Romanian tourism: Sulina, the place where Danube river greets the Black Sea

Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve, one of the most beautiful deltas in Europe, has the third largest biodiversity in the world, thus making it one of Romania's major touristic attractions. It is formed by a large network of water channels, floating islands, sand dunes and small lakes, spread around the three main arms of the Danube: Chilia, Sulina and Sfantu Gheorghe.

Located at the tip of Sulina arm, the town of Sulina surprises by its industrial look. No wonder it is considered to be the heart of commercial activity in the region. The only way to reach Sulina is by boat, as it is not directly connected to the national road network. Also, be aware that visitors are required to hold a permit in order to enter the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve premises. Such permit, having a moderate price, may be acquired from the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve Administration's website ( http://www.ddbra.ro/en), as well as from registered accommodation places in the area.

Historical facts about Sulina

This is a place of great historical importance, dating back to the Middle Ages. Also, according to Sulina City Hall’s website (https://www.primaria-sulina.ro/primarie/pid/istoricpid.pdf), Sulina hosted the headquarters of the European Danube Commission during the 19th century, when the Danube has been turned into a waterway appropriate for commercial transportation. The European Danube Commission Palace and Sulina Lighthouse are standing proofs of those glorious times. The Commission officially ceased its activity in 1939, but its legacy lives on. During World War II, over 80% of Sulina's surface has been destroyed by Russian bombing. The touristic activities in the area during the last decades have revived the town, making it one of the main attractions of the Danube Delta.

What to do in Sulina

Visit Sulina cemetery

The settlement of the European Danube Commission in Sulina determined workers from all over Europe, of various religions, to establish here. One of the consequences is the fact that the tombstones in Sulina's cemetery bear witness to this gone eclectic community. This maritime cemetery is the resting place for high clerks of the European Danube Commission, a Greek prince, a princess, sailors and even a pirate. Walk through the astonishing tombstones, read the epitaphs written in honor of people coming from all over the world and learn about the stories beyond the graves. 

Go on boat rides on the channels

Do not miss the traditional tours on the channels. This is a great opportunity for bird watching, as there are more than 300 species of migratory and resident birds in this area. A paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, Danube Delta offers to its tourists incredible sceneries. The bird watching season starts in early spring and ends in late summer. Hence, you have plenty of time to enjoy this relaxing activity.

Try the local cuisine

Sulina is the perfect place to try the traditional fisherman’s soup, the freshly made roe salad, the grilled or fried mackerel, sturgeon fish, carp or sheat fish, always accompanied by a generous quantity of garlic sauce. Serve these dishes with a cold bottle of Aligote wine and let yourself be delighted by Delta’s tasty cuisine. You may try all these specialties at Marea Neagra restaurant, located on the promenade, just next to Sulina City Hall.

Visit the Old Lighthouse

The Old Lighthouse, the main symbol of the town, now houses a small museum, telling the visitors the story of this unique place. The building dates back to 1870 and offers a wonderful view of the town, once you climb to the top. 

Go to the beach

Sulina has approximately two kilometers of clean, isolated beach. Its soft sand and virgin aspect attracts many tourists looking to leave behind the crowded beaches they are used to. While here, enjoy the sun, clear seawater and wild atmosphere.

There are plenty of places to choose from for accommodation, as long as you book in advance. My option has been Pasha Sulina, a modern guesthouse in the middle of the town (http://www.pashasulina.ro/), which I recommend to all those staying in Sulina.

Special thanks to Tudor Botea for most of the beautiful photos above.

If you want to find out more about what to do during your stay in Danube Delta, read also this post: https://alltheflavorsandcolors.blogspot.com/2018/10/romanian-tourism-day-trip-destinations.html