The village of Molovata, a little more than an hour from Chisinau, offers picturesque views of the Nistru River, a waterfall and a cave with an intriguing local legend. The Nistru is exceptionally wide at Molovata — more than a kilometer. Those who make their way to high ground are rewarded with a panoramic sweep of the river at Molovata, a community that dates to 1574. In addition to climbing rocks and absorbing stunning vistas, you can explore the Cave of Unfaithful Women at Molovata. Legend has it that a group of men spent four years in the cave extracting stone to build a church without going to the village to see their wives, fiancees and girlfriends. When the men finally returned, they discovered their partners had left them for others. So they concocted a curse: “Let unfaithful women who enter this cave be unable to find their way out.”
Molovata
“Plaiul Fagului” natural reserve
The Plaiul Fugal Nature Reserve is northwest of Chisinau, near the town of Ungheni. The serene area is rich in flora and fauna, hosting more than 900 types of plants, 40 animal species — including deer — and 140 kinds of birds. Plaiul Fagului is part of the Codru Forest.
In addition to nature and wildlife, you will find quaint villages in Plaiul Fagului, such as Bahmut and Cornesti. Besides camping, fishing, cycling and hiking the Codri Forest’s 1.5-kilometer and 3-kilometer trails, you can visit the Veverita, or Squirrel, Monastery. If you want to just chill out, you can stay in a comfortable hotel, such as the Bahmut Club.
Rustic Art crafts complex
If you like folk crafts — particularly hand-woven rugs — you will love the Rustic Art Crafts Complex in Clisova Noua village. Yes, Moldovans still weave authentic Bessarabian rugs on hand looms. You can see how they do it, and how they make traditional costumes, when you visit this area, which is on the Chisinau-Lvov road.
Orheiul Vechi
Orheiul Vechi is an area full of mystery, legends and breathtaking landscapes. Located only 45-50 minutes away from the capital city of Chisinau, Orheiul Vechi is a must-visit destination for those looking for history, authentic architecture, beautiful landscapes and local culinary traditions. The River Răut meanders among rocks and coquettishly decorated villages, the most attractive for visitors being Butuceni and Trebujeni, both marked by the astounding development of tourism in the recent years. Any weather is good for visiting, although in summer, especially in the month of June, when the Descopera Festival takes place, Orheiul Vechi is particularly charming.
Acasa la mama
Do you enjoy being home to mom? The Moldovans are spiritually connected to the house in which they grew up, so they worship the place where mother is. If you want to experience what it’s like to be received at a Moldovan mother’s house, then go to the restaurant “Acasă la mama” (“Home to Mom”). Here you have the chance to eat the tastiest homemade chicken soup served with flatbread and chili pepper. And, no doubts, if you taste the mămăliga (polenta) with fish and garlic sauce, you will not remain indifferent to our cuisine culture.
Embargo
Embargo is a quaint and beautifully designed Wine Bar and Shop where one can enjoy wines from all over Moldova and participate in tasting events. The name was inspired by the embargo imposed by Russia on Moldovan wines. This was a dramatic blow to the wine industry, but also the impetus in Moldova’s changing trajectory to focus on creating unique, high quality wines.
Popasul Dacilor
„Popasul Dacilor” restaurant was born out of the hosts’s love for history and nation. Built from river stone, with a facade made of stone from Ţâpova, the restaurant always succeeded to combine what is beautiful, pleasant and healthy. “Popasul Dacilor” seems to be detached from the daily reality. The authentic atmosphere of the place makes you want to feast on royal dishes. From the house specialty, “Popasul Dacilor” platter, to the duck stuffed with dolmas, from rib soup to the Moldavian tochitura (a kind of stew), from peasant toba (stuffed pork hog maw) to homemade pie – all of them can be tasted here, being cooked with a special care and love.
Flea market
If you like antiques, the flea market is for you. Here you will find a multitude of decorative ware, cups and dishes, and other items from yesteryear.
Crafts market
If you want to bring back mementos of Moldova, don’t miss the crafts market. Situated smack in the center of Chisinau, near the Organ Hall, it features the works of all kinds of Moldovan craftspeople. Traditional costume items include embroidered peasant blouses, waist sashes known as brau, embroidered catrinta aprons, decorated bundita vests, and leather peasant sandals known as opinci. The market also has ceramic and wood items, crocheted tablecloths, dolls, refrigerator magnets and other souvenirs. In addition, will find Soviet-era collectibles, such as postcards, military badges, and helmets, and ear-flap hats known as ushanka.