A new cycling and hiking trail - "Heart of the Nistru" - has been launched with the support of UNDP and the Government of Switzerland, offering cyclists and hikers a unique 42 km experience along the Nistru river. The project is part of an initiative to develop tourism infrastructure in the region, aiming to promote sustainable tourism and support local community development.

The cycling trail includes segments that connect the localities of Pohrebea, Doroțcaia, Pîrîta, and Coșnița, being covered by bike in approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes and on foot in about 10 hours and 30 minutes. The route is accessible from spring to autumn, in dry conditions and can be traveled in both directions.

Cyclists and hikers can enjoy spectacular views of the islands and villages in the area, as well as a rich diversity of bird species, insects, and small mammals. The trail is properly marked on country roads and local roads, where increased attention to traffic is recommended.

"In this region, we found both remarkable landscapes and a vibrant community. Our discoveries continue, and we warmly invite everyone to explore ‘the heart of Nistru,’ a place with splendid nature and people we have fallen in love with," says Valeriu Istrati, tourism trail specialist and founder of Trail Pro.

The "Heart of Nistru" itinerary integrates into a larger network of tourist trails in the region, connecting with the trail from Vadul-lui-Vodă and the one leading to Criuleni and Rezina.

The cycling trail was developed by the tourism micro-cluster "Heart of Nistru", created in 2023 with the support of the Government of Switzerland and UNDP through the project "Resilient and inclusive markets in Moldova."

UNDP and its partners support the development of 17 economic clusters in Moldova, developed around specific industries and sectors, facilitating access to markets and resources, and ensuring effective community collaboration. The clusters are supported through legal assistance, business infrastructure development, institutional capacity building, equipment procurement, adoption of modern and energy-efficient technologies, product certification, and branding.