If one was to Google Chisinau, it is highly likely that images of the Cascade Stairs. Located within the Valea Morilor Park, the structure provides panoramic views of the surrounding lake from its top. As the name implies, the structure is, essentially, a large staircase, not ideal for wheelchair users…
However, akin to the Cascade Complex in Yerevan, if one was to look closely on Satellite view, you would see various footpaths sprouting out of the structure at various heights. The question was, how many could one access?
Now, Valea Morilor Park isn’t the easiest place to access in Chisinau, the most accessible way would be by bus, although this option may take time. It was therefore decided that one would follow trusty Google Maps. It is important to note that some areas that Google identifies as roads are, essentially dirt tracks. Some of these are only accessible by navigating up grass verges.
Once one reaches Valea Morilor Park, broken pavements give way to tarmacked footpaths, perfect rolling conditions for a wheelchair user…
There are two main paths circulating the park; one containing a cycle track whilst the other hugs the edge of the lake. Crossing points are available, however, the majority contain steps meaning that it is necessary to come back on yourself at times. Of course, the latter is much more visually appealing…
Towards one corner of the Valea Morilor Park lies the Cascade Stairs. If one is rolling along the cycle path, its easy to locate the footpath that leads to the bottom level of the structure…
Unfortunately, the footpath that leads further up contains a rather large step at the bottom, too large for Superbunny2 to negotiate. As a result, one set about seeking the ‘back way’ to reach the top of said staircase (without Maps). To achieve this, it is necessary to exit the park near the structure and simply follow the road through a housing estate. Turning left at the top will bring one to a car park and, subsequently, the top of the Cascade Stairs. A ramp then leads down to that famous view…
Tomorrow, one heads slightly outside of Chisinau to one of Moldovas top attractions, the Cricova Winery. Now, there is zero information regarding its accessibility thus far hence this could be interesting…