Jurilovca – Romania – receives 2013 European Destinations of Excellence Award.
Courtesy of Mihai Ciobanu
European Destinations of Excellence Awards (EDEN) is a project promoting sustainable tourism development models across the European Union, based on national competitions that take place every year and result in the selection of a tourist “destination of excellence” for each participating country.
The key feature of the selected destinations is their commitment to social, cultural and environmental sustainability.
The European quest for excellence in tourism is developed around an annual theme, chosen by the Commission together with the relevant national tourism bodies.
This year theme was “accessible tourism”. Destinations awarded under this theme have successfully implemented a tourism offer based on an overall approach to accessibility for tourists regardless of their special needs, limitations, disabilities or age.
Jurilovca, a Romanian village, founded in the early 19th century by Russian “Old Believers” is one of the 19th winner destinations.
Courtesy of Mihai Ciobanu
To see the full list of this year´s winners, click here.
The Lippovans, also known as “Old Believers”, the community that left Russia over 200 years ago, disagreeing with reforms promulgated by the Russian Orthodox Church, founded Jurilovca, a coastal village neighboring the Black Sea and the Danube Delta, a unique wetland area and UNESCO world heritage site known for its stunning scenery and biodiversity.
Courtesy of Mihai Ciobanu
Jurilovca is today an important fishing center in the Danube Delta area, with the biggest community of fishermen in Romania and the most modern fish-processing factory in Eastern Europe.
“The award of European destinations of excellence, honors us and stimulates our commitment and determination to develop the local tourism in harmony with local natural and sociocultural values.” – local authorities declared.
Located in the middle of this fairytale landscape, Jurilovca is also a touristic center, offering numerous possibilities for tourists, like: the seaside beach at Gura Portiţei, the ancient fortress Argamum (Orgame), boat routes in Razelm-Sinoe lake complex, fishing, traditions festivals of Romanian and Lippovan community.
“The local authorities are keen to welcome visitors of all ages from across Europe. Efforts are being made to ensure that all visitors can have an equally enjoyable holiday here. The local tourist center is on hand to help all visitors find answers to any questions they may have during their stay in the region.” – EDEN said.