Hiking network launched in Nisporeni region

Chisinau, May 13 / MOLDPRES /- The National Association for Inbound Tourism of Moldova (ANTRIM), supported by its partners has recently developed and launched a network of hiking trails with a length of 48 km, which connects several tourist, historical and cultural attractions in Nisporeni region, invigorating local traditions.

Each of the four segments was marked with signs, and in the villages where the route passes, map panels were installed. By marking routes according to European standards, tourists will overcome the navigational challenges faced by an independent traveler when trying to optimize the route and locate points of interest along the way to spend free time in nature.

"The extended route with objectives to visit in the region is an invitation for tourists to diversify their free time in nature. The marked routes and the extension of the information about the points of attraction, offer the travelers an idea on how to connect the cultural and historical objectives in a more efficient way, so that they can make the most of their travel experience and discover this picturesque region," Natalia Țurcanu, executive director of ANTRIM said.

The event marks a good example of a public-private partnership that allows the development of tourism in Moldova. The idea of ​​designing a hiking trail came from a receiving tour operator from Moldova who, with the support of ANTRIM, attracted funding and developed the first hiking trail Nisporeni - Vărzăreștii Vechi, with a length of 12 km, in November 2020. Subsequently, the route was continued thanks to the joint efforts of partners such as Slovak Aid, the US Agency for International Development (USAID), EFES, Nisporeni District Council, ANTRIM and Nisporeni City Hall.

"The launch of tourist routes is part of USAID's goal to support regional development and diversify the tourist offer in Moldova. Hiking trails complement other tourist activities and support the demand for tourism businesses, such as accommodation, restaurants, craft shops and businesses that offer sports or leisure activities. The development of hiking tourism can also provide economic benefits to the local population, while promoting the conservation of natural and cultural heritage, thus encouraging the principles of sustainable tourism and harnessing the untapped potential of ecotourism in Moldova, "said Scott Hocklander, Director USAID Moldova Mission.

The project developed and implemented by ANTRIM, which aims to promote the entire network of marked routes in the Central region of the country, including the 4 routes starting from Sipoteni, Calarasi, is funded by the Activity to Support Competitiveness in Light Industry and Tourism (MCTA), a USAID EDGE Buy-in project, with the ultimate goal of increasing the number of tourists in the region, stimulating entrepreneurship in the tourism value chain, thus supporting the economic development of the area.

Photo: Ministry of Culture