Alexandru COVAȘĂ, project “Pe Cai la Mitoc”, Mitocu Dragomirnei, at FERM 2025: “We prefer to earn less, but to offer a beautiful and safe experience for each tourist.”
Mesaje publice
REGIONAL ECONOMIC FORUM MOLDOVA 2025
19th Edition – Vatra Dornei, July 9–13, 2025
Thematic Panel:
Culture and Regional Identity – Tradition, Innovation, and Social Cohesion
Speakers:
Topic of Intervention:
“Balancing Historical Accuracy and Artistic Freedom in Promoting Cultural Heritage”
At this year’s edition of the Regional Economic Forum Moldova (FERM), held from July 9 to 13 in Vatra Dornei, a remarkable presence at Panel 7 – Tourism was Alexandru Covașă, representing the “On Horseback to Mitoc” project from Mitocu Dragomirnei, Bucovina.
His intervention offered a unique perspective on the development of equestrian tourism in the region and on how a local project, started out of passion with modest resources, can become a hub for tourism, economic, and social revitalization.
Equestrian Tourism with Heart and Patience
Alexandru Covașă began by describing the essence of the project: horseback rides in the forests surrounding Mitocu Dragomirnei, especially aimed at beginner tourists and children.
“Our little horses take the tourists on their backs and go on forest trails, and the children enjoy this interaction with the horses and nature.”
The activity’s popularity is impressive, with riding camps fully booked from mid-June to mid-September.
From modest beginnings, the project grew organically, starting with a few horses but constantly expanding. Parents of children attending the riding sessions wanted to enjoy the experience too, leading to the development of complementary facilities – from craft beer dispensers to traditional cauldrons for outdoor cooking, terraces, a restaurant, and, finally, 24 accommodation spots across six bungalows.
Investments and Passion for Quality
Alexandru emphasized that at the heart of the project is care for the horses and each tourist’s experience.
“We focus on the relationship each tourist builds with the horse. We prefer to earn less but offer a beautiful and safe experience,” he stated, highlighting that practical equestrian tourism is a relatively unexplored niche in Romania, where most centers focus on sports riding.
A memorable example is a 4-year-old child who participated in a two-hour forest ride, carefully accompanied by the center’s staff.
“The horse’s temperament perfectly adapts to the tourist’s needs,” explained Alexandru, noting that risks are managed responsibly and guest safety is paramount.
Rehabilitating a Neglected Space and Community Development
The project started with the acquisition of land previously used as the local garbage dump. In less than a year, the space was radically transformed: bungalows were built, a barn was arranged with social areas and traditional dining spaces, and the horses were continuously integrated into the tourism activities. The number of tourists has grown year after year, and the quality of services is a point of pride for the team.
Alexandru also highlighted collaboration with other local entrepreneurs, encouraging the development of a diversified tourist offer.
“We supported friends to build their own holiday cottages to offer tourists more accommodation options.”
Thus, the “On Horseback to Mitoc” project has become a regional development hub, bringing added value to Mitocu Dragomirnei, near the UNESCO monument – Dragomirna Monastery.
Promoting Local Producers and Gastronomic Authenticity
Another key pillar of the project is supporting local producers. Alexandru Covașă spoke about partnering with the local administration and creating an association called “Hai la Mitoc”, enabling local entrepreneurs to market their products and allowing visitors access to fairs with traditional and handmade products.
The project’s restaurant emphasizes local dishes prepared with ingredients sourced from local farmers and households.
“Our cook, Mrs. Angela, cooks just like at home, and the taste is unique. I visit many places in the county, but I have never found mushroom soup like ours anywhere else.”
An Invitation to Visitors
At the end of his intervention, Alexandru extended an open invitation to everyone interested in an authentic experience in the heart of nature and Bucovina traditions.
“We warmly welcome you to visit us at ‘On Horseback to Mitoc’ to enjoy horseback rides through the forests of Mitocu Dragomirnei. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok to stay updated on all our activities.”
Conclusions
Alexandru Covașă’s intervention at the Regional Economic Forum Moldova 2025 highlighted how a local project, born out of passion and moderate investment, can significantly contribute to the development of sustainable tourism in the region. “On Horseback to Mitoc” is a successful model where ecotourism, community involvement, and the valorization of local traditions combine to create an authentic and attractive tourist offer.
In a regional context where tourism is on the strategic development agenda, such initiatives provide concrete examples and best practices, demonstrating that investments in people, nature, and authenticity generate sustainable economic and social benefits.
