If you dream of an escape into nature, where silence intertwines with magnificent biodiversity, then “Lower Prut” (Prutul de Jos) is your ideal destination.

Covering over 1,600 hectares, the reserve is a true labyrinth of lakes, marshes, forests, and meadows.

Located in southwestern Moldova, in the Cahul District, the Prutul de Jos Scientific Reserve encompasses Lake Beleu and its surroundings, serving as an authentic living museum of nature.

In 2018, this slice of paradise was included in the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves, becoming the first site of its kind in the Republic of Moldova.

Its crown jewel is Lake Beleu, a thousand-year-old relic of the Danube that serves as a thriving oasis for flora and fauna.

Here, you can encounter over 200 species of birds, including pelicans and swans, about 40 species of rare mammals—such as the otter and the European mink—and over 300 species of plants, many of which are protected.

The map of the Prutul de Jos reserve offers both water and land routes, perfect for hiking, guided tours, and birdwatching.

At sunset, the sight of migratory birds offers an unforgettable experience.

Map of the Lower Prut region with available routes

Interesting Facts and Sites to Visit

Beyond its natural beauty, the Prutul de Jos territory is rich in points of interest:

History & Heritage: Learn about the region’s past at the Museum of History and Local Lore in Slobozia Mare.
Prehistoric Discoveries: Visit the Văleni Outcrop, where mastodon fossils were discovered.
Cultural Treasures: Don’t miss the “La Bunica Clava” rural estate or the unique Bread Museum.

Accommodation and Relaxation

To fully immerse yourself in this unique location, you can stay nearby at Eco-Village Văleni or the “La Gura Cuptorului” guesthouse, where warm local hospitality awaits.

The rustic atmosphere, traditional cuisine, and the tranquility of the area will help you completely disconnect from the daily hustle and bustle.

Whether you are looking for a peaceful stroll, a boating adventure on Lake Beleu, or simply wish to admire the pristine beauty of Prutul de Jos, this place is sure to win your heart.

It is more than just a reserve—it is the living history of nature in Southern Moldova.

Key Information: Lake Beleu & Lower Prut Reserve

ESTABLISHED: 1991

Government Decision No. 209 of April 23

OTAL AREA: 1,755.4 ha

protected zone — lithomorphic sector 1.5 km wide

Territory Structure:

Lake Beleu: area 628 ha, size 2 × 5 km, average depth 0.5–1 m. A relic of the Danube liman;
Pastures: 124 ha;
Forests: 370.4 ha;
Floodplain meadows: 610 ha;
Other land: 23 ha.

Flora and Fauna

Birds

Lake Beleu and its adjacent floodplain are home to 206 bird species.

Among them, 44 rare species are protected at national and international levels, including the pygmy cormorant (Phalacrocorax pygmaeus), great white egret (Egretta alba), black stork (Ciconia nigra), squacco heron (Ardeola ralloides), Eurasian spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia), great white pelican (Pelicanus onocrotalus), glossy ibis (Plegadis falcinellus), and others.

Fish

The ichthyofauna of the aquatic complex includes more than 32 fish species (carp, crucian carp, pike, pike-perch, catfish, bleak, bream, etc.).

Rare species include the sabrefish (Pelecus cultratus), pumpkinseed sunfish (Lepomis gibbosus), European mudminnow (Umbra krameri), zingel (Zingel zingel), and others.

Vegetation

Vegetation is mainly represented by dense reed beds, willow groves, and a rich cover of aquatic plants in floodplain areas (cattail, bulrush, duckweed, water lily, arrowhead, etc. — a total of 312 plant species).

Species listed in the Red Book include the white water lily (Nymphaea alba), floating salvinia (Salvinia natans), water chestnut (Trapa natans), and wild grapevine (Vitis sylvestris).

Mammals

The reserve hosts 39 mammal species (wild boar, roe deer, fox, raccoon dog, pine marten, etc.).

Rare species include the otter (Lutra lutra), wildcat (Felis sylvestris), stoat (Mustela erminea), and others.

Reptiles and Amphibians

Reptiles are represented by 7 species, amphibians by 9 species.

Rare species include the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis), Caspian whipsnake (Coluber caspius), European tree frog (Hyla arborea), and common spadefoot toad (Pelobates fuscus).