An important part of nature conservation is informally raising awareness and building relationships with stakeholders. That is why the Iron Gates Natural Park project partner organized a bicycle tour among supporters of the national park of various professions, such as students, local journalists, collegues from other protected areas, teachers, lawyers, mountains rescuers, etc. Trip was part of the project activity 2.3 Public events.

Within 4 days, 20 cyclists rode along the Danube along the river and across protected areas Iron Gates Natural Park and Djerdap National Park. The event was planned in this period to celebrate the Danube Day on 29th June. Cyclists started on 27 June in the morning from Orșova (Romania) and each day covered 80-90 km. The next day they crossed the border in Serbia and on 30 June returrned back to Romania.

They spent every night in campsites. While cycling, they spent their time by discussing about the project, about Danube, protected areas, ecological corridors and ecological barriers concepts.

Here are some feedbacks from participants:

”I did not expect that at the first edition, perfect, starting with group building, safe camping, assistance, food!”

”We celebrated Danube Day in a unique way, we admired the beautiful landscapes of the Danube, we spent four beautiful days with friends, I learned a lot about organizing a bicycle tour”

”I have enjoyed the event because is promoting the nature and sport”

The event was presented also in local media and it is planned to repeat the experience next year.