Discover Moldova with #MOLDPRES: Hanul Haiducilor, oasis of tranquility in forest, life experience in nature

Hanul Haiducilor (The in of Outlaws) – The story of an agro-pension developing through sustainable investments with the support of the Consolidated Unit for Project Implementation (UCIP) of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)

In the heart of Moldova's forests, in the picturesque outskirts of the Seliste village, central Nisporeni district, lies a haven of tranquility and authenticity – the agro-pension “Hanul Haiducilor”. Passionately managed by entrepreneur Ovidiu Tîmbur, founder of a homonymous individual enterprise, this place is not just a rural guesthouse, but a life experience in the midst of nature.

Founded in 2013, the company has constantly evolved, transforming from a small local initiative into a regional landmark in rural tourism. Today, Hanul Haiducilor provides a diverse range of services: organizing banquets, recreation and leisure activities, accommodation and traditional food services. The facilities include gazebos by the lake, a swimming pool, an event hall, open terraces, a walnut orchard and an ecological garden. All these create an ideal setting for tourists seeking an escape from urban hustle.

However, despite the success, the economic context and the change in consumers’ behavior following the pandemic have highlighted the urgent need for adaptation. The banquet activity – once the main source of income – experienced a downturn, while the demand for accommodation services increased significantly. More and more tourists, both local and from other regions of Moldova, wanted to spend more time amid nature, enjoying the authentic rural charm.

IFAD Support – the engine of a strategic transformation

Aware of this potential, Ovidiu decided to take a bold step: to invest in expanding accommodation capacity and diversifying the tourist offer. With the financial support provided by IFAD through the Improving Capacities for Rural Transformation Project (TRTP), the company got an overall funding of 990,000 lei, composed of a preferential loan of 670,000 lei and a grant component from the project.

This financial support was essential for acquiring and installing three wooden cabins, fully equipped with furniture and decor inspired by rustic style. They were meant not only for the warm season, but to operate year-round, offering tourists thermal comfort and an authentic atmosphere in any season.

The official opening of the tourist season and the new investment in modernization was attended to encourage the young entrepreneur by representatives of local public authorities, the banking institution, UCIP IFAD, and family friends.

Investment results – a new stage for the agro-pension

This investment meant more than expanding the physical capacity of the guesthouse – it was a rethinking of the business model. From a major focus on organizing large events, Hanul Haiducilor repositioned itself as an ideal destination for couples, families or small groups seeking peace, nature and tradition.

Clients now benefit from:• Accommodation in modern and authentic conditions, in the middle of the forest• Organic agro-products from its garden and greenhouse• Recreational activities: fishing, walks through the orchard, swimming pool• Local gastronomy – a unique culinary experience based on traditional recipes.

An example of best practice in rural tourism

By capitalizing on the support provided by IFAD, the TÎMBUR OVIDIU private enterprise managed not only to stabilize its business in a difficult economic context, but also to consolidate its position in the rural tourism market in the Nisporeni region. The story of Hanul Haiducilor agro-pension is a living example of how entrepreneurial vision, combined with the right financial support, can transform a rural business into a regional tourist attraction.

IFAD supported not only an investment, but also contributed to the consolidation of a family business that promotes the authentic values of the Moldovan village and sustainable tourism.

The Consolidated Unit for IFAD Programme Implementation was created by the government of Moldova, in order to implement IFAD programmes after  Moldova's accession to the International Fund for Agricultural Development in 1996. The IFAD program components are implemented in accordance with procedures established and approved by IFAD, in agreement with the government.

Correspondent: Lilia Grubii