Leitner Installs €40M Gondola Lift on Semenic Mountain
The Semenic – Văliug – Crivaia tourist area is transitioning to a year-round operational model through an investment exceeding €40 million, aimed at modernizing mountain infrastructure. The project, realized through a partnership between local and county authorities in Caraș-Severin with the support of the Ministry of Tourism, includes the installation of a state-of-the-art gondola lift by global manufacturer Leitner, marking a strategic step in regional tourism development.
The new infrastructure will serve three extended ski slopes, with lengths of approximately 4,800 and 5,056 meters. The Leitner gondola, one of 130 units produced by the company this year, will have a transport capacity of 2,400 people per hour, ensuring the connection between Văliug and Semenic on a 4-kilometer route in just 11 minutes. Specialists with expertise from Azerbaijan and Poland are participating in the project’s implementation, with the objective of creating a benchmark ski area that attracts tourists for both winter sports and summer activities, such as mountain biking.
Funding is 70% secured by the Ministry of Tourism, with the remainder covered by the Reșița City Hall, Văliug City Hall, and the Caraș-Severin County Council. In addition to cable transport, the development plan includes a zipline, an adventure park, and a pump track. The Mayor of Reșița, Nelu Popa, emphasized that the project is supported by a new Zonal Urban Plan (PUZ) aimed at expanding accommodation capacity by 2,000 beds at the departure point in Văliug. Furthermore, authorities are considering the expropriation and demolition of abandoned buildings on the Semenic plateau, as their advanced state of decay prevents rehabilitation to modern hotel standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of the new Semenic gondola lift?
The Leitner-produced gondola will have a transport capacity of 2,400 people per hour, covering the 4-kilometer route in just 11 minutes.
How is the modernization project funded?
The €40 million project is funded 70% by the Ministry of Tourism and 30% by local authorities, including Reșița and Văliug City Halls and the County Council.
What summer activities will be available in the area?
In addition to winter sports, the development includes mountain biking trails, a zipline, an adventure park, and a pump track for year-round tourism.