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The Hundred Hills

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

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The 'Hundred Hills' (Suta de Movile) is a unique natural monument in northern Moldova, located on the left bank of the Prut River in the Rîșcani District. Contrary to its name, the area consists of over 3,500 mounds of various sizes scattered across approximately 1,600 hectares. The origin of this bizarre relief is scientifically debated; the most accepted theory suggests they are relics of a prehistoric coral sea or were formed through complex landslides. The mounds vary in height from 5 to 30 meters, creating a rolling landscape with no direct parallels in Europe. Historically, the site was often associated with legends of ancient battles and burial mounds of heroes, though geological studies have confirmed its natural origin. Botanically, the depressions between the hills house small wetlands and a rich flora, while the summits are covered by dry grasslands. Today, the area is protected as a landscape reserve and is a fascinating destination for naturalists.

Location: Moldova
Nearby: Costești (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-4	-2	3	10	16	20	22	22	16	9	4	-2
Rain mm	30	33	40	50	67	89	86	57	45	50	36	32

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Hundred Hills (Suta de Movile) are a freely accessible geological natural monument along the Prut River. You can explore the area on foot at any time, with the characteristic earth mounds creating a unique lunar landscape.

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Typical hours

As an open natural area, the Hundred Hills are accessible all day during daylight, with no opening hours or entrance fee. The best light for photos is early morning or late afternoon.

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Photography

Photography is encouraged everywhere in the area without restrictions; the bizarre mound landscape features fantastic subjects. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expanse of over 3,500 mounds.

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Time needed

Allow one to two hours for a walk among the mounds along the Prut bank. For an extended hike across the entire area, set aside half a day.

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Combine with

Combine this visit with the nearby town of Leova or the old Leova church, also on the Prut. The wine region around Leova also invites a tasting.

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Getting there

The Hundred Hills are on the right bank of the Prut near the village of Călinești, about 30 kilometers south of Leova. By car, reach them via the R1 then unpaved roads; a 4x4 helps in wet conditions.

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Insider tip

Wear sturdy footwear as the ground is uneven and partly sandy. Bring plenty of water as there are no drink stalls in the area, and protect yourself from the sun.

Geography

Coordinates

47.81670, 27.23330

Facts

The highest elevation is called 'Gypsy's Mound' (Movila Țiganului), standing at 30 meters.
Estimates suggest there are as many as 3,500 individual mounds.
The phenomenon stretches over a length of approximately 8 kilometers.
Dimitrie Cantemir mentioned the site in his work 'Descriptio Moldaviae.'
The mounds form terrace-like structures parallel to the Prut riverbed.
Some mounds contain fossilized remains of ancient marine fauna.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Stânca-Costești Lake1 km · WExplore →

Stinca-Costesti Reservoir2 km · NWExplore →

Silver Forest4 km · SEExplore →

Costești5 km · NExplore →

Cobani Reef5 km · SExplore →

Butesti Reef7 km · EExplore →

Costești Fortification8 km · NExplore →

Duruitoarea Gorge8 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town The Hundred Hills (1)

Marea Nordului

Sandy beach on the Marea Nordului reservoir, surrounded by hills. Suitable for swimming and sunbathing.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What are 'The Hundred Hills' (Suta de Movile)?

A geological phenomenon featuring over 3,500 hills in a valley.

Where is this area located?

In the Prut valley, Rîșcani District, northern Moldova.

How were these hills formed?

Presumably through geological deposits of the ancient Sarmatian Sea.

Is there a particularly high hill there?

Yes, the highest hill is called 'Gorgan Hill' (30 meters).

Is the area open for visitors?

Yes, it is a protected natural monument open to the public.

The Hundred Hills: where is it located?

The Hundred Hills is located in Moldova.

The Hundred Hills: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

The Hundred Hills: why is it worth visiting?

The 'Hundred Hills' (Suta de Movile) is a unique natural monument in northern Moldova, located on the left bank of the Prut River in the Rîșcani District.

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