Brebu Nou (Hungarian: Temesfő, German: Weidenthal) is a mountain commune situated at 900 metres altitude, surrounded by beech forests, alpine lakes and villages with Bohemian heritage.
The commune consists of two localities – Brebu Nou and Gărâna – located in the eastern part of Caraș-Severin County, in the heart of Mountainous Banat.
About the commune
Two villages, one lake, one community
The commune was founded at the beginning of the 19th century by Pemi colonists from Bohemia, who established mountain villages with a strong identity, distinctive architecture and traditions preserved to this day.
Brebu Nou and Gărâna remain landmarks of the Bohemian heritage in Mountainous Banat, recognised for their cultural identity, rural atmosphere and local community that continues to preserve the spirit of the place.
Although it is a small commune, cultural life plays an important role in the local identity. The Gărâna International Jazz Festival attracts visitors from Romania and abroad every year, while Trei Ape Lake and the Semenic Mountains transform the area into a destination appreciated in all seasons.
Location
In the heart of the Semenic Mountains
The commune is located in the eastern part of Caraș-Severin County, on the north-western slopes of the Semenic Mountains, approximately 30 kilometres from the city of Reșița.
The average altitude is approximately 900 metres, while the cool climate, beech forests and alpine landscapes define the natural character of the area.
View on Google MapsThe villages of the commune
Brebu Nou and Gărâna
Brebu Nou
The administrative seat of the commune. Also known by its German name Weidenthal, the village preserves its Roman Catholic church, traditional Pemi architecture and the atmosphere specific to mountain communities in Mountainous Banat.
Gărâna
The village hosting one of the most renowned open-air jazz festivals in Europe. Trei Ape Lake, the conifer forests and the proximity to Semenic make Gărâna a mountain destination appreciated throughout the year.
Trei Ape Lake
The clover-shaped Trei Ape reservoir was formed in 1971 where the Semenic, Grădiște and Brebu waters meet, the sources of the river Timiș. Covering 53 ha and home to the highest dam in the Semenic Mountains, it is today a place for boating, swimming and hiking.