Follow the river, not the road

In Sibiu, the Cibin River offers a different way to see the city. Trees line the path, the water comes into view, and a part of the city that once went largely unnoticed becomes part of the journey. 

The Cibin Riverbanks project has turned 3.6 km of riverside into a place to explore, slow down and reconnect with nature. Opened in August 2023, the dedicated cycling route links Podului St and connects to the existing Ștrand–Sub Arini corridor. A bridge and circular overpass allow cyclists to move easily between the two riverbanks, while rental points and smart lighting make the route accessible throughout the day. 

But there is more to the journey than the cycle path itself. Along the river, 10,000 square metres of riverbank have been reseeded and restored. Trees, shrubs and perennial plants now bring back vegetation, while new pontoons, benches and charging points invite visitors to stop and spend time by the water. 

For travellers, this changes the experience of Sibiu. Instead of simply passing through the city, they can discover it at a slower pace, following the river and seeing a greener side of the destination. The route offers a simple way to explore while enjoying a landscape that is itself being given space to recover. 

And every ride helps make the river part of the city again. By bringing visitors and residents to the riverbanks, tourism helps create value around a landscape that was once overlooked, encouraging continued care for the restored areas and making nature part of everyday urban life. 

The Cibin Riverbanks show that a journey does not have to take visitors away from the city to bring them closer to nature. Sometimes, the most meaningful way to discover a destination is simply to follow its river.