Comana Natural Park
Romania
A short jaunt south of Bucharest will take you to the Comana Natural Park, a beautiful and quiet getaway that's considered one of the most biodiverse areas in the country. In this 62,000-acre (25,000-hectare) park, you'll find all sorts of wild creatures, including over 140 types of birds, among them the endemic glossy ibis.
The basics
Beyond birdwatching, there's plenty to do within this protected national reserve, characterized by forests, marshes, and wetlands. Popular activities range from hiking and biking to horseback riding and canoeing. Comana Natural Park's proximity to the 16th-century Comana Monastery, which was built by Vlad the Impaler (the inspiration for Dracula) is another selling point, and both can be visited on a day trip from Bucharest.
Things to know before you go
Comana Natural Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, and birders in particular.
Wear comfortable shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty.
The park is not wheelchair- or stroller-friendly.
How to get there
Comana Natural Park is about a 45-minute drive south of Bucharest off the 412 and 412A routes. It's not accessible by public transportation, so you'll need to either rent a car or join a guided tour that includes transportation from Bucharest.
When to get there
The park is a year-round attraction, but expect snowfall in the winter and plan accordingly. Spring and summer are great for a visit, when wild pear trees and peonies are in full colorful bloom. The weather is generally pleasant through mid-October, when temperatures begin to fall drastically.
Comana Monastery (Manastirea Comana)
While you're in the area, make sure to pay a visit to the Comana Monastery, which was first built in 1461 by Vlad the Impaler (though the current building is a newer reproduction). Some believe that the necropolis at this medieval monastery is Vlad's burial place.
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