ASSIST Hiking Day: a trip into nature at the 12 Apostles Reserve

The ASSIST Software community is dedicated to promoting sports and healthy lifestyles. We constantly launch initiatives to encourage physical movement and never back down from a challenge. So, on a Saturday morning, the 12th of August, we set off on a new journey with over 100 members of the ASSIST Software community. This year's hike brought us all the way to the 12 Apostles’ Stones in the Călimani Mountains, a nature reserve of outstanding beauty.

Walking a medium-difficulty trail, we found the perfect opportunity to catch up with friends, get to know each other better, and strengthen our bonds. Driven by the spirit of adventure and the desire to conquer new heights, we let ourselves be carried away by spectacular views and the fresh mountain air.

The 12 Apostles trail winds its way through the heart of the Călimani National Park, a haven for biodiversity and natural wonders. There are a lot of legends that try to explain the beauty of this place and the mysticism that surrounds it. However, it is the history of the place that is certain, revealing traces of civilizations long gone. Stones inscribed with ancient symbols, majestic time-carved rock monuments, and sown forests watch over the 15-kilometer round-trip trail.

Starting at the first light of Saturday morning, we equipped ourselves with water, supplies, energy, and good vibes. After a 2-hour drive from Suceava to Gura Haitii, we set off at a leisurely pace in the pleasant mountain air. The climb was actually faster and more fun than we had expected, allowing us to truly appreciate the beauty of nature surrounding the trail. Once we reached the 12 Apostles, it was time to stop and recharge our batteries. From the summit, we were able to admire spectacular views, vast forests, towering mountain peaks, and trails crossed by fellow adventurers.

The return was as exciting as the rest of the trail. The open fields and wide valleys gave us  breathtaking views all the way back. It was a truly memorable trip into the great outdoors that strengthened our team bonds, united us through a shared passion, and showed us the undeniable power of perseverance. The quietness, the enthusiasm, the team spirit - we experienced it all on our hike to the 12 Apostles’ Stones.

We conquered the 15-kilometer round-trip trail to the 12 Apostles’ Stones, but our journey didn't end there. As the day transitioned towards afternoon, our group made its way back to the starting point, Gura Haitii. Yet, the end point of our hike marked the beginning of another delightful chapter. With appetites stirred by the invigorating mountain air, we decided to cap off the day with a collective feast. Thus, we made our way to a local restaurant known for its warm atmosphere and delectable cuisine. As the sun cast its golden hues upon the landscape, we found a perfect place for recharging and strengthening our connections.

ASSIST Hiking Day is a long-standing event in our community, with the first edition having been held in 2018. Over the years, we have learned that no challenge is impossible to overcome and that as long as we are united, we can go further than we ever imagined.

We hope to see the same enthusiasm and attendance in the years to come!