Speaker
Description
The village of Biertan, recipient of the first-place award in the Destination of the Year 2024 Competition – Storybook Village category, represents a site rich in history and narratives, situated at the confluence of several cultures coexisting in Transylvania, including the Saxons, Romanians, and Roma communities. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and counted among the most photographed landmarks in rural Transylvania, Biertan emerges as a vibrant and dynamic village, currently undergoing a process of self-rediscovery.
Through strategic partnerships with the County Council, the Transylvanian Tourism Association (AJTS), the Local Action Group Dealurile Târnavelor, and the Colinele Transilvaniei initiative, local producers and service providers are being integrated into various development projects, such as the Leader Gastro Tour, promotional campaigns, the expansion of touristic offerings through travel agencies, and participation in organized events.
The principal touristic products and experiences promoted within the village include traditional horse-drawn carriage rides, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, traditional craftsmanship workshops, local wine tastings, and cultural events (concerts, multimedia performances, festivals, among others).
The main objectives for promoting tourism as a catalyst for rural development focus on the development and maintenance of sustainable tourism infrastructure within the Colinele Transilvaniei ecotourism destination – including hiking, cycling, and thematic trails – improving accessibility to local attractions, as well as identifying and promoting green, environmentally responsible experiences.
In recent years, the village of Biertan has attracted over 70,000 visitors annually. A further priority objective for the local community is to increase the number of tourist overnight stays by at least 30% within the next five years, transitioning Biertan from a predominantly weekend or transit destination into a comprehensive holiday destination.
The research methodology employed relies on the analysis and interpretation of data collected through a structured questionnaire, designed to explore the means by which these strategic goals can be achieved.
Furthermore, it is imperative for the village to commit to promoting economic sustainability by fostering business development, encouraging entrepreneurship, and stimulating investment initiatives.
