The story of the Gandrabur’s family began long time ago. Inspired by the long cherished desire to give a second life to the old household owned by the ancestors, the Gandrabur spouses spend a few years working abroad while pursuing the idea of coming back to Moldova and investing in the restoration of the old family nest and then turning it into a hospitable, beautifully arranged guest house called Valea Stîncii, serving traditional meals and local wine, carefully stored in the 17th century cellar. Welcome to rest in the old garden at Valea Stancii, breathe in deeply the magic air of countryside evenings and enjoy everything what has the name of tradition. Valea Stâncii is for you to discover local traditions, leaving behind your everyday worries and enjoying small, though important things.
Valea Stîncii
Purcari Wine Bar
At Purcari Wine Bar you can find the full range of Purcari wines, but also a vast selection of other high-quality Moldovan wines, all served with local and international delicacies. The Moldovan wine blogger Andrei Ciubotaru is the face of this wine bar and is regularly hosting thematic tastings.
Gagauz Șarap Yortusu
Did you know that the main symbol of the Gagauzia Wine Festival is the Gagauz wooden flask? History says that throughout history this people respected the tradition of not tasting young wine until the national holiday “Kasim”, celebrated on November 8. Therefore, every year, on the first Sunday of the month of Brumar (November), wine producers celebrate their liquors in the largest event of the region. These and many other subtleties of Gagauz customs can be found here. Don’t miss the opportunity!
Chisinau City Day
A week away from Wine Day, the Chisinau dwellers’ souls continue squirming because they celebrate Chisinau City Day. All the dwellers and guests of the capital meet in the Great National Assembly Square to have fun together. Here you will find fairs, activities for children, masterclasses for children and parents, and on the big stage of the market, throughout the day a concert featuring the most famous artists of the Republic. So, if you are planning a visit to Chisinau in the middle of the fall – you are welcome to this feast!
Vinopera
The musical notes of the famous classical works get a taste! The tasting notes of “Castel MIMI” wines are transformed into sound! A Friday night can become a beautiful story under the open sky, in an enchanting environment, with friends, family and your dearest people. We invite you to VinOPERA, an outdoor party at Castel Mimi, with lots of quality music and exceptional wines! As part of the event program you will be able to enjoy classical music, folk and rock compositions. The talented musicians who have delighted us over the years with their energetic recitals’ full passion and originality, will charm our ears with works performed in an absolutely special way.
Hodina Fest
So many good people return home in August! Let’s celebrate a great family reunion! Take your loved ones and go for an outdoor picnic. Over 70 local artisans and producers, products of vegetarian and fishery cuisine, wine tastings, dozens of parent and child workshops, DJs and live music, and many other exciting activities for adults and children. Gather a crowd of beloved ones, grab a picnic blanket and come to Pohrebea village to have some fun.
Strawberry & Wine Fest
Chateau Vartely returns with one of the year’s most anticipated events, namely Strawberry Day! Strawberry Day at Chateau Vartely is not just an event but a memorable journey where the joy of fresh strawberries harmoniously blends with the refinement of sparkling wines from the Inspiron series, offered unlimited on this day. The event includes live music, adult recreational activities, and creative workshops for the little ones. A joyful atmosphere envelops Chateau Vartely, making Strawberry Day a memorable event for the whole family. Strawberry Day at Chateau Vartely represents a unique opportunity to spend a wonderful day amid nature, savoring the season’s delights and creating unforgettable memories with family and friends. It’s an event that brings joy, color, and flavor to the hearts of all guests. Details and reservations at the phone number: 079033206
Street Food & Wine Festival
We proudly present the first “iTicket” Food Festival, an exceptional event that was established in 2019 and has become a wonderful alternative to the “Wine Day” celebration during the warm season. This is a true celebration of authentic tastes and culinary culture, where we passionately and enthusiastically promote Moldovan winemakers, local restaurants, and both large and small local food producers. Within this festival, you will find a diverse range of delicious culinary dishes, carefully and passionately prepared by talented chefs. It is a unique opportunity to enjoy a high-quality gastronomic blend and remarkable wines. This festival is not just a culinary event, but also a celebration of local traditions and the producers who contribute to the creation of these wonderful delicacies. Together, we enjoy the best food, wines, and atmosphere, while showcasing what Moldova has to offer.
Frumoasa Monastery
The gleaming white and dark blues of the Frumoasa Monastery’s exterior remind some visitors of churches in Greece. The name Frumoasa comes from a spectacular meadow in the middle of the oak forest where the monastery is located. “Frumusica,” the word from which “Frumoasa” is derived, means beautiful. The Soviets converted the monastery from a religious sanctuary to a multi-use social-services complex. They used some buildings as an orphanage, others as a school for the deaf, and still others as a reform school for delinquent girls.
- Distance from Chisinau: 60 km
- Visiting hours: Monday – Sunday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Type: Monastery for nuns