Car rental for trips along the natural routes of Moldova
On Wheels Through Moldova’s Treasures: How Car Rental Reveals the Country’s Nature
Dreaming of a journey through Moldova’s picturesque hills, vineyards, and pristine trails? Renting a car is your key to freedom and unforgettable adventures! Learn how to choose the perfect vehicle and which routes to explore first.
Contents:
Why a Car? 5 Reasons to Choose Rental for Nature Routes
Moldova is a land of intimate beauty: its ancient monasteries hide in forests, wineries nestle in hills, and lakes shimmer away from noisy highways. Public transport barely reaches these places, and tours cover only 10% of the beauty. That’s why car rental in Moldova is the perfect solution:
- ✅ Route Freedom: Turn off the highway onto a dirt road to a lake, linger at a vineyard, or discover a hidden spring!
- ✅ Time Savings: Reach Old Orhei in 1.5 hours instead of 4 by bus with transfers.
- ✅ Family Comfort: Luggage, water, food – everything at hand. No need to carry backpacks in the heat.
- ✅ Access to Hidden Gems: “Valea Morilor” Park in Codru or Trajan’s Cliffs – only accessible by private transport.
- ✅ More Cost-Effective Than Groups: For 3-4 people, car rental is cheaper than tours, with 5x more experiences!
Relevant Statistic: 68% of tourists renting cars in Chisinau visit at least 2 natural locations per trip (2024 data from Moldova’s National Tourism Agency).
Top 5 Natural Gems of Moldova for Road Trips
1. Codru: “Moldova’s Lungs” (40 km from Chisinau)
Dense forests, mountain streams, and mysterious trails. Driving Route:
- Start: Chisinau → Bubuieci village (“Proroc” Gorge)
- Stop: “Plaiul Fagului” Reserve – birdwatching tours
- Finish: “Saharna” Waterfall (photo stop at the 17-meter cascade!)
Tip: Choose a crossover (Renault Duster) – some roads are unpaved.
2. Reut River Valley: From Orhei to Tipova (120 km)
Rock-hewn monasteries, vineyards, and panoramic views. Key Stops:
- Old Orhei: cave complex + viewpoint
- “Japca” Cliff: 200-meter precipice above the Dniester
- Tipova: Europe’s largest rock monastery
Car Choice: Narrow roads → compact Logan/Sandero ideal.
3. Beleu Lake: “Moldova’s Baikal” (150 km)
The country’s largest lake in the Prut floodplain, a birdwatcher’s paradise. Activities:
- Pelican and cormorant spotting (April-October)
- Fishing with local guides
- Sunset photography
Vehicle: Paved roads → even Kia Picanto works (fuel savings!).
4. Southern Wine Routes: From Cricova to Purcari (180 km)
Hills, sunflower fields, and renowned wineries:
- Cricova: underground wine city
- Mileștii Mici: world’s longest wine cellar
- Purcari: tastings by a swan lake
Important: For tastings – book a car with driver or designate a “sober driver”.
5. Northern Strongholds: Soroca Fortress → Naslavcea (200 km)
Hilltop fortresses, Dniester cliffs, and apple orchards:
- Soroca Fortress (Dniester views)
- Camenca Cliffs (hiking + picnics)
- Naslavcea Village: ethno-tourism and honey farm
Car: Comfortable sedan (Skoda Octavia) for long drives.
Which Car to Rent? Model Guide
Your choice depends on route, party size, and budget. Rent-Auto.md offers options for every need:
| Route | Recommended Car | Why | Price/Day* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mountain roads (Codru, Tipova) | Renault Duster (crossover) | High clearance, 4WD | from 450 MDL |
| Wine routes (paved) | Kia Ceed / Skoda Octavia | Comfort, AC, fuel efficiency | from 350 MDL |
| Express tour (1-2 locations) | Renault Logan (sedan) | Low price, small consumption | from 220 MDL |
| Family trip (4+ people) | Dacia Jogger (7 seats) | Spacious interior, AC | from 500 MDL |
*Summer 2024 prices. Exact calculation on rental calculator.
Pro Tip: For nature reserves, add “Undercarriage Protection” (+70 MDL/day). Shields against stones on dirt roads.
Road Safety: 7 Tips from Rent-Auto.md
- “Three Documents” Rule: Always carry rental agreement, passport, and license (1+ year experience).
- Check Tires: Ensure good tread before mountain trips (especially post-rain).
- Charge Devices: Bring power bank – GPS drains batteries. Offline maps essential!
- Fuel Up: Refuel in cities (Chisinau, Orhei, Soroca) – few gas stations en route.
- Insurance: Get “Super Cover” – includes off-road damage protection.
- Road Signs: Speed limit 90 km/h outside towns, 50 km/h within.
- Emergency Number: Save Rent-Auto.md: +373 78 XXX XXX (24/7 support).
Eco-Tourism in Comfort: Where to Stay?
End your day at authentic guesthouses harmonizing with nature:
- ? «La Izvor» (Codru): Wooden cabins by a stream. Price: from 400 MDL/night.
- ? «Villa Visca» (Purcari): Vineyard-view rooms. Tastings included!
- ? Beleu Eco-Camping: Panoramic lakeside tents. Tent rental: 250 MDL.
Important: Book 2-3 weeks ahead – high season (May-Sept) sells out!
Conclusion: Your Journey Starts Here!
Moldova’s nature isn’t just vineyards. It’s mountain trails, turquoise lakes, and cliffside fortresses only accessible by car. Renting from Rent-Auto.md gives you:
- ? Full-tank car with insurance
- ?️ Route advice from local experts
- ? 24/7 roadside assistance in Moldova
- ? Best prices – cheaper than aggregators!
Ready to Explore?
Choose your car now → SUV & Crossover Catalog
Or call: +373 22 XX-XX-XX (ask about 10% discount for 5+ day rentals!)
P.S. Don’t forget your camera – Moldova’s landscapes will conquer your Instagram! ? #moldovanature #chisinaucarrental