Projects
Connecting local communities through tourism and the social economy
The Timiș County Council supports the development of sustainable tourism in which local communities play an active role and benefit from the new opportunities it creates. By bringing together public authorities, communities, tourism operators and social economy organisations, we build real connections and encourage local initiatives with a lasting impact.
EuroVelo 13 – more than a cycling route
The border area of Timiș County is largely rural and home to many villages with a valuable natural and cultural heritage. At the same time, these communities have limited economic opportunities and need more visibility and support to make the most of their local resources. The EuroVelo 13 route makes these places easier to discover for those who choose to explore the Banat on two wheels. The route thus becomes a bridge between rural communities, visitors and new opportunities for economic development.
VeloTimiș – discover the Banat on two wheels
VeloTimiș brings together in one place tourist attractions, natural and built heritage, local producers, communities and traditions. The platform aims to create a setting for authentic experiences and to help those cycling EuroVelo 13 discover the places, people and stories that make the Banat region unique.
Projects implemented by the Timiș County Council:
Inclusive Border Cycling (IBC)
Over two years, the “Inclusive Border Cycling” project, run locally by the Timiș County Council, turned the EuroVelo 13 route into a journey through history, memory and local stories. Travelled on two wheels, the route symbolically retraces the line of the former Iron Curtain and connects communities, places and people along the border area. The project brought the natural and cultural heritage of the border communities to the fore and turned local stories into authentic experiences that are accessible and relevant to visitors of all ages. The involvement of local communities played an important part. Young and old alike were encouraged to help promote and make the most of the area’s tourism potential, becoming part of the EuroVelo 13 story.
Cycling along Iron Curtain Trail - EuroVelo13 in Banat (Cycling ROSE)
The “Cycling along Iron Curtain Trail – EuroVelo13 in Banat – Cycling ROSE” project sets out to make cycling a driver of sustainable development in the cross-border region, offering a sustainable way to discover local heritage and to create new tourism experiences in the Banat. By involving the communities along the EuroVelo 13 route and strengthening the capacity of local authorities, the project helps make the most of the opportunities that cycle tourism offers. The Timiș County Council, together with its partners in Serbia, is helping to build a new vision for the Banat: a green mobility network that brings rural and urban communities on both sides of the border closer together.
Grow Up Biking to the Stars - Cross-Border Cycling Development in the Border Region (GOSLING)
The project aims to develop and promote cycle tourism in the Romania–Hungary cross-border region by identifying and waymarking themed cross-border routes. It will also create an MTB training centre and a youth camp in the Fârdea–Țara Făgetului area, as well as an e-bike rental centre in Gladna Montană. Another important objective is to teach children about road safety and to train local tourism service providers to meet cyclists’ needs. The project includes innovative, interactive promotional activities such as an escape room, board games and cycling tours. Through these actions, the project seeks to develop sustainable tourism, make the region more attractive to visitors and strengthen cross-border cooperation.
