Calimani Overview
Călimani National Park, or Parcul Național Călimani in Romanian, is a protected area located in central Romania, within the Eastern Carpathians.
Covering approximately 386 square miles (1,000 square kilometers), the park extends across four counties: Suceava, Mureș, Harghita, and Bistrița-Năsăud. It is one of Romania’s largest national parks and is renowned for its volcanic landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich biodiversity.
The park is dominated by the Călimani Mountains, a volcanic massif that forms part of the Inner Eastern Carpathians, with its highest peak, Pietrosul Călimanilor, rising to 6,896 feet (2,102 meters). The region is characterized by rugged peaks, deep valleys, and large scree slopes, which create a dramatic and untamed wilderness.
The remnants of ancient volcanic activity, including craters and lava formations, are visible throughout the park, particularly around the extinct volcanic caldera, one of the largest in Europe.
The vegetation in Călimani National Park is highly diverse, ranging from vast coniferous forests to alpine meadows and subalpine shrublands. Dense forests of spruce, fir, and beech dominate the lower elevations, while higher elevations give way to dwarf pines and grasslands adorned with a variety of wildflowers.
The park is also home to rare plant species, including the endemic Silene dubia and the delicate Eritrichium nanum, which thrive in the rocky alpine terrain. The varied landscape provides a haven for a rich array of wildlife, making the park an important refuge for many species.
Large carnivores such as brown bears, wolves, and lynxes roam the forests, while red deer, chamois, and wild boars are frequently seen in the meadows and rugged slopes. Birdwatchers can spot golden eagles soaring above the peaks, while black woodpeckers, hazel grouse, and the elusive capercaillie find shelter within the dense woodlands. The presence of so many flagship species makes Călimani a key site for biodiversity conservation in Romania.
Visitors to Călimani National Park can explore its stunning landscapes through a network of hiking trails that traverse its diverse terrain. One of the most popular routes leads to Pietrosul Călimanilor, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the volcanic caldera.
The park is also known for its unique rock formations, including the 12 Apostles, a group of striking, weathered stone pillars that resemble human figures and have inspired local legends. The former sulfur mine at Negoiu Românesc, now abandoned, provides insight into the region’s geological history, though its environmental impact remains a concern. Beyond hiking, visitors can engage in wildlife watching, photography, and in winter, snowshoeing or ski touring across the park’s vast snowy expanses.
Călimani National Park faces conservation challenges, including deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and the lingering effects of past mining activities. However, conservation efforts have made progress in restoring degraded areas and protecting endangered species.
The park is part of Romania’s Natura 2000 network, ensuring legal protections that help maintain its ecological integrity. Sustainable tourism initiatives and environmental education programs aim to balance conservation with visitor experiences, ensuring that future generations can continue to appreciate the park’s natural beauty and rich biodiversity.