Discover Moldova with #MOLDPRES: The Charm of Dniester – an ecotourism route connecting people with nature, local community

Moldova has recently inaugurated the ecotourism route, The Charm of Dniester, an authentic experience of about 4 km, located in the heart of Dubasari district, between the villages of Marcauti, Molovata and Molovata Noua.

The Charm of Dniester – The Trail that Unites Nature, Culture, and Communities in Dubasari

In the Dubasari district, along the right bank of the Dniester River, the ecotourism route, The Charm of Dniester, was launched – a circuit of about 4 kilometers that highlights the natural beauty, local history and hospitality of the villages Marcauti, Molovata, and Molovata Noua. This is a project built around the idea of sustainable and authentic tourism, aimed at creating economic and social opportunities in rural areas.

Localities with Identity and Initiative

Marcauti is the starting village of the route. Situated on hills with wide vistas toward the Dniester valley, it provides visitors a tranquil landscape, marked by traditional wells, restored mills and open households for tourist experiences. The residents have been actively involved in arranging the trail and organize workshops on local gastronomy, topic-related visits and guided walks.

Molovata is known for the ferry crossing point, symbolically and practically linking it to the left bank of Dniester. Within the trail, the settlements becomes a place of rest, reflection and connection between history, people and the environment. Here, birdwatching sessions, picnics and outdoor educational activities can be organized.

Molovata Noua completes the route with a strong emphasis on community’s values. The village promotes organic farming, local crafts and participatory tourism. Visitors can taste local products, learn about area traditions, or engage in simple, but authentic activities – from bread baking to jam making.

An Initiative with Local Impact

The trail is the result of collaboration among local administrations, the Local Action Group, The Charm of Dniester, and partners from civil society. It was created not just as a tourism product, but as a tool for rural revitalization. Along the route, markers, informative panels and rest points have been set, and connections between small producers, guesthouses and local guides have been established.

Accessible and integrated into the Eko App Moldova, The Charm of Dniester also becomes a digital promotion avenue for the Dubasari region, attracting tourists from both the country and abroad.

A Model of Sustainable Rural Tourism

This trail offers a realistic alternative to mass tourism, encouraging visitors to explore the depths of Moldova, respect nature and support local communities. It is an opportunity for young people to engage in entrepreneurial activities and for the entire area to become more attractive, not only as a tourist destination, but also as a place to live.

The Charm of Dniester route is, essentially, a collective story written by people who believe in the future of the Moldovan village. It is a path that takes you not only through a beautiful territory, but also through the values of a united, open community, determined to develop by their own efforts.

What The Charm of Dniester Provides

Spectacular landscapes – the trail crosses orchards, meadows and steep banks of the Dniester River, with ideal lookout points for exceptional photos.

Remarkable biodiversity – visitors can observe rare bird species, including herons and bee-eaters, in a tranquil natural setting.

Cultural and gastronomic stages – on this trail, restored traditional mills and an open-air gastronomic theater experience are included, where locals prepare authentic dishes.

Direct contact with the local community – tourists can experience authentic rural life through interactions with locals, traditional wells and village stories.

The initiative is carried out by the National Tourism Office, under the coordination of the Ministry of Culture, within the Eco App for Sustainable Tourism in Moldova project, implemented by the HumanDoc Foundation, with the support of the Polish Embassy in Chisinau and Polish Aid Moldova. State Secretary at the Ministry of Culture Andrei Chistol emphasized that "this initiative not only showcases local beauty, but also sets a strategic direction: digitalized, sustainable tourism with communities’ involvement".

Technology and Accessibility

The trail is integrated into the Eko App Moldova mobile application, available for free. It provides interactive maps, information about biodiversity, activity recommendations and accommodation options, facilitating planning of trips and field orientation. Additionally, there are eco-friendly markers and educational panels along the trail to support the tourist experience.

The trail is ideal for:

hikers and nature lovers;

families looking for a peaceful getaway;

amateur photographers and ornithologists;

all those interested in responsible, authentic and accessible tourism.

Local Impact and Development Potential

The Charm of Dniester is the first ecotourism itinerary in the region and gives the village of Marcauti a real chance for rural development through tourism. The local mayor, Alexei Leahu, asserts that this trail marks the beginning of a new era for the community – facilitating the region's visibility and generating local economic opportunities.

Through this project, rural communities become active players in promoting the natural and cultural heritage of Moldova, transforming it into an attractive offer for both domestic and international tourists.

The Charm of Dniester route is an invitation to reconnect with the nature, culture, and communities of Moldova – a model of sustainable tourism that offers real value to both visitors and local residents.

Correspondent: Lilia Grubii