Spring has ushered in the holiday season, and while some Moldovans are jetting off to destinations abroad, others are opting for a journey within the country, thereby bolstering local tourism. With its abundance of breathtaking tourist attractions, Moldova offers a captivating experience for travelers. If you’ve been away for some time but haven’t explored your homeland yet, we encourage you to grab some foreign friends and embark on an adventure together. Here’s a curated list of destinations that will unveil the natural splendor of Moldova:
Old Orhei (Orheiul Vechi) Cultural-Natural Reserve
Nestled just 60 km from the capital, in the scenic gorge of the Raut River near the Dniester River, Orheiul Vechi is a mesmerizing blend of cultural and natural wonders. This complex boasts archaeological remnants spanning various epochs, alongside around 200 Christian cave complexes. Within the Orheiul Vechi Landscape, you’ll find 20 documented archaeological sites, including the expansive ensembles of Pestera and Butuceni. This cultural-natural haven is even a contender for UNESCO heritage status.
“Codrii” Natural Reserve
Situated in the heart of Moldova, atop the Central Moldova Plateau in the Straseni district, the “Codrii” Natural Reserve hosts a diverse “Museum of Nature.” Encompassing approximately 40% of the plateau’s surface, this reserve shelters over 1000 plant species and a rich array of fauna, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Vital for the protection of endangered species, this reserve also plays a pivotal role in conserving Moldova’s biodiversity.
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The Valley of “One Hundred Mounds”
Located near the Prut River in the Riscani district, between the villages of Braniste and Avrameni, this protected area is home to an extensive array of mounds, numbering well beyond 100, with heights ranging from 15 to 30 meters. Part of the “Padurea Domneasca” scientific reserve, these mounds are a unique geological phenomenon, believed to be one of Europe’s largest concentrations of Mediterranean Sea submarine reefs.
Tsaul Park
Tucked away in Tsaul village, Donduseni district, approximately 200 km north of Chisinau, lies Moldova’s largest park. Developed in the early 20th century around the Pommer family mansion, this park is a masterpiece of landscape architecture by I. Vladislavskii-Podalko. With over 150 species of conifers and deciduous trees from around the world, the park boasts an extensive network of alleys and trails spanning over 12.5 km.
Soroca Fortress
Situated at the heart of Soroca, about 160 km north of Chisinau, the Soroca Fortress is an iconic landmark steeped in medieval history. Constructed at the confluence of the Dniester River, this fortress stands as a testament to Moldova’s rich past. It was a pivotal site during the 1711 campaign in Prut, where Moldovan and Russian forces clashed with Turkish soldiers under the leadership of Dimitrie Cantemir and Tsar Peter I respectively. So significant is its heritage that the Soroca Fortress graces the 20-lei banknote issued by the National Bank of Moldova.