Moldova, a lesser-known gem in Eastern Europe, offers a captivating blend of cultural and oenological riches. Explore the vast underground labyrinth of Cricova Winery, home to millions of exquisite local wines. Explore the historical monuments and scenic landscapes of the Old Orhei reservation, including the Serbian Orthodox Curchi Monastery dating back to the 16th century. This immersive experience culminates in a traditional Moldovan lunch, where visitors can savor the country’s renowned hospitality and culinary traditions. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a history buff, this tour promises to uncover the best of Moldova’s hidden treasures.
Key Points
- Enjoy Moldova’s rich wine heritage by exploring the vast underground labyrinth of streets and wine cellars at the renowned Cricova Winery.
- Discover the historical monuments and scenic natural landscapes of the Old Orhei reservation, including the captivating Curchi Monastery dating back to the 16th century.
- Enjoy guided tastings of Cricova’s award-winning wines, showcasing Moldova’s exceptional viticultural expertise and appreciation for its wine culture.
- Savor a traditional Moldovan lunch at an ethnic village, providing a genuine taste of the local hospitality and culinary traditions.
- Benefit from private transportation and a personalized tour experience with a maximum group size of 10 travelers.
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Tour Highlights
The tour’s highlights include discovering the vast underground labyrinth of streets and wine cellars at Cricova Winery, where visitors can enjoy tastings of excellent local wines.
Travelers will also visit the Old Orhei reservation, exploring its historical monuments and scenic natural landscapes.
Another highlight is a visit to the Curchi Monastery, a Serbian Orthodox monastery that dates back to the 16th century.
Throughout the day, guests will savor a traditional Moldovan lunch at an ethnic village, giving them a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
With private transportation, knowledgeable guides, and included entrance fees, this comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience showcasing the best of Moldova’s wine, history, and natural beauty.
Discovering Cricova Winery
Nestled beneath the streets of Cricova, an expansive underground city of wine cellars and labyrinthine corridors awaits visitors, offering a captivating glimpse into Moldova’s rich winemaking heritage.
Descending into this subterranean wonderland, guests are treated to a guided tour through the vast network of limestone tunnels, which stretch for over 120 kilometers and house millions of bottles of exquisite Moldovan wine.
Along the way, visitors can admire the intricate architecture, learn about the winemaking process, and sample a variety of the region’s finest vintages.
From rare vintage reserves to contemporary blends, Cricova’s wine cellar is a true oenophile’s paradise, showcasing the country’s exceptional viticultural expertise and providing an unforgettable sensory experience.
Exploring Old Orhei Reservation
Old Orhei Reservation offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Moldova’s rich historical and cultural heritage. This archaeological site, located just a short drive from the Cricova Winery, showcases the remnants of an ancient settlement dating back to the 10th century, including the impressive Curchi Monastery and the cliff-top ruins of a former Tatar fortress.
As guests explore the reserve, they can:
- Wander through the picturesque countryside
- Admire the stunning vistas overlooking the Răut River
- Gain a deeper understanding of Moldova’s enduring traditions and way of life
This immersive experience allows travelers to step back in time and connect with the enduring spirit of Moldova’s rich cultural heritage.
Visiting Curchi Monastery
As visitors explore the Old Orhei Reservation, they’ll come across the majestic Curchi Monastery, a standout architectural gem that offers a window into Moldova’s spiritual heritage.
Dating back to the 16th century, the monastery features a stunning ensemble of buildings, including a central cathedral adorned with intricate frescoes and striking onion domes.
Travelers can wander the peaceful grounds, admiring the serene atmosphere and learning about the monastery’s rich history from the knowledgeable guides.
Beyond the architectural beauty, the Curchi Monastery is a revered spiritual site, where visitors can observe Orthodox Christian traditions and gain insights into Moldova’s deep-rooted faith.
This captivating stop completes the immersive cultural experience of the Old Orhei tour.
Wine Tasting Experience
Visitors can expect an exceptional wine tasting experience at Cricova Winery, where they’ll explore the sprawling underground city and sample some of Moldova’s finest vintages.
The winery’s underground tunnels span over 120 km and house over 1.2 million bottles of wine, creating an unparalleled ambiance for tasting.
Guests can look forward to:
- Guided tours through the impressive labyrinth of underground streets and cellars
- Tastings of Cricova’s award-winning wines, including their signature sparkling varieties
- Learning about the winemaking process and the history of this renowned Moldovan institution
With a knowledgeable guide on hand, visitors will come away with a deeper appreciation for Moldova’s rich wine heritage and the art of viticulture.
Ethnic Village Lunch
After the immersive wine tasting experience at Cricova Winery, the tour continues with a visit to an ethnic village where guests can savor a delightful local lunch.
This authentic culinary experience allows travelers to indulge in traditional Moldovan dishes, prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The meal is served in a charming setting that reflects the cultural heritage of the region, providing a genuine taste of Moldovan hospitality.
From hearty stews to savory pies, the lunch menu showcases the rich flavors and time-honored recipes that have been passed down through generations. This unique dining opportunity complements the tour’s exploration of Moldova’s winemaking heritage and historic landmarks, offering a well-rounded culture.
Transportation and Pickup
Private transportation is provided for the duration of the tour, with pickup available directly from the hotel, motel, hostel, or apartment in Chisinau. The start time for the tour will be confirmed with the local provider upon booking.
This convenient transportation ensures a seamless experience, allowing travelers to sit back and enjoy the scenic journey. The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though infant seats are available. The pickup location is near public transportation for those who need it.
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and a full refund is available if canceled at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
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Booking and Cancellation
Booking for the tour is confirmed at the time of purchase, and travelers can request a full refund if they cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
The tour includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a stress-free experience. With a maximum group size of 10, travelers can enjoy a personalized tour led by a professional guide.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available. Participants should note that the tour is located near public transportation, making it easily accessible for those not staying in central Chisinau.
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Recap
This immersive tour offers a captivating glimpse into Moldova’s rich cultural and oenological heritage.
Visitors can explore the vast underground labyrinth of Cricova Winery, discover the historical monuments of Old Orhei, and indulge in a traditional Moldovan lunch, providing a genuine taste of the country’s hospitality and culinary traditions.
With comprehensive transportation and a seamless booking process, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy the heart of Moldova’s remarkable cultural tapestry.