The village of Băiuț in Maramureș could become the first area in Eastern Europe to host a certified forest therapy trail, to be developed in the old-growth forests of Strâmbu-Băiuț, part of the UNESCO World Natural Heritage. At the same time, researchers are investigating the area's potential to be recognized as a new „Blue Zone” – a place where people live longer and healthier lives.
These two directions were announced during the “The Forest Heals” symposium, co-organized by the Romanian Association of Balneology, Transilvania University of Brașov, Băiuț City Hall, Strâmbu-Băiuț Forest District, the Multicultural Association Johannes Banfi Hunyades, WWF-Romania and supported by county authorities.
The event brought together doctors, foresters, biologists, researchers, academics and community members in an interdisciplinary dialogue about the role of forests in supporting both physical and mental health. Based on field research and practical applications of forest therapy and forest bathing, participants highlighted the extraordinary potential of forest ecosystems as spaces for medical prevention and recovery.
“The forest heals is not just a metaphor, it’s a scientifically supported reality. The physiological effects are measurable: heart rate decreases, blood pressure stabilizes, and the overall sense of well-being improves. We hope Băiuț will be the first place in Eastern Europe to host a certified forest therapy trail.”
Also during the symposium, a research initiative was launched to study the unusual longevity of Băiuț’s residents, aiming to scientifically determine whether the area could be classified as a new „Blue Zone” – the international term for regions with above-average life expectancy and exceptional quality of life.
“Given the forest's proven healing properties, we are confident that the Ancient Forests of Băiuț, through their natural structure, offer real potential for forest therapy.”
“The forests of Băiuț are not only a reservoir of biodiversity or a living ecological laboratory that allows us to unlock the secrets of the forest universe. They can also become a flagship space for preventive medicine and a driver of responsible local development. This is a concrete example of how nature conservation directly benefits communities.”
Băiuț, a commune with a history shaped by mining, is now rewriting its identity around its “green gold”: the ancient forests. Today, nature is becoming the primary source of health, balance, and sustainable local development. The proposed trail could become a model of best practices in integrating health tourism and cultural tourism with the protection of valuable ecosystems.