Europe’s coastal waters and areas of protected wilderness offer a wealth of natural delights such as dolphins, whales, bears, lynx, and rich avifauna to discerning wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Austria's high mountains offer a combination of glorious scenery, picture-perfect views, delicate alpine blooms and fascinating insect life. The upper slopes are populated by chamois, ibex and wild boar, and the country whose national bird, the black eagle, features on its coat of arms is a great place for birdwatching. Find Out More about Austria
This Portuguese mid-Atlantic archipelago is a haven of calm. Lush volcanic islands are surrounded by ocean that is home to an exceptional variety of whales and dolphins. No fewer than 26 species have been recorded in recent years, and almost any outing usually reveals six to eight different species. Find Out More about Azores
This little-visited country is extremely rewarding for wildlife, and has a striking variety of birds, in particular. Belarus boasts some of Europe’s last tracts of primeval forest – these UNESCO-protected forests support an incredible diversity of ecosystems and are home to European bison. Find Out More about Belarus
Covering a small area in the centre-east of the Balkan Peninsula, Bulgaria has two distinct climatic zones, continental and transitional-Mediterranean, and a diverse range of habitats. Its butterfly fauna is particularly rich, and the Eastern Rhodope Mountains are arguably Europe’s top raptor site. Find Out More about Bulgaria
Estonia has a staggering 3,794-kilometre-long coastline with numerous islands, inlets, straits and bays, including two large islands: Hiiumaa and Saaremaa, the latter being a very important nesting and stopover site for migratory birds including the beautiful Steller’s eider. Find Out More about Estonia
One of Europe’s last remaining wildernesses – a mosaic of taiga forest, crystalline lakes, peat bogs, and pine heathland – stretches from Finland into Russia. This undisturbed countryside is the best in Europe for viewing brown bears and makes a perfect refuge for its 430 bird species, 100,000 moose and around 200 wolves. Find Out More about Finland
With Atlantic, Mediterranean and North Sea coastlines, and great mountain ranges such as the Alps and the Pyrenees, as well as lesser ones, France exhibits a wide diversity of habitats. This, along with the largely agricultural landscape and relatively sparse population in some regions, ensures a rich flora and fauna. Find Out More about France
Greece and its gorgeous islands, dotted across the glistening Aegean Sea, are beyond enticing. This is a country inhabited by passionate people who, blessed by a kind climate and fertile land, unashamedly live life to the full and welcome visitors to partake in their food, scenery, culture and more! Find Out More about Greece
Hungary consists of two long stretches of plains and mountains, which sit either side of the picturesque Danube River. Within its ten national parks, reserves and numerous protected areas, there are 73 mammal species, including brown hare and red fox, as well as over 400 bird species. Find Out More about Hungary
Situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans merge, this island nation has the world’s northernmost capital city. The sparsely populated interior consists largely of a plateau covered by mountains and glaciers, with areas of intense volcanic activity, and the surrounding seas are rich in marine life. Find Out More about Iceland
Separated from Great Britain by the Irish Sea, the Republic of Ireland is the third largest island in Europe. The country has a moderate climate with mild winters, and about 10% of the land is wooded. The Burren & Aran Islands, on the west coast, have a very rich and diverse native flora. Find Out More about Ireland
Montenegro’s Adriatic coast has some of Europe’s most striking scenery and its mosaic of habitats are important bird migration stopover sites, while Lake Skadar is of international importance for Dalmatian pelicans and a host of other birdlife. The Bay of Kotor is Europe’s southernmost fjord. Find Out More about Montenegro
With vast areas of protected marshland, which are a natural stopping point for migrating birds, the Netherlands are a superb destination for those in search of mind-boggling birdlife. The locals’ love of wildlife is charmingly confirmed by their impressive network of wildlife road crossings. Find Out More about Netherlands
Considered to be one of the most beautiful countries on earth due to its rugged coastline, glaciers, mountains and coastal fjords, Norway is known for its stunning displays of Northern Lights, excellent whale watching opportunities, and its largest mainland animal - the elusive elk. Find Out More about Norway
Poland’s primeval forests shelter the mighty European bison and many other forest specialists. In the east, old fields and wetlands provide excellent nesting grounds for birdlife, including many rarities, while the craggy peaks of the Carpathian Mountains are another world of natural wonders. Find Out More about Poland
From the cork forests and coastal wetlands of the mainland to the nutrient-rich waters of Madeira which attract dolphins, whales and seabirds, Portugal offers an excellent variety of birds and wildlife within relatively close proximity. The mild climate also makes it a great year-round destination. Find Out More about Portugal
Located on the Black Sea at the crossroads of southeastern Europe, Romania has a vast area of undisturbed forest. A good indicator of its integrity is the presence of fauna that includes 60% of Europe's brown bears and 40% of its wolves. The Danube Delta also has exceptional biodiversity, with over 300 species of bird. Find Out More about Romania
Rove the highlands, glens, lochs and beaches to experience a wilderness filled with iconic, magnificent nature. The rugged land is home to many impressive mammals, observed from above by soaring ospreys and golden eagles, whilst otters scour the shoreline of seas rich in marine life. Find Out More about Scotland
Slovakia’s Tatra Mountains comprise vast coniferous forests, home to a wealth of birdlife including owls, woodpeckers, ring ouzel, and eagles, while the Slovak Karst, with its dramatic limestone gorges, mature beech forest and mixed forest is home to an abundance of raptors and other special birds. Find Out More about Slovakia
Despite its small size, Slovenia offers an incredibly rich and diverse mix of wildlife and stunning landscapes. From the Dinaric Alps which cross the country to create one of Europe’s largest wilderness areas and the sand dunes that meet the Mediterranean coast, Slovenia is an ideal location to view wildlife in a lesser visited area of Europe. Find Out More about Slovenia
With a long and rich history, the principal country of the Iberian Peninsula has a surprising wealth of wildlife in its national parks and reserves. A patchwork of protected areas harbours several endangered species that have been saved from the brink of extinction by effective conservation. Find Out More about Spain
Sweden is a land covered by forests, rivers and lakes and is home to some fantastic wildlife. Over 65% of the land is covered by beautiful forests and the country provides perfect habitat for mammals such as bear, wolf and elk, as well as an many interesting bird and butterfly species. Find Out More about Sweden
Avid wildlife enthusiasts don't need to stray far from home to see wildlife. Across the UK our national parks, national nature reserves, RSPB reserves and WWT (Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust) reserves, as well as many other undesignated spots, are simply great places to watch our rich population of wildlife. Find Out More about United Kingdom
British Travel Awards
Awarded Silver in Favourite Tour Operator for Nature & Wildlife 2024 & 2025
Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards
Awarded Bronze in Best Travel Company for Wildlife & Nature Holidays 2024
