After more than two centuries of absence, the European bison is once again roaming the forests of the Țarcu Mountains in Romania. Its return marks not only a milestone in ecological restoration but also the revival of a long-lost relationship between local communities and the natural world that surrounds them.
In the communes of Armeniș, Teregova, and Cornereva, the presence of this iconic species brings both challenges and exciting new possibilities. With support from Rewilding Romania, these communities are becoming active participants in shaping a future where people and bison thrive side by side. They are pioneers of coexistence—laying the foundation for a model that can inspire rewilding efforts across Europe.
Bison Bring Visitors—But Visitors Need More Than Just Scenic Views
The Țarcu Mountains now host one of Europe’s largest free-roaming bison populations, drawing curious and conscious travelers from around the world. Yet, for tourism to truly benefit the region, it must go beyond the spectacle of wildlife. Tourists seek meaningful experiences—authentic food, local culture, and warm, rooted hospitality.
Today, however, none of the villages in Armeniș, Teregova, or Cornereva have officially certified Local Gastronomic Points (LGPs)—small, family-run establishments where guests can enjoy regional cuisine made with local ingredients. Recognizing this gap, Rewilding Romania partnered with Agenția Națională a Zonei Montane to organize training courses for residents interested in starting their own LGPs.
Communities Respond with Enthusiasm
The first course, held in February 2025, exceeded expectations, drawing 43 participants. A second round followed in early May with 49 more locals eager to turn their culinary passion into sustainable income. All participants received diplomas qualifying them to open certified gastronomic points—empowering them to preserve and share their culinary heritage while building resilience into the local economy.
Among the highlights of the May training was a guest appearance by Dan Liuț, host of the popular Romanian TV show Sarea în Bucate, who encouraged participants to take pride in their food traditions and to view their kitchens as cultural beacons.
They were also inspired by video messages from:
- Teodor Frolu, cultural entrepreneur and vice-president of the Ivan Patzaichin – Mila 23 Association, who helped legalize the LGP concept in Romania. He described LGPs as “guardians of tradition” that can revitalize rural life through experiential tourism.
- Dorian Lungu, president of Gastro Local and founder of the national GastroLocal platform, emphasized the importance of using at least 70% local or home-grown ingredients—ensuring a strong, circular economy rooted in the community.
From Training to Action: Mentoring the First LGPs
In June, the initiative will move into a hands-on mentorship phase, supporting participants as they open their own LGPs. The program includes:
- Workshops on hygiene standards and food safety
- Basic financial management and pricing strategies
- Support from architecture and design students to create inviting serving spaces
- Knowledge exchange with successful LGPs from other regions
- Culinary workshops with renowned chefs to rediscover and celebrate traditional recipes
Gastronomy as a Tool for Coexistence
What do European bison and rural gastronomy have in common? More than meets the eye. The development of LGPs is directly linked to the success of wildlife coexistence in the area. These new culinary hubs not only diversify income opportunities for residents, but they also create a sustainable, local food supply chain that includes farmers from areas where bison presence may cause occasional discomfort.
By sourcing produce from these farmers, LGPs support both people and nature. Tourists become more than visitors—they become part of a shared story, contributing to a rewilding model where conservation and community go hand in hand.
A Story of Balance and Belonging
In their daily choices—where they eat, what they buy, which experiences they seek—locals and visitors alike are shaping a new kind of rural development. In the Southern Carpathians, a hopeful narrative is emerging: one of renewed balance between nature and people, between heritage and innovation, between rootedness and openness.
Two centuries after its disappearance, the European bison is back. But more than an animal returning to its forest home, it brings with it a deeper restoration—of pride, purpose, and possibility in the mountain villages of Romania.