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Tusnádfürdő

Tusnádfürdő (in Romanian, Băile Tușnad) is the smallest town in Harghita County, nestled in the picturesque basin of the Eastern Carpathians, at the foot of the Csomád–Bálványos volcanic mountain range, between the Vulkán Mountains and Harghita. The town lies at an altitude of 650 metres above sea level, in the narrow valley of the Olt River, between Sfântu Gheorghe and Miercurea Ciuc. The settlement became an internationally renowned resort as early as the 19th century due to its medicinal waters. The mineral-rich springs and mofettas, with their therapeutic properties, are particularly effective in treating cardiovascular diseases and musculoskeletal problems. The spa complex was originally built around these natural healing factors, which still define the town's tourism profile today. Nature enthusiasts and hikers are especially drawn to the nearby Lake Saint Anne, the only volcanic crater lake in Europe, and the Mohos Peat Bog, which is of outstanding ecological value due to its unique flora and marshy habitat. The town is crisscrossed by nature trails, mountain hiking routes, viewpoints, and eco-tourism infrastructure, allowing visitors to explore the area actively and sustainably. The sustainability of Tusnádfürdő's tourism is reinforced by the town's small population and its strong focus on preserving the natural environment, ensuring the sustainable use of mineral waters, and promoting gentle tourism. The settlement participates in various international and domestic environmental and tourism development programmes, and several providers offer eco-friendly accommodation, local products, and health tourism services. Every year, the nearly week-long Tusványos Festival is held here.

Arrival

  • Walk
  • Bike
  • Electric bicycle
  • Bus (rented for the trip)
  • Motorcycle
  • Car

Sights, programs

Mohos Peat Bog – Europe's Ice Age Secret in a Volcanic Crater Mohos Peat Bog The Mohos Peat Bog (Tinovul Mohoș) offers a unique nature conservation experience in Székely Land, located at an altitude of 1,050 metres in the Csomád Mountains. It is the second crater lake, separated from Lake Saint Anne by a narrow ridge, and is a remnant of what was once a much larger crater lake. Today, an 80-hectare flat area is covered by a thick peat layer up to 10 metres deep – an area that was once four times larger than Lake Saint Anne. Mohos is home to Europe's botanical rarities: the round-leaved sundew – Transylvania's only carnivorous plant – as well as bog cranberry, red and black bilberry, bog rosemary, bog sedge, and over 20 species of moss can be found here.
Románia, 535100 Tusnádfürdő
Lake Saint Anne Lake Saint Anne Lake Saint Anne is Romania's only volcanic lake, located in the heart of Transylvania, within the Kozmás–Tusnád–Lázárfalva area of the Csomád–Bálványos region. Its crystal-clear waters and the crater walls, shaped like a candlestick, exude a mystical charm while carrying a deeper message: the importance of safeguarding and sustainably preserving natural treasures.
Románia, 535100 Tusnádfürdő
Apor Bastion Apor Bastion Towering above Băile Tușnad, on the slopes of Szurdok-tető, stands the picturesque Apor Bastion, which serves not only as a lookout point but also as a cultural landmark, playing an important role in the life of the region. Built in 1883, at the end of the 19th century, the structure was realised at the initiative of Baron Károly Apor, with the aim of providing a resting and viewing point for spa visitors – thus, the bastion never served a military purpose.
Románia, 535100 Băile Tușnad, Aleea Sfânta Ana 19

What will you find here?

Public transport

Tusnádfürdő does not have a local public transport system, but due to the town’s size, density, and tourism structure, this is generally unnecessary. Walking, cycling, and collaborating with local service providers (e.g., transfers or taxis) ensure visitors’ comfort.

  • railway
  • bus

Parking information

If you’re arriving in Tusnádfürdő by car, it’s worth arranging parking with your accommodation in advance to ensure a spot for guests. When visiting Lake Saint Anne, be prepared to pay a parking fee. During major events (e.g., Tusványos), don’t expect parking on the event grounds; only municipal parking is available.

  • Free outdoor parking available
  • Free bus parking available
  • Electric car charging available (paid)

Sustainability level

Topic 1: Destination Management 57%

  • Visitor management: 100%
  • Commitment and organization: 0%
  • Design & development: 33%
  • Monitoring and reporting: 50%
  • Legal and ethical compliance: 100%

Topic 2: Nature and landscape 90%

  • Nature and wildlife protection: 100%
  • Nature and conservation: 80%

Topic 3: Environment and climate 43%

  • Land use and pollution: 67%
  • Water management: 40%
  • Energy, sustainable mobility and climate change: 0%
  • Adaptation to climate change: 50%
  • Waste and recycling: 60%

Topic 4: Culture and traditions 100%

  • Cultural heritage: 100%
  • People and traditions: 100%

Topic 5: Social Welfare 54%

  • Health and safety: 100%
  • Local economy: 50%
  • Socio-economic impacts: 0%
  • Community participation: 50%
  • Human dignity: 71%

Topic 6: Business and Communication 61%

  • Business participation: 22%
  • Information and marketing: 100%