Located on the Prahova river at the foot of the Caraiman Massif in the
Bucegi Mountains (Southern Carpathians), Busteni is 75 km northwest of
Ploesti and 135 km northwest of Bucharest with a railway station. The 1991
population was 12,619.
This all-season resort spa developed in the second half of the nineteenth
century. Known for its stimulating climate, local legend recommends Busteni
for the treatment of neurosis, weakness, physical and intellectual over-exertion,
and childhood growth problem. Cures offered since the nineteenth century
include herbal baths, electrotherapy, hydrotherapy, and massage via the
mineral springs.
Interesting sites around Busteni include natural phenomena such as
"Babele" (wind-modeled outcroppings in the Bucegi Massif) and the "Sphinx"
resulting from the action of wind, rain and snow. The gorges and caves
link by ropeway to the Bucegi Mountains plateau. Skiing abounds. The home
of the writer Cezar Petrescu (1892-1961) and the church are of interest
as is the zoo with animals native to the Carpathians (bears, deer, goats
etc.).
Click here to see photographs of Busteni
