As someone that loves hiking and history, do I have some good news for you!
Mountain tourism in Romania has reached a new milestone with the inauguration of “The Trenches Trail” in Gorj County, the country’s first hiking route with a historical theme. The trail highlights both the natural beauty of the Vâlcan Mountains and preserved relics from World War I, offering visitors a unique journey through history.
Starting in Bâlta village, Runcu commune, the path climbs along the Bâlta Valley and reaches Arcanu Peak, where well-preserved Romanian Army trenches from the early stages of the Great War can still be seen. Research confirmed that soldiers from the 16th Company of the 18th Infantry Regiment, led at the time by Gheorghe Tătărăscu, a future Romanian Prime Minister, fought in these very trenches. The trail features marked posts with solar-powered lamps for safe orientation at night, descriptive panels with historical maps, photos, and stories about life in the trenches, troop deployment, and the battles fought in the region.
Developed by Gorj’s mountain rescue team (Salvamont) in collaboration with volunteers, local authorities, and Zentiva Romania, the project is the first step in a wider plan to create additional themed routes, permanent museum points, and even a historical film, all dedicated to preserving and promoting the region’s wartime heritage.
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Y1ZKARf8rk4aLD6R7 Where the route starts
The Peak: https://maps.app.goo.gl/UiGjs6LJgRiH1CcNA
Resources used: https://www.asingorj.ro/premiera-in-turismul-romanesc-traseul-transeelor-lectie-de-istorie-pe-cararile-gorjului/
Dracula's Guide to Romania 
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