Walking the Wild Heart of Natura 2000 in Transylvania

Nestled in the heart of Romania, the Transylvanian Highlands are more than just picturesque villages and fairytale landscapes — they are one of Europe’s most ecologically rich regions, protected under the Natura 2000 network. Cristina Iliescu, Destination Manager of the NGO Colinele Transilvaniei, has been working for over a decade to help people experience this special place sustainably. 

We spoke to Cristina about why the Highlands are a treasure, and how Natura 2000 helps preserve both its wild nature and its deeply rooted rural culture.

Cristina, please can you tell us a bit about yourself?

I am part of a team developing the Visiting Strategy for the Sighişoara Târnava Mare - Podișul Hârtibaciului Protected Area. I was born nearby. I trained as an engineer, working in sustainable development and project management, before joining “Colinele Transilvaniei” in 2015. I know this region very well and I know it has huge potential, especially when the communities and local actors here work together.

What makes the Transylvanian Highlands so unique?

What truly sets this area apart is its harmony — between people, nature, and time. You’ll find ancient forests, rolling meadows, and high nature value pastures, all shaped by centuries of traditional farming. It’s also home to UNESCO heritage villages and fortified churches, still alive with community spirit. And behind all this beauty lies real biodiversity: thousands of plant species, rare birds, butterflies, and large carnivores like bears and wolves. It’s a place where biodiversity and cultural heritage go hand in hand.

How does Natura 2000 help protect this landscape?

Natura 2000 is the foundation for our work. It protects seven major sites here, covering almost 270,000 hectares. Without this framework, much of the area’s biodiversity — and even its traditional practices — would be lost. Natura 2000 isn’t about putting nature in a glass box. It allows communities to live and thrive alongside nature, with respect and balance and with a keen focus on benefits for the future and not only for the present. That’s what we promote through ecotourism and conservation efforts: a shared landscape that works for both people and species.

You’ve walked thousands of kilometres here. Do you have a favourite place?

One spot I always return to is the meadows above Viscri in early summer. The wildflowers are breathtaking — orchids, arnica, and wild thyme — and you might spot a hoopoe or even hear the corncrake. It feels like stepping into an older rhythm of life. These are the kinds of moments that stay with you.

Then there is the stillness when you emerge from the woods onto the plateau of the Breite oak reserve near Sighișoara — centuries-old trees scattered across open grassland.

What’s something most people don’t know about the Highlands?

Many people are surprised by how multicultural it is. Saxons, Romanians, Hungarians, Roma— we’ve all lived here for centuries. That diversity is reflected not just in architecture or food, but in how the land has been used and respected. Another little-known fact: over 30% of Romania’s flora can be found here! It’s a real biodiversity hotspot.

Finally, what does Natura 2000 Day mean to you?

It’s a reminder that nature isn’t just something "out there" and not just a resource — it’s part of our daily life. Natura 2000 Day celebrates the communities that live in harmony with nature. It’s also a call to action. These landscapes didn’t survive by chance. They need care, cooperation, and continued protection. And we all have a part to play.

🌿 Want to learn more about this eco-destination or plan a visit? Discover trails, heritage sites, and authentic experiences at Transylvanian Highlands | Colinele