Destinations for Nature Lovers
Poland
Besides Poland’s fascinating castles, beautiful cities, and sobering war-time historical sites, the country contains some of Europe’s best and last tracts of wilderness. Many of the wildest places are in Poland’s northeast corner, although the lofty Tatra Mountains are in the southwest. Visit Poland for a great mixture of Europe’s fascinating human and natural histories.
Nature Highlights
Białowieża Forest is the largest remnant of Europe’s ancient deciduous forest. Some true old-growth remains protected within Białowieża National Park, which is home to European Bison, wolves, lynx, and many birds. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2014. Visiting this special forest will make you feel like you’ve walked into a storybook fable.
Biebrza Marshes. A jumble of river channels, marshes, bogs, and woodlands, this area is home to a huge number of birds and other animals. Over 250 bird species have been seen here, making it one of Europe’s great birding hotspots.
New Caledonia
A Melanesian Wonderland of Tropical Reefs
The biodiversity hotspot of New Calendonia has been around for many millions of years, having once been connected to Australia. The plants and wildlife here echo the primeval world of Gondwana.
Wild Forests
Forests of giant tree ferns and the strange pine-like Araucaria are home to reptiles, butterflies, and more than 20 endemic bird species, including the unique Kagu. The beautiful lagoon surrounding New Caledonia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the snorkeling here is world-class.