How can we navigate using the Sun? And how can we find out what plant is in front of us without immediately looking up the answer on our phone?
On day 8 of the Anii Drumeției Summer School, we set off along Via Transilvanica for a day in which we learn to pay closer attention to the things around us. We take our first steps in navigation and discover how we can identify the plants encountered along the route using observation, curiosity and a few simple tools.
We will talk about sunrise and sunset and see directly in the field how these reference points can help us understand directions and navigate. Then, the hike will take us towards meadow areas, where we will slow down and begin exploring the world of plants.
We will observe the root, stem and leaves, discover which characteristics we need to look at in order to identify a plant and learn how to use plant identification guides. We are not looking for ready-made answers, but trying to reach them ourselves, step by step.
That is precisely why, for this day, we recommend leaving phones at home or using them without internet access. At the Summer School, we want to discover first with our eyes, our hands and our own curiosity.
WHERE AND WHEN DO WE MEET?
Wednesday, 2 September 2026, at 09:00, in the parking lot of Mercure Hotel – BinderBubi in Mediaș.
ROUTE INFORMATION
Route: Mercure Hotel – Via Transilvanica – Ferma 3 Stejari – Mercure Hotel
Activity duration: approximately 3–3.5 hours
Route difficulty: Easy
Age: 8–14 years
The route may be adapted depending on the activities carried out and the needs of the group.
Theme: basic navigation skills in nature and first steps in plant identification
Group: maximum 12 children
WHAT WILL WE LEARN?
- How we can use sunrise and sunset for navigation;
- How to apply basic navigation concepts in the field;
- How to carefully observe plants in a meadow;
- What the main parts of a plant are: root, stem and leaves;
- What characteristics to look for when we want to identify a plant;
- How to use a plant identification guide;
- How we can find answers through observation without immediately turning to the internet.
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
- Hat or cap for sun protection;
- Long trousers;
- Durable sports shoes suitable for walking in nature;
- Water bottle;
- Snacks for the route.
We recommend participating without a mobile phone or, if one is necessary, without using the internet during the workshop.
COSTS
Participation in the activity is free of charge, as part of the Anii Drumeției Summer School.
Transportation will be by public transport, and the cost of the tickets will be covered by the participants. The exact transportation cost will be communicated to parents after the place has been confirmed and the WhatsApp group has been created.
OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Participation is only possible with prior registration, by completing the dedicated form.
Places are limited to 12 children, and participation will be confirmed in the order of registration – the first 12 children registered.
After participation is confirmed, parents will be invited to a WhatsApp group, where they will receive all information regarding the activity, including details about transportation, equipment and schedule.
GUIDE
Ioana Pătrășcoiu – national tour guide
Telefon: 0729 050 636
ANII DRUMEȚIEI SUMMER SCHOOL
A series of hikes and workshops where the mountains and nature become the most beautiful classroom. We learn directly on the trail, alongside guides, about nature, navigation, safety, history and all those things that help us become more curious, better prepared and more responsible hikers.
At #8, we put technology aside for a while and learn to navigate and discover nature by truly looking at what is around us. See you on the trail!
Note: The organisers reserve the right to modify the programme or route depending on weather conditions and participant safety.
By registering their child for this activity, the parent or legal representative declares that the child is fit to participate in outdoor activities and gives consent for photographs to be taken and used for the purpose of promoting the “Anii Drumeției” Programme.
The “Anii Drumeției” Programme is initiated and funded by the Sibiu County Council, in collaboration with the Sibiu County Tourism Association, with the aim of promoting hiking, outdoor education and ecotourism-specific activities in Sibiu County.
