October

2015
Edition

Magazine

WILD EUROPE

EXPLORE EUROPE!

Table of Content
Wild, Wild Portugal...........................
Rychlebsk Stezky............................
Explore Irelands Wild Side..............
Denmark: Wild and free...................
Germanys Inviting Landscapes.......
Latvia Naturally Beautiful.............
Daredevil Winter Sports...................
Dadia Forest.....................................
Dare To Experience..........................
Nationalpark Hohe Tauern...............
San Marino, Nature and Sport.........
Ski and Fun in the Pyrenees............
Outdoors Escapades in Serbia.........
A Country of Forests and Bogs........
Go Wild in Slovakia..........................
Wildlife in Green Slovenia................
Enjoy a Walk on the Wild Side.........
Monacos Natural Treasures ...........
Fall Hiking in Switzerland................
By Land, Sea and Air........................
Live on the Wild Side........................
Brussels Wallonia............................
Wild in Romania...............................
Wild paradise Poland....................
National Tourism Organizations......

p.7
p.8
p.9
p.10
p.11
p.12
p.13
p.14
p.15
p.16
p.17
p.18
p.19
p.20
p.21
p.22
p.23
p.24
p.25
p.26
p.28

Europes wonder shines brightest in its most

natural locations. With over 350 national parks
scattered throughout the continent, providing an
array of wildlife-watching, beach relaxation and
mountain landscapes, theres plenty of wonder
to take in during your next trip. From Spain to
Finland, Denmark to Greece and everywhere
in between, youll find national parks featuring
unique terrains, breathtaking views and endless
activities.
Explore Europes most wild side. Grab your
binoculars and spot wildlife in these unique
habitats. Find the adventure thats right for you
in the natural side of Europe during your next
trip. And remember, each year, every European
country has the potential to open a new national
park in order to preserve more beautiful and
fragile areas so keep exploring!
GET INSPIRED ON:
www.visiteurope.com

European Travel Commission - Rue du Marche aux Herbes 61 - 1000 Brussels - www.etc-corporate.org
wwww.visiteurope.com

Image by: Firs Last Name

Copyright

p.3
p.4
p.5
p.6

espite the continents dense population,

Europe is abundantly rich in natural
attractions, open spaces and wildlife.
Aggressively protected, the beauty of the flora
and fauna remain unspoiled. The result is
a chance for locals and visitors to connect
naturally with beautiful preserves, national
parks and untamed wilderness.

 Turismo de Portugal

Wild, Wild Portugal

EUROPES HOTBED OF ADVENTURE

n Portugal, popular wisdom says that a

man cannot be measured by height. Nor
can a country. be judged by its dimension.
In fact, for the size of its land territory,
there is a lot to experience in Portugal.
Lets start with a fun fact: Portugal has the
third biggest Economic Exclusive Zone in
Europe, mostly due to the maritime area
around the Portuguese Atlantic islands.
And these are synonym of Adventure! In the
Azorean Archipelago, go whale watching or,
if you are feeling bolder, put your wetsuit
on and dive with blue sharks. Or go hiking
around the network of paths that make up
more than 60 hiking trails on nine volcanic
islands. Off the coast of Africa, Madeira is a
hikers paradise with its green mountains. It
also has perfect climate for mountain biking,
one of the newest trends on the island.

Now, lets shoot for the stars. Literally. Around

the biggest artificial lake in Europe Alqueva
there are around 290 nights of clear sky
every year. This is UNESCOs first Starlight
Tourism Destination and the perfect place
to gaze into the unknown. Why settle for
the world when you can have the universe?

Trails in Azores
Rota Vicentina
Madeiras levadas
The Alentejo Coast

But say you prefer to stay on the mainland and

experience a diverse array of adventures. The
Alentejo has got it covered: from a beautiful
uncrowded coastline, perfect for surfing, to the
hiking trails of the Vicentina Coast and even a
Safari! Thats right, the Badoca Park is a 90acre natural park with more than 600 wildlife
species; and yes, you are still in Europe!

 Milan Jaro, CzechTourism

Rychlebsk Stezky
THRILLING RIDES ALONG TRAILS IN THE RYCHLEBSK MOUNTAINS

o you like exhilarating bike rides through

awe-inspiring landscapes? If so, head
for the Jesenky Mountains where some
superb trails await in the Rychlebsk range.
The aim of riding these routes isnt to travel as
far as possible or clock up the most kilometres,
but to enjoy a great days mountain biking
and see the wonderful surroundings of the
Rychlebsk Mountains with their thick beech
woods, mountain brooks, flooded quarries and
huge granite boulders.

So how did these trails in the Rychlebsk

Mountains appear? Basically by recreating
historical hunting trails in the unique
landscape of Sokol Peak. They offer an
exciting experience over 40km, beginning and
ending in Cern Voda. However, you wont be
pedalling from one point to the next you
can have a great day in the saddle by tackling
several interlinking circular routes.
The Rychlebsk trails run through scree fields
and across fords, sometimes theyre just a
faint groove in the mud, in other places built
of stone slabs. This gives you a unique chance
to try out several different riding surfaces in

one location. A new feature for 2012 is a newly

opened section running through some great
rocky terrain. The Rychlebsk trails have also
been designed with less experienced mountain
bikers in mind, with easier routes available.

Enjoy ride in close touch with nature

 Tourism Ireland

Explore Irelands Wild Side

ITS EASY TO GET UP CLOSE TO THE WIDE RANGE OF WILDLIFE IN IRELAND

pectacular
species,
isolated
wilderness and breathtaking scenery:
introducing
Irelands
wildlife.

Our red deer with their signature deep red

coats are Irelands largest land mammals,
and have been around since the last Ice Age.
Another cherished species is that lovable
rogue, the red fox. Along with badgers,
rabbits, otters, hedgehogs and squirrels,
they all adore the rural Irish countryside.
Were surrounded by sea, so expect to meet
doe-eyed seals, dolphins and even the odd
whale or two. Take a boat tour to see one of
our most famous residents: Fungi the dolphin,
whos made his home in Dingle, County Kerry.
Ireland is an ornithologists paradise. The
magnificent barn owls come out at night around
Irelands Ancient East. Meanwhile, The Gobbins
cliffs at Islandmagee and Antrims Rathlin Island
are among the Atlantic puffins favourite haunts.

ravens, peregrines and the recently reintroduced

Golden Eagles soar high in the skies.
Ireland is also home to two of the most
important seabird sanctuaries in Western
Europe the Saltee Islands off the Wexford
coast, and the Copeland Islands in County
Down. The Saltees are a haven for gulls, puffins
and Manx shearwaters, while the Copeland
Islands have over 75 species of birds.
Your next step? Grab your binoculars and go wild
in Ireland.

Safe Safari in Ireland

Donegal and the Wild Atlantic Way
The Causeway Coastal Route

Speaking of Antrim, the stunning Causeway

Coastal Route is viewed from on high by guillemot,
razorbill, kittiwake and fulmar. Meanwhile, over
in Donegals Glenveagh National Park, falcons,

FOUR NATIONAL PARKS PRESERVE DENMARKS MOST PRISTINE AREAS

enmark has established four national

parks
to
protect
the
countrys
landscapes. And even though daily
life in Denmarks towns appears safe and
well-organised, you just have to drive a few
hours to reach the West Coast where Mother
Natures awesome power is on full display.

By the sea
In Thy National Park in North Jutland intense
winds blow in from the North Sea, creating
excellent conditions for surfing. But bring
a wetsuit! Theres a reason the areas prime
surfing spot, Klitmller, is called Cold Hawaii.
Further down Denmarks West Coast, youll find
Wadden Sea National Park one of the worlds
most important tidal flats. Listed as a Unesco
World Heritage Site, some 12 million migratory
birds this their favourite vacation spot every year.
As you explore the beaches, dont forget to
look for orange nuggets of amber, also known
as Nordic Gold. Your chances for finding these
50 million-year-old gems increase after a
heavy storm has shaken up the seafloor.

Landscapes carved by glaciers

When youve had enough of the wind and
waves, lace up your boots and visit Denmarks
other national parks: Mols Bjerge in East Jutland and Skjoldungernes Land on Zealand.
Theyre prime examples of the gentle, rolling
hills created when glaciers flattened the landscape during the Ice Age 14,000 years ago.
After a long hike, you can rest your body at one
of Denmarks 1,000 primitive campsites. Or if
youve had enough of the great outdoors, pamper
yourself at one of the charming old Danish inns.
10 Outdoor Adventures
Cold Hawaii in Thy
Denmarks National Parks

VisitDenmark

Denmark: Wild and Free

 German National Tourist Office

Germanys Inviting Landscapes

SPEND YOUR VACATION IN THE HEART OF GERMAN NATURE

ermanys 104 nature parks, 16 national

parks and 15 UNESCO biosphere
reserves
showcase
the
countrys
picturesque and diverse landscapesfrom
mountains to lakes, meadows and beaches,
inviting visitors to enjoy different activities
such as hiking, biking and horseback riding.
In Northern Germany, the Wadden Sea covers
over 3,800 square miles of protected coastal
area, including three German national parks. A
highlight of this UNESCO World Heritage Site
is a walk at low tide to one of the islands off
the coast a great activity for the whole family.
The Hunsrueck-Hochwald National Park is
currently Germanys newest national park
(established in May 2015). It is located in the
Hunsrueck region of Rhineland-Palatinate and
the Saarland region. The park protects roughly
10,000 hectares of upland forests and fields.

paradise for activity-minded nature lovers,

whether they are looking to pedal along the
parks 260 km cycle route, hike one of the
scenic trails or go snow-shoeing in winter.
Located a little further south, close to
beautiful Lake Constance, Nagelfluhkette
Nature was given protected status in 2008
and is the only reserve to date to cover
territory in both Germany and Austria.
Choose your Germany nature adventure today!

Nature Parks
The Wadden Sea

The North/Central Black Forest Nature Park

and the Southern Black Forest Nature Park are
Germanys largest nature parks. The scenery
is characterized by extensive woodland with
open meadows and pastures, making it a

A SEA OF ACTIVITIES IN SPAIN

lmost 50% of Latvia is covered by

forests, and Latvia boasts 498 km
of fascinating coastline. With a
population density of only 31 per m2, there
are many wild and untouched corners of
nature to be admired and explored. Latvia is
an excellent destination for bird watching,
fishing, foraging and other outdoor pursuits.

bears and other local fauna that have been

given a home at Ligatne Nature Trails.
On the west coast of Latvia is Pape Nature Park,
home to a population of wild horses, bison and
oxen, and known among avid bird watchers.
The park encompasses a coastal lagoon lake,
floodplain meadows, sand beaches, coastal
dry and wet forests, and other ecosystems.

Bird watching hotspots

Lake Lubans is located in Eastern Latvia,
referred to colloquially as the Land of Blue
Lakes. It is the largest lake in Latvia, and
225 bird species have been recorded in its
surroundings. A number of bird watching towers
have been set up for visitors convenience.

Enjoy the wonders of nature in Latvia!

In the north west corner of Latvia is Cape Kolka

the meeting point of the Baltic Sea and the
Gulf of Riga. The most intensive days of bird
migration in spring can see up to 100 000 birds,
including passerines and raptors, pass the cape!
Nature parks and trails
The Ligatne Nature Trails are located in
Gauja National Park, at just over an hours
drive from Riga. During a walk, visitors
can catch glimpses of elk, foxes, wild boar,

Bird watching in Latvia

Nature in Latvia
Pape Nature Park

Latvian Tourism Development Agency

Latvia Naturally Beautiful

 Eero Vilmi/Visit Finland mediabank

Daredevil Winter Sports

FINLAND HAS A LOT TO OFFER FOR SPORTING DAREDEVILS

LPINE SKIING

Skiing has been a major part of Finnish culture

for decades. Given the amount of snowfall
Finland experiences yearly, its easy to see
why. Whether its downhill or cross-country
youre after, the stunning terrain caters for all.
ICE CLIMBING
Though theres not much by way of large
mountains in Finland, ice climbing sites are
not hard to come by. A truly unique way to
see the countrys stunning landscapes, ice
climbing in Finland is made possible from
the freezing of streams in winter. Few places
offer better ice climbing than Korouoma.

SNOW-KITING
Finland is home to some of the greatest snowkiting locations there are. The countrys long
winters provide months of guaranteed snow.
Whether youre a beginner or an expert, the
countrys deep snow, wide open spaces and
accompanying strong gales make it ideal for
snow-kiting. Whether you go all the way up to
Laplands Saariselk fells or the internationally
renowned winter sports hub Lahti down south,
Finlands vast terrain is yours to kite around.

Daredevil Winter Sports in Finland

Enter the Wild on a Snowmobile
Winter in Finland

DIVING UNDER ICE

For a sport officially just over 20 years old,
Finlands 180 diving clubs show just how high
the popularity of this pastime is. Supervision
is recommended, as is a dry suit, but once
youve broken the ice, theres a veritable feast
for the eyes, with the countrys archipelagos
presenting some stunning locations, as well as
a myriad of shipwrecks to catch a glimpse of.

 gnto

Dadia Forest
UNSPOKEN NATURAL BEAUTY

The forests name derives from Dadia

village, located in Thrace, 67 km north
from Alexandroupoli. The impressive
lush vegetation of Dadias Forest, filled with
pine trees, will put a spell on you with trails
leading to some magnificent hillsides. You will
have an unforgettable experience in nature of
Northern Greece. The forest follows the alpine
terrain of Rodopi known as Evros Mountains,
on the borderline of Asia and Europe. The area
is the easternmost route of migratory birds
and a welcoming home to all kinds of wildlife.
Dadias Forest is the perfect place for a holiday
where you can enjoy activities, come close to
nature, with lush vegetation and birds of prey
that compose a magnificent landscape. Visit
the Ecotourism Centre located at 500 m. from
Dadias settlement where youll find a lodge,
Restaurant, Coffee-shop, and the Information
Centre that organises a number of ecotours. You
can also make a stop by the Vulture Observatory
at a 3 km. distance from the Information Centre.

10

Dadia Forest
Routes of migratory birds

 NTO of Montenegro

Dare to Experience
WILD BEAUTY OF MONTENEGRO

n the very south of the big blueness of the

Adriatic Sea, in the heart of the Balkan
mountains, there exists Montenegro. Located
in a small area you will find a sea with beautiful
beaches, rivers with unique canyons, clear lakes
and giant mountains.

Excitement & Inspiration

Sea and the Bay of Kotor
Mountines

Biogradska Gora hosts a wild forest and the

magnificent canyon of the Tara river, just another
element of the numerous miracles of nature,
which was truly generous when Montenegro
was created. Such a beauty takes the breath
away and from the first sight every traveller
remains eternally in love with Montenegro Like
most successful activities in Montenegro rafting
on Tara river. The Bay of Kotor and Lake Skadar
are brilliant locations for a paddle, and its not
difficult to hire a kayak at either. Montenegro
has a multitude of well-marked walking and
cycling routes, with options for all aptitudes.
Memorable easy routes include circuits of the
lakes in Biogradska Gora and Durmitor national
parks. The former passes through old-growth
forest, while the latter offers mountain vistas
and its nigh-on impossible to get lost on either.
Downhill skiers hit the slopes at Durmitor
and Kolain from roughly late December to
early April. Kolain has the better facilities but
Durmitor has the more reliable snow.

11

EXPLORE AUSTRIAS LARGEST NATURE PARADISE

ut of Austrias six National Parks,

Nationalpark Hohe Tauern is by far
the biggest and most spectacular.
Located in the heart of the Alps, it is
home to over 10.000 animal species and
over 1.500 varieties of plants. Come visit,
and youll find yourself surrounded by
impressive mountain panoramas, vast
glaciers, crystal clear mountain lakes and
over 300 peaks taller than 3.000 meters.

Nationalpark Hohe Tauern covers territory

in three Austrian provinces: Carinthia,
East Tirol and SalzburgerLand. You can
access the park from all three areas, but
perhaps the most interesting starting point
is at the National Park Center in Mittersill,
which features a large exhibition on the
world of natural wonders at its doorstep.
An extensive program of field trips offers the
best walking tours for anyone who wishes
to experience the beauty of the natural
landscape first hand. Tours range from
half-hour walks to multi-day hikes and are
accompanied by highly experienced park
rangers and mountain guides. One of the
most beautiful trails leads from the base

12

of the highest waterfalls in Europe, the

Krimml waterfalls, to their very top, providing
beautiful views of this natural wonder.
For those who would rather explore by car, the
iconic Grossglockner High Alpine Road leads
right through the National Park, from the
charming village of Heiligenblut in Carinthia
all the way up to Austrias highest mountain,
the Grossglockner, and on to Ferleiten in
SalzburgerLand.

More on the Nationalpark Hohe Tauern

Austrias National Parks
Grossglockner High Alpine Road

Austrian Tourist Office FOTO Popp Hackner

Nationalpark Hohe Tauern

 visitsanmarino.com

San Marino, Nature and Sport

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES IN CONTACT WITH NATURE IN SAN MARINO

he territory of the Republic of San

Marino offers many outdoor activities
to be in contact with nature. Among
these, cycling is one of the most popular
activities. There are seven cycling routes for
bike lovers, along the Adriatic coast reaching
up the Ventoso hill and the highest part of
the Republic, where are the three Towers of
the old city fortifications, admiring all the
landscapes and towns of this small country,
through Valmarecchia and Ponte Verucchio,
the Corpol fountain and the San Paolo climb.

Marino. Trekking, free climbing, horseback

tours and even hang-glider or polygon, here
you will find lots of opportunities to admire the
nature of San Marino.

San Marino, Nature and Sport

Among other activities in contact with nature,

San Marino offers trekking
trails going
through the Canepa mills and the ditch of
Montecchio, or the Borgo Maggiore trail to
reach the most difficult path of the Rupe (Cliff),
after the wood of Madonna della Consolazione
and a lot of climbs and steep walls. For lovers
of nature and animals San Marino can be also
discovered on a horseback riding excursion
along the green fields that connect the town of
Montegiardino to Montefeltro, passing through
the Conca river, or taking the path of Val di
Teva that from the Castello of Domagnano
goes along different and spectacular locations
in the green and natural area surrounding San

13

PEAKS, SLOPES, SKI-RUNS AND LIFTS FOR ALL KINDS OF TASTES

he first snows usually come to Spain in

late November/early December. This
is when the countrys 34 ski resorts
get up and running. Mountain passes and
snow-covered valleys, along with facilities
which are constantly being refurbished to
provide enthusiasts with a whole range of
exciting options after a days sport. Spains
ski resorts all offer excellent infrastructure
and transport links. The chance to enjoy other
outdoor sports in the countryside, cultural
routes, art, leisure, unique mountain villages
and delicious gastronomy will make a skiing
holiday to Spain all the more pleasurable.
But it is especially in the Aragn Pyrenees
spots where skiing lovers will enjoy the most.
The resorts of Astn, Candanch, Cerler,
Formigal, Panticosa-Los Lagos, Javalambre,
Valdelinares, Candanch and Llanos del
Hospital have a particularly young and sporty
atmosphere. They are all close together and
surrounded by stunning Pyrenean landscapes.
When youve finished on the slopes, you will
find a wide range of leisure activities on offer in
the town of Jaca, the main point of entry to the

14

Aragn Pyrenees. Recommended visits are: the

Cathedral, Spains oldest in the Romanesque
style and other examples of Romanesque art.
In Benasque, there are plenty of excellent
restaurants and cafs, as well as lively
bars and clubs, open into the early hours.
This unique combination of sport, culture,
gastronomy and nightlife makes the Pyrenees
the best choice for a winter trip!

spain.info
Ski in Spain

Spain NTO

Ski and Fun in the Pyrenees

 Marko Nikolic/NTOS

Outdoors Escapades in Serbia

ENJOY THE ATMOSPHERE AND TASTY TREATS

ith five large national parks, more

than 60 nature reserves, 15 nature
parks, four mountain ranges, half
a dozen raftable rivers, countless canyons
and 280 natural monuments, its easy to go
wild in Serbia. Whether you traipse, trek,
mosey or mountaineer, youll find a country
devoted to adventurous al fresco activities.

Walking, if time allows, is the best way

to get to know a country, its people and
their
customs.
Serbias
centuries-old
forests, vast plains, villages, towns and
cities and mountain peaks are a real
challenge for even for experienced hikers.

means that it lies on the European Cyclists

Federation (ECF) Atlantic Black Sea route.
Serbias many diverse caves and potholes
are heaven for explorers and adventure
seekers. If you simply want to experience
something new, then the subterranean
world will provide you with fun, knowledge
and excitement found nowhere else.

Serbia Adventure
Sports and Recreation

Walking, if time allows, is the best way

to get to know a country, its people and
their
customs.
Serbias
centuries-old
forests, vast plains, villages, towns and
cities and mountain peaks are a real
challenge for even for experienced hikers.
Many European cycling tour operators include
Serbia on their itineraries. The Danube Bike
Trail (DBT) passes through Serbia and bears
the designation EuroVelo-Route 6 which

15

ESTONIA IS WILD AND WONDROUS

s if Estonia with its medieval

towns
and
cute
villages
isnt
magical enough, Estonia also has
a large quantity of untouched forests, a
home to elks, bears, wolves and lynxes.

Estonias wide forests makes for a great

destination for hiking and exploring the wellkept wildlife which by now is either extinct or
going extinct in many other European countries.
A visit to one of Estonias many national
parks should belong to any visitors TOP
three must-sees whether staying here for a
weekend or longer. The raw charm of the bog
landscapes in their ageless, natural beauty
is like something out of a Northern folk tale.
Whether you are a pro bird watcher or simply
want to take the most out of your nature
holiday, bird watching is also perfect for
your to-do list with over 380 species of birds
spotted in Estonia annually, placing Estonia
in the top three bird watching destinations in
Europe for the number of species spotted here.
The autumn migration tends to be more modest

16

that the spring arrivals, but draws enthusiasts

to Estonia in September and October.
Easily reachable from all larger and smaller
cities and towns, Estonian wilderness makes
for a great day trip destination all throughout
the year but is especially colourful and bright
during the upcoming autumn season.

Nature Holiday in Estonia

Sven Zacek

A Country of Forests and Bogs

 Slovak Tourist Board

Go Wild in Slovakia
DISCOVER THE DIVERSITY OF SLOVAK NATURE

lovakia is known for majestic peaks, deep

valleys, forests, natural travertine, crystal
clear glacial lakes and beautiful lowlands,
It has the largest karst area in Central Europe
with more than 6,200 caves and chasms. So many
ways to discover the incredible diversity in such
a small area try traditional hiking, biking or
just sitting in a beautiful chalet and taking all in.
If you love adrenalin sports, there are so many to
choose from, all in the beautiful nature water
sports like canoeing, rafting, water-skiing,
sailing or windsurfing or you can see from the
birds perspective try paragliding, parachuting,
sport flying. The wonderful range of mountains
is great for mountaineering or rock climbing. Or
try to find your skills hiking in Slovak Paradise,
trails with ladders over waterfalls. In summer,
you can test your courage in a few bike parks
located in mountain centers. In winter you can
do snowboarding, Ski-mountaineering, try a
bobsleigh track, snow-rafting or snow-tubing.
If you love true wilderness, you are in luck.

undisturbed ecological patterns and processes.

Poloniny National Park and East Carpathian
Biosphere Reserve are open to the public all year
with winter (cross-country skiing) as well as
summer hiking trails. Besides several mountain
trails there is also one connecting outstanding
wooden churches from the 18th century.
Things to See and Do in Nature
Sports in Nature
Poloniny National Park

The remotest part of Slovakia became UNESCO

World Heritage Site for the comprehensive and

17

FEEL THE GREEN HEART OF SLOVENIA!

lovenia is one of the richest European

countries, covered by green forests.
Over 22,000 animal and plant species
live in this area of just 20,000 km2.
Feel the green paradise! You can be close to
protected nature anywhere in Slovenia. More
than one third of the country is in the European
network of Natura 2000 protected areas.
Embrace the nature in Slovenian regional and
nature parks, nature reserves, the Triglav
National Park and ancient woodland in
Kocevje. Take a walk on the paths through the
ancient woodland in Kocevje. Dense trees in
the area that has not been affected by humans
are up to 60 meters tall, thousands of years
old and home to many animal and plant
species. There are between 500 to 700 brown
bears currently living in Slovenia and since
the 19th century they have been protected.
Triglav National Park, the only national park
of this kind in Slovenia, stretches in the northwestern part of the country along the borders
with Italy and Austria. It is also known as the
Kingdom of the Goldenhorn, where chamois
and ibex play, jump on the mountain rocks
and keep company to alpinists and hikers.

18

Slovenia is also one of the European countries

with the highest bio- and landscape diversity.
More than a third of the country is included in
the European network of Natura 2000. Enjoy
peace, relaxation, outdoor activities and the
experience of intact nature in 3 regional and
40 nature parks. Green protected nature is
almost on every step of your journey.
Nature Parks

Slovenia NTO

Wildlife in Green Slovenia

 Hungarian Tourism Ltd.

Enjoy a Walk on the Wild Side

BEST WILDLIFE SPOTS IN HUNGARY

ts great to get away from it all sometimes,

and here we make a few wild suggestions
of places to visit in Hungary, whether
on horseback, riding a bike, by boat or
just putting one foot in front of the other.
The first we introduce here is located some
180km to the East of Budapest. The Hortobgy
National Park covering 80,000 hectares. It
contains the countrys great plain called the
Puszta, Hungarys version to the American West.
Here you will find unique shepherding culture,
unique breeds of dog, racka sheep, mangalica
pig and especially the famous grey cattle. It is
also home to 60-70,000 storks and their nests
dot the rooftops and towers all around. The best
way to see these sights is from horseback or by
one of the several multi-day wilderness tours.

bike, foot-tour or boat cruise. Head to Prbly

towns visitors center before you start your trip.
When it comes to wildlife tour, weve to mention
Lake Tisza and Kis-Balaton too, this two
birdlands with amazing amount of different
species. Many boat and bicycle tour available
guided by local experts to reach the best
viewpoints or birdwatching hideouts.
Best Wildlife Spots in Hungary
Wilderness to Explore in Hungary

The Gemenc forest, an 18,000-hectare flood

forest located in the Duna-Drva National
Park in the south of the country. This area still
bears the rich flora and fauna where one can
see black storks, white-tailed eagles, herons,
kingfishers and woodpeckers, as well as game
such as red deer and boar. You can explore this
wildlife paradise by narrow-gauge train, kanoe,

19

THE PRINCIPALITYS NATURE AND SPORTS OPTIONS AWAIT VISITORS

onacos luxury offerings extend to

the great outdoors. From nature
walks
to
water
activities
and
festivals celebrating the worlds oceans
and aquatic life, everyone can find a way
to enjoy the destinations natural side.
Monaco is the end point of Europes most
popular, and awe-inspiring, hiking trails the
Via Alpina - taking visitors throughout Europe
along the Alps. The trail goes through Monacos
Exotic Garden and ends at the Princely
Palace along with a panoramic and rewarding
view over the Principality facing the sea.
The Oceanographic Museum & Aquarium,
founded in 1910 by H.S.H. Prince Albert I of
Monaco, invites visitors into the heart of the
marine world. It offers close-up experiences
with the Mediterraneans sea life through
various programs. From November 6-9,
the museum will host the BLUE Ocean Film
Festival with the worlds A-list of international
scientists,
filmmakers,
explorers
and
other ocean leaders providing visitors with
the chance to learn more about Monacos
environmental commitments and initiatives.

20

Young and old alike can learn to dive with

Mongasque world record-holding free
diver Pierre Frolla at his diving school
LEcole Bleue in Monacos Marine
Reserve, part of the Pelagos Sanctuary.
Hotels and charter companies offer
boating excursions where one can discover
the Mediterranean and its treasures or
enjoy a variety of fun water activities.
Put on your walking or water shoes, and
explore this other side of Monaco.

Visit Monaco
Oceanographic Museum of Monaco
BLUE Ocean Film Festival

Oceanographic Museum of Monaco/M. Dagnino

Monacos Natural Treasures

 Switzerland NTO

Fall Hiking in Switzerland

CATCH SOME SWISS LATE SUMMER RAYS!

o you want to escape from the fog and

enjoy a hike under the bright blue sky
in the mountains? Switzerland is great
for hiking and its autumn is golden. If you
are lucky, you will even spot wildlife such as
chamois or ibex.

All Swiss regions offer fall hiking and most

cable cars are running until the end of October.
If you want to hike like an insider, you definitely
shouldnt miss these three:
Graubnden
In Graubnden, many paths lead to holiday
happiness.
With
its
postcard
alpine
landscapes, magnificent views, and the
cultural diversity of the Alps, Graubnden
invites to discover it step by step. On
hiking routes, which lead you over majestic
mountains, through ancient forests, past
farmhouses and through quaint villages.

from a wide variety of routes. Our tip: The

Verzasca Valley. It heightens your spirits
with crystal-clear emerald-green water,
smoothly polished cliffs warmed by the sun
and risotto from a grotto by the wayside.
Valais
The Valais offers a hike for everyone. Up
high peaks with magnificent views, through
fragrant larch forests and vineyards, along
rivers and lakes and over suspended bridges.
Countless high routes and circuits lead
through lush alpine meadows, over rushing
mountain streams and past deep-blue
tarns, treating you to breathtaking vistas.
Path to Happiness
Unrivalled Outdoor Playground
Touch Base with the Matterhorn

Ticino
With its 2,500 miles of marked paths and
trails, Ticino is an unrivalled playground for
outdoor activities. Whichever part you visit
and whatever time of year, you can choose

21

DISCOVER TURKEYS WILDLIFE AND WILDERNESS

rom the back of a horse deep in an ancient

valley. Or setting sail in a broad-beamed
wooden gullet along the turquoise
coast. And when high up in a sunrise balloon
ride looking over untamed landscapes.

Whether on land, beneath the sea or up

in the air, Turkey is home to some of the
most adventurous ways to experience with
wilderness and wildlife that Europe has to offer.
Cappadocia means Land of the Beautiful
Horses, and riding through the dramatic
moonscape of Goreme Valley before
looking down from above in a hot air
balloon gives travelers a view from
heaven and Earth of the famous region.
The Blue Voyage cruise sails through history
and nature exploring ancient cities conquered
by Caesar and sandy shores seduced by
Cleopatra along Marmaris, Antalya and
Fethiye, where the rare Jersey Tiger Moth can
be found in the picturesque Butterfly Valley.
Adventurers trekking the Lycian Way can
find the ancient fire-breathing Chimaera

22

near Olympos valley, where fire rises

from the earth. Or descend beneath the
surface by spelunking in than 40,000
caves and caverns throughout the country.
But its the Black Sea where Turkeys best ecotourism can be found. The Black Sea is home
to 16 protected nature reserves to preserve
endangered species of flora and fauna. With
mountain meadows and colorful wildflowers,
the Highlands of the Black Sea are covered
with fir, spruce, cedar, oak and elm trees as
well flowers like snowdrops, wild azalea and
forest rose.

VisitTurkey

Turkey NTO

By Land, Sea and Air

 Brian Lait

Live on the Wild Side

SEE SOME OF THE EUROPES RAREST SPECIES IN CYPRUS

rom the blue sea, across the plains and

up to the peaks of the pine-covered
mountains, Cyprus is ideal for every
nature and hiking enthusiast. The island is
home to various unique plants, trees, endemic
birds, insects, and mammals. Not surprisingly,
there are 62 areas belonging to the Natura
2000 network and 30 Special Protection
Areas. Nature lovers can find around 90
trails of different types and difficulty level,
many of which pass through the above areas.
Birdwatching enthusiasts will find Cyprus
the place to be, as over 390 bird species have
been recorded and 200 of these visit regularly.
Most of the birdwatching sites in Cyprus are
easily accessible and most visitors bring their
own binoculars and field guide. Some of these
sites are Cape Greco, the Akamas Peninsula,
Troodos National Park, Oroklini Lake, Akrotiri
and Larnacas Salt Lake. In winter, arriving
travellers at Larnaca International Airport
will probably see what is the most famous of
Cypruss visitors, the stunning pink flamingo.

the national animal. The Cyprus Moufflon is a

highly protected endemic wild sheep, found in
the Pafos Forest. Other mammal species you
can see are various types of rodent, hedgehogs,
foxes and bats while Green and Loggerhead
turtles can be seen laying their eggs usually
in the Lara/Toxeftra Reserve area in the Pafos
region and Chrysochou Bay. A truly unique
experience!
Cyprus Birds
Cyprus Rural and Nature

There are relatively few species of mammals

but surely you cant leave Cyprus without seeing

23

 CoralieCardon BTO

Brussels Wallonia
START DOING SQUATS, 2016 IS THE YEAR OF BIKING

tart doing squats. 2016 is the year of

biking in Wallonia. But dont worry if your
thighs cant take it, there are plenty of
places for a pit stop.
They may not always see eye to eye, but
walkers and cyclists have much in common:
their activity is human-powered and admirably
green, and they share an interest in the
conversion of disused railway tracks and canal
towpaths into smoothly-paved new routes
for their use. This has been done extensively
in Belgium: 750 miles of track, byway and
towpath has been upgraded by the authorities
in a network known locally as RAVeL.
Conveniently located in the Ardennes, Durbuy
offers a choice of activities for active travelers.
First, envision the prefect fairy tale as you
walk through the narrow, cobblestone streets,
winding between ancient houses and its
excellent restaurants. Then, experience the
region while rock climbing, mountain biking,
zip lining, Durbuy adventures company
provides more than 60 outdoors activities.
Kayaking down the River Lesse offers sport

24

and relaxation at the heart of the beautifully

preserved countryside. The River Lesse flows
past several castles like the striking Chateau
de Walzin, prehistoric caves and stunning rocky
cliffs. The 13 miles tour is ideal for those who
want to take advantage of all the wonder that
the River Lesse has to offer. More generally the
7 miles kayak tour is accessible to all. Dinant
evasion presents plenty of choices tailored for
your interest.

Belgian Tourist Office Brussels Wallonia

Durbuy Adventure
Dinant Evasion

 Sorin Toma

Wild Nature in Romania

EXPLORE THE CARPATHIAN GARDEN

t the heart of the country lie the

Carpathian Mountains embracing the
famous Transylvania and hiding places
of true wilderness in the 27 national and nature
parks, which rouse the visitors to adventure
and activity. The nature here offers great
opportunities for hiking, mountain biking,
horse riding, rock climbing, rafting, caving,
canyoning and gorge walking. The Romanian
Carpathian Mountains (47% of the mountain
chain is located in Romania) are divided into
three groups: Eastern Carpathians, Southern
Carpathians and Western Carpathians, the
highest peaks being located in the Southern
Carpathians: Moldoveanu (2544 m/8,346
feet) and Negoiu (2535 m/8,316 feet).

The Carpathian Mountains

Active Holidays
The Danube Delta

The Black Sea Coast and the Danube Delta

are the aquatic sports realm, where kayaking,
canoeing, water ski and windsurfing can be
practiced. The Danube Delta is a Biosphere
Reservation, part of the UNESCO World
Heritage, being the third-richest biosphere
reservation in the world in terms of biodiversity.

25

WILDLIFE WATCHING ON THE BEST SPOTS IN EUROPE

ature-watching is not difficult when you

come to Poland. All you need is the right
clothes, good footwear and a pair of
binoculars. In some National Parks, you also
need a local guides assistance. Poland is the
staging post for many species of migratory
birds. You can observe rollers on fallow fields,
ruff on the stubble, cranes on the wetlands
and eagles over the meadows. The National
Park at the mouth of the River Warta is a
paradise for birdwatchers, as are the Biebrza
wetlands, Lake Oswin in Masuria and the small
lakes of Stawy Milickie in the Barycz Valley.

The best time to track wild animals is winter

and autumn, when red deer and elk can be
observed rutting. But even in summer, elk can
be stalked in the meadows around Biebrza or
bison in the forest clearings around Hajnowka.
These biggest of Polish mammals live wild in
the Bialowieska Forest. Poland successfully
manged to reintroduce some almost extinct
species, among other: bison, wild horses,
beavers and lynx, to their natural habitat. There
are now 10 of these predatory cats - lynx living
in the Kampinoska Forest, all descendants
from Ajax, who came from Poznans zoo.
It is also interesting to encounter some

26

members of the lesser species. The Pieniny

Mountains is the habitat for the most beautiful
Polish butterfly (Parnassus Apollo). In the
San valley in the Bieszczady Mountains
visitors may come across the dark-olive
Aesculapian Snake, while the moor frog
can be spotted in the Kampinoska forests.

Nature in Poland
Did you know?
Poland - Wild Nature (PDF)

PTO

Wild paradise Poland

MEMBERS OF THE
EUROPEAN TRAVEL COMMISSION