Europe has a wide variety of protected landscapes that provide a safe home for many extraordinary species. From indigenous horses in France to native lynx in Belgium, you can find some of the world’s most interesting wildlife just across the pond. But it’s always a good idea to choose a well preserved area to observe these wonderful creatures without disturbing their habitat. The perfect break for both the ardent species-spotter and family of all ages, here are some of the best wildlife reserves in Europe.
Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany
Despite the deceptive name, this whimsical reserve is in fact a spot of unspoiled German countryside near Dresden, with rocky gorges, lush forestry and languid streams abound. The Saxon Switzerland National Park was placed under protection in 1990, and provides a vast conservation area with exquisite panoramas as far as the eye can see. It also has the added benefit of housing the Elbe River – which brings a myriad of aquatic wildlife with it. Cyclists, hikers and walkers can all enjoy looking out for peregrine falcons, frogs, deer and otters as they pass through. The sprawling park also eventually joins onto the Bohemian Switzerland National Park in the Czech Republic.
The Camargue, France
With Mediterranean, Atlantic and North Sea all within its vicinity, there’s a diverse range of wildlife in France to discover. Found along the south coast of France, the Camargue is a sweeping landmass which covers much of the picturesque Rhône Delta. Over 400 species of bird call the area home, and it’s also one of few places in Europe where you can see the greater flamingo, instantly recognisable due to its distinctive pink plumage. Tens of thousands of flamingos congregate in the Camargue during the summer months, jostling alongside other avian species, from hovering marsh harriers to colourful bee-eaters. As well as being one of the best places in France for bird-spotting, the area is also famed for its wild populations of horned bulls and grey horses – both of which are native to the area.
Hoge Kempen National Park, Belgium
Despite being relatively small, Belgium is covered by rivers, forests and lakes, making it the perfect refuge for many different kinds of wildlife. Several animals call Belgium home, including seals, wild boar, foxes, red deer and even lynx. One of the best places to see wildlife when visiting Belgium has to be the Hoge Kempen National Park. Established in 2006, the park serves to protect the local wildlife in Flanders. The former mining site now plays host to over 6,000 species of flora and fauna, with large lakes taking the place of one-time gravel pits. Its trails are a particular favourite amongst cyclers, walkers and horse riders.
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