DAY 5 #EmployAbility 7th of June 2025

Study Visit day was a bit different than the rest of days as we didn’t had any activities at the location but we went to explore and discover the local area with it’s cultural and natural attractions.

We kicked off the day early in the morning leaving the accommodation at 08:00 am for a 1 h 30 minutes bus ride to the Moldovița community where the surprize of “ Mocănița “was waiting for us.

Built in 1888 (or early 1900s) under the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the narrow-gauge railway in Moldovița was part of a larger network built to transport timber from the Carpathian Mountains.

The industrial line was closed in 2001, after over a century of operation. In 2005, the line was partially restored and re-opened as a tourist attraction by a private foundation in partnership with railway enthusiasts.

The train now runs between Moldovița and Argel, covering a scenic 12 km stretch offering scenic rides through the Bucovina mountains.

At the end of the ride the participants were able to enjoy the local cuisine and observe some hand crafted artefacts that represents the local traditions.

After the Mocănița ride the next destination was a short walk in the natural park of “Tinovul Poiana Stampei“.

This is a protected botanical reserve of national interest in Romania that features oligotrophic peatland (nutrient-poor, acidic conditions), which supports a unique ecosystem.

The participants enjoyed a wooden boardwalk trail of 1 km in the national park being able to experience the natural environment and observe it’s attractions.

Last visit of the day was the city of Vatra Dornei, city of our project accommodation.

Culture in the city it’s strong and vibrant because the locals preserve traditional Romanian and Huțul clothing with intricate embroidery, especially during festivals. Wood carving and ceramic pottery are long-standing crafts, passed down through generations.

Vatra Dornei is seen as a cultural bridge between Moldova and Transylvania, preserving diverse Romanian and mountain traditions.

The area also has Austro-Hungarian influences (due to imperial rule), reflected in architecture and spa culture.

Participants explored the city center in short walk to discover it’s unique architectural sights.

This was the last part of the study visit and after that the group returned to the accommodation for reflection and leaders meeting.