Modelling suitability for the development of tourism in Buzău Carpathians and Sub-Carpathians rural area, Romania

The Buzău Carpathians and Sub-Carpathians, located in Buzău County, Romania, encompass 34 administrative units, including two towns and 32 rural communes. Since 1990, this region has experienced significant economic, social, and environmental challenges, resulting in underdeveloped rural areas and a lower quality of life. However, its scenic landscapes (Buzău Land Geopark, Natura 2000; Siriu, and Penteleu sites) and its rich cultural heritage, including traditional customs, religious sites, museums, and wine routes, make it a promising area for tourism development. As part of the H2020 SPOT project, the SPOT-IT tool was introduced to support sustainable tourism planning. This GIS-based tool assists local authorities, tourism entrepreneurs, and residents in estimating, forecasting, and managing tourism flows. The current study applied the Suitability Tool within SPOT-IT, focusing on five criteria: accessibility to accommodation, restaurant access, microclimatic conditions, land use, and land planning. This analysis helped identify optimal areas for tourism development in economically challenged, remote regions. The study identified four primary areas suitable for tourism: Northern area based on outdoor recreation and nature-based activities; Central area based on cultural heritage and historic attractions; Central-Southern area based on architectural heritage and local accommodation; Southern area based on vineyards, agritourism and culinary experiences. These findings provide essential guidance for stakeholders in promoting sustainable tourism in the Buzău region, helping to balance economic growth with local and environmental preservation.