Cricova Winery & Old Orhei & Curchi Monastery

Tucked away in the heart of Moldova, a trio of captivating destinations awaits visitors eager to enjoy the country’s rich cultural heritage. From the underground wine city of Cricova to the ancient ruins of Old Orhei and the serene grandeur of Curchi Monastery, this journey promises an unparalleled exploration of Moldova’s storied past. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a profound cultural experience, this itinerary offers a tantalizing glimpse into the country’s remarkable story – one that’s sure to leave you intrigued and eager to discover more.

Key Points

• Explore the underground wine city of Cricova Winery, an extensive network of tunnels dating back to the 15th century housing over 1.2 million bottles.
• Discover the ancient archaeological complex of Old Orhei, featuring remnants of fortified settlements and cave monasteries.
• Visit the ornate Curchi Monastery to experience Orthodox Christian heritage and attend spiritual services.
• Enjoy a private tour with wine tastings, lunch, and transportation included, suitable for moderate fitness levels.
• Receive personalized attention from knowledgeable local guides and the opportunity to learn about the region’s cultural and winemaking traditions.

Tour Overview

The tour includes an exploration of the renowned Cricova Winery, the historic Old Orhei site, and the captivating Curchi Monastery.

Guided by knowledgeable local experts, this private tour offers a flexible duration to suit your preferences. The price starts from $183.46, with variations based on group size.

Snacks, lunch, wine tastings, and drinks are all included, ensuring a well-rounded and enjoyable experience.

Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or apartment are provided, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

While a moderate fitness level is required, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems or wheelchair users.

Inclusions and Highlights

Snacks and a satisfying lunch are provided throughout the tour, allowing visitors to refuel during their explorations. Wine-tasting experiences at the renowned Cricova Winery are a highlight, where travelers can sample the region’s finest vintages. Drinks are included, ensuring a worry-free day of discovery. Pickup and drop-off at the hotel or apartment provide added convenience, making the experience seamless from start to finish.

Inclusion	Details
Snacks & Lunch	Provided for sustenance
Wine Tasting	Cricova Winery experiences
Drinks	Included for convenience
Hotel Pickup/Drop-off	Seamless start and end
Dietary Requests	Accommodated upon booking

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup from the hotel or apartment is provided, ensuring a seamless start to the day’s adventure. Confirm the pickup time with the local provider in advance, as the schedule is flexible to accommodate your needs.

This tour offers the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience begins, providing peace of mind.

• Hassle-free transportation to kick off your immersive exploration
• Personalized attention from knowledgeable local guides
• Flexibility to tailor the experience to your preferences
• Worry-free logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Opportunity to discover the region’s rich cultural heritage

Accessibility and Requirements

Although not recommended for travelers with back problems, this tour does require a moderate level of physical fitness.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests must be able to navigate stairs and uneven terrain.

The minimum drinking age is 18 years, as guests will have the opportunity to enjoy wine tastings during the experience.

Travelers with specific dietary requirements are advised to inform the local provider at the time of booking, so accommodations can be made.

Reviews and Ratings

The tour has received a total of 3 reviews with an impressive 5.0 overall rating.

Guests have highlighted the knowledgeable and personable guides, describing the experiences as thoroughly enjoyable.

As one traveler praised, "A great way to see the countryside" – the guide, Nicolai, provided insightful commentary and pleasant company throughout the tour.

• "Wonderful experience!"
• "Absolutely fantastic!"
• "Learned so much about Moldova’s history and culture."
• "The guides really made the day special."
• "Couldn’t have asked for a better tour."

The overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests this tour offers a captivating and memorable way to explore Cricova Winery, Old Orhei, and Curchi Monastery.

Exploring Cricova Winery

At the heart of this captivating tour lies the renowned Cricova Winery, a veritable underground city of wine that beckons visitors to explore its vast subterranean labyrinth.

Descending into the maze-like cellars, guests discover an impressive network of tunnels and chambers, some dating back to the 15th century. The winery boasts an astounding collection of over 1.2 million bottles, including rare vintages and unique blends.

Visitors can savor the flavors of Cricova’s finest during expertly guided wine tastings, learning about the region’s rich winemaking heritage.

With its historic significance and world-class wines, the Cricova Winery stands as a true highlight of this immersive tour through Moldova’s scenic countryside.

Discovering Old Orhei and Curchi Monastery

Beyond the captivating cellars of Cricova Winery, this tour takes visitors on a journey to uncover the rich historical and cultural tapestry of Moldova.

The first stop is the ancient archaeological complex of Old Orhei, where visitors can explore the remnants of fortified settlements, cave monasteries, and sacred sites that span millennia.

Nearby, the Curchi Monastery stands as a testament to the country’s Orthodox Christian heritage, with its ornate architecture and serene atmosphere.

Visitors can wander the monastery grounds, attend a service, and gain insights into Moldova’s spiritual traditions.

• Uncover the ancient history of Moldova at Old Orhei
• Marvel at the architectural splendor of Curchi Monastery
• Immerse in the country’s Orthodox Christian heritage
• Witness the blend of cultures and faiths
• Experience the tranquility of the monastery grounds

Since You Asked

Can I Purchase Additional Wine at the Winery?

Yes, you can purchase additional wine at the Cricova Winery. The tour includes a wine tasting experience, but visitors are welcome to buy more bottles of their favorite wines to take home.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available during the tour. The provider ensures there are suitable restroom stops at the winery, historical sites, and other locations visited throughout the day to accommodate guests’ needs comfortably.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Winery and Monasteries?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the winery and monasteries during the tour, though it’s best to check with the guide first. Some areas may have restrictions to preserve the sites.

What Is the Dress Code Recommended for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, casual clothing. Avoid overly short or revealing attire out of respect for the religious sites. Dress in layers, as the weather may vary throughout the day.

Can I Extend or Customize the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be customized and extended to suit your preferences. Travelers can discuss their desired itinerary and timeline with the provider in advance to create a personalized experience.

The Sum Up

Delving into Moldova’s rich heritage, the Cricova Winery, Old Orhei, and Curchi Monastery offer a multifaceted cultural experience. From the captivating underground wine city to the ancient archaeological wonders and the serene Orthodox monastery, this tour provides a comprehensive glimpse into the country’s captivating history and traditions, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for Moldova’s exceptional cultural and spiritual tapestry.