare species, appears in larger and more compact groups than in other massifs.
3.1.6 Natural Vegetation Units
a) Habitats
The alpine and sub-alpine pastures, rocky regions, dwarf pine areas, alder tree
areas, mountain leafy forests, boreal coniferous forests, aquatic habitats and
river valley bushes represent the most important habitats for conservation and
visitor experiences in RNP.
Retezat is part of the Carpathian Eco-Region and is considered by the World
Wildlife Fund as a severely threatened eco-region.
23
Forests cover around 49% of the area. The dominant species are beech, Fagus
sylvatica, spruce fir, Picea abies, dwarf pine, Pinus mugo, European pine, Pinus
cembra, fir, Abies alba, sycamore maple, Acer pseudoplatanus, birch, Betula
pendula, alder, Alnus viridis, elm, Ulmus glabra and rowan tree, Sorbus
aucuparia.
b) Fauna
Due to its exceptionally diverse habitats, Retezat National Park contains a
particularly rich fauna, in both number of species and populations. All classes of
vertebrates living in Romania are represented in the Park.
o Bird species
There are185 species, an exceptionally large number for a mountain area. This
represents half of all species found in Romania and 122 of them nest in RNP and
nearby areas.
Rare species like the mountain eagle, Aquila chrysaetos, the small eagle, Aquila
pomarina, the serpent eagle, Circaetus gallicus, the migratory falcon, Falco
peregrinus, the mountain cock, Tetrao urogallus, the black stork, Ciconia nigra
and others, can be found.
o Mammals
55 species of mammals, representing 23% of European terrestrial mammals,
have been recorded in Retezat National Park.
RNP is a refuge for the major European large carnivores including: wolf, Canis
lupus, bear, Ursus arctos and lynx, Lynx lynx. Large herbivores such as chamois,
Rupicapra rupicapra, deer, Cervus elaphus and the roedeer, Capreolus
capreolus are also found. There are also smaller carnivores, such as wildcat
Felis silvestris and mustelines.
13 species of bats have been identified in the Park, including Rhinolophus
ferrum-equinum, Vespertilio murinus and Pipistrelus pigmaeus.
Otters, Lutra lutra can be found in some Retezat's rivers.
3.1.7 The nature reserves in the destination region
a) Paleonthologic Natural Reserves:
 The continental dinosaur deposits of Sânpetru, paleonthologic reserve,
commune Sântămărie Orlea,
 The continental dinosaur eggs deposits at Tuştea, paleonthologic reserve,
commune Unirea,
 The dinosaur Geoparcul Haţeg,
 The speologic natural reserves
24
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The carstic complexul Ponorici-Cioclovina, mixed-type reserve, in the
village of Cioclovina, commune Boşorod,
The Tecuri cave, a speological reserve, located in the Valea Pietrosului,
village of Pietros, commune of Baru Mare,
The Zeicului cave, speological reserve on the Valea Scorotei in the
limestone section of Retezat, on the territory of commune Câmpu lui
Neag,
The Coral cave, a speological reserve on the West Jiu, commune Câmpu
lui Neag,
b) Natural Botanic Reserves:
The narcissus meadows at Nucşoara, botanical reserve belonging to
commune Sălaşu de Sus,
 Peşteana moors, botanical reserve on the territory of the village of
Peşteana, commune Densuş,
 The limestone of Faţa Fetei, botanical reserve upstream Clopotiva village,
commune Râu de Mori,
 The Vârful Poienii, botanical reserve at Ohaba de sub Piatră, commune
Sălaşu de Sus,
 The Slivuţ forest, botanical reserve,
 The Crivadia Gorges, mixed-type natural reserve, at the village of
Crivadia, commune Băniţa,
 The hill and cave Bolii, mixed-type natural reserve, the village of Peştera,
commune Băniţa,
3.1.8 Cultural Heritage and Historic Attractions
The area to the north of RNP is rich in history and cultural monuments.
Evidence of Stone Age human populations has been found in the Cioclovina and
Ohaba Ponor caves. Traces of the Iron Age were discovered at Subcetate and
Unirea.
The silver coin collection discovered at Sălaşu de Sus is representative of the
Dacian civilization, while the post-Aurelian epoch coins discovered in the same
place confirm the continuity of the local population, and the economic
relationships of the Dacian/Roman inhabitants with the Byzantines.
Significant ruins from the Roman-Dacian capital, Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa
remain in the present day community of Sarmizegetusa.
In the area surrounding RNP there is a great variety of historical and cultural
sites. For the most part, they have not been developed as tourist attractions.
Included among these many sites are the following:
 Ruins from the Roman castle Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa, former capital
of Roman Dacia, and a museum exhibiting relics from that era;
 The Church of Densuş, a 10th century symbol of early Christianity and
one of the oldest Orthodox churches in the world. Services are still held in
25
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this impressive structure, which was built on the ruins of a Roman temple
dating back to the 1st century AD;
The Church of Peşteana, a 13th century building, dedicated to Saint
Prophet Elijah;
The Church of Râu de Mori, whose dedication day is “The Sunday of all
Saints”, dating back to the 10th century;
Cândea Manor in Râu de Mori, a 15th century historical monument;
unfortunately in an advanced state of degradation at present;
The mediaeval fortress and the Abbey of Colţ, Suseni – Râu de Mori;
which also belonged to the Cândea family in the 18th century;
The 13th century Church of Ostrov, in the Râului Mare glade;
Prislop Monastery, built by monk Nicodim in 1400, with the help of Mircea
the Old. Lady Zamfira, daughter of Voivode Moise, was buried here in
1580;
Sântămărie Orlea Castle, dating back to the13th century, and now
restored as a hotel;
The Church of Sântămărie Orlea, built in the 13th century;
The Church of Sânpetru, a late 13th century building;
The Church of the Serfs of Sălaş;
The Prince Fort Yard of Sălaş, dating back to the 14th century;
The mediaeval fortress of Mălăieşti, also from the 14th century;
The Church of Nucşoara; and
The Mediaeval Church of Sf. Nicolae from Râu Bărbat, first documented
in 1411.
These and other historic assets, as well as the natural resources located in and
around the park itself, represent an abundance of attractions for visitors to the
RNP region.
3.2 Socio-Economic Considerations
Employment in the industrial (coal and steel production) sector is clearly
decreasing, resulting in double-digit unemployment levels throughout the region
adjacent to the park. There has been little development in the service sector and
only modest growth in the tourism industry. The following socio-economic data
and statistics are taken from the 2001 Metromedia survey.
While the active population in the area adjacent to Retezat National Park is
roughly that of the national average (45 %), the working population is around
18%, considerably lower than the national average of 37%. In Romania as a
whole, about 50% of workers are women, but in the Retezat area they only
constitute 37% of the workforce.
Retezat forests are considered a poor direct source of economic benefit. Many
feel that the forest has no economic significance to their community, and that
benefits to individuals will only be available after restitution is completed.
26
Secondary economic benefits are derived from grazing and collection of firewood
in the forests, activities which engage more than 40% of the population.
Somewhat lower percentages of the population engage in the following gathering
activities in the forest: gathering fodder (35%), plants (19%), fruits (20%),
mushrooms (12%). But as important as these traditional activities continue to be
to local residents, they cannot sustain the economy of the Retezat area.
Many local residents recognize the economic opportunities presented by RNP.
13% of the respondents to the 2001 survey expressed interest in starting a
forest-related business in the area of the park, most of these being interested in
providing tourist services (62%).
According to the survey, the most important reasons for dissatisfaction among
local residents are:
a. Lack of available financial resources.
b. Lack of employment opportunities
c. Difficulties in starting a private business in the area.
e. Lack of assistance and initiative from the town halls of the area.
In conclusion, the employment situation in the destination area is bleak, and
traditional uses of the forests no longer provide direct economic benefits to local
residents. Therefore, sustainable tourism development can be a way of providing
new jobs and income. Furthermore, residents have expressed interest in
providing tourism-related services and facilities. However, a lack of available
financial resources deters many from starting small businesses…
3.3 Tourism facilities and services
3.3.1 Tourism Facilities
According to the 2001 Metromedia survey, a mere 6% of the households within
the area of the park have participated in tourism activities. While this percentage
has grown slightly over the last 4 years, it seems to remain below 10%. This is a
relatively low participation rate considering the draw of Romania‟s oldest and
most revered national park. However, the same 2001 survey indicates that an
impressive 30% of residents in the area plan to become involved in the tourism
sector. Given the interest and numbers of participants in a workshop held in April
2006 to launch the PAN Park Group, significant growth in the number of local
tourism suppliers is certainly a possibility.
Guesthouses and pensions:
The National Tourism Authority indicates that there are at least 11 officially
authorised guesthouses, and probably as many or more which have not been
classified.
27
Mountain cabins and shelters:
These cabins are either in the park or very close to the park boundary and
constitute a special category of accommodation. They include Pietrele cabin with
80 beds, and the Rotunda with 20 beds.
In the upper mountain area there are four mountain shelters designated as
emergency accommodations: Genţiana, Condor, Poiana Pelegii and Buta.
Motels and hotels:
There are also two motels in Râuşor and Cheile Buţii that can accommodate
large groups: 110 beds in Râuşor and 120 beds in Cheile Buţii.
In addition, there are 3 smaller hotels in Hateg.
Campsites:
Campgrounds are important sources of accommodation in the region. They exist
both within and outside the park borders (See the Map), but are currently
substandard and below international visitor expectations. They also present
environmental problems.
Figure 2: Map of the allowed camping site within the National Park borders
(Source: Retezat National Park Administration)
28
3.3.2 Tourism Services
Transportation
 Transportation to the area
The nearest airports are in Timisoara and Sibiu, both of which are two to three
hours away by car, There are, however, regular fast train and mini bus services
to the south entrance of the park from Petroşani or Uricani. There are no regular
transportation services to the north park entrances.
Currently, rail transport is the most popular mode of transportation to the park
area. Park visitors use the Simeria–Petroşani railway, arriving at the Subcetate
rail station (fast and slow trains) or Ohaba de sub Piatră (slow trains).
 Transportation within the area and to the park entrances
There is inadequate public transportation within the destination area. However,
there is road access to the following park entrances: Cârnic, Gura Apei, Râuşor,
Stâna de Râu, Buta and Câmpuşel.
Vehicle traffic is increasingly popular and there is an increasing need for parking.
Medical services
Hospital bed capacity is 12 beds per 1000 inhabitants, which is higher than the
national average. Emergency access to medical care is comparable to the
figures at the national level (around 30 minutes).
Emergency Rescue Services
The „Salvamont‟ (mountain rescue) teams play an important role in Retezat
National Park. They are responsible for the emergency rescue of injured, lost or
exhausted tourists and other visitors in danger. Two rescue teams operate in
RNP; one in the north (the Hunedoara rescue team) and another in the south
(the Lupeni rescue team).
Information and Interpretive Services
Retezat National Park Administration has recently begun to provide information
about the park to the public using information panels at park entrances, a series
of maps and brochures, and a web site (www.retezat.ro). The administration is
also developing the interpretive facilities at the Nucsora and Ostrovel Visitor
Information Centres. There is still inadequate information at the regional and
national level, particularly on transportation, services and accommodation in the
area.
There are both private and Salvamont mountain guides available to assist
organised groups.
29
Marketing and Promotion Services
There are several organizations that contribute directly or indirectly to generating
interest in the area. Each group promotes independently and there is no
coordination between the various marketing efforts.
Some of the more significant promotion sources (and the promotional methods
they use) include:
 Rural tourism associations and individual pension owners (web sites and
brochures)
 Local eco tourism organizations
 The National Tourism Authority (directories, web site, FAM trips, trade
shows, etc.)
 Local communities and authorities (pamphlets and brochures)
 Local and international tour operators (tour package brochures and web
sites)
 Hunedoara County Council (brochures)
 Local forest districts (Retezat, Pui and Lupeni)
 Retezat National Park Administration (web site, brochures)
 Other professional associations, such as the Salvamont Teams
 Local private entrepreneurs (brochures)
A review of this list indicates that most promotion currently takes the form of the
traditional brochure and flyer. While there are a number of web sites that mention
RNP, none of them use electronic marketing techniques to promote and “sell” the
RNP area as a tourist destination.
There is little or no participation at international trade shows, and very few FAM
or media tours visit the region.
30
4. SWOT Analysis
As part of the evaluation of the current situation, a SWOT analysis was
performed during a workshop (April 2006) with regional stakeholders. By the
end of the session, a series of clusters were identified and ranked in terms of
perceived importance for the stakeholders. The attendance to the workshop
was formed by local tourism operators (e.g. guesthouse owners, guides),
representatives of the public sector (e.g. local municipality, County Council,
Environment Protection Agency) and the Park administration. The results are
presented below, in the following table.
SWOT Analysis
Importance
rank
Strengths
Retezat National Park existence and UNESCO recognition
Nature diversity + wilderness + endemic species
Trail network
Accommodation network under development
Authorized Mountain Guides existence
Rich diversity of cultural and historical sites in PP region
neighborhood
International recognized mountain destination
Mountain Rescue Service
Mountain refuges
Traditional products
Dinosaurs Geopark and Cioclovina – Gradistea Muncelului
Natural Park vicinity
Weaknesses
Lack of coordination and partnerships
Reduced promotional activities
Facilities
Lack of urban planning
Lack of tourists education
Roads
Weak field communication possibilities
Illegal pensions – unfair competition
Lack of information about Retezat NP
Lack of tourism services and programs
Lack of tourism experience and knowledge
Alpine cabin heating during winter season
Parking places
Lack of interpretation at region level
Weak presence of police and gendarmerie on mountain area
Low capacities to access funds
Lack of tourism signs policy
31
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
2
2
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
2
2
Opportunities
Retezat NP certified as a PAN Park member
Possibility to create a diversity of tourism products
Increased demand for ECO destinations – international market
Increased income of potential Romanian tourists
Low starting investment
Potential for bio products
Support from park administration
Became an EU member
Alternative energy resources
Threats
Mass tourism programs – SUPER SCHI in Carpathians
Illegal use of natural resources – timber, hunting, fishing,
grazing
Lack of enforcement of land use plans / inexistence of land use
plans
Bad waste and used water management
Lack of funds for park administration
Collecting water streams for electricity / working sites
Increased mass tourism – uncontrolled
Low presence of Romania on tourism market
Weak planning on national level for sustainable tourism
Land restitution
1
1
1
2
2
2
2
2
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
3
Table 1: Results of the SWOT analysis with stakeholders in the Retezat Region
(April 2006);
Ranking: 1 - most important, 2 – very important, 3 – important.
The results show a high level of understanding of the advantage brought by
the fact that Retezat is declared a National Park. Furthermore, this strength is
supported by the opportunity that Retezat is part of the PAN Park family and
that the region includes two other important protected areas: Dinosaurs
Geopark and Cioclovina – Gradistea Muncelului Natural Park vicinity. With
such a positive perception, the local stakeholders have good base for
developing the area having as main attraction the Parks in the region.
The analysis of the current state brings a realistic view upon the low quality of
infrastructure and services for tourists, as well as a lack of a structure in the
area able to coordinate tourism development.
The identified threats point out very clearly that the regional stakeholders
have a good understanding of the major problems that put pressure on the
area, such as: mass tourism under the Super Ski Program or lack of
enforcement of land use planning, bad waste management. The lack of funds
for Park administration was also specifically emphasized as a major threat for
the region.
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The outcome of the SWOT analysis formed the basis of this document, being
used for shaping the first set of activities, which was further developed
throughout the following meetings and refined by the authors of this report.
33
5. Market Analysis and Branding
5.1 Visitor Survey
Information about tourist activities in the Retezat National Park region has been
monitored through a series of tourism surveys. The first survey implemented by
the Retezat National Park Administration took place between June and
September, 2000, at main entrances to RNP.
The goal was to develop a quantitative and qualitative understanding of the
tourist flow in the area. These first results helped park and tourism planners to
understand tourism characteristic in Retezat, and also show which market
segments are underrepresented and where improvement and development is
required. In order to develop those segments, this STDS must respond to the
demands and interests of the tourists. While this survey is already 6 years old,
further observation suggests that no substantial changes have occurred in either
the volume of park visitors or the visitor profile.
In summer 2000, Retezat had more than 8,000 visitors. More recent surveys
indicate that tourism may since have increased by as much as 30%, and that the
park now receives approximately 10,000 summer visitors. It is estimated that
50% of these visitors spend an average of 4 nights in the park, resulting in
20,000 visitor nights. If the remaining 5000 visitors, who currently constitute day
users only, can be kept in the region for 2.5 nights, an additional 12,500 visitor
nights could be realized, for a total of 32,500 visitor nights per summer.
The questionnaire revealed that the motivations for visiting the area are, in order
of importance:
[1] Hiking
[2] Nature
[3] Climbing
[4] Picnicking
The most frequently noted motivations are thus closely related to the uniqueness
of Retezat National Park. The survey suggests that hiking and climbing in
particular, and nature activities in general, could contribute to extended stays in
the RNP area.. These additional visitor nights, if properly managed, could have a
substantial economic impact on the park and region.
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Visitor age
Figure 3: Age distribution of the current tourists in the Retezat National
Park (Source: Retezat National Park Administration)
Age distribution is presented in the above graph. Of interest is the fact that 3 out
of 4 (74%) Retezat visitors are young people between the ages of 18 and 35, and
less than 17% are over 35. Clearly, the Park is not attracting the more financiallysecure over-35 year old segment of the population, which would have a
substantially greater impact on the local economy.
35
Accommodation
Figure 4: Type of accommodation used by tourists in the Retezat National
Park (Source: Retezat National Park Administration)
More than 50% of Retezat visitors are not using any commercial accommodation,
but instead are using their own tents. Subsequently, there is currently a very low
economic impact on the accommodation sector.
Visitor Entrance
Figure 5: The entrances to the Retezat National Park used by current
tourists (Source: Retezat National Park Administration)
36
The most used park entrance was Cârnic, through which 70 % of visitors enter
RNP. This is an acceptable situation because it is the most accessible entrance
and because it allows easy access to a trailhead offering the opportunity for a
number of multi-day hikes. Less than 2% of RNP visitors enter at Rotunda, thus
providing the opportunity to consider this entrance, in the middle of the park, a
gateway to high-quality wilderness experience.
Source of Visitors
The survey revealed a relatively high number of foreign visitors to the park (20 %
in year 2000), with most from Hungary and Czech Republic. However,
observation suggests that foreign tourist are using relatively few local services,
and are instead are bringing their own provisions and guides.
Given Retezat‟s unique resources and the recent interest of Western European
tour operators in Romania as a travel destination, the percentage of foreign
visitors to the park could well increase. These visitors should be encouraged
because they tend to stay longer in the park and the region. They should also be
persuaded to purchase and use local goods and services.
Conclusion
There are several important conclusions to be drawn from this survey:
1. Hiking and nature observation and appreciation within the unique
wilderness environment of Retezat are the main attractions that motivate
tourists to spend time within the area of RNP.
2. There is a lack of visitors in the wealthier, more educated 45 to 65 year old
segment of the population
3. There is a lack of support for local accommodation because more than
half of the visitors use their own tents
4. The Western European market has not been developed and consequently
represents little impact in the region.
5.2
Visitor Projections
There is inadequate information to make an accurate projection of visitor levels to
the park and destination region over the next 5 years (2007 – 2011). However, it
is important to have an overall sense of potential arrivals in order to prepare a
comprehensive strategy and to identify development objectives (accommodation,
attractions, programs, etc.).
Ideally, annual surveys must continue to monitor visitor volumes and profiles in
order to continually build on the recommendations of this strategy.
The following assumptions are proposed to estimate visitor growth:
37





The park had 20,000 visitor nights in 2006 and an additional 12,500 visitor
nights were spent adjacent to the park
Improvement of park and area facilities will continue to attract more
visitors
Inclusion in the PAN Park Network will result in substantial international
awareness after 2008
The creation of the PAN Park Group, working with the park administration,
will provide a new vehicle for increased marketing and exposure of the
region, especially in the domestic market,
Increased interest by both receptive domestic tour operators (e.g. in
nearby Sibiu and Timisoara) and foreign tour wholesalers will bring more
extended stay packages.
Year
2006
2007
2007
2008
2009
2010
Increase rate (%)
Reference year
10%
15%
20%
20%
15%
Visitor nights
35, 750
39,325
45,224
54,269
65,122
74,891
Table 2: Estimate of increase rate of visor nights in the Retezat Region
It is conservatively projected that tourism will double in RNP and the adjacent
region within the next 5 years.
The final projected level of visitor volume could be higher by 2010 if the following
goals could be realized:
 A substantial increase in visitors referred by foreign operators attracted to
the wilderness character of the park.
 Increased marketing through the PAN Park network with FAM tours, and
participation in travel shows
 Increased Romanian interest in visiting wilderness areas
 Improved accommodation and other services within RNP
5.2
International Tourism Trends affecting Retezat National
Park and Surrounding Region
The demand for access to parks and protected areas is increasing annually and
seemingly across all market segments. In Canada, for instance, where national
parks generated an estimated 1.2 billion euro in 2005, visitor growth has been
expanding at 5% to 7% annually over the past decade, according to Parks
Canada. This increase has been fueled by visits from European, American and,
of course, Canadian travellers.
38
Similar trends can be found in the demand for the national park experience in
Europe. Interest in parks and protected areas can be expected to grow as a
function of dramatic changes that are shaping the way Europeans and North
Americans live and travel. An aging population, changing values and lifestyles,
increased education, and technology all combine to position parks and their
surrounding areas as increasingly desirable destinations.
Parks and local tourism officials must always be assessing these changes and
trends in order to meet the demands of the marketplace (the park visitors) while
still maintaining those values that make the parks important regional and national
tourist attractions.
The following trends are therefore presented as a setting to this sustainable
tourism strategy, as well as a guide to assist the PAN Park Group in making the
important decisions to ensure that RNP and the surrounding region is established
as a sustainable tourism destination.
These trends are a compilation of many research papers from North America and
Europe and were initially presented to the Association of Ecotourism in Romania.
They were offered as part of the National Ecotourism Marketing Workshop in
Zarnesti (December 2005) within the USAID-Romania Agribusiness
Development Project.
The following overviews of the trends are presented as an introduction to those
tendencies that will shape park visitation in the next decade.
1. The European and American population will continue aging
Europeans and Americans in older age categories (55+) will rapidly increase.
Seniors will be healthier and will have higher disposable incomes than in the
past. Many of them will enjoy retirement incomes that allow for several vacations
per year.
The challenge for the Retezat regional tourism sector will be to offer:
 More comfortable, safe and highly personal service.
 Educational tour products (medicinal plants, bird watching, nature
photography, etc.).
 Short, high quality excursions, frequently in the spring and fall.
2. More Experienced Travelers
The aging travel market will be characterized by increasingly experienced and
sophisticated consumers who will be more self-assured regarding their needs
and expectations. This results in an increasingly critical attitude toward quality,
and with respect to the price-quality ratio, or ‟value-for-euro‟. The Retezat tour
product can become more expensive (and have a higher yield), but the value
must also increase.
39
The challenge for the Retezat regional tourism sector will be to offer:
 High quality, specialty products to be positioned as a competitive
destination.
 Authentic tourism experiences related to the presentation of rural culture,
heritage restoration, wilderness values, etc.
 Packages that recognize the increasing preference for mobility, which will
further stimulate rentals of vehicles and the fly-drive market out of Sibiu
and Timisoara.
 A full, varied, totally balanced mix of tourist activities and services, which
will require will require the local association to provide better destination
management.
3. Increased Levels of Awareness and Education
Education levels in all age groups are increasing. This will drive greater interest
in nature, culture and history including more educational and spiritual tourism.
The implications for the Retezat regional tourism sector include the following:
 Increasing demand for a wide variety of special interest products that
emphasize learning, self-awareness and self-discovery.
 The need to include tour components relating to the arts, culture (rural,
Romanian) and history (monasteries, churches in package tours, and selfdirected itineraries).
 The need for better and more creative, educational and entertaining
communication of information.
4. Increased Demand for Safety and Security
Bird flu, terrorism, pollution, crime and other crises will increasingly and influence
the need for (older) travelers to feel safe and secure. National [arks tend to be
viewed as safe destinations, and this can be used to a regional advantage as the
need for safety and security increases. Those destinations perceived as safe will
increasingly be preferred.
The implications for the Retezat regional tourism sector include the following:
 An expectation by tourists of high water quality (in lakes and rivers,
guesthouses and restaurants).
 An expectation by tourists of a “clean” and “fresh” destination..
 Increased costs associated with guaranteeing safety and security..
 An expectation by tourists to see visible proof of safety and protection
(e.g. environmental policies, certification and operator codes of conduct).
5. Increased awareness and concern for health and well-being
Health-consciousness will continue to increase and will affect the type of
destinations that are chosen by discriminating travellers. This could have
significant implications for Retezat, given the draw of a national park (positive),
as well as the vestiges of the former industrial complex, such as the dam and
40
reservoir (negative).
The implications for the Retezat regional tourism sector include the following:
 Destinations that are perceived as less healthy (in terms of pollution,
environmental degradation, etc.) will tend to be overlooked and rejected.
 Active vacations will continue to increase in popularity, as well as the
demand for facilities that make these types of vacations accessible (e.g.
well marked interpretive trails, comfortable but remote accommodation).
 The demand for “wellness and fitness” products will increase, including
hiking, biking, canoeing and cross-country skiing.
7. Increased Importance of Leisure Time
The increase in pressure on the daily lives of the Western people will be
balanced by increased time dedicated to leisure activities, and an increase in
disposable income.
The implications for the Retezat regional tourism sector include the following:
 An increasing need to supply additional low-cost but high value products.
 An ncreasing need to offer relaxation.
 A shortening of the longer main holiday in favor of more short ones.
8. Changes in Western Lifestyles
Western Lifestyles are gradually changing and this will have a significant impact
on tourist needs and behavior.
The implications for the Retezat regional tourism sector include the following:
 Demand for guesthouse/pensions and other forms of rural accommodation
will increase if tied to interesting day trips and quality standards.
 Tourist demands are becoming more personalized, leading to increased
demand for smaller sized accommodation units (like smaller authentic
family hotels, lodges, restored heritage homes, bungalows and safari-style
tent camps).
 Demand is increasing for attractive products, concepts and services that
distinguish the region from the competition by their added value.
 Demand is increasing for specialized holidays revolving around specific
hobbies and interests, and for vacations focused on ethno botany, bird
watching or wildlife photo safaris.
 A preference for “Back to basics” experiences will result in preferences for
simpler vacations based on hiking and biking and simple lodging.
9. Increased Use of Information technology
The penetration of the Internet - and its use for travel information and purchasing
tourism products and services - will increase substantially in the next 5 years.
The role of the Internet will increase still further, and will prove to be of the utmost
importance in future.
41
The implications for the Retezat regional tourism sector include the following:
 Readily available tourist information on most destinations and products,
and increasingly sophisticated search engines to analyze such information
will lend itself to comparison, and thus influence competition. Experienced
tourists will increasingly put together their own trips on a modular basis
with direct bookings and dynamic packaging.
 Internet e-marketing, including the application of Customer Relations will
be important for the tourism association.
 Destination branding and target marketing will increase.
 The availability of in-depth information (content) on suppliers‟ products,
either in the destination and national park or accessible through links, will
become a basic precondition for the success of websites.
10. Changing modes of Transportation
The increasing availability of low-cost carriers will influence travel flows.
The major consequences for the Retezat tourism sector include the following:
 While Budapest, is the closet airport to attract low cost carriers, new flights
to Sibiu could open up opportunities for the region.
 The increasing availability of direct links by train and plane will stimulate
demand for international short breaks to cities to the detriment of rural
areas.
11. Growth in Environmental Awareness
Environmental consciousness will continue to increase. According to the
European Tourism Commission, this will result in more demand for sustainable
destinations, in which natural and local culture will play an increasingly prominent
role. In order to mitigate the costs for sustainability, the price will increasingly be
passed on to the tourists.
The implications for the Retezat regional tourism sector are:
 Destination management policies need to be improved through more
coherent and consistent sustainable tourism planning and development.
 There will be a preference for destinations where there is strong support
and hospitality from the local population.
 Tourists will increasing seek out regions that have a natural environment
that is intact.
 Ecotourism and all forms of environmentally responsible (or sustainable)
tourism will increase as more suppliers appreciate the demands of the
market place.
42
5.2 Positioning Retezat National Park and Region
The positioning of RNP and the surrounding region will create the basis for
product development and marketing. Individual target markets will be identified
and the types of potential values and benefits that appeal to these markets will
be described. It will then be the responsibility of the PAN Park Group and Park
Administration to ensure that these benefits are delivered by offering quality
products and experiences.
Focusing on these stimulating experiences and values in the marketing
campaign will encourage increased visits to the region.
5.2.1 Potential Market Segments
The market segments with the greatest potential for visits the RNP over the next
5 years have been identified from a number of sources including:
 Previous market data collection by the park administration
(Metromedia Survey)
 Discussions with local operators and suppliers
 Knowledge of the ecotourism, educational and adventure travel markets
The following markets have been selected because they offer a high (Priority 1)
and medium level (Priority 2) opportunity for the park and region.
Current and potential target markets assessment:
A) Ecotourists / Nature Tourists and Geotourists (PRIORITY 1)
RNP and the surrounding landscape has the potential to attract large numbers of
ecotourists interested in experiencing the wilderness (or accessible „wildness‟) of
RNP, as well as the culture of rural Romania. Many will use the local villages
(and guesthouses) as staging areas for multiple day hikes into RNP to discover
the mountain landscape, diverse flora and fauna and alpine environment.
Its exceptional biodiversity suggests that RNP could become one of the most
popular mountain and nature-based sustainable tourism destinations in Romania
if well promoted. However, its relatively remote location, as well as the lack of low
cost carriers (LCC‟s) and major highways, limits domestic and international visits.
Nevertheless, RNP‟s distinctive geological character, exceptional number of
endangered and endemic species, and spectacular scenery can make it a major
attraction for hikers, trekkers, bird watchers, amateur geologists and ethno
botanists, in addition to individuals interested in the overall mountain environment
and alpine landscape.
43
Ecotourists are environmentally responsible and expect tour suppliers to
demonstrate respect for the local environment as well as operate on green
principles. Successful positioning the RNP region as a sustainable tourism
destination will enable the various tour products to be differentiated from other
national parks in Romania and Eastern Europe.
 The Geotourist
Geotourists travel to experience the character or „sense‟ of a special region or
place. They are particularly attracted to rural areas with its mix of landscape and
traditional villages. They represent one of the better market opportunities for the
RNP region. Market research suggests that there may be as many as 20 million
Europeans with this interest. They would expect unique experiences and leave
the destination with knowledge of its distinctive characteristics. They are
environmentally responsible and prefer to visit intact natural and cultural
environments. They are interested in comfort but are prepared to accept small
inconveniences to support the protection of the environment. Like ecotourists,
they are attracted to regions that are developed on sustainable tourism practices.
They will be attracted by access to a national park (of exceptional beauty and
protected biodiversity) that is also surrounded by a region with a rich cultural
heritage and vibrant village life.
B) Adventure Travellers
This market segment differs from the geotourist because adventure travellers are
more interested in participating in a challenging and exciting experience than
strictly discovering the unique biophysical and cultural character of RNP and
surrounding region. They are interested in alpine hiking, climbing, mountain
biking, primitive camping and trekking. However, they are also attracted to the
relatively remote, wild and untouched nature of the RNP region, which provides a
sense of freedom and isolation, and an opportunity for self-dependant skilltesting and rugged activities. The wild mountain environment provides the
adventure traveller with a sense of exploration and excitement that they seek.
C) Scientific Tourism
As Romania‟s oldest national park, RNP offers researchers an invaluable
laboratory for research in a variety of areas, including endemic and rare flora,
birdlife, and large carnivores. In particular, scientific tourists will be attracted by
the assurance that this protected area will provide on-going research
opportunities for many generations.
Research can also take place beyond the Strictly Protected Areas or „Scientific
Reserves‟‟. This opens opportunities for students and amateur nature enthusiasts
who are interested in studying everything from wolves to frogs to lichens.
D) Educational Travellers:
The Retezat destination region can be exceptionally interesting to this market
segment. Their extended stay vacations and interest in „learning vacations‟ would
44
be a natural fit with the heritage and natural resources of this region. The
unspoiled nature of the park, as well as the wealth of historic learning
opportunities all within a distinct rural cultural context, is particularly interesting to
this segment. Educational tourists are a more sophisticated and well-travelled
market, so the opportunity to experience and learn from an unspoiled and
protected environment will be particularly appealing. Like other environmentally
responsible travellers, educational tourists will expect the tour operators to offer a
green product based on sustainable practices.
E) Regional Study Groups
Groups of students and associations from other parts of the county and beyond
can contribute to the local economy. Their particular interest, be it for learning or
simply the experience of a local national park, can draw them to the region for
several days. This travel frequently takes place in he shoulder season.
F) Pass through and fly-drive market
This segment is either en route to southern Romania, heading towards Western
Europe, or simply visiting the area. These visitors are frequently travelling in an
automobile or camper and would be attracted by a region that is positioned as an
all-inclusive destination, with a visitor reception and orientation centre, quality
guesthouses and fully serviced campgrounds, trail systems, and relatively easy
access into and within the park. A quality RNP Interpretation and Visitor Centre
and a comprehensive interpretive trail system is essential.
G) Family Tourists
Romanian and Eastern European (Bulgarian, Czech, Hungarian, Moldavian,
Ukrainian, etc.) family tourists can eventually be attracted to the more remote
regions of the country if there are adequate activities and diverse
accommodation (serviced campgrounds, guesthouses, tent camps, budget
hotels, etc,). However, the competition by other nature-based destinations and
national parks is high. To attract Romanians and Eastern Europeans to this
destination, it will be necessary to position the location as an exclusive and
unique part of Romania that has adequate facilities and features for all family
members. This would include excellent interpretation structures and programs.
H) Business travellers and conference delegates
There are no data on the arrival of business travellers in to the region.
However, the relative remoteness of the region can hold an interest for those
interested in small group seminars and workshops, particularly if associated with
the environment or the economic development of depressed regions.
A complete list of tourism segments is located in APPENDIX 4
5.2.2 Positioning the individual market segments
45
Each market segment will be assessed to identify the positioning that will be
most effective. The components in the position process will include:
a) Resources: the key resources in RNP and the surrounding region that are
available to attract the market segment and position the destination
b) Product Opportunity: the types of development that are necessary to
support the visitor experience
c) Brand: value and benefits: The essential experiences the visitor will
encounter will be presented as a benefit to their personal growth and
enjoyment
d) Positioning: The mix of resources, products and benefits will be combined
to identify a positioning of the destination for each segment
46
Retezat Product/Market : Matching and Positioning
Market Segments
Resources
Product
Opportunity
Brand: Values
and Benefits
Positioning
Priority # 1
ECOTOURISTS
and
GEOTOURISTS
Alpine ecologists
Amateur
Geologists and
Geomorphologists
Mountain
Environment and
wilderness
enthusiasts
Wildlife
observation
enthusiasts and
nature
photographers
- Mountain
vegetation
enthusiasts (e.g.
medicinal plants) -
Alpine
landscape and
environment
- 1-7 day
packages in the
alpine area
- Alpine ecology
interpretation and
supporting signs
- Alpine specialist
guides
- Education and
knowledge on a
threatened
environment
- Exotic and
unique landscape
- Adventure and
solitude
Pristine spectacular
and alpine
wilderness setting
for learning and
unique discovery
and experiences
Unique geology - 4 to 7 day
and formations packages in and
adjacent to RNP
- Geology and
geomorphology
area to the RNP
Interpretation
Centre
20,000
- 3 to 12 day
hectares of
packages in RNP
mountain and
- Mountain
wild landscape Ecology
Interpretation
Centre
- Major
- 1 to 10 day
European large packages
carnivores:
- Ecology centre
Wolf, bear, lynx - Knowledgeable
- Large
guides
herbivores
chamois + roe
deer
- Spectacular
scenery
- Endemic and - 3 to 5 day
rare species
packages
- Threatened
- RNP plant
plants
Interpretation
- Education and
knowledge on the
ancient geology of
the region
- Adventure and
solitude
- Experience a
unique geological
experience in a
wilderness setting
- Inspiring rock
formations
- Solitude and
isolation
- Exotic and
unique landscape
European mountain
wilderness
- Viewing of rare
and exciting
species (bear,
wolf, lynx)
- Exceptional
landscape beauty
- Wild and pristine
distinctive
landscape
- Animals in their
natural environment
- Experience
plants in their
natural ecosystem
- Protected in
Exceptional plant
viewing and study
in a natural
wilderness context
47
Amateur Ethno
botanists
exhibit
- Trained guides
perpetuity
ADVENTURE
TRAVELLERS
Mountain Hiking
and Trekking
- Carpathian
Eco- Region
- 200 Km of
scenic alpine
and valley
environments
- Scenic values
and vistas
- Alpine
ecosystem
- Exceptional
geology
- 3 to 12 day
packages
- Semi permanent
Tent camps and
serviced
campgrounds
- Expanded multiuse trail system
- Local tour
operator
- Experience the
solitude of pristine
wilderness
- Rare and
endemic species
- Exception
biodiversity
- Isolation and
contemplation
- Personnel
satisfaction
- Self-discovery
Experience one of
Europe‟s last truly
wild, spectacular
environments
- The magic and
excitement of a
protected mountain
environment
Multi-activity
Mountain biking
- Relatively flat
terrain adjacent
to the RNP
- Paved roads
- RNP trail
system (day
hikes)
- Quaint
Romanian
village and
traditional
agriculture
- 185 species
- Rare species
mountain
eagle, the
small eagle
(serpent eagle
migratory
falcon
mountain cock
the black stork
- Râului Mic
and
Lăpuşnicului
Valleys
200 Km of
- 3 to 7 day
packages
- Camp sites and
guesthouses
-Off-road trail
networks and
signs
- Park trail system
- Local tour
operators
- Experience
Romanian village
life and character
- Education and
exploration,
knowledge of a
regional economy
in transition
- Challenge and
personnel
satisfaction
Experience the
captivating mix of
traditional rural
people and
character with
protected
wilderness
- 3 to 10day
packages
- Semi permanent
Tent camps –
observation
platforms
- Expanded trail
system
- Local tour
operator and
guides
Experience
exceptional birdlife
diversity in a
spectacular
wilderness setting
- Enjoy solitude
and contemplation
- Birdlife
education
- Challenge
- Discovery and
exploration
- Wild and pristine
distinctive
landscape
- Exceptional bird
watching in their
natural environment
and protected area
- 3 to 8 day
- Experience of
Experience the
Bird watchers
Trekking with
48
horses/mules
Mini-van
Excursions
CULTURAL
HERITAGE
TOURISM
Arts and crafts
enthusiasts
Special cultural
Events
Participants
Cultural heritage
tourists
scenic alpine
and valley
environments
- Scenic values
and vistas
- Mountain
ecosystem and
rural
landscapes
- Exceptional
geology
- Rural
landscape and
village life
- Impact of
former coal and
steel industries
packages
- Semi permanent
tent camps
- Serviced
campgrounds
- Expanded multiuse trail system
- Local tour
operator
solitude and
contemplation
- Education and
self-awareness
- Challenge
-Exploration
captivating mix of
traditional rural
people and
character with
protected
wilderness
- 3 to 6 day
packages
- Guesthouses and
country inns
- Farm-stays
- Geopark exhibits
- Personnel
satisfaction
- Exploration and
discover
- Learning and
Relationships
Experience the
unique mix of rural
landscape,
protected area and
former industrial
structures
Arts and crafts
outlets and
markets
- Contact with
local artists
- Available
start-up microcredit
Craft training
for artists
- Weaving
- Traditional
cloths – wood
sculptures
Local traditions
- Music
- Food
preparation
- Harvests
- Horses
- 2 to 4 day
packages
- Arts and Craft
tourist complex
(display and
production)
- Regional craft
training school
- Appreciation for
traditional
Romanian craft
culture
- Animation and
tourist tuition
courses
- Specific traditional
and rural arts and
crafts of Hunedoara
County
- 3 to 4 days
itineraries
- Guesthouse
accommodation
- Regional visitor
reception and
orientation centre
- Local receptive
tour operator
- 4- 8 day
packages
- Knowledge and
excitement of
traditional
Romania cultural
activities
- Animation and
tourist participation
programs
Living traditional
activities and early
European culture
- Specific traditional
activities of
Hunedoara County
- Unique and
exotic ancient
Living traditional
activities and early
- Rural
Romanian
49
Culture of
Hunedoara
County
- Mix of historic
churches and
monasteries
- History of coal
mining and
steel
production
SCIENTIFIC
TOURISM
Geology and
Geomorphology
Rare plants
- Floral
diversity of
mountain
ecosystemEndemic alpine
flora
Endemic and Rare
European fauna
- Species from
all the
Carpathian
habitats
- Major
European large
carnivores:
Wolf, bear, lynx
- Large
herbivores
EDUCATIONAL
TOURISM
Rural Romanian
Cultural
enthusiasts
Village
lifestyles and
transitions, Living legends
- Heritage
buildings
- Accommodation
in local
guesthouses
- Heritage
interpretation
programs
- Heritage site
restoration
- Local receptive
tour operator
heritage
- Multiple cultures:
Roman, Dacian,
etc
European culture
- Park ecological
research camp
- Semi permanent
tent camp
- - RNP Geology
Interpretation
exhibit
- Park ecological
research camp
- Semi permanent
tent camp
- RNP plant
Interpretation
exhibit
- Park ecological
research camp
- Semi permanent
tent camp
- RNP fauna
Interpretation
exhibit
- Inspiration and
understanding
- Personnel
Satisfaction
Experience and
study the unique
geological
formation in a
protected
wilderness area
- New scientific
knowledge and
understanding
- Personnel
satisfaction and
fulfilment
- New scientific
knowledge and
understanding
- Unique,
spectacular and
protect environment
for rare fauna
- New scientific
knowledge and
understanding
- Unique and
spectacular protect
environment for
endemic fauna
- Regional
Interpretation and
Orientation Centre
- Traditional
guesthouse
accommodation
- Discovery of
unique traditional
Romania culture
and lifestyles
- Live the
traditions
50
- New scientific
knowledge and
understanding
- Personnel
satisfaction and
fulfilment
Experience the
lifestyle of
traditional
Romanian families,
villagers and
farmers.
- Traditional
agriculture
techniques
Mountain
Environment
Enthusiasts
DOMESTIC
TOURISTS
Romanian
Families
REGIONAL
STUDY GROUPS
Students
The flora and
fauna of the
Retezat
mountains and
Carpathian
eco-region
- People-to-People
Program
- Receptive tour
operator
Mountain
interpretation
centre
- Semi permanent
Tent camps –
observation
platforms
- Expanded trail
system
- Local tour
operator and
guides
- Authentic
activities and
understanding
- Experience the
solitude of pristine
wilderness
- Rare and
endemic species
- Exception
biodiversity
- Isolation and
contemplation
- Personnel
satisfaction
- Self-discovery
Experience one of
Europe‟s last truly
wild, spectacular
environments
- The magic and
excitement of a
protected mountain
environment
- Rural
Romanian
Culture of
Hunedoara
County
- Mix of historic
churches and
monasteries
- Access to
RNP trails and
interpretation
- Regional
Interpretation and
Orientation Centre
- Traditional
guesthouse
accommodation
- People-to-People
Program
- Fully serviced
campgrounds
- Discovery of
unique traditional
Romania culture
and lifestyles
- Experience the
feeling of pristine
wilderness
Experience the
lifestyle of
traditional villagers
and farmers.
- Experience one of
Romania‟s last truly
wild, spectacular
environments
The endemic
and rare flora
and fauna of
the Retezat
Mountains and
the Carpathian
eco-region
- 1-2 day
packages
- Semi permanent
Tent camps and
serviced
campgrounds observation
platforms
- Interpretive trail
system
- Trained local
teachers and
guides
- Experience
exceptional biodiversity of their
region
- Spectacular
wilderness setting
- Enjoy group
study and
reflection
- Experiential
nature education
- Personal
Challenge
- Discovery and
Experience one of
Europe‟s last truly
wild, spectacular
environments
- Discover the
magic and
excitement of a
protected mountain
environment
51
The endemic
and rare flora
and fauna of
the Retezat
Mountains and
the Carpathian
eco-region
- 1-4 day
packages
- Semi permanent
Tent camps and
serviced
campgrounds observation
platforms
- Interpretive trail
system
- Trained local
teachers and
guides
exploration
Experience
exceptional biodiversity of their
region in a
spectacular
wilderness setting
- Enjoy group
interaction and
contemplation
- Nature
education and
protection
- Discovery and
exploration
PASS-THROUGH
TRAVELLERS
- Rural
Romanian
Culture of
Hunedoara
County
- Mix of historic
churches and
monasteries
- Introduction to
the endemic
and rare flora
and fauna of
the Retezat
Mountains and
the Carpathian
eco-region
- Regional
Interpretation and
Orientation Centre
- Traditional
guesthouse and
country inns
accommodation
- RNP
Interpretation trails
- Fully serviced
campgrounds
- Discovery and
introduction to
unique traditional
Romania culture
and lifestyles
-- Experience
exceptional biodiversity of the
region
- Spectacular
wilderness setting
Experience the
lifestyle of
traditional
Romanian families,
villagers and
farmers.
- Authentic
activities and
understanding
Experience one of
Europe‟s last truly
wild, spectacular
environments
- The magic and
excitement of a
protected mountain
environment
FLY/DRIVE
- Rural
Romanian
Culture of
Hunedoara
County
- Mix of historic
churches and
monasteries
- Introduction to
the endemic
- Regional
Interpretation and
Orientation Centre
- Traditional
guesthouse
accommodation
- RNP
Interpretation trails
- Fully serviced
campgrounds
- Discovery and
introduction to
unique traditional
Romania culture
and lifestyles
-- Experience
exceptional biodiversity of the
region
- Spectacular
Experience the
lifestyle of
traditional
Romanian families,
villagers and
farmers.
- Authentic
activities and
understanding
Experience one of
Environmental
associations
Experience one of
Europe‟s last truly
wild, spectacular
environments
- Discover magic
and excitement of a
protected mountain
environment
Priority 2
- MINI-VAN
- AUTOMOBILE
- CAMPER
52
and rare flora
and fauna of
the Retezat
Mountains and
the Carpathian
eco-region
BUSINESS
TOURISM
Small meetings
Post conference
tours
- Attractive and
equipped
guesthouses
- Easy access
- Proximity to
RNP
- Tourist
information centre
- Hiking and
interpretation trails
Proximity to
Sibiu and Deva
- 1-3 day
packages
- Tourist
information centre
- Hiking and
interpretation trails
wilderness setting
Europe‟s last truly
wild, spectacular
environments
- The magic and
excitement of a
protected mountain
environment
- Relative
remoteness
conducive to
concentration
- Balance work
with contemplation
in a natural setting
Experience the
lifestyle of
traditional villagers
and farmers.
- Authentic
activities and
understanding
- Experience one of
Europe‟s last truly
wild, spectacular
environments
Experience the
lifestyle of
traditional villagers
and farmers.
- Authentic
activities
- Experience one of
Europe‟s last truly
wild, spectacular
environments
Table 3: Retezat Product/Market: Matching and Positioning
53
5.3 Positioning Retezat as a sustainable tourism destination
Positioning is a communications strategy that results from identifying the
previous market segments and/or target markets. Because different tourism
destinations appeal to different types of tourists, individual target market
segments have been selected for Retezat and are matched with the resource
base. This approach will result in an effective, market-driven, resource-based
positioning strategy providing Retezat and the surrounding region with a
competitive edge over other similar mountain and/or rural destinations.
The purpose of this positioning exercise, therefore, is to expand on the previous
identification of market segments and the benefits provided by the resource
base, and to create a distinguishing image in the minds of potential visitors to the
RNP region. Positioning statements must be prepared that evoke images of
Retezat in the mind of the tourist; images that differentiate Retezat from other
destinations in Romania and Eastern Europe and establish it as a place that can
satisfy their interests and desires.
Positioning is also more than just creating an image for Retezat. It is an important
communication technique that will distinguish the region from other similar
destinations in Romania‟s Carpathian Mountains, from Eastern Europe, and from
the countries of origin of the tourists. It will differentiate Retezat from these and
other competitors by emphasizing benefits and values that are meaningful to
the target markets, and that will give the RNP region a competitive edge.
The successful positioning of the Retezat Tourism Region and RNP as a
spectacular wilderness, pristine and distinctive European destination will be the
basis of the Marketing Plan.
Positioning must take into account the following challenges:


Retezat competes with other (and stronger) mountain destinations in
Romania and Eastern Europe; they are closer to some markets (e.g.
Bucharest) and require lower transportation costs. This concern was
expressed by local operators during the PAN Park Group workshop and
reinforces the need for a strong marketing effort.
Despite being the oldest national park in Romania, RNP is a relatively new
and still unknown destination (only 10,000 visitors annually) competing
against destinations that have high name identity such as Piatra Craiului
National Park (PCNP).
54
5.3.1 Developing an Effective Positioning Statement for Retezat
“Tourism products and services are created to offer benefits and value to the
tourist”5 Therefore, to be effective, positioning must promise the benefits the
customer will receive. These benefits must be considered different and better
than the competition in other national park based tourism destinations. This is
especially important because destinations such as Piatra Craiului also offer a
quality multi-activity tourism product with diverse natural and cultural resources
within and adjacent to the park.
The positioning statement for the RNP region will guide the overall concept for
the development and services. The message should also be consistent with the
positioning that is proposed for the entire Retezat Destination Region, and,
eventually, for Hunedoara County as well.
The process to identify and assess the positioning statement is laid out in greater
detail in APPENDIX 5. It identifies both the indicators of effective positioning, as
well as the impact of psychological, objective and subjective positioning. It is
provided to assist the Retezat Tourism Association and its members in
continually evaluating the impact of the positioning of the region
The process of positioning demonstrates the importance of projecting a wild and
unspoiled image in the marketplace. Clearly, all market segments will be
attracted to the concept of protecting RNP and the regional environment through
sustainable tourism practices. However, these efforts must be sincere and
measurable. They must reflect the purity for which the destination is known.
A summary of the positioning images that are required are as follows:
Market
Segment
Key
attributes
Ecotourists
- Pristine
National Park
- Mountain
Environment
- Rural cultures
Geotourists
Mix RNP,
village lifestyle
Core values
- Integrity of
unspoiled
environment
- Untouched
wilderness
- Traditional
cultural values
- Revealing +
enlightening,
5
Benefits
- Discovery.
environmental
awareness +
knowledge,
- Concern for
protection of
environment
- Authentic
„people-to-
Compared
with
competition
- More exclusive
environment,
- Integrity and
purity
- Distinctive and
rare species
- More remote
and pristine,
Romania Tourism Branding Workshop, RADP Program, Chemonics International, James
MacGregor, Tourism Specialist, Bucharest, 2005
55
rural
landscape,
traditional
culture
- Remoteness,
wilderness
Adventure
travellers
Vast, wild,
unspoiled
landscape,
mountain
Experiences
Educational
Tourists
Exceptional
biodiversity,
Wild beauty
- Freedom and
risk
- Wild and
pristine
- Rugged and
remote
Remote, wild
authentic and
exclusive
learning
opportunities
Business and Mountain views
Conference
Seclusion
people‟
contact
- Seclusion
and solitude
- Distinctive
- Self
discovery and
awareness of
capabilities,
Reverence for
wild places
- Personal
worth +
understanding
- Rejuvenation
of body and
mind
Concentration
and interaction
Pass through
and Fly-drive
Activities and
Remote, rural
local foods and and authentic
accommodation
Discovery and
sense of well
being
Family
Groups
Nature-based
activities and
RNP
educational
programs
Rejuvenation
and selfdiscovery
Experience
traditional
values
Secluded and
exclusive, family
activities
- Wild nature
combined with
authentic
communities
- Organic
More Secluded
and challenging,
pristine and
unspoiled
More isolated and
exotic
- genuine
communities
Stunning and
sensational,
originality
Distinctive rural
and mountain
landscape and
unique within
Europe
Exclusivity,
uniqueness and
prestige
Table 4: Positioning the image of the Retezat region
5.3.2 Proposed Positioning Statement
The above analysis suggests several positioning statements and taglines. They
are presented here not as definitive proposals, but rather as a prelude to the type
of development that is required to insure the protection and enhancement of
values that will attract the target markets.
Statement 1
The pristine and authentic (real) natural resources will enable you to have a
better understanding of yourself.
56
Tagline: „Discover your real nature‟
Statement 2
The unique and remoteness of the location will bring new challenges and a
sense of getting away from it all.
Tagline: You‟re so near, yet so far.
57
6. Retezat Regional Tourism Development Concept
6.1 A Development Zone Approach
Sustainable tourism development of RNP and the adjacent region is
characterized by interest from a variety of existing and potential market
segments, with the opportunity to access a wealth of biodiversity and heritage
resources.
In order to protect the resource base for future generations of tourists and tour
operators, the RNP region has been divided into four activity development zones.
Each zone reflects a different resource mix, market interest and carrying capacity
allowing for different types of activities and visitor volumes. Obviously those
areas that are the most fragile and remote will be designated for lower numbers
of tourists, while areas (outside the park) will be designated for supporting higher
visitor volumes and visitor days.
The four zones (see the Map), then, will accommodate a variety of tourists, from
those who come in high numbers but who typically spend less („high volume-lowyield‟) because of the relatively lower value of the resource (i.e. agriculture
landscape), to those who would spend more for limited or controlled access („low
volume-high-yield‟) to pristine and remote wilderness. In all cases the
environment will be protected and even enhanced to ensure a tourism legacy for
future generations. The resources of the various zones will determine the type of
tour product, visitation levels and protection measures to be instituted.
58
Figure 6: Map of zones in the Retezat – PAN Park Region based on
experience/activity
The four zones are as follows:
 Zone I: Hateg Area and Jiu de Vest (West Jiu) Valley
Development Goal: High-volume, low-yield
Location
This zone is located north of RNP, outside park boundaries, and includes the
Geopark. It also includes the communities of Salasu de Sus and Raul de Mori
with their limited tourism services.
As well, the most southern part of RNP, where the Cheile Butii Tourist Complex
is located, is included in this zone..
Development Objectives
1. Create new jobs and salaries for residents through community-based
tourism activities associated with RNP and the area resources;
2. Stimulate the development of small-scale local tourism businesses (e.g.
guesthouses, handicraft shop, bike rental, restaurants, etc.) and visitor
services (guides, trainers, etc.)
3. Extend the length of stay in the area to an average of at least 3 days/visit;
59
4. Expand the variety and number of visitor services and activities in order to
attract a higher tourist volume without adversely affecting the integrity of
the Park;
5. Include the existing visitor interpretation centres within the regional
tourism flow and as a staging area for tourism activities in the region;
6. Link regional and area tourism activities with the park experience,
particularly in Zone II.
Tourist experience
This zone offers a variety of opportunities for outdoor recreation activities
including local culture „life-seeing‟ and scenic sightseeing within a clean and
attractive rural environment adjacent to Retezat National Park. Visitors have
opportunities for quality nature and local cultural interpretation, soft adventure
and sporting activities. While most visitors will come in the summer there is also
an opportunity for winter activities.
Type of activities and infrastructure to be developed:
 Marked trail network for walking, hiking and horseback riding (easy and
medium difficulty);
 Specially designed marked roads and trails for cycling and mountain
biking;
 Nature interpretation trails around the visitor centres and within the gorges
at Cheile Butii;
 Visits to the two park interpretation centres in RNP;
 Cultural heritage tours throughout the surrounding area (e.g. Church of
Densus, Sarmisegetusa, etc.);
 Local special events and arts and craft market;
 Horse riding centre;
 Cross-country ski trails (groomed);
 Rental shop for bikes, cross-country skis, touring skis, snow shoes, etc.;
 Organized trips to the Geopark sites;
 Full-service campgrounds;
 Organized day-trips (interpretation trails) into RNP.
The activities are mainly developed as “self-guided” programmes that individuals,
families or groups can organise based on available information, contacts and
maps. Specialty guided trips, such as mountain hiking; wildlife viewing, photo
safaris and nature interpretation etc. can also be staged from this zone.
Market segments:




Families (mostly Romanian);
Independent travellers (FIT);
Organised groups (environmental, birdwatchers, trail riders, etc.);
Domestic and international market tour groups (multi-day, multi-activity
packages).
60
 Zone II: Central Park Area
Development goal: Medium-volume, medium-yield
Location
This zone is structured around the traditional and well-known hiking trails within
the RNP. They include the popular crossings along the North to South trail
network (Carnic, Bucura, Poiana Pelegii, Buta, Cheile Butii).
Development Objectives
1. Monitor and control visitor impacts on the natural resources;
2. Maintain a quality hiking and interpretation trail experience;
3. Ensure that all visitors develop an appreciation for the natural resources
and park values;
4. Ensure that all tour companies and suppliers that use the park operate
within the highest environmental and sustainable tourism practices;
5. Managing potential conflicts between different types of park users;
6. Maintain a balanced flow of visitors into the zone;
7. Constantly monitor visitor impacts using a LAC (Limits to Acceptable
Change) technique.
Tourist experience:
Visitors are provided with quality self-guided activities in the more isolated high
alpine mountain environment, with an opportunity for camping or overnight
accommodation in developed tent camps, refuges and huts.
Type of activities and infrastructure to be developed:
 Well marked trails (directional, interpretive);
 Interpretation trails for specific sites of educational value;
 Mountain rescue team assistance;
 Improved hut accommodation, camping sites and the development of new
semi-permanent Tent Camps (Eco-tents) in select areas.
Most activities will be self-organised and self-guided. This is currently the most
popular form of tourism in the Retezat Mountains. While it now brings relatively
little income to the Park and local communities, with improved infrastructure and
increased marketing, this form of tourism can be expected to grow.
This zone is particularly capable of increasing revenues for the park as well as
local tour operators. For instance, a higher standard of accommodation such as
semi-permanent tent camps, services campgrounds and improvements to
existing cabins will result in higher rates and revenues.
Also, local tour suppliers could see their revenues increase, if they are prepared
to offer guided multi-day tour packages.
61
Market segments:
Traditional hikers from both domestic and international markets such as: Czech
Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary.
While RNP is relatively known in very select markets, such as with experienced
Czech, Hungarian, Slovakian and Romanian hikers, it is unknown in the more
affluent German, Swiss, Dutch and British adventure and nature travel segments.
If RNP and the region are to attain their objective of doubling visitor nights and
tripling revenues in the next 5 years, a substantial marketing effort will be
required.
 Zone III: Godeanu and Retezatul Mic Mountain Area
Development goal: Low-volume, high-yield
Location
The central part of the Retezat Mountain, Retezatul Mic Mountain, and Godeanu
Mountain, with the Rotunda hut as the typical staging area for this zone.
Development Objectives
1. Offer a pure, remote and authentic Retezat Mountain (Park) experience;
2. Restrict access to organised groups with certified guide and interpretive
services;
3. Maintain the current tourism facilities, minimal promotion of the zone or
restricting further development;
4. Generate higher revenues for the park administration.
Tourist experience:
A high value experience and benefits through discovery of unspoiled European
wilderness, exceptional wildlife and scenery in the core of the Retezat National
Park. Tour operators will provide hiking, wildlife viewing, nature interpretation and
geology programs. These resources will be presented with well-trained guides
and naturalists.
Type of activities and infrastructure to be developed:
 Organised guided hiking tours;
 Bird watching programmes;
 Rustic campsites;
 Wildlife viewing (e.g. chamois);
 Botanical and medicinal plant tours;
 Cross-country and touring skiing;
 Snow-shoe wildlife tracking;
 High quality accommodation at Rotunda;
 Potential temporary shelters (tents) in Godeanu Mountain.
62
The programmes are mainly marketed as all-inclusive packages through
responsible tour operators that are committed to environmental protection and
education. They will also make a direct contribution to the preservation of park
values through financial support for the park.
Market segments:
 Experienced hikers and naturalists;
 Western Europeans with an interest in wilderness and biodiversity;
 Specialised interest groups (birdwatchers, wildflower-lovers, wildlife
enthusiasts, etc.);
 Prepared tours offered through specialised international tour operators or
customized programmes.
 Zone IV: Mountain Resort Zone
Developmenty goal: High volume, medium yield
Location: Rausor area.
Development Objectives
1. Provide quality downhill and backcountry ski facilities;
2. Ensure controlled and sustainable tourism development;
3. Evolve the typical ski area into a small all-season mountain resort;
4. Provide a staging area for winter based outdoor activities, such as ski
touring, backcountry skiing and snowshoeing in RNP.
Tourist experience:
Quality 4 season mountain experience, with opportunities for alpine and cross
country skiing, mountain biking, hut-to-hut trekking and ski touring with quality
resort accommodation.
Type of activities to be developed:
 Alpine skiing;
 Hut-to-hut hiking and ski touring;
 Wilderness hiking and trekking;
 Mountain biking.
Market segments:
 Domestic market for alpine ski;
 International market for ski touring, hiking, wildlife viewing, etc.
63
7. Sustainable Tourism Development Plan
The sustainable tourism development plan follows the structure established by
the four development zones, and provides a description of all proposals and
recommendations.
7.1. Development Proposals by Individual Zones
Zone I
A. City of Hateg and Retezat Regional Gateway
A.1. Tourist Information Centre (TIC)
The Retezat Tourism Destination Region requires a visitor information centre
that can distribute information about the entire Retezat region to the arriving
visitor. Note that this is different than the Tourist or Park Visitor Interpretation
Centre that focuses on the assets of the RNP.
Hateg will serve as the principle Staging Area or Gateway to the services and
activities of the Retezat region and beyond. No location for the information
centre has been identified; however, it should be on the main highway and
within the downtown area. This TIC should include:
- Audio visual and static displays that demonstrate and promote the
various activity areas and attractions within the town and the Retezat
Tourism Destination Region (RTDR)
- „One-stop-access‟ to all accommodation and restaurant facilities in the
RTDR through a reservation system
- An area in the centre set aside to promote the attractions and services of
Retezat National Park, including packages and itineraries.
- A sales counter for local tour operators wanting to promote the tourism
product in the region
- A small sales outlet to sell information (books, tapes, photos, etc.) on the
region and RNP.
Integrated Retezat Destination Information System
The Hateg TIC should be the center of an integrated regional tourism
information network that includes the following components:
 Satellite Tourist Information Kiosks in
 Salasu de Sus,
 Raul de Mori,
 Uricani and
 Rausor (Zone IV)
64


Coordinated print materials, including a Retezat Regional Tourism
Directory
Independent Retezat Regional web site and database.
A.2. Hotel Green Management Workshop
The Municipality of Hateg and surrounding area should provide leadership in
advancing sustainable tourism in the RTDR. This initiative can be launched by
ensuring that the hotel (and restaurant) sectors move to improve the
sustainable operations and practices of their business.
A 3-day workshop will lead key staff through the process of „going green‟ and
supporting the sustainable tourism initiatives in the Retezat region.
A.3. Regional Interpretation Centre including Geopark and Retezat National
Park
The region is covered by the two protected areas, and Hateg is the main
entrance to this region. Therefore, it represents a good location for an
Interpretation Centre that will introduce tourists to the main features of the two
parks.
B. Communities of Salasu de Sus, Raul de Mori, Uricani and Rausor
B.1. Develop Village and Area Tourism Information Kiosk’s (TIK’s)
These communities are critical to the sustainable tourism development of the
RTDR. They provide opportunities to increase local visitor expenditures on
various services. They frequently have historic attractions and accommodation
services and can serve as a stopover or staging area for people going into the
park.
The TIK‟s would be centrally located within the communities and include
extensive information on the history of the local heritage sites (models, photos,
artifacts), as well as video displays of selected tourism attractions in the area,
including Retezat National Park, sightseeing tours and hiking trails. All area
accommodation should be displayed with photos and contact numbers.
B.2. Guesthouse Green Operations and Marketing Workshops
Quality accommodation and targeted marketing could generate substantial
revenues for these communities. Guesthouse operators would seem to be one of
the first groups to potentially profit from the development of the RTDR. However,
their lack of experience in the lodging business suggests that they need
assistance in improving the operations and marketing of their facilities.
65
A 4-day workshop would provide the structure and technical information they
need to launch a successful business.
The workshop would have a major influence on supporting sustainable tourism
practices by emphasizing energy and water conservation, organic food, authentic
restoration, etc.
B.3. Expand the Accommodation Sector
These communities have the potential to offer several attractive guesthouses or
pensions. An awareness program to inform prospective guesthouse operators of
the necessary requirements should be prepared and delivered by the town
council. Emphasis will be on those guesthouses that operate existing farms so
that farming activities can be integrated into the program and more „organic‟
meals can be provided. The public awareness should be followed by a Small
Grant Scheme to stimulate local people to turn part of their house in a
guesthouse.
B.4. Heritage Architecture Interpretive Exhibit
A kiosk describing the unique heritage (architecture, agriculture, lifestyle, etc) of
the original Dacian inhabitants would be set up in Sarmisegetuza. It would ideally
be located in a heritage building.
B.5. Equipment Rental
Proximity to RNP requires access to a variety of equipment including mountain
bikes, camping equipment, cross-country skis, etc. Equipment rental should be
encouraged by private operators in the communities or located within the RNP
Visitor Interpretation Centre.
B.6. Local Transport Service
There is a need for quick transport from Hateg to the villages, and between the
villages as well. It will be necessary for a local municipality or business to
purchase and run a bus to provide this service.
B.7. Prepare Sustainable Tourism Development
Architectural Heritage Preservation Standards
Guidelines
and
Much of the attraction of the rural areas of Romania, such as those found in
Zone I, can be attributed to village character created largely by the mix of
historical buildings and attractive facades (homes, churches, monasteries).
However, a slow deterioration of this resource is underway due to the
proliferation of garish commercial signs, concrete block buildings and a host of
other contemporary features that in general degrade the quality of experience in
these quaint (by Romanian standards, too) villages and heritage area.
66
An experienced sustainable architect should be hired to prepare guidelines for
restoration, as well as for new construction within the villages. This initiative
should be implemented as a model project under the direction of the county.
C. Retezat National Park Visitor Interpretation Centre
C.1. Complete the Construction of the Visitor Interpretation Centre
The RNP Visitor Centre is almost complete but requires further construction and
furnishing to be fully functional. Upgrading will require 2 phases;
Phase I: Repair design errors and inadequacies of the original construction.
A cursory review of the existing facilities readily shows several design flaws that
must be rectified, including:
 Installing adequate insulation and vapor barrier in the ceiling to prevent
further energy loss
 Exchanging all doors for energy efficient models
 Redesigning bathrooms and office space
A comprehensive environmental audit is required to ensure that the facility meets
the minimal requirements for sustainable building design.
Phase II: Installation of all furniture, fixtures, equipment and interpretation
features that are necessary to make the building a functional Visitor Interpretation
Centre
a) Interpretation facilities
 Complete exhibition hall (panels, exhibits, audio visual displays)
 Develop regional tourism exhibit
 Improve reception/orientation lobby
 Equip classroom and laboratory (education room) for tour groups,
students and environmental associations
 Stock reference library and reading room
 Furnish small conference room
b) Set up the following Services
 Limited accommodation units for visitors
 Restaurant serving local organic foods
 Retail shop selling local and park related merchandise
c) Set up the following Outdoor facilities
 Children‟s playground
 Climbing wall
 Outdoor exhibits and botanical garden
 Picnic area
 Landscaped parking lots
 Walking trails
67

Observation tower
Zone II
A. Expand and Enhance the Campgrounds at Poiana Pelegii and Pietrele
In order to increase the quality of experience for visitors, and to obtain new
revenues for the park, it will be essential to offer improved camping within Zone II
of RNP.
Two types of facilities can accomplish this:
A.1. Upgrading, and Where Possible, Expansion of Existing Rustic
Campgrounds
Improved services would include the addition of:
 Compost toilets
 Compacted tent pads
 Covered picnic shelters (1 for every 10 camp sites)
Approximately 10 new campsites (pads) would be added each year for 5 years
A.2. Semi-permanent Eco-Tent Camp
To generate revenue for the park administration, RNP should consider offering
improved camping within Zone II in the form of Eco-tents. This will enable the
park administration to legitimately charge for the use of overnight facilities, as
well as encourage the visitors to the region to extend their length of stay.
Eco-tents (sometimes called safari tents) are increasing used to provide low
impact accommodation facilities in environmentally sensitive areas. They are
light and mobile, and can be removed at the end of each season and transferred
to other locations if the impact on one area becomes too great.
Structurally, they consist of a raised wooden floor, a partial 1.5m wall, and
canvas stretched over a tent frame. They are adequate to accommodate 2 cots,
a closet, a table and 2 chairs. They frequently have a small veranda.
Their purpose is to extend the length of stay of visitors to the region, as hikers
may stay for 3 – 4 days if they have multiple hiking opportunities from the camp..
Other associated tent structures would be;
 Compost toilets
 Shower and washroom
 Kitchen
 Dining area
 Common area
68
If well located (e.g. in an area with attractive alpine views), these facilities could
be rented to tour operators for 70-90 euro/night all-inclusive, or individually at 40
euro/night.
B. Construct New Campground in Carnic
Carnic is on the park border, located on the main hiking trail to the central part of
Retezat. There is a need to construct a new campground here to offer safe and
reasonably comfortable conditions to visitors venturing into the park on foot.
C. Construct and Upgrade Shelters
C.1. New Refuge at Stana de Rau
Considering existing hiking routes, an additional Refuge needs to be built at
Stana de Rau. This will be used by the mountain rescue team as a semipermanent location, and by hikers under bad weather conditions.
C.2. Upgrade Poiana Pelegii shelter
Poiana Pelegii shelter is an important summer base camp for the mountain
rescue team. The shelter needs to be upgraded, especially considering that it is
located on the main hiking path to the Zone II.
Zone III
A. Upgrade Rotunda Facility
Rotunda chalet is located in the high experience area of the Retezat region.
Tourists arriving here generally have high expectations in terms of environmental
standards. Therefore, a program to improve the chalet in terms of energy
conservation and to implement environmental practices is necessary.
B. Construction of Two New Refuges
Since the area will be used for hiking, there is a need to offer safe shelter in case
of bad weather. The mountain rescue team recommends that a new refuge be
constructed in Godeanu by Scarisoara Lake, and a second on the ridge of
Retezatul Mic.
Zone IV
A. Create an Integrated Year-Round Mountain Tourism Destination
In order to increase visitor volume and improve occupancy rates, the Rausor
Area must re-brand or reposition itself as a Mountain Tourism Destination within
Hunedoara County. While this will not preclude the current and future alpine ski
initiatives, it should present a more balanced 4-season image including hiking,
backpacking, mountain biking, trail riding, etc.
69
B. Prepare a Rausor Sustainable Mountain Tourism Strategy
Continued success (increased visitor levels, improved occupancy rates) for this
area is dependant upon the following factors:
-
-
-
Penetrating new international alpine ski markets particularly in Hungary
and Poland, where the outbound ski market is still growing at 3% to 5%
annually;
Expanding the snowboard market, particularly from other eastern
European countries where the activity continues to expand (e.g. Bulgaria
and Hungary);
Building a strong summer visitor base with the objective of having 40% of
all visitors arriving in the summer by 2010;
Identifing all market-driven activities and facilities that could reposition
Zone IV as a full season mountain resort, including hiking and
cycling/mountain biking trails, nature interpretation facilities, mountain
chalets for hut-to-hut packages, alpine retreats and campgrounds, etc.
A strategy or „blueprint‟ to address these issues is necessary if success is to be
assured. It should contain the necessary guidelines and zoning to ensure the
protection of natural and cultural resources, including:
- Water and energy conservation measures,
- Environmental impact assessments,
- Waste management and sewage treatment plans,
- Erosion control practices, and
- Forest management procedures.
Special emphasis should be placed on identifying and developing resource
protection procedures. The proposed “SuperSki” Legislation, if applicable, should
focus on this integrated approach to develop the region as a sustainable
mountain tourism destination.
B. Plan and Construct Summer-Based Mountain Tourism Facilities
Trail Network: A complete trail system within zone IV will reinforce the position of
the area as an all season mountain destination.
Camping ground: A camping ground with 50 camp sites, including facilities such
as toilets and picnic shelters, needs to be built.
C. Carpathian Mountain Education and Interpretation Centre (Rausor)
The mountain tourism experience in Romania‟s Carpathians will be a major
component in promoting RNP and the surrounding region. Rich biodiversity, rural
character and natural values make the entire mountain zone an essential part of
70
the Retezat tourism experience. Consequently, a major national/international
interpretive exhibit is an important part of the overall Romanian product. The
facility will be entertaining and educational, and will include the following
components:
 Reception and orientation area
 Interactive displays and graphics
 Projection room and audio visual equipment
 Web cams for wildlife observation
 Resource library
 Small laboratory
 Local trails and interpretive signs
This facility will not compete with the existing Retezat Visitor Interpretation
Centre because it will focus on Carpathian ecology and resources in general.
The proposed location of the facility will be at the Rotunda with its access to
Zone II and IV. The development will require the following steps:
 Site alternatives verification
 Feasibility study
 Sustainable architectural design
 Construction plans and specifications
 Interpretive programming
 Management structure and staff training program
 Marketing plans
 Financing sources and support funding
D. Upgrade Rausor Nature Interpretation Trail
The nature trail from Rausor is the first one of this type that RNP has designed
and constructed. Further development of the trail needs to be undertaken to
make this a high value interpretation trail, and to meet the demands of different
visitor segments.
E. Mountain Rescue Base and Shelter
Foreseeing an increase in the number of tourists in this zone, and because the
ski resort will be transformed into a multiple-activity resort, there is a need for a
year-round mountain rescue team presence in this area. Under these
circumstances, a base is planned that will facilitate mountain rescue team
operations in Zone IV, and that will also facilitate access for emergencies in Zone
II.
7.2. Development proposals specific for Retezat National Park
RNP possesses an adequate resource base to be developed as one of the main
tourism attractions in Hunedoara County. However, much remains to be
71
accomplished to both protect its natural values as well as to position the park as
an international attraction within the PAN Park Network.
A. Park Sustainable Development Standards and Guidelines
The park requires a set of development guidelines that are designed to control
and guide the quality of construction and protect the park environment. Emphasis
should be placed on such conditions as maintenance of pastures and use of
traditional construction materials. The guidelines should also deal with protecting
the ecology through appropriate waste management.
The proposed practices should also identify those ways in which the park
administration can introduce environmentally responsible practices into its dayto-day operations – including office operations, transportation, and resource
management – by implementing such measures as water and energy
conservation, toxic chemical (VOC‟s, plastics, pesticides, etc) elimination, etc.
B. Comprehensive and Integrated Trail Network
There are numerous existing trails in the park, and additional trails could be
developed to present a more complete picture of the natural values of the area. A
comprehensive trail network that considers different uses such as wildlife
viewing, mountain biking, hut-to-hut hiking, climbing, etc. should be developed.
The development of such a trail network needs to take the ecologically-sensitive
areas of the park into account, and the trail development plan needs to be
included in the park management plan.
Special attention needs to be accorded to Godeanu Mountain, where it has been
agreed that no more marked trails will be opened, but that well-established
shepherd‟s trails may be used by organized groups guided by park rangers. This
arrangement needs to be included in the management plan as well.
C. RNP Public Awareness Programs
The residents of the area surrounding RNP (and throughout Hunedoara County)
have little understanding of the economic development potential of the park..
Consequently, there is only a modest awareness of the need to protect the
cultural and natural character of the region.
A park-centered awareness program is necessary to enhance awareness of
appreciation for the natural values of the park, the cultural values of the
surrounding region, and the economic benefits that could be secured from the
preservation of these values.
72
7.3. Regional Level Recommendations
There are many projects that serve all the stakeholders in Retezat Destination
Region and are not specific to any one zone or community. They have been
separated out from those associated with individual areas.
A. Regional Tourism Organization Structure
A.1. Hire an interim Regional Tourism Coordinator
Within a year there will be a need for a person to take charge of this strategy,
and coordinate the „immediate‟ implementation proposals as well as the ongoing
administration of the local tourism association. The salary could be the joint
responsibility of the private sector and the park administration.
Some of the duties of the position would be to:






Coordinate short-term market research programs
Organize the various proposed workshops
Provide technical assistance to projects such as the preparation of tour
packages and the use of sustainable tourism practices
Assist with the development of regional partnerships
Manage the implementation of the proposed marketing activities
Identify potential funding sources
A.2. Finalize the Structure for the Retezat Tourism Association (RTA)
The responsibility for the long-term implementation of the strategy, as well as for
providing leadership in positioning the region as a tourism destination, will fall to
the Retezat Tourism Association (RTA).
RTA activities will include, but not be limited to, the following:
 Identify and secure funding and financing sources
 Support the creation of strategic alliances and encourage greater dialogue
between the private and public sectors, and the park administration
 Coordinate Retezat regional tourism development activities with those of
Hunedoara County, the National Tourism Authority and their regional
representative
 Manage all marketing and research activities
 Prepare an annual budget for submission to the park administration
 Coordinate all tourism activities including special events, FAM tours, trade
shows, etc.
 Develop a strong membership base amongst all the various stakeholders
in the regional tourism sector.
73
Proposed Structure
The RTA should include the following components:
a) Administrative staff.
Within 3 years, the following staff will be in place:
- Executive director
- Marketing manager
- Office manager and book keeper
b) Executive and Board of Directors.
The board will be equally divided between private and public sector
members, and will include the following representatives:
Public sector
 RNP (1)
 Geopark Representative (1)
Private sector
 Local Tour operators (1)
 Accommodation sector (1)
 Guides (1)
c) Membership Base.
This will include all individuals, associations and companies that wish to
become members of the RTA.
B. Presentation of the Sustainable Tourism Development Strategy to the
Residents of the Retezat Region
The concept of sustainable development planning is based on the local
population having a direct understanding of the planning process and awareness
of the final recommendations. Through the efforts of the RNP staff and RTA, a
segment of the local population has been informed of the results of this plan.
However, to insure a complete understanding of the implications of this Strategy,
as well as to confirm the respective roles of stakeholders in its implementation, it
will be necessary to launch a series of public forums – presumably in all affected
communities – in order to validate the plan and launch the priority initiatives.
This recommendation will be a joint effort of the RTA and park administration.
C. Regional Marketing Activities
C.1. Preparation of a 5-year Destination Marketing Strategy.
In order to achieve the visitor projections proposed in this strategy and position
the Retezat region as a Tourism Destination, it will be necessary to have a
comprehensive marketing plan that identifies the most effective mechanism to
74
promote RNP and the surrounding region as a national and international
destination. The plan should have the following components:
- Marketing goals and objectives
- Marketing approach
- Destination Brand and Position Statement
- Marketing Mechanisms
o Advertising
 Web site and „drive-to-web‟ activities
 Brochures
 Directories
 Collateral materials
o Sales and Promotions
 Database development and CRM
 Direct mail and email campaigns
 Trade shows, destination showcase and FAM trips
 Kiosks and stand
 Group tour planners
 DVD preparation and distribution
o Public Relations
 Newsletter
 Conferences and seminars
 Resource Centre
o Marketing Research
o Marketing Budget
o Evaluation Methods
C.2. Prepare a Regional Web site and Database
The Retezat region web site should be at the center of all marketing activities.
This should not be confused with the RNP official web site; it will be a separate
portal serving all the tourism interests of the region.
It will be widely promoted with a coordinated drive-to-web strategy. An integral
part of the web site will be a data capture technology capable of soliciting
information from site visitors through contests and promotions. The site will be
structured around the various activity and service areas and will present some of
the following information:
A) Regional Travel Suppliers
- Accommodation
- Restaurants
- Tour operators
- Transportation (motor coach, taxi, etc.)
- Park facilities and operations
- Retail and rental stores
B) Activities
75
- Attractions and special events
- Tour packages (including maps and detailed itineraries
- Interpretation and educational programs
C) Special Discounts and Opportunities
D) Location of all Tourist Information Centres
C.3. Retezat Regional Information Network
The web site should be at the center of a comprehensive regional information,
communication and marketing network that will include, but not be limited to, the
following components:
Physical structurs
 Hateg Tourist Information Centre
 RNP Visitor Interpretation Centre
 Community Information Kiosks
Collateral materials
 Regional Tourism Directory
 Area brochures and pamphlets
Electronic materials
 Regional and local web sites
 E-Newsletters
 Database
C.4. Regional Tourist Directory and Events Calendar
The current mix of uncoordinated collateral material will be consolidated into one
comprehensive Retezat Destination Directory. It will include but not be limited to
the following:
- Content:
 Natural and cultural resources
 Special features
 History and heritage
 Current traditional lifestyles
- Service information
 Accommodation, food services, transportation
 Tour operators, travel agents, etc.
 Tourist Information Centres
 Maps and important contacts
- Tourism activities
 Tour itineraries and day trips
 Interpretation and educational programs
 Trails and sightseeing opportunities
 Special Events Calendar (annual insert)
76
C.5. Trade Show Participation
Once a new tour product has been developed and the marketing effort is
supported by a comprehensive web site, it will be necessary to identify and
attend at least 2 trade shows per year. The selection should be done in
collaboration with the NTA, and AER and will include four locations from the
following list:








ITB Internationale Tourismus Boerse, Berlin, March
CBR Munich, February
Reisen Hamburg, Germany, February
Antwerp Travel Show, Antwerp, Belgium January,
CMT Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany, January
Ferien-Messe Wien, Vienna, Austria January
Destinations, London, United Kingdom, February
Top Resa Deauville, France, September
C.6. Familiarization Tours (1 Domestic, 2 international)
FAM Trips remain one of the most successful marketing mechanisms available,
and at least one will be offered in 2007, and 2 per year after 2007. The tour
operators will be selected in cooperation with the local travel trade, NTA and the
PAN Park Group stakeholders.
A Group Tour Planner will be prepared for all tour operators.
C.7. Receptive (Inbound) Tour Operator Assistance
The receptive operator remains one of the most important elements in attracting
new clients to a destination. There are only 2 or 3 operators between Timisoara
and Sibiu that cater to the special opportunities within the RNP region.
Ecotourism, soft adventure and educational travel operators should be offered
assistance in the following areas;
 Market research
 Business planning and budgeting
 Product development and packaging
 Web site and database development development
 Strategic marketing
C.8. Internet/Web site Assistance
Despite the urgent need for an active presence on the Internet, many local
operators, particularly guesthouses and small hotel owners, still do not have an
email address, let alone a web site. If the destination is to be competitive, all
77
businesses must be connected electronically, especially if they want to have a
presence on the new Retezat regional web site.
An assistance program should be set up to provide the technical support
necessary to connect at least 80% of the industry by the end of 2007.
D. Tour Product Development
D.1. Tour Package (Itineraries) Development
The significant lack of tour product can be overcome with a concerted effort to
build a variety of market-ready tour itineraries.
The following tour products are proposed:
Within the RNP:
 Wildlife viewing and Photo Safaris (4 packages, 5 to 12 days)
 Wilderness hiking ( packages, 5 to 12 days)
 Learning vacations (2 packages, 3 to 6 days)
 Bird watching (3 packages, 3 to 6 days)
 Photo Safari (2 packages, 3 to 7 days)
 Ethno botany tour (1 package, 6 days)
 Nature study (2 packages, 3 to 5 days)
 Scientific research (1 package, 4-6 days)
 Cross country and backcountry skiing (2 packages, 3 to 5 days)
Within the region:
 Rural or agrotourism experiences (4 packages, 3 to 7 days)
 Cultural heritage travel (3 packages, 5 to 12 days)
 Country cycling (2 packages, 5 to 12 days)
 Mountain (off-road) biking (2 packages, 5 to 8 days)
 Horseback riding (1 packages, 2 to 7 days)
Market Segments and Operational Requirements
Each of the four zones provides different opportunities for tour packages, and
has different operational requirements due to location.
Each of the potential tour products is identified by specialty activity (and by zone)
in APPENDIX 9.
The process of developing packages will include the following steps;
 Market segment assessment
 Resources analysis
 Preparation of sustainable tourism standards
 Preliminary circuit planning
78





Confirmation of suppliers
Net Pricing
Product testing
Supplier assistance and training as necessary
Preparation of marketing materials
E. Regional Training Workshops
Positioning the Retezat Sustainable Tourism Destination as a new travel
destination will require extensive short, intensive training workshops to ensure
the travel trade has a competitive edge. Emphasis needs to be placed on the
following subjects: tour product development, marketing and e-marketing, guide
and interpreter training. These regional workshops will complement those that
have been proposed at the area level.
E.1. Tour Product Development Training
Tour product planning, product development and marketing are important
activities with respect to expanding tourism throughout the Hunedoara County,
and require training of product development specialists. One of the most cost
effective training options is to offer a Train-the-Trainer Workshop for
approximately 10 participants.
Once certified these new trainers can offer workshops several times a year at the
local level.
Potential trainers will be chosen from the public and private sectors. The program
will include the following steps:
 Program design and development
 Preparation of training materials and trainer workbook
 Participant selection
 Program delivery (12-days)
 Participant evaluation
 Certification
 Follow-up and ongoing technical assistance
There seem to be increasing numbers of operators in the region and north
central Romania that would like to exploit its potential. There are also many
opportunities to expand ecotourism products to include other areas within region,
including Zones II and IV. Therefore, a 4-day training workshop is required
(particularly for members of the PAN Park Group) that:
 Identifies the current ecotourism criteria, international market segments
and preferred activities
 Enables the participants to design and implement their own tour packages
and itineraries
79
E.2. Marketing and e-marketing Training
Lack of professional marketing is one of the most significant obstacles to the
development of the Retezat tourism industry. Many operators are unaware of the
available mechanisms to position their product (and their area) in the national
and international markets. A series of annual 3-day marketing workshops are
proposed. They will focus on market characteristics and trends, as well as the
various contemporary marketing mechanisms and technologies that are available
to small business operators. Special emphases will be placed on e-marketing
techniques and technologies.
E.3. Destination Ecotourism Planning
A general problem in Romania is the lack of planning that takes long term
sustainability into account. Training is proposed to remedy this situation. It would
target the local municipalities, and assist them in understanding the planning
required in terms of sustainable tourism development.
E.4. Guide Training
There is a lack of trained and certified guides in Hunedoara County. It is essential
to have a certain number of qualified guides in order to attract foreign tour
operators. Consequently, a comprehensive training program covering all aspects
of guiding is proposed for both entry level as well as experienced guides. The
following programs are proposed:
- Entry-level program (30 days)
- Intermediate level program (20 days)
- Advanced (experienced) training program (20 days)
E.5. Specialty Interpretive Guide Training Workshop
There are several topics that require intensive specialty guide training. Preferred
subjects that correspond to the interpretive opportunities in the County include;
-
Carpathian Ecology and Biodiversity
Transylvanian History
Local Heritage and Architecture
E.6. Accommodation Green Operations and Marketing Workshop
Several local accommodation workshops have been proposed for the
communities. For the most part, they would focus on the particular requirements
of the area (e.g. guesthouse development). There is, however, a need for a more
generic workshop that supports a variety of accommodation operations, from
hotels in Hateg to the campgrounds of RNP.
The program may include such topics as:
- Hospitality and guest services
80
-
Book keeping, budgeting and cash flow analysis
Purchasing practices
Safety and security
Insurance
Marketing
E.7. Public Awareness of Tourism Campaign
The development of tourism should be parallel with a tourism awareness
campaign that is offered throughout Hateg County. Presentations by tourism
leaders should focus on the social and economic benefits of tourism, its role in
supporting other sectors, and its long-term impacts on the future of the County.
7.3 Linkages and Corridors
Although there are many roads and travel corridors that could be upgraded, the
cost cannot be justified at this time as an essential expenditure for tourism
development. Obviously, the E60 travel corridor from Hateg to the south side of
the park needs to move travellers more efficiently. There are additional roads
throughout the Retezat region that have substantial broken pavement, but the
costs of repairs is not something that can be justified at present.
However, as a minimum requirement, certain corridors should include:
- Direction and identification signs
- Interpretation kiosks
- Picnic sites and pull-offs
- Select heritage site upgrades
7.4 Implementation Strategy
No strategy is “set in stone”. Instead, a strategy should be viewed as a living
document that will need to be modified as conditions change. It is through annual
reviews of the implementation strategy that the sector will see which activities are
having impacts and which are not. Adjustments may need to be made along the
way.
Implementation of the Retezat Sustainable Tourism Development Strategy may
take as long as 8 to 10 years (2006 to 2016) to complete. This will enable the
private and public sectors to both mobilize the funds and financing, as well as
enable the industry to adjust to the new market conditions as outlined in the
strategy.
More critical than the length of time for implementation is the sequence of events
that build to the final realization of the plan. The time frame has been designed to
meet several crucial immediate and longer-term factors including:
81
-
The immediate requirements of the Park Administration to reply to the
demands of the PAN ark Network,
The importance in increasing visitor arrivals by expanding the market
base and penetrating new national and international market segments
The need to establish and implement environmental protection and
restoration measures before further degradation has reduced the value
of the natural and cultural resource base
The implementation plan should include the following for each activity or set of
activities:
a) Name of activity/set of activities
b) Location and function as defined by the development concept
c) Start-up and completion dates: milestones to monitor progress
d) Responsible agent(s) (team leader, team members and source of funding)
e) Approximate cost (based on industry standards)
In the section below, we provide a tentative set of activities and
recommendations. This will enable the park administration and each individual
community or zone to extract the recommendations that correspond to their
jurisdiction.
Code
A.1
A.2
A.3
B.1
Zone/Activity
Zone 1
City of Hateg
Tourist Information
Centre
Hotel Green
Management
Training
Regional
Interpretation
Centre including
Geopark and RNP
Salasu de Sus,
Raul de Mori,
Sarmisegetuza,
Uricani
communities
3 Tourism
Information Kiosks
Sub-activity
Estimated
budget
Starting
Ending
Responsible
- Design
- Construction
- Design
- Delivery
- Assistance
- Design
- Construction
- Opening
20,000 01/07
250,000
2000 12/06
6000
3000
15,000 05/08
100,000
2000
01/08
Hateg Council
04/07
Hateg Council
International
Donor
Hateg Council
Geopark
Administration
RNP
Administration
Retezat
Tourism
Association
- Planning
- Construction
15,000 08/06
90,000
08/07
82
05/10
Community
Councils
- Opening
B.2
B.3
B.4
B.5
B.6
B.7
B.8
C.1
A.1
A.2
B
Guesthouse Green
Operations
Workshops
Expand
Accommodation
Base
Sarmisegetuza
Visitor Heritage
Exhibit and
Interpretation
Centre
Equipment rental
centre
Local
Transportation
Service
Tourism
Development
Guidelines and
Standards
Trail Planning and
Construction (5
trails)
Retezat NP
Complete RNP
Visitor
Interpretation
Centre
Nucsora
Zone II
Upgrade
campgrounds
Poiana Pelegii and
Pietrele
Upgrading existing
RNP camping
areas with Ecotents
Constructing one
new camping area
3,000
- Planning
- Delivery
Retezat
Tourism
Association
Retezat
Tourism
Association
Private sector
5,000 3/07
10,000
03/08
- Planning
- Construction
- Opening
- Planning
- Construction
- Opening
20,000 02/07
300,000
3000
15,000 04/08
100,000
3000
05/08
- Acquisition of
bicycles, ski,
snow-shows,
etc.
- Acquisition of
minibus
30,000 03/07
03/08
60,000 03/08
5/08
Community
Councils
- Planning
- Preparation
- Promotion
1,000 06/07
5,000
1,000
02/08
- Planning
- Preparation
- Promotion
1,000 06/07
35,000
5000
02/08
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
- Geopark
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
- Geopark
- Planning
- Upgrading
- Furnishing
- Promotion
2,000 05/07
40,000
50,000
5000
02/09
RNP
Administration
4000 05/07
09/07
RNP
Administration
05/10
Community
Councils
Retezat
Tourism
Association
Retezat
Tourism
Association
Layout and
Design
- Construction
40,000
- Planning
- Construction
1,000 06/07
50,000
02/08
RNP
Administration
- Planning
- Construction
1,000 06/07
15,000
02/08
RNP
Administration
83
C.1
C.2
A
B
A
B
C
in Carnic
New Refuge
Construction
- Stana de Rau
Rehabilitation of
Poiana Pelegii
shelter
Zone III
Upgrade
Rotunda Facility
- Planning
- Construction
- Opening
- Planning
- Construction
5,000 05/07
75,000
06/10
RNP
Administration
1,000 05/07
15,000
06/10
RNP
Administration
- Design
- Construction
- Opening and
PR
- Planning
- Construction
- Opening
4,000 05/08
15,000
3,000
11/09
- RNP
Administration
5,000 05/07
75,000
06/10
RNP
Administration
- Preparation
- Validation
30,000 05/07
3,000
12/07
Construct Summer
Facilities
- Campground (50
sites)
- Mountain Bike
Trail
- Signage
- Planning +
Engineering
- Construction
15,000 06/08
10/10
Carpathian
Education and
Interpretive Centre
Rasour
- Private sector
- RNP
Administration
- Rausor
Municipality
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
Private sector
- RNP
Administration
- Rausor
Municipality
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
Retezat
Tourism
Association
- RNP
Administration
2 New Refuge
Construction
- Godeanu
(Scarisoara Lake)
- Retezatul Mic
Zone IV
Mountain Tourism
Development
Strategy
D
Upgrade Rausor
Nature
Interpretation Trail
- Site review
- Feasibility
Study
- Architectural
Design
- Construction
- Design
- Construction
- Opening
E
Mountain Rescue
Base and Shelter
- Design
- Construction
84
180,000
2000 06/09
15,000
04/11
25,000
300,000
3,000 05/07
7,000
1,000
09/07
30,000 05/09
300,000
09/11
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
- Geopark
- Mountain
Rescue Team
A
B
C
C.1
C.2
C.3
C.4
C.5
C.6
TOTAL
Retezat
Destination
Regional Level
Tourism
Association
Operations start-up
assistance
Presentation of
STDS to
communities
Marketing
Activities
5-Year Retezat
Marketing Strategy
Retezat Destination
Web site
Regional
Information
Network
Regional Tourist
directory
Trade show
Participation
(2/year)
Familiarization
Tours (2/year)
C.7
Inbound tour
operator assistance
C.8
Internet/Web site
Assistance
D
Product
Development
Regional Tour
Package
Development (29
D.1
- Opening
3,000
- Executive
Development
Administration
- Office
equipment
Meetings
9,600 10/06
10/08
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
2000 1/07
8/07
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
Strategic Plan
10,000 12/06
06/07
- Design
- Database
Development
- Management
2,000 11/06
6,000
03/07
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
- Attendance
10,000
5000
7,000
10,000 12/06
05/07
2,000 01/07
10,000
per tour
3,000
5,000 1/07
06/10
- Assessment
- Internet fund
- Web site
template
10,000 10/07
06/09
- Resource
Inventory
- Markets
10,000 12/06
12/07
- Organization
- Tour Planner
- Follow-up
- Assistance
85
1/09
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
trips)
E
E.1
E.2
Training
Workshops
Tour Product
Development
Marketing
strategies (3-days)
Trail Planning and
Design Workshop
E.4.
E.5
E.6
Guide Training
Program
- Entry level
(30 days)
- Intermediate
(20 days)
- Advanced
(20 days)
Ranger and
Interpretation
SpecialistsTraining
Program
- Nature
Interpretation
- Risk Management
and Evacuation
- Wilderness
Survival
- GPS/GIS Training
Accommodation
Green Operations +
assessment
- Tour
Package
Design
- Group Tour
Planners
- Target
marketing
- RNP
Administration
- Design
- Delivery
- Field trip
- Assistance
10,000 10/07
05/08
- Design
- Delivery
- Assistance
- Design
- Delivery
- Assistance
- Overall
Design
3000 07/06
3000
2000
5000 05/07
10, 000
2000
5,000 08/07
11/06
- Delivery
10,000
- Delivery
10,000
- Delivery
10,000
- Overall
Design
16,000 08/07
- Delivery
20,000
- Delivery
- Delivery
- Delivery
- Certification
14,000
20,000
5,000
- Design
- Delivery
7000 11/06
86
11/08
05/08
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
- Association of
Ecotourism in
Romania
- RNP
Administration
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
- RNP
Administration
05/08
- RNP
Administration
06/07
- Retezat
Tourism
E.7
Marketing
(4-days)
- Assistance
PAN Park
Ecotourism
Certification
Program
- Evaluation
- Certification
- Assistance
7000 3/07
2000
3000
06/11
Association
- Association of
Ecotourism in
Romania
- Retezat
Tourism
Association
- Association of
Ecotourism in
Romania
TOTAL Retezat
Destination
Region
OVERALL TOTAL
Table 5: Activity implementation
7.5 Next steps
The time is excellent to move forward with several initiatives to start positioning
the Retezat Tourism Destination as a new international tourism region, and as an
increasingly important domestic destination.
The current document should not be a plan, which „waits‟ on the shelf. The local
stakeholders expect to see some of their recommendations implemented over
the next 6 months, but in the same time they need to get involved in bringing the
present set of identified activities into action.
While the full validation of this plan may be seen as the first step, there are many
initiatives that can be organized in the next few months including:
I. Retezat Destination Organization and Implementation
1.1 Hire Interim Regional Tourism Coordinator: 01/07
1.2 Purchase office equipment: 05/07
II. Marketing Activities
2.1 Prepare Regional Web Site: 05/07
2.2 Prepare 5-year Marketing Strategy: 12/07
2,3 Prepare Regional Tourism Directory: 09/07
2.4 Receptive Tour Operator Assistance: 10/07
2.5 Internet and Web site Assistance: 12/07
III. Development Guidelines and Design Standards
3.2 Trail Planning workshop: 01/07
3.1 Sustainable Development Guidelines: 04/07
87
IV. Training Workshops
4.1 Tour Product Development + Marketing Train-the-trainer
(12- days) 10/07
4.2 Hotel Green Management Training: 12/06
4.3 Tour packaging and Marketing Workshop: 09/07
V. Product Development
5.1 Tour package Development: 04/07
5.2 Complete RNP Visitor Centre: 05/07
88
8. Main Implementation Body and Monitoring
8.1 Developing the Retezat Tourism Association
During the development of the Retezat strategy, another process took place: the
identification of stakeholders with a desire to join together into a local steering
group with responsibility for developing and later implementing the strategy. This
steering group has gradually transformed into a formal organisation that is, at the
time of this writing, in the last phase of formal registration as the Retezat Tourism
Association (RTA).
RTA is in fact the local PAN Park Group that, under the direction and guidance of
the authors of this document, identified the PAN Park region, produced the
experience-based zoning (see Figure 6), and developed the activities and
implementation program included in this strategy. As it completes its
transformation into a formal organisation, the RTA is becoming the leading entity
in the sustainable development of the Retezat region.
RTA started out as a loose alliance of local guesthouse owners, local guides, and
the Retezat National Park administration. Throughout its development, the
members of the steering group, together with the local municipalities, agreed that
the RTA would take the form of a partnership between local tourism businesses
and the park. This initial partnership that embodies the RTA will now develop
additional partnerships with local municipalities and the Geopark administration
in the PAN Park region. The partnership structure is designed to enable the
organization to function more quickly and efficiently, in consideration of the fact
that local municipalities tend to be slower in making and implementing decisions.
Strong guidance for sustainable tourism development in the Retezat region is
ensured through the structure of RTA, and by the presence of the Park
administration as a founding member.
8.2 The Local PAN Park Standards
RTA has extensively studied the Ecotourism Certification Criteria developed and
implemented by the Association of Ecotourism in Romania (see the criteria at
www.eco-romania.ro), and although they have not yet been formally adopted,
RTA has agreed to use the Ecotourism Certification Criteria as the local PAN
Park standards. RTA as also decided to externalise the evaluation procedure,
which will be conducted by evaluators agreed to and trained by the Association
of Ecotourism in Romania.
Further discussions need to occur between the Retezat Tourism Association, the
Association of Ecotourism in Romania, and the PAN Park Foundation for a final
agreement on this issue.
89
8.3 Monitoring
The responsibility for monitoring the implementation of the Retezat development
strategy will fall to the Retezat Tourism Association. Because the strategy will be
implemented over the next five years, it is expected that the present set of
activities, timing and budget will be adjusted according to the availability of
financing and to the responsiveness of other partners (e.g. local municipalities).
However, the timeframe and benchmarks which have been established under the
current Implementation Program need to be carefully considered and monitored
by RTA.
The activities that are developed within the Retezat National Park borders will be
under the direct supervision of the park administration, and progress will be
constantly communicated to RTA.
Concerning the local PAN Park standards, if and when the Ecotourism
Certification Criteria are formally adopted by RTA as local quality standards,
responsibility for monitoring implementation will be the combined responsibility of
the Association of Ecotourism in Romania, RTA and Retezat National Park.
Further thought needs to be given to a local monitoring scheme to ensure the
standards are implemented in an effective and complete manner.
90
Conclusions
The purpose of this report was to formulate a sustainable tourism development
concept for the region surrounding Retezat National Park as part of the park‟s
application for entry into the PAN Park network. The report is the result of a long
consultation and facilitation process that succeeded in bringing to light the wishes
and visions of different stakeholders, and combining them into a unified and
comprehensive implementation strategy.
The stakeholders involved in developing this strategy and the authors of this
document agree that Retezat National Park, with its pristine wilderness,
spectacular alpine landscapes, and rich variety of fauna and flora – together with
numerous cultural heritage and historical attractions in the area surrounding the
park – offer an exceptional resource mix that can contribute to the successful
long-term tourism development of this region.
Developing a sustainable tourism industry will require the private sector, in
partnership with the park administration, to successfully integrate the region‟s
natural, cultural and community resources into a cohesive set of tourism
products.
A large range of recreational opportunities and tourist experiences has been
ensured through a process of dividing the entire PAN Park region into different
development zones. One of the major implementation challenges is to transform
this zoning model into practice, preserving the defined character of the
experiences through the facilities and services to be offered in each zone.
The Retezat Tourism Association has the most crucial role in implementing the
STDS. Efforts need to be made by RTA to work in partnership with local
municipalities to implement the overall vision of sustainable tourism development
in the region.
With a firm commitment to this vision, Retezat National Park and the surrounding
region clearly has both the potential and the tools to position itself as a premier
tourism destination on both the national and international markets!
91
Appendix 1 : Retezat National Park Ecological Zones
The RNP Ecological Zones are based on activities approved under Romanian
legislation (OUG 235) aimed at maintaining conservation objectives.
The areas are as follows:
 Strictly Protected Areas (Scientific Reserves) (Zone A), for scientific
research; The Gemenele Scientific Reserve, corresponds to the first IUCN
category
 Special Conservation Areas (Zone B) where monitored tourism,
educational activities and traditional activities are permitted. They must
accommodate the sustainable use of resources (grazing) and reflect the
conditions of the Regulations herein and according to the park's
management plan. Within this area, there are 1) integral protection areas,
where only educational activities and monitored tourism are allowed; 2)
areas of special interest for biodiversity; and 3) areas with tourist
infrastructure.
 Buffer Zones (Zone C), where administration activities and sustainable
use of natural resources are allowed, in accordance with the RNP
Management Plan. Within this area, there are 1) areas of special interest
for biodiversity; and 2) areas with tourist infrastructure.
Activities permitted in each one of the Zones are indicated in the Table below:
Acceptable Activities within the RNP-BR Zones
Zone
Natural resources
use activities
Traditional
activities
A. Strictly protected
area: Scientific Reserve
B. Special conservation
X
area
B.1 Integral protection
area
B.2 Areas of special
interest for biodiversity
B.3 Areas with tourist
X
infrastructure
C. Buffer zone
X
C.1 Areas of special
interest from the point
of
view
of
the
biodiversity
Sustainable
Activities
Tourism + Tourist infrastructure
Recreation
Activities
Maintenance Development
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
92
X
C.2 Areas with tourist
X
infrastructure
X
X
X
X
The specific characteristics of the Zones are as follows:
A) Strictly protected area
No natural resources use activities are allowed in the Strictly Protected Area,
known as The Gemenele Scientific Reserve.
Access to this „Reserve‟ is restricted to those with a permit from The Romanian
Academy. Only researchers, biologists or biodiversity conservation specialists,
biodiversity conservation students, and groups undertaking biodiversity
conservation studies or professional training trips are permitted. Groups cannot
exceed 9 persons.
B) Special conservation area
This area has a high development potential and can include:
o Controlled tourism and educational activities/programs
o Traditional agricultural activities, using the alpine and sub-alpine
(belonging to community members who own the pastures) for
grazing.
Integral Protection Areas (B-1)
No agricultural activities are allowed in these areas, with the exception of
monitored tourism and education. The integral protection areas consist of all the
areas in the special conservation area covered with woods, juniper trees, rocks
and detritus, as well as other areas delimited on the basis of studies, with the
approval of the Romanian Academy.
Protected and special interest areas can be inside the special conservation area
(see Biodiversity Special Interest Areas, below)..
C) The Buffer zones– sustainable use activities
Areas of special biodiversity interest are within Zone B and/or C. They contain
important species / habitats that require special conservation measures or have
high biodiversity.
Biodiversity Special Interest Areas (B-2 and C-1)



Limestone areas within the integral protection area. The area has very
high biodiversity.
Lunca Berhinei, an area of high importance for the lepidopteron.
The Râului Mic and Lăpuşnicului Valleys, areas of high importance for
birds.
93







The southern face of Retezat, an area of high importance for fauna,
including the chamois populations and the possible nesting of Aquila
Chrisyaetos species.
Poarta Bucurei, the slope facing Lake Bucura, an area of high botanical
importance for the Loiseleuria procumbens populations.
The Glacial hollows of Lakes Ana, Lia and Viorica lakes, areas of high
botanical importance for Phyteuma vagneri, Gymnadenia frivaldii,
Campanula transsilvanica and Gentiana punctata species.
The southern and southeastern slopes facing the Zănoaga Lake, an area
of high importance for the flora and fauna, specifically for the Lilium
Jankae species; it is also a sheltering area for bears.
Feţele Voilesei, an area of high importance for the flora and fauna.
The alpine area above Gura Apei, starting at the forest line.
The right slope on the Şes River, an area of high importance for its pristine
forests.
Tourist Infrastructure and Service Areas (B-3 and C-2 )
These are the areas where tourist infrastructure and investments exist, including
chalets and pensions, ski slopes and other facilities. These areas are declared
through the General Land-use Plan (PUG) within the urban areas, where
development of tourist infrastructure is allowed and protected area legislation is
in force.
These areas are defined in the Table below.
Tourism Infrastructure Allowed in Retezat National Park
according to the Ecological Zones (Management Plan)
Areas with tourist
infrastructure
Area
Zone
Associated
commune
town
Râuşor
C-3
Râu de Mori
Pietrele
B-3
Sălaşu de Sus
Cheile
Buţii
B-3
Uricani
or
Tourist infrastructure allowed
in RNP
Investments in the existing or new
tourist infrastructure
Reconstruction/ upgrading of
buildings
or
existing
infrastructure, without making
new investments
Reconstruction/ upgrading of
buildings
or
existing
infrastructure, without making
new investments
94
Buta
B-3
Uricani
Rotunda
B-3
Râu de Mori
C-3
Râu de Mori
C-3
Râu de Mori
Gura
Zlata
Valea
Râului
Mare
Reconstruction/ upgrading of
buildings
or
existing
infrastructure, without making
new investments
Reconstruction/ upgrading of
buildings
or
existing
infrastructure, without making
new investments
Investments in the existing or new
tourist infrastructure
Investments in the existing or new
tourist infrastructure
This zoning has important implications with respect to park management, and is
the basis for tourism planning in and around RNP. Within the perimeter of
national parks in Romania, only traditional activities and land uses by local
residents are allowed, and they are regulated by the management plan. The
park management plan seeks to maintain a balance between the natural
resources and the human presence in the area, encourages preservation of
habitats and landscapes, and promotes the traditional use of land and the
traditional way of life of local people. Any strategy for the development of
sustainable tourism must be consistent with these larger management goals.
95
Appendix 2: Description Resources of the Retezat NP
and Adjacent Area
There has been extensive documentation of the resources of the National Park
and to a lesser degree those of the surrounding region. This document will
borrow directly from the Retezat National Park Management Plan prepared by
the park administration.
The Geographical and Biophysical Characteristics
1. Geology
Retezat National Park holds substantial interest for those interested in amateur
geology. The Park is largely composed of the Retezat- Godeanu mountain
ranges. The Retezat range extends north from the centre, and rises from
between the Petrosani and Hateg tectonic hollow.
The main characteristic of the Retezat Mountains is provided by two large
eruptive blocks that stretch out in the direction of Lapusnicul Mare and Barbat
rivers: the Retezat type granodioritic massif to the North, stretching out over a
length of more than 40 km and width of around 20 km and the Buta granodioritic
massif, located in the south of the Lapusnic- Barbat valley corridor, which drops
under the Jurassic deposits of the Retezatul Mic.
.
The sediments are represented by some Palaeozoic and Mesozoic geological
patches (especially Superior Jurassic and Inferior Cretaceous limestone),
belonging to the autohtonului coverlet; they are located on the eastern periphery
of the Retezat (the Tulisa crest) and in the South- Southwest (Retezatul Mic).
The crystalline of the getic layer can only be found on the northern face of the
mountains, stretching further under the sediments of the Hateg and Petrosani
hollows.
2. Geomorphology
Retezat National Park is characterized by a great diversity of forms, which makes
the landscape peculiarly spectacular, and attractive to hikers and nature
photographers. The relief is mainly shaped in accordance with the geologic
structure and the characteristics of the lithologic substratum.
A. Main Features
The main relief features reflect the conformity with the structure, not only from the
point of view of the direction, but also of the morphology.
The two-granodioritice blocks generally correspond to the two main crests:
In the North - The Peleaga Crest – consisting of Zlata (2142 m), Şesele Mari
(2324m), Judele (2389m), Bucura (2432m), Peleaga (2509m), Păpuşa (2508m)
and Baleia (1498m);
96
In the South - The Buta Crest, over the corridor of the Lapusnicu Mare and
Barbat rivers valleys, consisting of: Piatra Iorgovanului (2015m), Buta (1977m),
Drăgşanu (2076m) and Vârfu Custurii (2453m).
A bridge, called Custura Papusii, connects the two main crests;
A series of secondary heights laterally originate from these two crests:
Northwards, towards the Hateg border, the Retezat, Pietrele, Prislop etc. crests.
Southwards, towards the Lapusnicul Mare Valley, the Slaveiul crest complex, the
Piule (Retezatul Mic) orographic complex, having a transitional aspect between
the Retezat and Godeanu mountains.
B. Geological Characteristics
The characteristics of the lithologic substratum are a fundamental element that
shapes the Park relief characteristic relief.
The Retezat, Buta and Muntele Mic granite massifs belong to the Danube
domain, and have the shape of elliptical bodies, sometimes stretching many
kilometres.
The granite rocks show old alteration crusts looking like a “sea of rocks”; the
rivers have the aspect of toothed crests, towers and fangs, at the feet of which
are stunning steep slopes.
The sedimentary rocks from the Tulisa and Retezatu Mic massifs are mostly
calcareous. Being soluble, these rocks create an interesting landscape in terms
of variety of the forms in the southern part of Retezat National Park:
Valleys with narrow gorges sectors (the Buţii, Scocului, Scorotei gorges etc.),
Plateaus with lapiezuri of different shapes and in all the evolution phases
Blind karst valleys (West Jiu, in the Dâlmei cu Brazi sector),
Small dolines, and even a glacial basin, developed in dolomite limestone (the
only one of this kind in Romania).
The endo - karst is well represented in the Park by the numerous cavities
(around 200 caves and hollows) from the basins of Lăpuşnicul Mare, Soarbele,
Jara, Scorota, on the left side of the West Jiu, upstream of Câmpu lui Neag.
The caves are rich in stalactites and stalagmites (one can find here over 80% of
the karst forms known) and they shelter a various cave fauna, of a real scientific
interest.
On this petrographic platform, in the “world‟ of cliffs and saddles of the Retezat,
the most representative climate modification generated relief forms are
preserved, the relicts of the Quaternary glaciations in the Carpathians:
The glacial basins, simple or joint, interlocked or suspended, with the over 58
permanent glacial lakes.
The glacial valleys, on which the glaciers were gliding down to 1300 m, having
lengths of 3 to 8 km and sometimes over 10 km (the Lăpuşnicul Mare Valley is
the most representative).
The saddles between the basins- the main saddle, stretching out from west to
east, between the Zlata and Lazarului peaks, totalizes around 18 km.
97
The striated rocks (ram backs),
The moraines – the most typical moraine in the Meridional Carpathians is located
on the Soarbele Valley.
Heavy rains may cause landslides, due to the steep slopes.
The open fan like setting of the main crests, the position of the slopes, the
limitrophe depressions and valley corridors are just some of the elements that
give the beauty of the Retezat National Park.
The most representative forms are located in the centre of the Park.
3. Hidrology
The tectonic, lithologic and morphologic conditions of the Retezat Mountains,
correlated with the positioning of the crests in relation with the advection of the
oceanic air masses, make the massif be the area with the highest humidity and
draining in the Romanian Carpathians.
The rich hydrographic network drains in two directions:
 Northwards, towards the Strei River (the Mureş hydrographic basin),
which collects all the waters from the west, north and northeast of the
massif.
 Southwards, towards the West Jiu River (the Jiul Romanesc Hydrographic
basin).
The density of the river network is higher in the Strei hydrographic basin than in
the one of the Jiu. Depending on the altitude, visitors can observe that the
maximum density corresponds to the sub- alpine level and the minimum one to
the alpine level.
During the year, the maximum drain is usually in May- June, due to the melting
snow and heavy rainfalls. The minimum drain is during the winter months, when
the extremely cold temperatures and low precipitation levels do not offer the
optimal conditions of maintaining the draining process. The winter drain
conditions are stable and the summer drain is two times higher.
The major watercourse is Lapusnicul Mare, having an annual average flow of
12.9 m 3 /s. Waterfalls can be found on all the brooks within the Park.
The relic natural lakes play an important role in the hydrologic network of the
Park. Their origins are determined by the accumulation and transformation of
the snow into glaciers, at altitudes above 1700 m, during the Superior
Pleistocene. Over 37.8% of the Romanian glacial lakes are situated within the
Retezat National Park. Located at the bottom of the glacial basins, aligned,
isolated or grouped in complexes, they represent a major attraction, not only for
tourists and scientists.
The morphometric elements of the lakes oscillate within large range. For
instance, Bucura- is the largest glacial lakes and Zanoaga is the deepest in
Romania. The surface of the lakes is between 300m 2 (Stanisoara I) and
88612m 2
98
Although they have relatively small surfaces, the glacial lakes have a very
important role in the natural regularization of the draining of the rivers in the
Retezat Mountains. There are 58 permanent glacial lakes exist in the entire
massif, located between 1700 and 2300 m.
As a result of the 20th century anthropic interventions, river drainage started to
be controlled by the damed lakes (artificial lakes), which were built on Rau Mare.
The construction of the Gura Apei reservoir lake, at the junction of Lapusnicul
Mare, Lapusnicul Mic and Ses rivers, started in 1975 and was finalized in 2000.
Two underground feeder pipes, collecting the water from the Rausor and
Nucsoara rivers were built to supplement the water capacity of the dam.
The hydro-technique buildings have generated, due to the absence of water on
several hundreds of meters of the Raul Mare riverbed, upstream of the Tomeasa
dam, ecologic modifications, mainly on the Raul Mare Valley. .
Swamps frequently appear in the Park adjacent to some springs, alpine brooks
or as the result of the partial clogging of some glacial lakes (the Judele glacial
valley, the Negru pool, Lia, Bucura and Tăul Răsucit lakes).
4. Climate
Retezat National Park is defined through a complex mountain local climate, with
numerous climatic conditions determined by altitude and general direction of the
crests in relation with the direction of the maritime air masses from the west and
continental air masses from the east and northeast, the positioning of the slopes
with respect to the sun and the incline angle of the slopes.
January is the coldest month (with temperatures between -11 and -50 C), July is
the warmest (between +16 0C and +60C) below the altitude of 1800 m and
August at higher altitudes. The coldest temperatures can be measured on the
Peleaga, Papasa, Retezat, Bucura peaks.
Frost is a frequent phenomenon on the crests, even in the summer months. In
the alpine area, the number of days with frost increases up to 250- 275 days/
year, in the lower regions being of only 175- 200-days/ year. The earliest frost
appears around the 20th of November and the latest one at the middle of May.
Humidity increases from 74- 75% at the base of the mountains to 85- 87% on the
crests.
The nebulousness is a more frequent phenomenon in the Park in May- June, due
to the circulation of the humid air on the slopes and it appears the most seldom in
October. Moreover, the crests higher than 1700- 1800 m are situated, in autumn
and winter, above the stratiform cloud ceiling and enjoy many sunny days.
Fog is frequent in a mountain climate. Its frequency increases proportionally with
the altitude: from 50- 75 days at the foot to 250 days at 1800 m and even more
on the crests. The visibility on the crests decreases, because of the fog, below 1
km in 35- 40% of the autumn days and over 50% of the winter days. The visibility
on the crests is low also in summer, because of the convective clouds that cover
the mountain crest.
99
Sunshine, is affected by the conditions of nebulousness and fog, and decreases
in summer from 1300 hours (at low altitudes) to 950 hours (on the crests). In
winter, sunlight between 600 and 800 hours. An average difference of 200-250
hours/ year at the foot of the mountain and less than 100 hours/ year on the
crests appears between the southern slopes (sunny) and the northern ones
(shaded).
Precipitation is unevenly distributed, in relation with the advance of the humid air
masses (Atlantic and Mediterranean) and altitude. The annual average amount of
precipitations is between 900 mm at low altitudes, 1300 mm at medium altitudes
and 1600- 1800 mm or even more at higher altitudes. On the western,
northwestern and southeastern slopes, the precipitations exceed 1400 mm.
However on the eastern and northeastern, protected slopes, the annual
precipitations are 300- 400 mm lower.
June has the highest precipitation levels (120- 150 mm), while the minimum is in
October- November (50- 70 mm). The first snow appears in the alpine area in the
beginning of September and the latest at the end of June; these intervals
diminish as the altitude decreases. Over 2000 m, it is possible to snow any
month of the year. The duration of the snow layer is of around 100 days in the
low areas and over 200 days at 2000 m. The snow persists in the glacial basins
of the northern part of the Park even in summer. The average height of the snow
varies in relation with the altitude (from 70- 80 cm at the foot of the mountain to
90- 100 cm on the crests), but also with the disposition of the slopes, the layer
can reach 3- 4 m).
The wind, a dominant element of the mountain climate, has a frequency of 9495% on the crests in the Park, while the calm has a frequency of 35- 40% in the
sheltered from wind valleys. Average wind speed increases from 2- 3 m/s at
800m to 10- 11 m/s on the crests, the maximum speed often reaching 40- 60
m/s. Due to increased wind speeds and turbulence at higher altitudes, the crest
landscape is frequently subjected to the climate paroxysms that accompany
these manifestations: the force of the raindrops (on the exposed faces) and of
the water vapour from the clouds that continuously cover the crest, the scattering
of the snow on the exposed faces and snow up in the sheltered from wind
places.
These harsh climate conditions shape the present mountain relief, influence soil
conditions and determine the adaptation of the alpine and sub- alpine vegetation
of the Park.
5. Flora and Vegetation
Retezat is well know nationally for its floral diversity, offering 1190 superior plants
species of the 3450 species known in Romania. In fact it was declared a National
100
Park, in part because it has more than 1/3 rd of the flora in Romania. The
existence of more than a third of the Romanian flora in this area is one of the
reasons for which it was declared a National Park. As well abundant inferior
species adds to the above-mentioned inventory.
For this reason botanists have long been interested in the flora of Retezat. First
studies appeared later, Borza (1934), Nyarady (1958) (who published “The Flora
and Vegetation of the Retezat Mountains”) and Csuros and others (1956) having
a great contribution. Over 90 endemic taxons, of a total of 127- 400 endemic
taxa in Romania, are extremely important to conservation of the plants in
Retezat. The first endemic plant reported in RNP, was the, flamanzica (draba
dornerii), discovered in 1858 by Heuffel. The 130 rare plants of the “Red list of
the superior plants in Romania” (published in 1994, by Oltean and others) are
also of great importance.
Pedicularis exaltata, a species belonging to the flora of RNP, is recorded in
Annex III to Law 462/2001- animal and plant species whose conservation
requires the identification of the special conservation areas and in Annex IV and
requires a strict protection. Moreover, two other species, the yellow gentian
(Gentiana lutea) and the snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis) are recorded in Annex V
of the species for which exploitation and collection requires management
measures.
In terms of flowers, from a genetic point of view, the Retezat Mountains represent
the genetic center for the Hieracium genus, which includes in the area 257 taxa,
some of them endemic, it also represents the genetic center for the Poa genus,
which includes 31 taxa.
Geographic analysis of the flora identifies the predominance of the general
Eurasian elements, consisting of 44%; there are also circumpolar (13%), alpine
(9%), European (12%), southern (6%), Asian (5%), endemic (7,2%), poly core
(3,4%) and adventive (1,4%) elements.
There are over 60 plant associations of cormofite included in 10 classes of
vegetation; this proves once again the floral diversity of the Retezat Mountains.
The most varied associations can be found here: from Pino-Quercetum
moehringietosum pendulae in the low regions to Oreochloo- Juncetum trifidi.
Being very important from the point of view of the flora, the calcareous area of
the Retezatul Mic has a large number of rare and/ or endemic plants such as
Barbarea lepuznica, Pedicularis baumgarteni and many others.
The area is very vulnerable to the impact of grazing.
The alpine pastures are of a special importance because here you can find most
of the alpine flora species, i.e. Gentiana, Potentilla, Pulsatilla, edelweiss
(Leontopodium alpinum) and others are located here.
The area between the cliffs and the alpine pastures is another area of special
interest, where the rose bay (Rhododendron kotschii) and dwarf pine (Pinus
101
mugo) can be found. The dwarf pine (a protected species in Romania) is widely
spread over the steep slopes of Retezat, and supports the detritus. The
European pine (Pinus cembra), a rare species, appears in larger and more
compact groups than in other massifs.
Sheep grazing represents the biggest threat to the flora of Retezat National Park.
The characteristic species in the alpine pastures are gradually replaced as a
result of excessive grazing with robust species. Local people collect rose bay
flowers, dwarf pine burgeons, edelweiss flowers, different mushroom species,
etc.
Forest exploitation, hygiene fallings and conservation works are carried out in the
buffer zones of the park.
The modernization of the access road to Herculane is a potential danger for the
flora of Retezatul Mic, both during its construction and because the new road will
bring more visitors to the area. Consequently there need to be a tourism
monitoring system to evaluate visitor impacts.
Natural Vegetation Units
a) Habitats
The alpine and sub-alpine pastures, rocky regions, dwarf pine areas, alder tree
areas, mountain leafy forests, boreal coniferous forests, aquatic habitats and
river valley bushes represent the most important habitats for conservation in
RNP.
Retezat is part of the Carpathian Eco-Region and is considered, by the World
Wildlife Fund- WWF-Global 200 Project, a severely threatened eco-region.
The habitats are associated with the altitude areas, but vegetation inversions can
often be seen, such as the ones from the West Jiu Valley and the Stanuleti area.
Forests cover around 49% of the area. The dominant species are beech (Fagus
sylvatica), spruce fir (Picea abies), dwarf pine (Pinus mugo), European pine
(Pinus cembra), fir (Abies alba), sycamore maple (Acer pseudoplatanus), birch
(Betula pendula), alder (Alnus viridis), elm (Ulmus glabra) and rowan tree
(Sorbus aucuparia).
Resinous and beech forests and their mixture are dominant. Beech forests are
located between 800 and 1200m, mixed forest between 1200 and 1400 and
spruce fir forest between 1400 and 1800 m. The pristine and quasi - pristine
forests total over 4800 hectares and represent 26% of the forest. (Dr. Ing. Radu
Stelian, Preliminary Inventory of the pristine and quasi - pristine forests in
Retezat National Park and neighbouring area, ARNP, 2002). The forest's
average range is at 1800 m, but sometimes it extends to 1900.
102
The forests of Small Retezat are unique, because of the abiotic characteristics of
the area (the calcareous substratum, low humidity and higher temperature etc.).
The alpine and sub- alpine pastures cover around 11% of the area of the Park at
altitudes between 1700- 2300 m. Several protected species can be found here,
such as: Rhododendron kotschii, Gentiana acauli, G. punctata, Soldanella, etc
The detritus and cliff areas cover a large area in Retezat, both in the granite area
and the calcareous area. The characteristic habitats are populated with few
species; the saxicolous lichens, invertebrates (the saxicolous spiders), reptiles
and birds have been found.
Dwarf tree habitats are situated between the superior limit of the forest and up to
2000- 2200 m, covering the area between the spruce fir area and the alpine
pastures. Among the species in the dwarf pine area: the bilberry (Vaccinium
myrtillus), the cowberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea), Homogyne alpina, Soldanell
hungarica.
Retezat National Park has 3 categories of aquatic habitats covering 40,4
hectares. They include:
i) Lakes, pools, alpine and sub- alpine streams: including important populations
of aquatic invertebrates, fish and amphibians. Endemic species exist among
some of the invertebrate groups (trichopterans and plecopterans). The latest
studies show higher biodiversity in the Stanisoara and Galesul streams,
comparative with the other valleys.
ii) Swamps with peat; the ones at Zanoaga- Judele have been studied more and
are of special interest from a palynologic point of view.
iii) Gura Apei Lake, on the western limit of the Park, is an artificial aquatic habitat
formed by a dam.
b) Fauna
In the second half of the 19th century, Bieltz and Csato carried out the first
scientific studies on the fauna of Retezat. During the next century, many
researchers studied the fauna of the massif.
Due to its exceptionally diverse habitats, Retezat National Park contains a
particularly rich fauna, in both number of species and population.
The invertebrates, represented by thousands of species from all the Carpathian
habitats have not been categorized, although they were studied extensively.
Most of the endemic fauna in Retezat are invertebrates; 9 endemic species of
day butterflies, 6 endemic species of plecopterans and 4 species of trichopterans
have been so far identified. The last two groups are particularly associated to the
major riverine systems in the alpine area.
Some genres, like Erebia (the Lepidopthera order), for example, have a high
diversity in this area. Thus, this genre, glacial relic, has an altitudinal spread
similar to the latitudinal spread the genre has in the Northern Hemisphere.
103
As butterfly conservation in Retezat becomes increasingly important, Lunca
Berhinei has been declared an „Important Area of European Lepidopterous.
The flora and fauna inventory program, part of the “Romanian Biodiversity
Management and Conservation”, which started in 2000, has provided new
information on the invertebrates in the Park, including the discovery of new
species in Romania.
All classes of vertebrates living in Romania are represented in the Park.
Among the cyclostomes, cicarul (Eudontomyzon danfordi), one of the three
species of agnates, can be found in the rivers; its presence is additional proof of
the water quality in Retezat. The species has become rare and recorded in
Annex II to the 92/43/EEC Guidelines on conservation of natural habitats, flora
and wild fauna and in Annex III to Law 462/2001 on conditions of protected
natural areas, conservation of natural habitats, flora and wild fauna, annexes that
contain plant and animal species that require the designation of special
conservation areas.
There are 11 fish species (Annex 2.3.1.), nisiparita (Sabanajewia aurata) being
one that is an endemic in the Danube area and listed in Annex III to Law
462/2001.
In the 60‟s and70‟s some lakes in the Retezat National Park were stocked with
lake trout, Salmo trutta lacustris, a non- indigenous species brought from the
Alps. Researchers found this species to be one of the key factors that caused the
amphibian populations, of the glacial lakes to diminish.
More than a half of the Romanian amphibian species (11 species), are found in
Retezat. Specialists consider 8 of these as rare and threatened. All species are
recorded in Annex II, regarding the strict protected fauna species (4 species) and
Annex III regarding the protected fauna species (7 species) at the Convention on
the conservation of European wildlife and natural habitats, adopted at Bern and
ratified by Romania through Law 13/1993. One of these species is also recorded
in Annex II, another species in Annexes II and IV, three species in Annex IV and
one in Annex V to the 92/43/EEC Directive. According to Law 462/2001, 3 park
species are recorded in Annex III, 2 in Annexes III and IV, one in Annex IV and
one in Annex V. This proves the vulnerability of these species and the need of
special conservation measures for them.
The red mountain frog Rana temporara is harvested in some areas of the Park
and many, mostly females, are collected during the reproduction period.
There are 9 species of reptiles, almost 40% of the Romanian terrestrial reptiles
(Annex 2.3.1). Although just one species is considered rare at the national level,
six of them are considered threatened. The Bern Convention includes all the
reptiles from Retezat in its Annexes- II (4 species) and III (5 species)- and the
92/43/EEC Directive ensures the statute of species necessitating strict protection
for 5 species in Retezat, including them in Annex IV. 6 of the Park species are
also included in Annex IV, regarding strict protected species, to Law 462/2001.
104
Although few cases of viper bites have been recorded, both tourists and natives
often kill vipers.
The number of bird species in the park is exceptionally large for a mountain
area (Annex 2.3.1.). There are185 species, half of the Romanian bird species.
122 of them nest in the Park and nearby areas.
Rare species like the mountain eagle, Aquila chrysaetos, (also represented on
the Park logo), the small eagle (Aquila pomarina), the serpent eagle (Circaetus
gallicus), the migratory falcon (Falco peregrinus), the mountain cock (Tetrao
urogallus), Bubo bubo, Glaucidium paseinum, the black stork (Ciconia nigra) and
other rare species can be found here.
With regard to their statute, Law 462/2001 includes 28 species in Annex III, 15
species in Annexes III and IV and 101 species in Annex IV. 127 of the Retezat
and nearby areas species are included in Annex II of the Bern Convention and
50 are included in Annex III of the same Convention. The European Council
79/409/EEC Directive on the conservation of the wild birds includes in its
annexes 55 species of birds living in the area.
There are 55 species of mammals, 23% of the European terrestrial mammals,
have been recorded in the Retezat National Park, proving once again the
diversity of the natural habitats of this area.
The Park offers protection for most of the important European large carnivores
including: wolf (Canis lupus), bear (Ursus arctos) and lynx (Lynx lynx). Large
herbivores such as chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), deer (Cervus elaphus) and
the roedeer (Capreolus capreolus) are also found here. Smaller carnivores, such
as wildcat (Felis silvestris) and mustelines find micro mammals in the different
habitats of the Park, which provides them with food.
Bears use the caves in Small Retezat during winter and bats hibernate here, and
use them for shelter during summer days.13 species of bats have been identified
in the Park: Rhinolophus ferrum-equinum, Vespertilio murinus and Pipistrelus
pigmaeus.
Otters Lutra lutra can be found in some Retezat's rivers.
In 1973 a team of scientists at the Romanian Academy- Commission of Natural
Monuments introduced, , 20 alpine marmots which originated in the Austrian
Alps. The marmots were released in the Gemenele Lake basin and can now be
found in all the glacial valleys and basins from under the Custurii Saddle to the
Zanoaga Lake basin. The impact of this non- native species on the vegetation
and soils is unknown.
According to Law 462/2001, 22 of the mammals in Retezat require strict
protection, 9 of them are included in Annex III, 13 are of community interest;
their exploitation is a concern in the management measures, being included in
Annex 5 of the Law.
The rich fauna of the Retezat National Park proves once again the existence of
natural habitats that are unaffected by human activity.
105
Appendix 3: The Land Ownership structure within the
Park
The overall land ownership structure in the park is illustrated in the table below:
Structure of the property and nature of land use
Land category
Land owner
Area (ha)
Forests
Romanian
Government
Co- ownership
Communes/Villages
17.564
1.044
Alpine area:
18.744
alpine
pastures,
rocks, dwarf pines, The Co -owners 786
water surfaces etc.
Câmpu lui Neag
Association
TOTAL
38.138
% of the
entire
area
46
Location
3
49
Buffer zone
All, except the
Scientific
Reserve
The
entire
protection zone
2
All areas
100
Administrative control:
Administration Responsibilities
Land category
From
Administrator
(year)6
The
National
Forest
AdministrationThe
Forests,
public
Hunedoara
Forest
Government
1948
Directory – in Retezat,
owned
Pui and Lupeni Forest
districts
Forests, property
of the co- owners Co - owners
2002
Alpine area
Local Councils
The
Co
Câmpu
lui
Association
1922
owners
Neag 2001
106
Area
(ha)
% age of the
entire area *
17.564
46
1.830
18.699
49
786
2
The
National
Forest
AdministrationThe
Hunedoara
Forest
Fish and Game
1948
Directory in Retezat, Pui
and
Lupeni
Forest
districts
The Romanian AcademyThe
Gemenele
The Commission for the
Scientific
1956
Protection of Natural
Reserve
Monuments
Retezat National
Retezat National Park
Park Biosphere
1999
Administration
Reserve
38.138
100
1.600
4
38.138
100
* Natural resources in the same area by different institutions / organizations; the
percentages show the shares of the different administration types depending on
the land category.
107
Appendix 4: Tour package development criteria
The core of the activities proposed for RNP and the adjacent area will include the
development of multi-day, multi-activity guided and self-guided tours. Different
zones will offer a variety of optional tour products and some itineraries may cover
more than one zone.
The following proposed tours have been identified in terms of their location (by
Zone) and the duration (in days)
The table outlines the various tour themes and associated activities, potential
markets as well as operational and environmental (sustainable) requirements.
Additional Activities:
Because of the diverse natural and cultural resources it is possible to respond to
market demand for additional activities beyond the major tour product theme. For
instance the mountain bike tour could also include hiking and nature
interpretation. Recent research on the nature and adventure market suggests
that these participants are interested in several activities within the same
itinerary.
Market Segments
There is little data on the source of current arrivals in the region other than that
80% of visitors are Romanian and most international arrivals are from Hungary
and the Czech Republic. Over the next 5 years this mix should change to at least
a 50% coming from outside Romania. Those European nations closest to
Romania will represent the greatest volume while there will also be British,
French, Scandinavian and North American operators selling the uniqueness of
RNP. The proposed packages may also be part of a larger Romanian itinerary.
Operational and Environmental Standards
Because this is a sustainable tourism development strategy, all tour suppliers
(tour operations, accommodation, visitor services, etc) must reflect the highest
environmental standards and sustainable practices. The standards t identified
here provide a guideline different tour packages.
The packages are as follows
1. WILDLIFE
VIEWING
Zone II, Zone III
Additional activities
Market segments by Operational
origin
Environmental
Standards
- Nature Interpretation
-
Germans
108
(3–8 days)
- Large mammal
and
- Village Culture
- Cross Country Skiing
-
-
French
Belgium
British
Americans
Scandinavians
Romanians
Interpretive Services
- Naturalist
- Knowledgeable Guides
- Multi-lingual guides
2. PHOTO
SAFARI
Zone II, Zone III
3–6 days
Additional
activities
Market segments
Operational
Environmental
Standards
Germans
French
Belgium
British
Americans
Scandinavians
Romanians
and
- Nature Interpretation
- Wildlife Viewing
(large mammals)
- Tent camps
- Cross Country Skiing
- Village Culture
-
- Professional Tour Guide
- Wildlife
photographer
- Naturalist
- Photo Services
- Multi-lingual guides
- Unique Species
- Outstanding Scenery
3. WILDERNESS
HIKING
Zone II, Zone 3–10 days
III
Additional activities
Market
segments
Operational
Environmental
Standards
- Rustic Camping
- Ecological Interpretation
- Visit to RNP
Interpretation Centre
- Wildlife Photography
- Fishing
- Pack Horses / mules
- German
- Czech Republic
- British
- Hungarian
- Dutch
- Belgium
- American
- Romanians
- Environmental Quality
- Guide Services
- Safety/Security
- Traditional Romanian
Food
- Outstanding Scenery
- Pre- trip Information
- Multi-lingual guides
4. MOUNTAIN
Zone I, Zone IV
(Off road) BIKING
2–6 days
Additional activities
Operational
Market segments
109
and
and
Environmental
Standards
- Nature Observation
- Tent Camps
- Photography
- Village visits
- Czech Republic
- Romanian
- British
- Hungarian
- Swiss
- Germans
- Dutch
- Belgium
- Environmental Quality
- Safety / Security
- Traditional Romanian
Foods
- „Green‟ Guesthouses
- Hygiene / Cleanliness
- Variety of Activities
- Outstanding Scenery
- Meeting Local People
5.
Learning Zone I, Zone II
Vacations
1/2–3 days
Additional activities
Operational
Environmental
Standards
- Nature Interpretation
- Visits to Local Ecological
Reserves
-Walking/ Hiking
- Rural Culture
- Health and Wellness
Programs
Market segments
-
American
German
British
Dutch
Scandinavian
6.
BIRD Zone II, Zone III
WATCHING
Additional
Market
activities
Segments
110
and
- Green Tour Operations
- „Green‟ Guesthouses
- Environmental Quality
- Knowledgeable Guide
- Safety / Security
- Unique Alpine
Experience
Hygiene
and
Cleanliness
- Pre-trip Information
- Meeting Local People
(2-5 days)
Operational
and
Environmental
Standards
Nature
Interpretation
- Photography
- Wildlife Observation
- Camping
-
British
o London
Germany / Urban
Dutch
Hungarian
-
Knowledgeable
Guides
- Hospitality Services
and Friendly Staff
Hygiene
and
Cleanliness
- Environmental Quality
- Safety / Security
- Good Transportation
- Visit Ecological Sites
- Multi-lingual
7.
RURAL Zone I
(agro)
CULTURE
2-5 day
Additional
activities
Operational
Environmental
Standards
- Traditional Foods
- Special Agriculture
Events
TEK
(Traditional
Ecological Knowledge)
Interpretation
- Hiking, Canoeing
- Visit to Communities
- Meet Local People
- Visit Heritage Sites
Market segments
-
German
Hungarian
Czech Republic
British
Dutch
Swiss
East coast/urban
American
8.
ETHNO Zone II, Zone III
BOTANY STUDY
111
and
- Interpretive Services
- Bilingual Staff
- Green Management of
Hospitality Services
- Safety / Security
- Meet Community Leaders
- Hygiene / Cleanliness
- Good Transportation
3-5 days
Additional activities
Market segments
- Interpretive Program and
Facilities
- Tent camps
- Visit to Ecological
Reserves
- Medicinal Plants
- Hiking
- Botanical Garden Visits
-
British
German
Dutch
French
Hungarian
American
Operational
Environmental
Standards
- Knowledgeable Guides
- Green Management
- Interpretation Kiosk and
Trails
- Wilderness Sites
- Outstanding Scenery
- Nature Appreciation
9.
HORSEBACK Zone I, Zone IV
RIDING
(2-5 days)
Additional activities
Operational
Environmental
Standards
-
Market Segments
Rustic Camping
Wildlife Viewing
Photo Safari
-
Romanians
Hungarian
Czech
Bulgarians
German
French
Swiss
and
and
- Safety / Security
- Green Management
- Environmental Quality
- Friendly Staff
- Knowledgeable Guides
Scenic
Alpine
Environment
10.
NATURE Zone I, Zone II
STUDY
(1-4 days)
Additional
activities
Operational
and
Environmental
Standards
-
Wildlife Viewing
Hiking
Ethno botany
Visit to Ecological
Sites
Tent Camps
Medicinal Plants
Market segments
-
German
Hungarian
Romanian
Czech Republic
French
British
American
o East
coast/urban
112
- Environmental Quality
- Hygiene / Cleanliness
Knowledgeable
Guides
- Green Management
- Outstanding Scenery
11. ALL
TOURS
WOMEN Zone II, Zone III
3–5 days
Additional activities
Market segments
Operational
Environmental
Standards
- Hiking and Trekking
- Tent Camps
- Nature Interpretation
- Visits to Villages
- Health and Wellness
Programs
- Orienteering
- American
- Safety / Security
Canadian - Friendly Female Staff
- British
- Hygiene and
- Dutch
Cleanliness
- Environmental Quality
- Green Management
- Meet with Locals and
Living Legends
- Pre Trip Information
12.
CULTURAL Zone I
HERITAGE TOURS
Additional
Market segments
activities
1–3 days
- Visits to Small Villages
and Historic Site
Romanian
rural
lifestyle
- Living Legends
Special
Cultural
Events
- Shopping (Arts and
Crafts)
- Ancient Settlements
- Geopark Exhibits
- Friendly Staff
- „Green‟ Guesthouses
- Knowledgeable
Interpretive Guides
- RNP Information
Centre
- Pre Trip Information
- Hygiene / Cleanliness
- Traditional Foods
- Variety of
entertaining activities
- Celebrations and
Festivals
- Good Transportation
-
Romanian
French
Hungarian
Czech Republic
German
American
Swiss
13.
COMMUNITY Zone II, Zone III
TOURS + SPECIAL
EVENTS
113
Operational
Environmental
Standards
1-2 day
and
and
Additional activities
Market Segments Operational
Environmental
Standards
- Visit to Heritage Sites
- Romanian Culture
Regional
history
Interpretation
- Traditional Foods
- Cycling
-Hiking
adjacent
to
community
- Romanian Celebrations
- Arts and Craft
-
Dutch
Romanian
German
French
Swiss
Italian
American
- Friendly Staff
- „Green‟ Guesthouses
- Meeting Local People
- Living Legends
- Local entertainers
- Hygiene / Cleanliness
- Good Transportation
- Hospitality Services
Unique
Community
Identity
14.
SCIENTIFIC Zone II, Zone III
RESEARCH
(3-7 days)
Additional activities
Operational
Environmental
Standards
- Nature / Wildlife/
Geology Observation and
Study
- Hiking
- Visit to Local Reserves,
Sanctuaries, Ecological
Sites and Parks
Market Segments
-
Romanian
German
Swiss
Dutch
French
Scandinavian
American
and
and
- Research station
- Knowledgeable Guides
- Tent camps
- Good Transportation
- Green Tour Management
- Unique + Rare Species
- Environmental Quality
15.
CROSS Zone I, Zone II, 1–5 days
COUNTRY SKIING
Zone IV
Additional activities Market
Segments
114
Operational
Environmental
Standards
and
- Dog Sledding
- Rustic Camping
- Hut to Hut Trips
- Wildlife Observation
and tracking
- Nature Interpretation
- German
- British
- Romanian
- Hungarian
- Polish
- Dutch
- Safety / Security
- Friendly Staff
- „Green‟ Guesthouses
- Knowledgeable Guides
- Bilingual Guides
- Wilderness Experience
- Environmental Quality
- Outstanding Scenery
- Entertainment
16. SNOWSHOEING Zone II, Zone III
and TRACKING
Additional activities Market segments
1-4 days
- Nature Interpretation
- Winter Camping
- Wildlife Viewing
- Cross Country Skiing
- Wilderness Survival
- Weather Services
- Trained and
experienced trackers
- Outstanding Scenery
- Safety / Security
- Friendly Staff
- Environmental quality
- Hospitality Services
- Traditional Foods
-
Dutch
German
Scandinavian
Swiss
American
Northeast (Urban)
115
Operational
and
Environmental
Standards
Appendix 5: Retezat Responsible Tourist Code
Learn about the Retezat Region and its people
• Learn a few key words in Romanian
 Read about the history of the region before you arrive
Be aware of religious and social customs
• Visit the Regional Visitor Info Centre (Hateg) and RNP Visitor Interpretation
Centre on arrival in order to gather local information
• Know the appropriate rural cultural behaviour
• Respect the dignity and privacy of others: ask before taking photos
• Dress and behave respectfully, especially in villages, Monasteries and
churches and cultural and heritage areas
• Be careful about giving gifts or money to children and beggars
Protect the biodiversity
• Do not buy products made from local endangered plants or animals
• Do not stand on, touch or remove any items from RNP, including medicinal
plants
Support local initiatives
• Purchase local products, arts, crafts
• Eat local foods rather than imported food
• Support local tour operators and stay in locally owned accommodation
Pay a fair price
• Respect the financial needs of the vendors
• Pay a price that reflects what something is worth to you
Minimize environmental impact
• Dispose of rubbish carefully, recycle where possible, reuse your drink bottles,
and say "No" to plastic bags
• Minimize water and power use
• Chose environmentally responsible tour operators
Think about your impact
• Remember you are a guest: don't do anything you wouldn't do at home
• Make your trip a positive learning and sharing experience for both you and the
people in the Retezat region.
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Appendix 6: Guidelines for the Retezat Sustainable
Tourism Development Policies and Practices
The assessment of current tourism development and the proposals outlined in
this Strategy suggest the need for well defined sustainable tourism development
policies if the region, including the national park, is to emerge as a sustainable
destination. Policies must touch virtually all components of the region or, in the
short term, those other industries that are directly related to tourism (food
production, transportation, construction, etc).
The basic policies presented here were originally developed by James
MacGregor for the Government of the Bahamas, further refined for Northern
Ontario, a region of Canada with similar environmental issues to Retezat.
They are presented here as guidelines to assist all private and public sector
stakeholders have a better concept of how the above proposals can be
presented in a sustainable manner.
Policy 1. SUSTAINABLE TOURISM PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
1.1
Integrate Tourism Concerns into all Planning Initiatives
Tourism will have a "place at the table' and be involved in all planning processes
and related activities throughout the Retezat region and Hunedoara County. The
concerns of the local travel industry will be considered in all developments that
affect the natural and cultural environment.
1.2 Economic Impact
Mechanisms will be established to assure maximum contribution and fair
distribution of travel industry benefits to local economies. Local purchasing, hiring
and direct local involvement in the protection and enhancement of community
businesses are included. Residents of Retezat will provide incentives to
encourage greater control of the travel sector.
1.3 Local Involvement and Participation
The tourism industry and responsible tourism officials will ensure that all Retezat
Region residents have opportunities to benefit from the travel industry and are
involved in all aspects of its development. Tourism development planning will be
a vehicle for civic involvement, participation in decision-making, partnerships,
and contribution to the well being of all citizens of the region.
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1.4 Public Consultation
All tourism development will involve direct consultation with local communities,
citizens, special interest groups and responsible organizations and institutions.
The purpose will be to inform local citizens, solicit their opinions and assure their
complete involvement in decisions that affect their lifestyle and economy.
1.5 Intergenerational Equity
All tourism development in RNP and the surrounding region will include the
concept of inter-generational equity as well as equitable distribution of tourism
business opportunities amongst all residents of the Retezat Region.
Policy 2. GREEN MARKETING
A marketing campaign will be launched to demonstrate the environmentally
responsible initiatives of the Retezat Region and the sustainable practices of the
local travel industry. This will include an appeal to market concern for responsible
tourism products, clean and pristine environments and tourism experiences that
enhance environmental understanding and appreciation.
Marketing mechanisms will reflect green management practices with all literature
produced on recycled paper and promotional activities that minimize
environmental impact.
Policy 3. HOTEL + GUESTHOUSE GREEN MANAGEMENT
3.1 Green Management Policy
A corporate green policy will be prepared for all tourism businesses including
implementation procedures for staff, management and guests in accommodation
and food services facilities. Waste, water pollution and energy use will be
minimized and training programs that contribute to environmental awareness will
be available for all employees, their families and communities.
3.2 Purchasing Practices
Lodges, guesthouse operators and tourism suppliers will establish responsible
purchasing procedures. Buying decisions will focus on environmentally friendly
products, local purchasing, reduced packaging and the elimination of all
unnecessary plastics, styrofoam, etc.
3.3 Energy and Water Conservation
All resorts/hotels/lodges and restaurants will implement a comprehensive energy
and water conservation program and will practice ongoing utility management,
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install current high efficiency technology, train staff to minimize the use of water
and adopt conservation measures that increase efficient use of resources.
3.4 Elimination of Pesticides and Herbicides
The use of all pesticides, detergents, herbicides, bactericides and fungicides will
be minimized and hazardous substance use will be eliminated throughout the
region.
Policy 4. HERITAGE RESTORATION
4.1 Architecture
Guidelines and regulations will be developed by Hunedoara County to preserve
the integrity of the historic buildings that physically express the heritage of the
Retezat Region by encouraging faithful maintenance and accurate restoration of
all historic structures. All additions to heritage buildings will be compatible with
the original form to protect the traditional character of the towns, including their
pedestrian scale and architectural motif.
4.2 Site Planning
Changes to heritage properties will preserve the historic pattern of the site and
reflect the landscape character of adjacent properties.
Policy 5. SITES/FACILITY DEVELOPMENT
5.1 Site Planning
All site planning will be done in an ecologically sensitive manner that respects
local landscape conditions, minimizes impact on plants, wildlife habitats and soil
and water and respects traditional cultural patterns. Alterations of existing sites
will restore or enhance the landscape, while new developments will respect all
natural processes.
5.2 Site Design
All sustainable site design will respect local ecological conditions and include
only those components that respect topography, soils, indigenous vegetation,
climate and spatial qualities. As well, site design must accommodate existing
cultural land use patterns and forms.
5.3 Building Design
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All tourism facilities, (accommodation, attractions, restaurants, etc.) will
incorporate sustainable design and construction practices that minimize the
impact on the environment, specify the use of local materials, minimize
construction waste, reduce demand for water and energy and reflect local site
conditions and the traditional architectural vernacular.
Policy 6. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT
All new major tourism projects will require a comprehensive environmental
impact assessment which focuses on the prediction and assessment of
environmental, social and cultural impacts and includes mitigating measures to
reduce damage resulting from tourism development and compensation for the
loss of resources.
Policy 7. RESEARCH AND MONITORING
All environmental impacts and threats to the sustainability of the tourism industry
will be monitored on an ongoing basis in order to determine the extent of their
impacts, carrying capacity of the site and overall visitor satisfaction.
Policy 8. NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCE PROTECTION AND
ENHANCEMENT
All natural, social and cultural resources will be protected and enhanced in order
to maintain diversity and increase opportunity for a variety of tourism activities,
including ecotourism and cultural heritage tourism. Future tourism products will
include a greater mix and integration of the natural resources and native and
non-native cultural activities.
Policy 9. PROTECTION OF WATER RESOURCES
All significant sources of tourism related pollution of lakes and rivers will be
eliminated and protective measures implemented to assure water quality for
future generations. These resources are fundamental to the development of the
Retezat Region‟s ecotourism potential and all water systems will be protected
and if necessary be restored.
Policy 10. PROTECTION OF BIODIVERSITY INTEGRITY
The unique biodiversity of the Retezat Region environment will be protected by
all stakeholders in local the travel industry. Emphasis will be placed on
maintaining and enhancing complete or intact ecosystems and the protection of
rare and endangered species in and around the RNP.
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Policy 11. ENFORCEMENT
All natural resource protection and conservation regulations and laws will be
strictly enforced with the maximum penalty charged for poachers, illegal loggers
and polluters.
Policy 12. WASTE MANAGEMENT
12.1 Waste Reduction
A comprehensive waste management program will be implemented by all
operators and stakeholders in order to reduce waste and preserve the natural
resources, energy. This will also lead to cost savings for tourism businesses.
Emphasis will be on reducing the amount of material and packaging that is
imported into the Retezat Region
12.2 Solid Waste Management
A solid waste management program will be created in all communities to reduce
the level of non-biodegradable waste, reuse or recycle materials and eliminate
litter. This will be accomplished through the preparation of a Retezat Region
Solid Waste Management Strategy, staff training for the accommodation
(guesthouse, hotel, campground) and food services sector, and an intensive
public awareness campaign.
Policy 13. WATER CONSERVATION
Water conservation measures are to be applied to all components of the travel
industry in order to control both the use of water as well as the recycling of grey
water and treatment of sewage. Water use will be cut by 15% by the year 2010.
Policy 14. TRAINING AND EDUCATION
14.1 Staff Training
All travel industry staff will be educated to understand the concepts of
sustainable tourism as well as their role in implementation and protection of the
resources of the Retezat region. Training will stress environmental awareness,
green management, and the value of sustainable tourism policies and guidelines
on the tourism sector. Employees will also learn how to transfer the
environmental values and actions to their families and communities.
14.2 Public Environmental Education
A public environmental education program will be offered in each community.
This will include public meetings on the importance of sustainable development,
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the value of protecting the environment, and the role of each citizen in
contributing to local environmental protection and enhancement.
14.3 Tourist Education
The local travel industry, in cooperation with Romanian and international tourism
agencies and tour operators, will educate the traveller on the sustainable tourism
development initiatives of RNP and the surrounding region, and on the
progressive efforts to conserve and protect their natural and cultural resources.
The purpose will be to solicit visitor support for and participation in the
conservation initiatives.
Policy 15. RETEZAT REGIONAL INITIATIVES
15.1 Sustainable Tourism Development Planning Guidelines
All tourism development will be controlled by sustainable tourism planning
principles and guidelines. These principles will emphasize stewardship of the
natural and cultural resources, as well as environmentally responsible ethics to
guide and govern the ongoing development of tourism.
15.2 The Retezat Region Conservation Strategy
An integrated Conservation Strategy for Retezat Region and RNP should be
prepared to identify the individual roles of all stakeholders in contributing to
sustainable tourism development.
15.3 Strengthen Sustainable Resource Management Capacities
Local residents and park staff will be educated in sustainable development and
environmental protection through training programs and institutional
strengthening programs. Emphasis will be placed on developing professional
skills to conduct environmental resource inventories and assessments, formulate
management procedures, enforce regulations and monitor development.
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For any comments or recommendations, please contact us at:
Zoran Acimov
Park Director
Contact address:
Retezat Visitor Centre,
Nucsoara, Comuna Salasul de Sus,
Judetul Hunedoara
Phone:
Email:
Web:
+40 (0) 254 218 829
[email protected]
www.retezat.ro
or
Andrei Blumer
Ecotourism Partnership Coordinator
Association of Ecotourism in Romania
USAID - Romania Agribusiness Development Program
Contact address:
Postal address: OP 1 CP 210, Brasov 500500
Mobile:
Fax:
Email:
Web:
+40 744 319 742, +40 723 186 016
+40 21 310 65 17, 40 368 441084
[email protected], [email protected]
www.eco-romania.ro
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