Via Transilvanica - The Trail That Unites
For a decade, we’ve sought out the hidden corners of the globe, where history is etched into the landscape and tourism is an afterthought. Romania is where we started, and it's also where we return time and time again. As we celebrate our 10th Anniversary, we wanted to do more than just look back; we wanted to give back. That is why we launched an ambitious fundraising campaign to support the projects that protect the places we love. Among these is Via Transilvanica, a project that sits at the very heart of our Bucovina journey. Via Transilvanica is not just a 1600 km trail, it's a path that unites people and communities in celebrating the best of Romania's scenery and unique heritage.
The Trail That is Bringing People Together
If you’ve joined us on our travels through Bucovina, you’ve felt the magic of the Romanian wilderness. But Via Transilvanica is more than just a long-distance trail; it is a 1,600km lifeline connecting some of Europe’s most traditional and culturally rich landscapes and communities, even featuring 12 individual UNESCO World Heritage sites. This project by the Tășuleasa Social Association has been the work of many, including over 20,000 volunteers, and we're proud to be supporting their vital work. Last year was a landmark year for the trail, marked by the inauguration of the Terra Borza Teutonica extension. This new region is a testament to the long-term vision of our partners at Tășuleasa Social: a 20-year strategy to connect the entire country, celebrating heritage while breathing new life into rural communities.
Why We’re Fundraising: Looking Toward the Future
Building the trail was just the beginning. The Tășuleasa Social Association is constantly working on the elements below to maintain the trail as a world-class destination for hikers and cyclists alike.
1. Keeping the Path Alive (Maintenance & Safety)
A trail through natural landscapes and around 400 communities across the country requires constant care. From re-marking paths to ecological interventions, our donation helps the team on the ground conduct the essential behind-the-scenes work that keeps the journey safe and the signage clear.
2. Innovation in Rural Hospitality
The trail's innovative Accommodation Modules are micro-hubs that act as a place of rest for hikers, but are also designed to foster local entrepreneurship, ensuring that the economic benefits of tourism stay within the local community.
3. Restoring History: The Proștița Hospitality Hub
The Via Transilvanica is supporting the restoration of two historic buildings in Proștița to create a hospitality hub. This will be a new space for hikers and locals alike, where accommodation and local gastronomy will combine to encourage authentic community interactions, a place where the locals and travellers can connect.
4. Resources on the Ground
A huge part of developing the route means creating new resources for hikers and cyclists. New digital and physical guides for hikers and bikers make the trail much more accessible. Plus, Via Transilvanica's app integrates storytelling and safety features while providing extensive technical information. These tools will allow every traveller to navigate the trail’s many challenges with ease.
Watch the Journey
To get a flavour of the spirit of the trail and see the incredible achievements reached in the last year, we invite you to watch this short film by Via Transilvanica:
Our electric bike Bucovina journey has always been about the people. By supporting Tășuleasa Social Association's Via Transilvanica project during our anniversary year, you are helping ensure that this trail remains a path of discovery for generations to come.
Photos for this blog have kindly been provided by Tășuleasa Social Association.
