Moldova's Monastery Route
Moldova
Through Moldova's untouristed pastoral interior, hay bales, limestone ridges, horse carts on the M2, and cave monasteries carved from cliffs above the Răut River. A largely forgotten corner of Europe with some of the most extraordinary Orthodox religious architecture on the continent.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Chisinau
Moldova's capital of Soviet boulevards, wine cellars, and Art Nouveau facades. Hire a car here; the drive north begins on the multi-lane M2 highway.
- Ivancea
Where the M2 traffic thins and limestone ridges rise above the Raut River valley. Roadside vendors sell seasonal produce as the scenery grows increasingly dramatic.
- Orheiul Vechi
A cave monastery encircled by limestone cliffs above a bend of the Raut River, occupied since the Paleolithic. The most extraordinary sight in Moldova.
- Tipova Monastery
Moldova's oldest cave monastery, a 10th-century sanctuary carved into river cliffs above the Nistru. Liturgical services are still held inside the rock face.
- Saharna Monastery
A working Orthodox monastery above 22 cascades on the Saharna River. The gorge trail is one of the most beautiful short walks in the country.
Where to Eat
- Doi Haiduci ComplexTraditional Moldovan
Experience authentic Moldovan dishes in a rustic setting surrounded by lush forests.
- Drive CafeLocal Moldovan
Savor local flavors with warm hospitality in the heart of Rezina.
- La TokanaMoldovan
Enjoy traditional Moldovan cuisine in a cozy atmosphere with delightful local wines.
Things to Do
- National Museum of Ethnography and Natural History – 'Casa Mare' in IvanceaMuseum
Explore authentic peasant houses and craft workshops showcasing Bessarabian village life.
- Ivancea Fishing LakeRecreational Area
Relax by the lake, enjoy fishing, or have a barbecue amidst picturesque surroundings.
- Rîşcova-Ivancea Forest TrailHike
Traverse scenic forest paths connecting Criuleni and Orhei districts, ideal for nature enthusiasts.