Ciprian Belean, mayor of Raciu commune, announced Monday the work has started on the development of the first Velo Rail circuit in Romania, along the narrow-gauge railway route Raciu - Sanmartinu de Campie - Craiesti.
"We have begun volunteer efforts to clean the narrow-gauge railway where 'cyclo-draisines,' (pedal-powered rail vehicles, editor's note) will operate on Romania's first Velo Rail circuit between Raciu, Sanmartinu de Campie, and Craiesti. Our first supporters were Delgaz Grid, the integrated gas and electricity distributor, coordinated by Mr. Dragos Visovan. In the coming period, we will launch more volunteer initiatives to clear the railway line and welcome any collaboration in this regard. Starting next year, we aim to become a tourist attraction thanks to this beautiful Velo Rail route. Similar routes are common in Austria, Belgium, France, and Germany. This project promotes sport, eco-tourism, local products, and outdoor experiences," said Ciprian Belean on Facebook.
The "Ecorail Transilvania" project, under which Romania's first Velo Rail circuit will be established, has secured funding from Raiffeisen Comunitati. In addition to restoring the narrow-gauge railway, the initiative includes building a depot and producing eight cyclo-draisines.
"Velo Rail is a tourist activity combining cycling with the unique experience of traveling along the rails of an abandoned or inactive railway line. Users pedal special rail vehicles similar to bicycles, exploring the rural landscape and enjoying a different kind of ride," the mayor explained.
In addition to the cyclo-draisine rides, tourists will enjoy local delicacies prepared by area producers, explore historic churches nearby, discover the Blue Clay of Raciu, and visit the "Gheorghe Sincai" Museum, which is set to open soon, Ciprian Belean pointed out.
"The route will be: Raciu - Sanmartinu de Campie - Craiesti and back. We are working hard to become a tourist destination for everyone interested in visiting our commune. The cyclo-draisines built through this project will meet the specific standards of such vehicles like those in France, where dozens of Velo Rail circuits exist on narrow-gauge railways," the mayor of Raciu commune added.
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