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Blog Post
2025 Angels Trip to Terra Banatica (Adults)
Exclusive Experience for RUF 😇 Angels: A Journey on Via Transilvanica - Terra Banatica
This year, we are organizing a once-in-a-lifetime journey along Via Transilvanica, Romania’s most breathtaking long-distance trail, this exclusive experience is tailored for RUF 😇 Angels.
Who Can Join
This trip is open to RUF 😇 Angels who want to experience Romania in a unique and immersive way. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or new to long-distance trails, this is your chance to reconnect with Romania’s heritage while enjoying the peaceful beauty of the Banat region.
What is an RUF Angel?
An RUF 😇 Angel is a key supporter of the Romanian United Foundation, and believes in the power of community and impact-driven philanthropy. Angels provide crucial financial support that sustains RUF’s programs in education, healthcare, and community development. Beyond funding, they are visionaries and leaders shaping the future of the Romanian diaspora.
Want to Join the Journey? Become an RUF Angel!
This unique experience is more than a trip, it’s an opportunity to connect with like-minded leaders, immerse yourself in Romania’s stunning landscapes, and be part of something bigger.
By becoming an RUF 😇 Angel, you gain access to exclusive events, networking opportunities, and impactful experiences like this one.
Join us on this incredible adventure!
About the Tour
Our 6-day Terra Banatica hiking or E-biking tour will take you on an unforgettable journey, through the stunning natural landscapes and unique cultural heritage of Banat region. Let us guide you through the heart of this legendary region, following the trail of Via Transilvanica, and discover the hidden gems of this incredible part of Romania.
Organizers: Our tour is organized by a team of experienced and professional guides, who are passionate about Romania's natural beauty, culture, and history. They will lead you through the hiking or biking route, making sure you experience the best of this route during your trip.
- Stefan Achim - Tasuleasa Social
- Catalin Gavrila - ROMTB Tours
Sign up today and be part of this incredible journey! We can’t wait to explore with you!
Sign up deadline: April 25th,2025
Tour Dates
- July 3rd – Meetup & arrival
- July 4th - 7th – Hiking and biking (RUF Teens from Color the Village camp will join us for the last day!)
- July 8th – Departure
Tour Options: Hiking & E-Biking
Hiking Route & Difficulty:
- Gărâna – Secu → 26 km | Easy
- Secu – Reșița → 14 km | Easy
- Reșița – Iabalcea → 16 km | Easy
- Iabalcea – Canton Coșava → 26 km | Moderate
- Distance: 85 km (approx.)
- Duration: 6 days / 5 nights
- Cost: $800/person
- What's included: Accommodation, meals, transportation, and guide services.**
- Not included: Flights or personal expenses.
Transportation:
- Luggage transportation throughout the trip.
- Transfers between different route points.
- For larger groups, we can arrange transportation from other cities to the meeting point and from the departure location, for an extra cost, if necessary.
E-Biking Route & Elevation: (TBD)
- Day 1: Caransebeș – Gărâna – Secu → 68 km, approx. 2,392 m elevation
- Day 2: Secu – Ranchina – Cuptoare – Reșița → 48 km, approx. 1,700 m elevation
- Day 3: Reșița – Comarnic – Poneasca → 60 km, approx. 2,340 m elevation
- Day 3: Poneasca – Semenic – Văliug → 50 km, approx. 2,253 m elevation
- Distance: TBD
- Duration: 6 days / 5 nights
- Cost: $1,000/person
- What's included: Accommodation, meals, transportation, bicycle rent and delivery, mechanic and guide services.**
- Not included: Flights or personal expenses.
With E-bikes, we have the flexibility to explore additional hidden gems and fascinating local sites along the way.
Transportation:
- Luggage transportation throughout the trip.
- Transfers between different route points.
- E-bike delivery to departure point.
- For larger groups, we can arrange transportation from other cities to the meeting point and from the departure location, for an extra cost, if necessary.
** We highly recommend that you consider making a significant donation to the Via Transilvanica project (we suggest $200/person) and express your gratitude to your guide after the trip with a generous tip. Please note that the total cost does not cover any donations to the project.
‼️ Please be aware that, due to our large group size, we may need to split into different guest houses in some locations. Additionally, not all accommodations have private bathrooms, and you may need to share a room with other participants from our group ‼️
Join us
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the Angels trip on Via Transilvanica! This journey is more than just hiking or biking, it’s about connecting with nature, experiencing Romania’s breathtaking landscapes, and creating lifelong memories with an amazing community. Whether you’re joining for the challenge, the culture, or the camaraderie, this trip promises to be a truly exciting and meaningful experience.
Sign up today and be part of this incredible journey! We can’t wait to explore with you!
Sign up deadline: April 25th,2025
Packing & Travel Tips
For additional details about the trail and packing recommendations, please refer to the traveler’s guide below. We suggest bringing:
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Multiple pairs of socks
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Gel bandages designed for blisters
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Waterproof hiking shoes
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A pair of sport shoes for pleasant weather
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Sunscreen and insect repellent
Useful information
Traveler's Guide (Garana - Canton Cosava) - English
Ghidul Drumetului (Garana - Canton Cosava) - Romanian
Recommended list of equipment - Hiking
Recommended list of equipment - Biking
About Terra Banatica
Welcome to Terra Banatica, a land of breathtaking trails, rich cultural heritage, and mouthwatering cuisine! Nestled in the Banat Region of Romania, this area is a paradise for adventurers, hiking, and biking enthusiasts, offering some of the most scenic and challenging trails in the country. This region offers a perfect mix of adventure and tranquility, with rocky trails, dirt roads, and charming villages seemingly frozen in time.
Heading deeper into Terra Banatica, you’ll find the Semenic Mountains, home to two breathtaking national parks, Semenic-Cheile Carașului and Cheile Nerei-Beușnița. Here, you’ll hike or ride the bike through forests, past waterfalls, explore hidden caves, and discover isolated villages. The region also boasts Romania’s longest limestone corridor, offering a variety of terrains, from rocky paths to smooth dirt roads.
Terra Banatica is not just about nature, it’s also a cultural melting pot. The region has been shaped by centuries of migration, making it a blend of Romanian, German, Hungarian, and Serbian influences. Villages like Gărâna (Wolfsberg), Brebu Nou (Weidenthal), and Văliug (Franzdorf) still preserve their original charm, offering a glimpse into a simpler time.
About Via Transilvanica
Via Transilvanica is a long-distance trail for walking, cycling, and horseback riding. 1,400 kilometers long, it crosses the country from Putna to Drobeta Turnu-Severin, passing through over 600 communities. Via Transilvanica is inspired by other worldwide long-distance trails, such as the El Camino, Pacific Crest Trail and Appalachian Trail. Via Transilvanica is also the largest outdoor artistic sculpture exhibition in the world.
More Details
Donations VT Gala VT FAQ VT Donors
Stay in touch: Join our WhatsApp group.
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Blog Post
2025 Trip on Via Transilvanica (Adults) - Vatra to Tasuleasa
2025 Trip on Via Transilvanica - Vatra Dornei to Tășuleasa Social
June 24th - June 28th
About Via Transilvanica
Via Transilvanica is Romania’s first long-distance trail for walking, cycling, and horseback riding. Stretching 1,400 kilometers from Putna to Drobeta Turnu-Severin, it passes through over 600 communities, weaving a path across some of the country's most stunning landscapes. Inspired by iconic routes like the El Camino, Pacific Crest Trail, and Appalachian Trail, Via Transilvanica is also the largest outdoor artistic sculpture exhibition in the world, celebrating Romania’s culture, history, and natural beauty.
About the Tour
Join us for a 4-day hiking adventure along the Via Transilvanica, exploring the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty of Bucovina and Transylvania. This immersive experience takes you through pristine mountain landscapes, serene forests, and charming Romanian villages, while fostering connections with fellow travelers and the communities we visit.
🌿 Experience the Magic of Via Transilvanica! 🏕️
This unforgettable journey takes you from Vatra Dornei to Tășuleasa Social, the birthplace of Via Transilvanica. Over the course of four days, you’ll hike through diverse terrains, challenge yourself physically, and be inspired by the beauty and history of Romania.
The Route & Difficulty:
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June 24th – Meetup in Vatra Dornei
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June 25th – First day of hiking: Vatra Dornei → Poiana Negrii / 21km / Hard 🏔️
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June 26th – Second day of hiking: Poiana Negrii → Lunca Ilvei / 21km / Easy 🌲
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June 27th – Final day of hiking: Lunca Ilvei → Tășuleasa Social / 21km / Moderate 🏞️
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June 28th – Departure from Tășuleasa Social
👥 Age Requirement: 18+
Expect stunning mountain views, peaceful forests, and authentic Romanian villages, making this journey a truly immersive experience.
Who Can Join?
This trip is open to adventurous adults (18+). Whether you’re an experienced hiker or new to long-distance trekking, this supportive group adventure will challenge your limits, deepen your connection to Romania’s landscapes and culture, and leave you with lasting memories.
Cost
Cost: $600/person
✅ What’s Included
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Accommodation
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Meals
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Transportation (including luggage transfers and shuttle services between points on the route)
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Professional guide services
❌ Not Included
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Flights
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Personal expenses
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Optional transportation from other cities (available for larger groups at an additional cost)
** We highly recommend that you consider making a significant donation to the Via Transilvanica project (we suggest $200/person) and express your gratitude to your guide after the trip with a generous tip. Please note that the total cost does not cover any donations to the project.
‼️Accommodation Notice: Due to group size, accommodations may be split across different guesthouses in some locations. Not all accommodations offer private bathrooms, and participants may need to share rooms with fellow travelers.‼️
How to Sign Up
📩 Interested in joining? Please fill up the pre-registration form by April 25th, 2025:
Email us at [email protected], for any questions! If you can’t join this trip but still want to explore Via Transilvanica this summer, let us know—we can help you organize your own adventure!
📢 Stay connected! Join our WhatsApp group for updates, packing tips, and trip details.
Let’s make 2025 a year of adventure, discovery, and meaningful connections in Romania! 🇷🇴✨
Packing & Travel Tips
Check our Traveler’s Guide for full recommendations. Essentials include:
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Multiple pairs of socks
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Gel bandages for blisters
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Waterproof hiking shoes
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Sport shoes for pleasant weather
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Sunscreen
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Insect repellent
Traveler's Guide (Putna-Vatra Dornei) - English
Ghidul Drumetului (Putna-Vatra Dornei) - Romanian
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Blog Post
RUF Herald - March 2025
RUF Herald - March 2025
Don't Miss Out: Highlights from RUF
👉 Current Fundraising Campaigns
👉 Donor Recognition Event: Angel Connect 2025
👉 Volunteer Spotlight
👉 New Community Projects
👉 Impact Story
👉 In Our Community
👉 Event Highlights
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Blog Post
Arhaic Volunteering Camp
Welcome to Arhaic Volunteering Camp!About the Camp
The Arhaic Volunteering Camp is an annual initiative organized by the Arhaic Association, Ambulanța pentru Monumente, and the Romanian United Foundation. This Camp makes part of the cultural immersion program at RUF and brings together passionate individuals dedicated to heritage preservation and hands-on restoration work.
Key contributors include Valeria Lehene, President of the Arhaic Association and an experienced architect with over 20 years at the Sălaj County Directorate for Culture. She is joined by Bogdan Ilieș, a historian and researcher specializing in wooden churches, who holds a Ph.D. in History and leads the "Ambulanța pentru Monumente" civic program in Sălaj County. Together, they provide expertise, mentorship, and guidance, ensuring a meaningful and educational experience for all participants.
*The County Directorate for Culture is the state institution at the local/regional level, and is responsible for monitoring the national cultural heritage, including architectural heritage.
Our Vision
Restoring the Past, Shaping the Future: A Volunteering Journey of Heritage and Heart
Our camp is more than just a journey back to our roots, it’s a step forward in cultural preservation and personal development. We aim to instill a deep appreciation for Romania’s rich heritage, highlight the importance of community service, and empower participants with the skills and knowledge to make a lasting impact.
Why This Camp?
- Cultural Connection: Experience authentic Romanian village life and gain a deeper understanding of the traditions that shaped our ancestors.
- Conservation Efforts: Play an active role in preserving Romanian history by helping restore a historic wooden church.
- Personal Growth: Develop new skills, build lasting friendships, and experience the fulfillment of making a tangible difference through volunteer work.
Our Mission: Why We Are Organizing This Camp
Our objective is multifaceted, aiming not only to connect diaspora children with their rich Romanian heritage but also to instill a sense of responsibility, community, and cultural pride. Below, we outline the core reasons and aspirations behind this unique camp experience:
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Cultural Connection: We aim to provide diaspora children with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the Romanian rural cultural heritage. By experiencing village life, historical monuments, and the traditions that have shaped our identity, we hope to forge a lasting bond between them and their ancestral land.
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Unique Experiences: The camp offers a one-of-a-kind experience, allowing participants to engage in volunteer activities that bring them closer to the countryside's way of life, the current social realities of Romania, and the care we dedicate to our monuments. This engagement aims to provide a clearer understanding of their roots and identity.
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Promoting Our Cause: We seek to raise awareness about the activities of our association and to highlight the beauty and significance of the Sălaj region, which is often overlooked by tourists. Showcasing traditions, monuments, and crafts, we endeavor to revitalize interest and appreciation for these cultural elements.
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Education on Historical Preservation: It's essential for the younger generation to understand what a historical monument signifies, even if it's not among the most prominent or visible. We teach the importance of preserving our heritage, helping them realize the value of these monuments, which might not be immediately apparent.
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Cultivating Appreciation for Romanian Culture: Our goal is to teach Romanian children to develop a deep appreciation for the importance of our culture. Through hands-on experiences and engagement, we aim to instill a sense of pride and connection to their cultural heritage.
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Working and Learning Together: We offer a collaborative work experience among friends and peers, providing opportunities to meet new people, engage in physical work, and see the tangible results of their efforts. This process is designed to be enjoyable and fulfilling, emphasizing productivity and accomplishment.
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Educating Our Children: As parents and educators, we wish to teach our children about our culture, its origins, and to appreciate our Romanian values and cultural heritage in great detail. It's about passing on knowledge and pride from one generation to the next.
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Raising Awareness with RUF: We aim to increase awareness about the Arhaic organization and the mechanisms available for fundraising in support of Romanian organizations. By collecting funds for our organization and specific projects, we strive to enhance communication, awareness, and financial support for our cause.
Through this camp, we aspire to create a transformative experience that enriches, educates, and connects participants with the cultural heritage that is rightfully theirs, fostering a generation that values and preserves its rich history and traditions.
Stay in Touch:
Sign up on our website: Romanian United Foundation
Join our WhatsApp Community: Trips to Romania
Like us on social media: Facebook and Instagram
