Accessible Romania by Sano Touring

22/04/2025

Did you know that the tallest rock sculpture in Europe is in Romania? The Rock Sculpture of Decebalus stands 55 meters (180 feet) tall and is carved into a cliffside overlooking the Danube River, right on the border with Serbia. It depicts Decebalus, the last king of Dacia and a proud symbol of Romanian heritage. An awe-inspiring tribute to history — definitely worth seeing up close!

[Image Description: A large rock sculpture of Decebalus, the last king of Dacia, is carved into a steep cliffside surrounded by lush green forest. Below the sculpture is an inscription in Latin: “DECEBALUS REX DRAGAN FECIT.” In the foreground, a bridge spans a calm river, with small boats and a few people visible. At the top left of the image, a white hexagon-shaped overlay contains bold black text that reads: “ROCK SCULPTURE OF DECEBALUS.” Below that is the logo for Accessible Romania by Sano Touring, which features the letters “aRO” with a smiling face integrated into the "O", followed by the text “accessibleRomania by SanoTouring.” The bottom of the overlay includes two horizontal orange and white stripes. Decorative dotted accents appear in the image corners.]

19/04/2025

Happy Easter!

19/04/2025

🌸🐣 Happy Easter from Accessible Romania! 🐣🌸

As we celebrate this special time of year, we’d like to send warm wishes of peace, joy, and renewal to all who are observing Easter this weekend.

In Romania, Easter is one of the most cherished holidays, rich with tradition and symbolism. Families gather for a midnight church service, where candles are lit and the words "Hristos a înviat!" (Christ is risen!) echoes through the night. On Easter morning, red-painted eggs are cracked together in a fun game of "egg tapping," and tables are filled with traditional foods like cozonac (a sweet bread), drob (a savory lamb dish), and fresh spring salads.

Wherever you are in the world, we hope this season brings light, love, and connection. 🕊️

[Image Description: A pastel Easter greeting with a light beige background, decorated with colorful daisies and stylized flowers in orange, white, mustard, and black along the top and bottom borders. In the center, large coral-orange text reads “HOPPY EASTER” with bunny ears on the letter “O” and two Easter eggs replacing the final “R”. Below in elegant cursive it says, “have a great weekend.” The Accessible Romania by Sano Touring logo appears in the top right corner.]

16/04/2025

Did any of you guys catch this? Earlier today, Cristina took part in the second WeNaTour webinar — and, as expected, brought real clarity and heart to the conversation on accessible tourism.

Her talk was part of a broader WeNaTour initiative focused on helping destinations across Europe better understand and improve the socio-economic value of tourism. Today’s session explored critical themes like workforce sustainability, inclusive growth, and the role of local supply chains, showing how tourism, when managed thoughtfully, can be a real force for good in communities.

This webinar was one of four live sessions introducing WeNaTour’s upcoming e-learning course on sustainable tourism. The full course will be available soon via Moodle, but in the meantime, you can catch replays and learn more here:
👉 https://wenatour.eu/project-updates/wenatour-webinar-series

[Image Description: A virtual webinar screenshot featuring four speakers in a grid layout. Each person appears in front of the same scenic virtual background, which shows a lush green forest with pine trees, large rocks, and a mountainous backdrop under a clear blue sky. All participants have a "WeNaTour" logo in the top corner of their frame. The top left speaker is looking attentively forward; the top right speaker is looking down slightly; the bottom left speaker wears glasses and a light-colored sweater; and the bottom right speaker, who has headphones on, is mid-speech and gesturing with one hand.]

15/04/2025

With Accessible Romania by Sano Touring as a Project Partner in the Project, the WeNaTour Sustainable Tourism Course: Welfare, Nature and Innovation in Tourism addresses accessible tourism as a social pillar of the sustainable management of a tourism destination.

Join us for the second free webinar (of the series of four) on Wednesday, 16 April - registration is open until Tuesday 15 April at https://www.eventbrite.it/e/how-can-destinations-measure-and-optimise-tourisms-socio-economic-impact-tickets-1273766101699?aff=oddtdtcreator, and please share your thoughts!
for

📊 Tourism means jobs, inclusion, services, but… how can we really measure its social and economic value?

📣 Save the Date and join us for the second WeNaTour serie

🗓️ 16 April 2025 | From 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM CEST
💬 How Can Destinations Measure and Optimise Tourism’s Socio-Economic Impact?

In this session, we’ll dive into:
• The direct and indirect impact of tourism on local economies
• Tools and strategies to monitor tourism’s social and economic value
• Workforce sustainability, local supply chains, and inclusive growth

🎙️ Meet Our Expert Speakers:
• Ayako Ezaki - TrainingAid (Moderator)
• Serena De Franceschi – ETIFOR
• Cristina Căluianu - Accessible Romania by Sano Touring
• Daniele Tonelli - Garda Dolomiti Azienda per il Turismo S.p.A.

📌 Participation is free, but registration is required!
👉 Secure your spot now: https://www.eventbrite.it/e/how-can-destinations-measure-and-optimise-tourisms-socio-economic-impact-tickets-1273766101699?aff=oddtdtcreator

📚 This free webinar is part of the official WeNaTour e-learning course on sustainable tourism - and it is open to all professionals, students and enthusiasts! Pre-enrolment for the WeNaTour e-learning course is open!
👉 Learn more at https://wenatour.eu/learn/



[Image Description: The image is a promotional graphic for a webinar titled "How can destinations measure and optimise tourism's socio-economic impact?". The webinar is scheduled for April 16, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM (CEST).

The graphic features several elements:

Top Section: The logo for "we na tour" is prominently displayed on the left. In the center, it indicates that the project is "Co-funded by the European Union". On the right side, logos of the organizing partners are shown: "Etifor", "Trainingaid", "Accessible Romania by Sano Touring", and "GARDA Trentino".
Central Text: The main question of the webinar is presented in large, bold text: "How can destinations measure and optimise tourism's socio-economic impact?". Below this is a call to action button in red that says "JOIN THE WEBINAR".
Visual Element: To the right of the main text, there's a graphic of a green magnifying glass focusing on an aerial view of two people (one in red, one in blue) on a path in a natural, possibly mountainous, area. This visually represents the idea of examining and understanding the impact of tourism.
Bottom Section: The website address "wenatour.eu" is displayed on the right. On the left, it indicates the webinar is "Coordinated by" "Università degli Studi di Ferrara". Below this, "In partnership with" is written, followed by several smaller logos of partner organizations, including "Etifor", "Kärnten Digital", "Meath Partnership", "TUS Midlands Midwest", "BFW", "ISI Foundation", "Università di Sassari", "rc", and "aRO accessible Romania".
The overall design is clean and informative, highlighting the key details of the webinar and the involved organizations. The magnifying glass visual effectively communicates the theme of measurement and optimization.]

14/04/2025

Discover the Legendary Heart of Wallachia: Curtea de Argeș

Step into the storybook charm of Curtea de Argeș, the first capital of Wallachia and one of Romania’s most historically rich destinations. This city offers a unique blend of medieval architecture, royal heritage, and captivating legends.

Most sites are accessible for slow walkers, seniors, and wheelchair users, making it an inclusive destination for all.

Highlights of Your Visit:

CURTEA DE ARGEȘ MONASTERY

A national treasure and one of the most remarkable architectural landmarks in Romania. Built between 1515 and 1517 by Prince Neagoe Basarab, it became the royal necropolis under King Carol I. A true symbol of spiritual and historical importance.

MANOLE’S WELL

According to legend, the emperor who commissioned the monastery feared the builders might outdo themselves elsewhere, so he stranded them on the roof. Manole fashioned wings from shingles to escape—but fell. Where he landed, a spring emerged. Even today, locals speak of a shimmering mist rising from the well toward the monastery.

EPISCOPAL PALACE AND GARDENS

Constructed in 1896, the palace houses the relics of Saint Philofteia and features vivid murals that bring Manole’s legend to life. Surrounding it is a beautifully designed French-style park—perfect for a peaceful stroll.

🌿 Whether you’re a lover of history, architecture, or legend, Curtea de Argeș offers a journey through time you won’t soon forget.
Let us help you experience it.

[Image Description: A collage showcasing iconic landmarks in Curtea de Argeș, Romania. The top-left and top-right images feature the ornate Curtea de Argeș Monastery, known for its intricate Byzantine-style architecture and tall domes. The bottom-left shows a stone monument surrounded by vibrant flowers, while the bottom-right depicts a white historical structure with a wooden shingle roof. In the center, bold text reads "Curtea de Argeș" on a white square background. The logo in the top-right corner reads "aRO Accessible Romania by Sano Touring."]

11/04/2025

The citadel of Sighișoara, built by Transylvanian Saxons in the 12th century, still stands today as one of Europe’s most remarkably preserved medieval towns.

But what truly draws the crowds? It’s the birthplace of Vlad III — better known as Vlad the Impaler... or, to most, Count Dracula. 🧛

Vlad’s father, Vlad Dracul, ruler of Wallachia, took refuge in Sighișoara with his wife between 1431 and 1435, during the Ottoman invasion. It was during this time that Vlad III was born, right inside the Mayoral House — still found today at No.1 Tin Street.

That same house, believed to be the oldest stone building in the city, now draws curious visitors eager to uncover legends. Whether you’re chasing vampire tales or wartime truths, Sighișoara offers both myth and history in equal measure.

Want to know how this fascinating city fits into one of our tours? Visit: https://accessibleromania.com/tours/

[Image Description: A vibrant street scene in the medieval town of Sighișoara, Romania, featuring the iconic Clock Tower rising majestically in the center. The tower is topped with colorful, tiled roofing and ornate spires. Flanking the narrow street are brightly painted buildings in shades of coral, mustard yellow, and pastel pink, with traditional wooden windows and hanging lanterns. The logo for "Accessible Romania by Sano Touring" is placed in the top right corner of the image.]

09/04/2025

Did you know that Romania's Palace of the Parliament in Bucharest holds the Guinness World Record for being the heaviest building on the planet? Weighing in at approximately 4.1 million tons, this colossal structure is so heavy that it's said to sink a few millimeters each year!​

We visit the Palace of the Parliament as part of our tours that include Bucharest. Large areas of the Palace are wheelchair accessible, with a separate level-access entrance and lifts to be used within the building. Our tour guide will help show you around, along with dedicated tour staff within the Palace.

Experience the grandeur of one of Romania's most significant landmarks; it's an adventure not to be missed!

[Image Description: The first image shows an opulent chandelier-lit meeting room with high ceilings, classical detailing, and elegant furnishings arranged in a formal layout. The second image captures a grand marble staircase and corridor adorned with intricate ceiling designs and massive columns in a luxurious interior. The third image features the exterior of a massive neoclassical-style building with arched windows, decorative stonework, and a colorful flower-lined path leading to the entrance. The fourth image depicts a man in a wheelchair navigating a marble-tiled walkway outside the same building, next to a crowded parking area and without a visible ramp for accessibility.]

08/04/2025

Our tours are so good even Dracula is waiting for us to come pick him up!


[Image Description: A dark, gothic scene set on a rainy night. In the foreground sits Count Dracula, cloaked in black and exuding a chilling presence, his gaunt face etched with centuries of menace. He rests in a wooden wheelchair, hands curled on the armrests, eyes piercing beneath a furrowed brow. Behind him looms a towering, medieval castle perched on jagged rock, its spires rising into the stormy sky. Rain falls steadily, casting a cold sheen over the scene, while twisted trees frame the path leading to the fortress. The color palette is drenched in deep blues and shadows, amplifying the atmosphere of dread and timeless horror.]

07/04/2025

At Accessible Romania, we believe everyone deserves the chance to explore our beautiful country — and that’s exactly why we created our accessible tours and day trips.

Whether you're a senior traveler, use a wheelchair, are blind, or simply want a thoughtful, relaxed travel experience, our tours are designed to help you discover Romania with ease and joy. Think: castles, monasteries, vibrant towns, and peaceful countryside — all showcased in an accessible way.

What makes us different? Every hotel is personally inspected by our team for accessibility, and every itinerary is carefully crafted by locals who care deeply about creating real, memorable experiences.

So if you've ever thought travel in Romania might not be possible for you or someone you love — we’re here to say: yes it is. And it’s going to be incredible. ♿✈️

📍 Come explore at www.accessibleromania.com

04/04/2025

Fancy exploring a Gothic fairytale at Corvin Castle! 🏰

One of Europe’s largest castles, Corvin Castle rises dramatically over the Zlaști River, its towering spires and drawbridge straight out of a Hollywood fantasy. Nestled on the outskirts of Hunedoara’s industrial landscape, it feels like a portal to another era.

Inside, you'll be awed by the grand courtyard, high-ceilinged halls, and eerie legends that echo through its walls. Must-see spots include:

✔️ The Knights’ Hall
✔️ The infamous well
✔️ The gruesome bear pit

Accessible for slow walkers and partially wheelchair-friendly, this castle is not just a tourist attraction—it’s a sought-after venue for weddings, celebrations, and stunning photoshoots.

Ready to explore? Get in touch: [email protected]

[Image Description: A stunning medieval castle with red-tiled towers and fortified stone walls sits atop a rocky hill, surrounded by lush greenery. A wooden bridge spans across a deep moat, leading to the entrance. The background features a cloudy blue sky, adding to the dramatic atmosphere. The logo "Accessible Romania by SanoTouring" is placed in the top left corner.]

02/04/2025

Digitally speaking we’re getting a bit busier behind the scenes and making some tweaks here and there to our website, making sure it’s up to scratch from an accessibility standpoint. Bare with us though as it’s a bit of a work in progress!

Along with these slight modifications, we’re also working our way through some blog posts and updating them here and there. Check this one out, for example accessibleromania.com/why-you-should-visit-brasov

Once we’re through with all the updates, we’ll be working hard to increase the amount of content we have on our site - so expect some brand-new blog posts and articles, all to tempt you enough to make you consider our beautiful country for your next accessible adventure!

Brasov is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking history, natural beauty, and accessible tourism experiences in Romania. Known as the Crown City (Kronstadt in German), Brasov captivates visitors with its medieval charm, scenic mountain landscapes, and a variety of cultural and outdoor activi...

31/03/2025

Regular users of tabifolk will know that the Japan group is by far our most active in terms of new and existing members coming to ask questions and join discussions. But did you know that Accessible Romania by Sano Touring is single-handedly giving the Japan group a run for its money with their contributions to both the Romania group and the Europe group?

We need more folks like these guys. Come along, sign up, and find the group that closest represents your area! Become a local concierge and help answer questions from other members, and share your tips and advice on everything from where’s good to grab a bite to eat to where the accessible party is at once the sun goes down!

Sign up today (it’s freeee) and let’s expand the accessible travel conversation! Visit tabifolk.com or download the app, now.

[Alt text: A graphic with bold white text saying "JOIN THE CONVERSATION" at the top. Below is a close-up image of a map highlighting Romania, with major cities like Bucharest, Cluj, and Brașov labeled. At the bottom, the smaller white text reads "FIND ANSWERS, SHARE ADVICE, AND MUCH MORE." The design has a dark gray background with a green accent on the right side.]

31/03/2025

Have you heard of Romania’s largest Spa Resort? Relax & Rejuvenate at Băile Felix!
Băile Felix offers year-round relaxation with thermal pools, top-north spa treatments, and modern hotels that accommodate guests with access needs.

Looking for the perfect accessible wellness getaway? Băile Felix offers year-round relaxation with thermal pools, top-notch spa treatments, and modern hotels designed for guests with special needs.

🌿 Accessible 4 & 5-star hotels with adapted rooms & ramps
♨️ Therapeutic thermal waters for relaxation & wellness
🛫 Easy access from Oradea & Budapest airports
🏛️ Explore nearby Oradea & even take a trip to Budapest!

Why not combine a trip to Băile Felix with a longer journey around Romania - check out our various tours and day trips on our website: accessibleromania.com.

[ALT Text: An image of the expansive Băile Felix, from above. There are multiple swimming pools, a water slide, and many sun loungers, and the area is surrounded by dense woods.]

30/03/2025

📣 New webinar series alert! If you’re passionate about sustainable tourism and want to learn from top experts across Europe, don’t miss this free 4-part WeNaTour webinar series! 🌍✨

Save the dates: ✏️

April 9 – What makes a DMO effective in sustainable destination management?
April 16 – How can destinations measure and optimise tourism’s socio-economic impact?
May 7 – What does cultural sustainability mean for destinations and communities?
May 14 – How can tourism be more nature-positive through regenerative approaches?
Whether you're a student, a tourism pro, or just curious about shaping a more responsible travel industry, these sessions are for you! Plus, they’re part of a free e-learning course on sustainable tourism from the University of Padua.

Check out the full programme and register now: 🔗 https://wenatour.eu/project-updates/wenatour-webinar-series/

[Image Description: A promotional poster for the WeNaTour free webinar series on sustainable tourism. The poster features a green magnifying glass graphic with an image of people collaborating on a laptop. The title reads "JOIN WENATOUR’S FREE WEBINARS ON SUSTAINABLE TOURISM," followed by a programme preview listing four webinar dates and topics: April 9 (DMOs and destination management), April 16 (measuring tourism’s socio-economic impact), May 7 (cultural sustainability in tourism), and May 12 (regenerative tourism). A large red "REGISTER NOW" button is at the bottom, with a website link for full details: www.wenatour.eu/learn.]

28/03/2025

Project

🚨 New webinar series alert!
Want to get new skills in sustainable tourism? Join our free 4-part WeNaTour webinar series to learn from top experts and discover tools, trends, and case studies from across Europe.

🎙️ Sessions features speakers from organisations including ETIFOR, Accessible Romania by Sano Touring, Transylvania University of Brasov, FACHHOCHSCHULE KÄRNTEN, and Nature Tourism Development

👨‍💻👨‍💻 Webinars are open to all interested students and professionals in the field of sustainable tourism.

🗓️Save the dates!
• April 9 – What makes a DMO effective in sustainable destination management?
• April 16 – How can destinations measure and optimise tourism’s socio-economic impact?
• May 7 – What does cultural sustainability mean for destinations and communities?
• May 14 – How can tourism be more nature positive through regenerative approaches?

🔗 Check the full programme & register here: https://lnkd.in/dg22waXn

25/03/2025

DO YOU NEED A VISA TO TRAVEL TO ROMANIA?

If you’re from the EU, then the short answer is no! However, for those visiting from outside the European Union, you may need to apply for a visa ahead of time.

The General Inspectorate for Immigration details all you need to know on the following webpage: https://igi.mai.gov.ro/en/coming-travelling-to-romania/

Our spectacular country is waiting for you! 😀

[Image Description: A travel-themed flat lay featuring a blue toy airplane, an open passport with visa pages, a rubber stamp, a closed blue passport, and a vintage compass, all set on an antique world map. The "Accessible Romania by Sano Touring" logo is in the top left corner.]

21/03/2025

Everyone at Accessible Romania would like to wish our founder, Cristina, a very happy birthday. Wishing you good health, an abundance of happiness, and the success you so richly deserve in the coming year and the many years that follow. We may be a small team here at Accessible Romania, but without Cristina’s driving force, inspiration, and passion for accessible tourism and accessibility more broadly, we would be nothing. The many projects and initiatives Cristina turns her hand to and helps to become successful are a testament to her endearing personality and drive for continued improvement in this world.

Many, many happy returns, Cristina!