If you google places to visit in Moldova Țipova will come up for sure
Only 95 km away from Chisinau, Tipova hides incredible historical and natural gems: a tiny traditional village, a cave monastery founded in 10th-12th centuries (many sources indicate different years of its foundation) and the landscape reservation.
The Village
Small, adorable and colourful. Moldova has many lovely villages that managed to keep that authentic vibe and Tipova is one of those. Narrow streets, colourful gates and fences and lots of friendly animals. Also, at the edge of the village, there is a church which is popular and brings most of the people. However, you got there so much more than just a church.
The Cave Monastery
It is considered the largest Orthodox cave monastery in Moldova, considered one of the largest in Europe. The monastery consists of three religious chambers and monastic cells linked by precarious steps built into the rock face. It is very easy to get there. From the parking lot follow the signs down the stairs carefully and you will find yourself in a different dimension. If I am not mistaken there is an entrance fee, so better have some cash with you.

The Reservation
Save a few hours for a beautiful walk! After the cave monastery, you can take the path to the reservation and enjoy nature. Be cautious of the snakes. There are many warning signs, however, I saw snakes in there just once, like 20 years ago.
Next to the parking lot, you can find the general map of the area and the hiking routes. Also, from there a beautiful landscape opens up over the Nistru river and Popencu village.
At the end of the routes, the reward is several waterfalls that Moldova is proud of.
On the way to the village and back, from the main road, several lavender fields catch your eye and you simply cannot skip it.
