For most of us when we think of a wildlife holiday, Africa is what that comes to the mind. However, few of us realize that Europe also has myriad indigenous species that are equally impressive. Read on to know more…
1. Croatia
With more than 1000 islands lying off the coast and around 14 Brijuni archipelagos, where you can spot some of the rarest species of dolphins, vultures, and other birds, Croatia is widely considered to be one of the biodiversity hotspots in Europe.
If you plan to visit during the summers, you might be able to spot the Mediterranean bottlenose dolphins on the eastern side of Cres and Losinj.
Love hiking? The Dinaric Alps in the east is a great destination for hikers and populations of wolf, brown bear, and lynx which inhabit the place.
The Adriatic Sea in the west and mountain ranges in the east adds to the diversity of Croatia.
2. Scottish Highlands and the Inner Hebrides
With more than 300 red deer stags, and the exotic species of wild goats, ponies' otters, seals and sea eagles, the tiny Isle of Rum is a perfect wildlife holidaying destination. It would be even more exciting if you plan your trip in between mid- September and mid- November which is the breeding season of the red deer stags.
You could also plan to visit the Rannoch Moor in the Scottish Highlands, one of the last remaining wilderness areas in the UK and home to golden eagles, mountain hares, and red deer.
3. Finland
A mosaic of crystalline lakes, taiga forest, peat bogs, and pine heathland stretches from Finland straight in to the Russia, Finland is an ideal destination for a wildlife holiday.
The undisturbed countryside, covered with 86 percent of the forest is one of the best spots in Europe for viewing brown bears and a perfect refuge for its 100,000 moose, 430 bird species, and around 200 wolves population.
4. Norway
The UK's nearest Scandinavian neighbor has a few surprises up its sleeve too.
Those visiting it between October and January will get an exciting opportunity to see hundreds of Orca, a species of killer whales in the semi-frozen fjords of northern Norway. Many local charter companies run the whale-watching trips which also include snorkeling opportunities.
During your stay in Norway, you can also spot some of the European Wolverine or Jerv, which are the inhabitants of Norway's extensive pine forests along with lynx, brown bear, elk, and wolves.
5. Iceland
Situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans merge, this island nation has a sparsely populated interior, which consists largely of a plateau covered by mountains and glaciers, with areas of intense volcanic activity. This dramatic visual landscape is the reason why Iceland today is considered the epic 'Game of Thrones' country, and also as a favorite shooting location for Hollywood movies.The country also offers some of the best spots to view the rarest marine life.
Conclusion
So, just select your destination, pack your bags and head straight to one of these destinations for an amazing experience. Also, if you love exploring nature all around the globe then you should also read my blog -Must-See Places In Australia For The Nature Lovers.
Happy Traveling!
Note: This article was originally published by me as - Best Wildlife Holiday Destinations in Europe