Plizio Visual Lab
Cernica Forest
Cernica Forest extends across the eastern outskirts of Bucharest and is a remnant of the historic Vlăsia Woods that once covered vast areas of the southern Romanian plains. This forested area is a highly popular recreation destination for residents of the capital, boasting rich biodiversity with ancient oak trees and various local wildlife species. On the shores of the adjacent lake lies the renowned Cernica Monastery, founded in 1608, which imparts a spiritual and historical dimension to the entire landscape. In recent years, the forest has also become a hub for outdoor activities, featuring hiking trails, designated picnic areas, and a modern adventure park for families. The combination of natural beauty, religious heritage, and leisure facilities makes Cernica Forest a vital green oasis near the metropolis. Despite increasing urban development pressure, the forest remains an essential ecological sanctuary for the Ilfov region.
- Location: Ilfov, Romania
- Top sights: Stejar secular 2 - Cernica · Biserica ,,Sfantul Lazar" · Biserica ,,Sfantul Nicolae"
- Nearby: Cernica (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | 1 | 6 | 12 | 18 | 22 | 25 | 25 | 19 | 13 | 6 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 44 | 34 | 39 | 43 | 65 | 79 | 67 | 46 | 52 | 56 | 42 | 48 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- Part of the ancient and legendary Vlăsia Woods (Codrii Vlăsiei).
- Located about 15 kilometers east of central Bucharest.
- Home to one of the largest adventure parks in Romania.
- Directly borders Lake Cernica and the historic monastery.
- The forest consists mainly of oak, ash, and linden trees.
- An important habitat for deer, foxes, and various bird species.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Cernica Forest (8)
Cernica Orthodox Monastery Museum Collection🏛 museum
Collection of the Cernica Orthodox Monastery, featuring religious artifacts.
Biserica mare ,,Sfantul Gheorghe", ,,Sfanta Schimbare la Fata"
Main church of Cernica Monastery, dedicated to Saint George and the Transfiguration.
Stejar secular 1- Cernica
Ancient oak tree in Cernica Forest, several hundred years old.
Fortul Nr. 8 Cernica
19th-century fortification in Cernica Forest.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What activities can you do in Cernica Forest?
Is there a monastery near the forest?
How far is the forest from Bucharest?
Are there marked bike trails?
Can you have a barbecue in the forest?
Cernica Forest: where is it located?
Cernica Forest: what is there to see?
Cernica Forest: when is the best time to visit?
Cernica Forest: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
Nature
More places
