Mila 23

Mila 23 is a picturesque village hidden in the heart of the Danube Delta, accessible only by water. Its name comes from its 23 nautical mile distance on the old Sulina Arm, and its history is linked to the Lipovene community that founded it in the early 19th century. Lipovanian fishermen, refugees from Russia, built a home here and kept their traditions, lifestyle and crafts intact.

A stroll along the village lanes offers a glimpse into an authentic world, where traditional houses, painted in shades of green and blue, transport you into a fairytale landscape. Thatched thatched roofs, wide porches and wooden boats anchored at the gates preserve the archaic charm of the place. The small windows, painted 'sinil blue', are not just an aesthetic detail, but a traditional trick of the locals to keep mosquitoes at bay.

Optional: Meals in Mile 23 are payable separately

Excursion itinerary:

• Departure from Tulcea: Boarding is from the Verada Tour pontoon located on the waterfront in Tulcea, a city with a rich history and culture, considered the gateway to the Danube Delta.
• Canal Mila 36 & Canal Sireasa: Navigate on Mila Canal 36, one of the most scenic routes in the area. It leads us to Sireasa Canal, a place rich in aquatic vegetation and wild birds such as cormorants, egrets and grey herons. Here, our guide will give you information about the unique ecosystem of the Delta.
• Șontea Canal & Lake Băclănești: As we move on, we reach the area Șontea Canal and Lake Băclănești, a true paradise for nature and photography lovers. The tranquil waters of the lake are often dotted with pelicans, swans and other water birds. This place offers an atmosphere of complete tranquillity, perfect for relaxing and connecting with nature.
• Lake Fortuna & the Broad Shontea Canal: Lake Fortuna is one of the largest lakes in the Delta and is an essential point on our route. Here we can admire the yellow and white snow snow lilies floating on the surface of the water, while birds make their appearances among the reeds. We continue our journey on Shontea Lată Canal, a wild and peaceful area where we will be able to observe the Delta's biodiversity in all its splendour.
• Canal Olguța & Arrival in Mile 23: We are approaching Mila 23The fishing village is an authentic fishing village, inhabited mostly by Lipovans, a community that has preserved its traditions unchanged over the centuries. A stop here is an opportunity to discover traditional thatched housesto visit Ivan Patzaichin Memorial House and, if you wish, savour a traditional fish lunch prepared by locals (optional).
• Return via Șontea Canal & Sulina Canal: After exploring the village, we embark again and return along a scenic route, crossing Șontea, Babarada and Sulina Canals. These places are ideal for birdwatching, so don't forget your cameras to capture white swans, starlings and pelicans in their natural habitat.