Romania Aims To Attract More Skiers

The upgraded ski area opened earlier this week in Poiana Brasov, Romania's main winter resort. The renovations follow a 25 million euro investment from the Ministry of Tourism.

The total ski area of the resort was increased by 50 hectares to 85 hectares. Most of the slopes were modernised and new artificial snow machines were installed, according to officials. Ski slopes in the area currently have a total length of 24 km.

“This was the biggest investment in ski infrastructure in Romania over the last 20 years. If we continue what we started through promotion, investment and public-private partnerships, we will only gain in terms of revenue in local budgets,” said Tourism Minister Elena Udrea.

She added that thanks to the modernisation of the resort, the ski season in Romania can be extended to four months a year. The new ski season will last from December until the end of March.

On ski season weekends, over 3,000 visitors flock to Prahova Valley, Romania's main winter resort region. In addition to Poiana Brasov, the Valley includes five other major resorts. Ski slopes descend from the majestic Carpathian peaks, and run for over 2,000 metres.

Hotels and guesthouses offer traditional Romanian cuisine in their restaurants. Nightly room rates start at €30.

Romania is a relatively new ski destination for Western skiers. Its slopes and resorts are ideally suited to beginners and families on a budget.

So far, the month of December has been sunny and mild, with little snow in the Carpathian mountains. However, meteorologists expect heavy snow in the coming days.