Itinerary:
Chisinau-Hancesti-Lapusna-Loganesti-“Codri”-Chisinau. 170 km.

Total time 6 hours (time on the road - 3 hours, excursions – 3 hours)



Description:


There are two big nature reserves in Moldova only 60 kms  south-east of Chisinau: “Hancesti Forest” and “Codri”, as well as two important historical sites: the ruins of the medieval town of Lapusna and the estate of Manuc Bei.

Passing by the Chisinau South Auto-station, the road to Hancesti passes a region known for its rich agricultural land and which has brought fame to Moldova since medieval times. In one of the beautiful highlands of Hancesti is located the estate of Manuc Bei, so-called “prince of the Armenians”, with a nice “Hunting House” and a Palace. A famous architect, A. Bernardazzi, designed both of them. Today an interesting museum is to be found here. The trip continues through the biggest landscape reserve in Moldova – “Hancesti Forest”, to the village of Lapusna. Here the ruins of the Lord’s Court and the Customs cellars from the Great Tartarian Road have been preserved from XV-XVII c. This road formed the connection between the Crimean Peninsula and Central Europe.

At the edge of the nearest village, Loganesti, is situated the most important nature reserve for medicinal plants in Moldova. It is best visited in spring and summer.

The road continues to the Balcani highway and the “Codri” nature reserve. Here are the big forests, which amaze travelers with their great diversity of splendid landscapes. Especially during autumn they display a fascinating array of nuances and colours, which induce the traveler to stop, even if only for a short time, in this wonderland.



Visits:

• Hancesti (1 hour); local guide available, entrance fee, restaurant.


• Lapusna (1 hour)


• Reserve “Codri” (1 hour); local guide available.

 
 

Where to Stay: Chisinau


Where to Eat: Chisinau, Hancesti.