Retezat National Park

Retezat National Park

Retezat National Park, nestled in the heart of the Southern Carpathian Mountains, is a treasured gem in Romania's natural heritage. Established in 1935, it is one of the oldest national parks in the country, boasting a rich biodiversity and unique geological features that set it apart from other protected areas. Located in the Hunedoara County, Retezat National Park spans over 380 square kilometers, encompassing a vast array of landscapes, from rugged mountain peaks to serene glacial lakes, and from dense forests to rolling hills. The park's terrain is characterized by its dramatic altitude variation, with the highest peak, Peleaga, reaching an impressive 2,509 meters above sea level. This varied topography has given rise to a wide range of ecosystems, supporting an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. One of the park's most distinctive features is its glacial lakes, numbering over 80, which are scattered throughout the park. These lakes, formed during the last ice age, are a testament to the region's geological history and provide a habitat for a variety of aquatic life, including trout and other fish species. Retezat National Park is home to an astonishing array of wildlife, including Brown Bears, Gray Wolves, Wild Boar, Eurasian Lynx, European Wildcat, Roe Deer, Red Deer, Eurasian Otter, and Eurasian Badger. The park's avifauna is equally impressive, with over 120 species of birds recorded, including the Common Kingfisher, Short-Toed Snake Eagle, Eurasian Eagle-Owl, Golden Eagle, and Lesser Spotted Eagle.