Retezat National Park
Retezat National Park is located in the southwestern region of Romania just north of Domogled-Valea Cernei National Park. The park covers an area of 146.90 square miles (380.47 sq km).
Retezat has the distinction of being Romania's first national park. The Retezat Mountains represent the highest mountains in the country and one of the most striking parts of the Carpathians. It is home to the highest number of summits reaching heights over 6,560 feet (2,000 m) throughout Romania.
The national park is renowned for its primeval forest as well as an excellent unspoiled mixed forest that is the most extensive individual forest on the continent. There are around 1,190 species of vegetation that complement the forested area.
The mountainous area is blanketed with 80 individual glacier lakes scattered across the park’s boundaries. This is another natural feature the park is well known for. UNESCO has recognized the region as a larger biosphere reserve.
The biosphere reserve, the old-growth forest, and pristine wilderness support an array of wildlife species found in the area. Some of the most popular species include brown bear, chamois, Eurasian otter, European lynx, European wildcat, fox, red deer, roe deer, wild boar, and wolves. There are at least 120 species of nesting birds located in the park’s region.
Highlights
The national park is renowned for astounding views of pristine mountains, forested areas, and the abundant number of glacial lakes. Mountains, glacial lakes, primeval forests, and mixed forests provide a collective encounter with nature that is often ascribed as the highlight by visitors exploring the park.
The mountains are the highest in Romania and they are covered with 80 separate glacial lakes. Lake Bucura is the most popular. The old-growth forest and virgin mixed forest are some of the best representations in all of Europe. The mountains and glacial lakes are pinnacle attractions of the park.