Ceala Forest Nature Reserve

The Ceala Forest Nature Reserve is a protected area of scientific interest, corresponding to IUCN Category IV (nature reserve, forest type), situated in the southern region of the Western Plain, within the administrative territory of the city of Arad, in the eastern part of the Lunca Mureșului Natural Park. It extends over approximately 900 hectares in the floodplain of the Mureș River, about 5–6 km south of the city centre of Arad, and is administered by the Ocolul Silvic Arad. The dominant vegetation is characteristic of floodplain forest, comprising white poplar, black poplar, white willow and ash, trees that reach considerable age and size. One black poplar within the reserve is estimated to be approximately 500 years old, making it the oldest tree in the forest. The reserve also shelters a stand of bald cypress, a species native to North America, with around 200 specimens aged 50 years. Wildlife includes fox, wild boar, roe deer, grey heron, great egret, cormorant and numerous species of wild duck. Within the boundaries of the reserve lie the remains of Cetatea Ceala, a fortress documented as early as 1486. The Visitor Centre of the Lunca Mureșului Natural Park, completed in 2007 and featuring an interactive exhibition since 2013, provides information about the ecosystem and offers 13 accommodation rooms, a conference room and a laboratory. Access from the city of Arad is via Calea Bodrogului, towards the airport, following the signs to Pădurea Ceala. The marked trails are suitable for walking and cycling.