Craiului

Craiului, commonly known as the Craiului Mountains (Munții Craiului), is a limestone mountain range in central Romania, part of the Southern Carpathians. It lies between the Transylvanian Plateau to the north and the Olt Valley to the south, spanning portions of Brașov and Sibiu counties. The range is noted for its rugged crests, deep gorges, and extensive beech and conifer forests.

Geographically and geologically, the Craiului Mountains are characterized by limestone karst, with steep ridges and limestone towers that create dramatic vertical scenery. The crest runs roughly in a north–south direction and, although it is not among the highest ranges in the Carpathians, its peaks commonly rise well above the surrounding basins, contributing to a pronounced alpine character. The landscape includes notable features such as gorges, caves, and karst formations that attract hikers, climbers, and spelunkers.

Conservation and protected areas are a significant aspect of the Craiului region. The area is protected as Parcul National Piatra Craiului, established to preserve its karst landscapes, biodiversity, and traditional mountain pasturing. The park supports a range of habitats and species, including apex and indicator species typical of the Carpathian forests and limestone ridges.

Biodiversity and human history are intertwined in Craiului. The region supports wildlife such as brown bears, lynx, and chamois, along with diverse birdlife and rare plant communities. It has a long history of pastoralism, with seasonal transhumance routes and traditional mountain huts that provide shelter to hikers. The Craiului range is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, enabling visitors to experience its scenic ridges, caves, and forests while observing a relatively well-preserved Carpathian landscape.