The Capriana monastery is only 30 km from Chisinau in a forest.  The neighboring village by the same name is known for summer camps.  Just on the other side of the hill is a Presidential retreat.

On our trip through the Codru, the trail leads to a second monastery, Capriana.  The name comes from "Deer", symbolic of the ancient forest.  You will see that this monastery is undergoing fresh restoration, financed by the current administration.

After the new looking Capriana monastery, we will overlook some cleared forest which opens a strategic view.  You will also have the chance to see ancient wooden stairs which still are in good shape.  Also, in the forest valley south of the monastery, there is an old oak tree that has survived so many revolutionary changes.  According to a sign, Stephan the Great, the historic ruler of greater Moldova and one of the founders of the monastery, rested near the tree.  From there, we have a steep road before ending the tour. 

This trip has the strange effect of stitching together past and present leadership of Moldova.

Typical duration: 6.7 hours
5 hours bicycling, 1.2 hours roundtrip from Chisinau, 0.5 hours lunch
Cycling distance: 32 km (half on forest paths x half on roads)
Distance from Chisinau (start and finish point):  30 km

Please take your own food and drink (1,5 liters), small backpack

Trip costs (per person):

Transportation (passenger & bike) 150 Lei

Bicycle rental (Bike+helmet+gloves+ guiding / medical care / technical care for bikes) 250 Lei

Total = 400 lei per person_ __ _ _ Contact person - Leonid (tel. 0,69258006)