On the 2nd of July the crew rebelled – I told Igor I needed a day's rest – no packing up, no cycling, no visiting. Igor waited until 9:30 am and because my rebellion continued, he went to buy something to eat. He was back after 15 minutes, bringing fresh baguettes, some extras and dumplings for lunch. And of course a one-litre beer (during this expedition, Igor drinks an average of one litre of beer per day, which is more than I will drink in my whole life ;-)

Around noon, we hit on an idea to visit Cricova wine cellars. Basic tour (without a wine gift set), costs MDL 350 per person. Rather expensive, since it is almost PLN 80, but in Moldova this place is a must! This country prides itself on the world's largest wine cellars. The ones in Cricova were founded in abandoned stone mines located deep in the slope of the Ichel Valley. In 1952, it was discovered that local caves offer perfect conditions for producing sparkling wine. The tunnels are situated at an average depth of 50 metres, with permanent temperature between 12 and 14 degrees Centigrade, and 98% humidity. With time, an entire underground city was constructed, with alleys named after the wines that are stored there. So we drive along Sauvignone Street, then Pinot Street and Champagne Street. The ride is amazing – the tunnels stretch out endlessly, forming curves and branching in different directions. One time we pass a main road sign, next we approach a pedestrian crossing, and there are always barrels and bottles everywhere! In Cricova there are 120 km of corridors! Although the biggest wine collection (entered in the Guinness Book of World Records) is situated in the world’s largest wine cellars in Milestii Mici, the one in Cricova made a lasting impression on us.