Backed by the Bucegi Mountains, Bușteni is a picturesque mountain resort in the Prahova Valley. Its name translates from Romanian as “tree logs” and hints at the importance of the local timber industry. During World War I, the surrounding mountains were the site of several military confrontations, with an illuminated memorial cross built in honour of the local heroes.
Things to do in Buşteni
One of Bușteni’s most magnificent architectural landmarks is Cantacuzino Castle, which was completed in 1911 in a Neo-Romanian style. Until the 1930s, it served as a summer residence for Prince Grigore Cantacuzino and is beautifully decorated with mural paintings and Murano stained-glass windows. Join a guided tour to see the Carrara marble stairs and decorative friezes, then browse the art exhibitions in the upper floor gallery.
Also designed in a Neo-Romanian style is the Cezar Petrescu Memorial Museum, which was once home to the beloved Romanian writer. The interior is decorated with traditional furnishings, Oltenian rugs and ceramics and the museum also houses an impressive collection of around 10,000 books. The surrounding garden features a bust of Cezar Petrescu.
Rising west of Bușteni is Caraiman Peak, which is topped by a Guinness World Record-holding cross. Located at an altitude of 2,291 metres, it was built in the 1920s to honour those who died during World War I and is still the tallest summit cross in the world. From the base of the memorial, there are sweeping panoramas across the Bucegi Mountains.
Getting around Buşteni
Bușteni is around 40 minutes’ drive from Brașov and just under two hours from Bucharest. Henri Coandă International Airport is 1.5 hours away and has flights to destinations across Europe and the Middle East. Regular trains connect to the Bușteni railway station and the town is compact enough to explore on foot.