Cycling route “Love Island”
Cycling Route “Love Island”
Escape into nature on the enchanting Cycling Route “Love Island” — a scenic 18.7 km ride to the most picturesque stretch of the Dniester riverbank in Grigoriopol district. With 3 captivating stops and a recommended 2.5–3.5 hours to enjoy the journey at a leisurely pace, this route is perfect for those seeking beauty, tranquility and a touch of adventure.
The first 16 km of the route take you through open countryside roads leading toward the Dniester — a gradual and rewarding ride where the landscape slowly transforms from fields into the lush, green riverbank scenery that gives this route its romantic name.
Just 200 meters from that point, the route arrives at one of its most intriguing stops — the Tunnels of Mines in Bychok village (Bychok village, Grigoriopol district). These mysterious underground passages carved into the earth offer a fascinating glimpse into the area’s industrial past, creating a striking contrast with the natural beauty surrounding them.
The journey concludes at what may be the most breathtaking moment of the entire ride — a sweeping View of the Dniester River between Bychok and Krasnogorka villages (Grigoriopol district). Standing here, with the river stretching out before you and nature in full splendor on both banks, it becomes immediately clear why this place earned such a poetic name. A view worth every pedal stroke.
Tunnels of Mines, Bychok Village
Bychok village occupies a striking position along the banks of the Dniester River, perched atop an impressive rocky hill that hides a valuable secret beneath its surface — extensive deposits of limestone, one of the republic’s most important natural resources. Until the 1990s, large-scale mining operations were active in Bychok, extracting high-quality white ashlar limestone widely prized for use in construction throughout the region.
What remains today is something far more extraordinary than an abandoned industrial site: the mine galleries have formed the largest complex of artificial catacombs anywhere in the region, creating a labyrinthine underground world that has become particularly fascinating to adventure seekers and thrill enthusiasts from Pridnestrovie and beyond. These atmospheric tunnels, carved by generations of miners, now offer a uniquely captivating destination for those drawn to explore the hidden, subterranean side of the Dniester valley’s landscape.
View of the Dniester River Between Bychok and Krasnogorka Villages
Nestled along the banks of the Dniester River, between the villages of Bychok and Krasnogorka, this scenic spot offers one of the most stunning views in the entire Grigoriopol district. Known affectionately as the “Island of Love,” this destination has become a favorite among visitors, particularly those hoping to capture truly memorable photographs during their travels.
The view here is nothing short of postcard-perfect, with a small island sitting gracefully in the middle of the river adding an extra touch of romance and charm to an already breathtaking landscape. Whether arriving by road, on foot or — as many do — by kayak along the river itself, this picturesque viewpoint rewards every visitor with a moment of pure natural beauty along the Dniester.