Tipova Monastery and Lalova Village

Discover Tipova Monastery’s ancient rock-hewn cells and Lalova’s scenic beauty. Hike, explore, and savor local cuisine on this full-day adventure.

Duration: 8 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Tipova Monastery - Our accredited guide will meet you at the hotel/apartment and will accompany you up to Tipova Monastery, one of the most beautiful in Moldova. In 1828, on the hill, above the cave complexes, the church arised, which became a monastery again in 1919. Until then, the territory was under the administration of the Saharna monastery. In 1990, with the support of the Union of Journalists from Moldova, the restoration of the monastery began. In 1994 the monastery was re-established.
  • Rocky Monastery of Tipova - Will hike little bit to the rocky monastery, that is located above the Dniester and comprises three rock-hewn monastery complexes. The first ensemble consists of several cells and a church dedicated to the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, dating back to the 11th-12th centuries. The Church of St. Nicholas was the center of the second monastery complex, founded in the 14th century. The largest cluster of cells is around the Church of the Dormition of the Mother of God, dating from the 16th-18th centuries. In the early 19th century, this latter complex still functioned as a skete, and in 1842, it was disbanded.
  • Lalova - The Hanul lui Hanganu Guesthouse is a perfect choice for organizing a lunch in the afternoon. The guesthouse offers a choice of 28 rooms, two Basque-style rooms, and a hayloft. All in a rustic appearance with archaic elements and traditional-style decor. A picturesque place in the heart of nature with exceptional panoramic views. The guesthouse is a beautiful choice for celebrating calendar holidays. Traditions and customs, traditional dishes, songs, dance, and good cheer.
  • Chisinau - Transportation from Chisinau to Tipova will take about 90 minutes.
  • Lalova - Transportation from Lalova village back to Chisinau will take about 90 minutes.
What's Included
  • Private transportation
  • Hotel pick up and drop-off
  • Entrance fees
  • Professional Guide
What's Not Included
  • Lunch
  • Souvenirs
Additional Information

Situated along the Dniester River, Tipova Monastery is a notable rock-carved monastic complex, considered the most impressive in Moldova and among the largest in Europe. Spanning multiple levels over a vast area, this monastery once accommodated over 700 monks in its hermitages, and today, there are numerous monk cells in the vicinity. The monastic community’s origins trace back to a time well before the Moldovan feudal state was established. It is believed that some cells were chiseled into the rocks along the Dniester’s banks as early as the 10th-12th centuries, providing refuge from barbarian invasions. The scenery in this region is breathtaking: serene Dniester waters, steep cliffs hiding countless cells and caves, natural beauty, and waterfalls. After exploring the Tipova reservation, we will proceed to the picturesque village of Lalova, where we will enjoy lunch at a charming guesthouse, Hanul lui Hanganu.

Location
Tipova Monastery
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
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(2 Ratings)
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1 star
Maurice_b
Aug 18, 2024
Slava, our guide, was... - Slava, our guide, was very good. He knew a lot of interesting things about the place and the country in general. The trip was well organised and we enjoyed everything. We would recommend this tour to others.
Review provided by Viator
Cabrina_m
Apr 30, 2024
Great adventure - I had a lovely time visiting the cave monasteries. It was such a unique adventure with beautiful views. I enjoyed the hike to the waterfall. I also loved lunch in the little village. Great experience and my guide was very friendly and knowledge. Highly recommended!
Review provided by Viator
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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