FERM 2025 | Mayor Alexandra NIȚĂ: “Borca Commune, Neamț County, is a gateway to a spectacular natural world, with authentic traditions.”
100 economic opportunities for the development of the Moldova Region on the A7 Highway route
REGIONAL ECONOMIC FORUM MOLDOVA 2025
19th Edition – Vatra Dornei, July 9–13, 2025
Thematic Panel:
Tourism and Destination Development in the Moldova Region
Speaker:
Alexandra Niță – Mayor of Borca, Neamț County
Presentation Topic:
“Connecting Tourist Routes between Borca and Vatra Dornei – A Regional Mountain Bridge”
During Panel 7 – Tourism and Destination Development in the Moldova Region, Alexandra Niță, mayor of Borca commune (Neamț County), presented her vision for connecting tourist routes between Borca and Vatra Dornei, emphasizing the importance of tourism infrastructure, integrated promotion, and inter-county cooperation for revitalizing mountain areas.
Borca Commune – Natural Beauty, History, and Tradition
The mayor began by highlighting Borca’s privileged geographical location, situated at the border of Neamț County, near the town of Broșteni (Suceava), with a population of approximately 6,000 residents.
“We are fortunate because nature has gifted us some of the most beautiful places in the area. The Borca – Vatra Dornei region is a space of unique beauty. Renowned writers such as Creangă, Sadoveanu, Blacuță, and Pogaș have written about our landscapes, hardworking and resourceful people, authenticity, values, and traditions.”
The mayor highlighted the role of guesthouses in Valea Borcii and Valea Sabasei, known for local products made from freely raised mountain animals, and mentioned the tourist potential of Buda Massif – the second highest after Ceahlău – where a major winter sports project is planned.
Connecting Borca – Vatra Dornei: A Historic Tourist Bridge
A key point of Alexandra Niță’s message was the idea of reactivating old mountain connections between Borca and Vatra Dornei.
“Throughout history, Borca and Vatra Dornei were connected by local mountain roads, which can be revitalized if we manage to identify the necessary resources for projects that focus both on infrastructure and on harnessing tourism potential.”
This connection involves creating and marking joint trails, developing integrated tourist themes (such as Mountain Waters Route or Shepherd Traditions Route), establishing mountain shelters, information centers, viewpoints, and interactive panels, so that tourists perceive the area as a unified destination.
Tourism – A Catalyst for Economic Development
Alexandra Niță emphasized that tourism is not just a recreational activity, but a driver of economic development.
“Each tourist generates direct and indirect income: purchasing local products, using accommodation and dining services, participating in cultural events. Creating a tourist bridge between Borca and Vatra Dornei would bring benefits to the entire region – from traditional cheese producers to local craftsmen.”
The mayor highlighted the need to access European and national funds to modernize access roads, digitize tourist information, and develop public–private partnerships in recreation and ecotourism.
Challenges and Untapped Heritage
During the discussions, a participant – a former heritage officer in the county for about 16 years – drew attention to certain challenges: the condition of historic sites, such as the Royal Domains (at “Mihail Sadoveanu” High School), the Post House, and Diaconescu House, or the degradation of Drumul Talienilor, built by Italians and marked by historic bridges, now neglected. He emphasized that tourist attractiveness must integrate cultural and natural heritage, including literary works like “Baltagul.”
UPDATE
As of the writing of this article, the President of Suceava County Council, Gheorghe Șoldan, announced the completion of the Drumul Talienilor rehabilitation project.
An Invitation to Discover Authentic Borca Commune
In conclusion, Alexandra Niță issued a direct appeal to participants.
“I warmly invite you to Borca commune, because only then will you see how much beauty lies there. I look forward to welcoming you.”
Conclusion
Mayor Alexandra Niță’s intervention highlighted the considerable potential of Borca commune, strategically located at the border of Neamț and Suceava counties. Emphasis was placed on the need to connect tourist routes between Borca and Vatra Dornei, develop appropriate infrastructure, and capitalize on cultural and natural heritage.
The discussions also underscored the importance of integrated projects combining tourism with local economic development, through the creation of themed routes, promotion of local products, and investment in services and tourist facilities. Additionally, the need for interventions to conserve and restore historic sites and traditional infrastructure was highlighted, to offer visitors an authentic and coherent experience.
Overall, Borca commune emerges as a destination with significant potential, capable of becoming a true mountain bridge between regions, contributing to sustainable tourism and economic development in the area.
