While many of us find ourselves charmed by the idea of jetting off to Kenya in hopes of spotting an elephant, it’s easy to overlook the abundant native wildlife that Europe has to offer. The continent is home to an array of awe-inspiring species, including lynx, bears, whales, wild horses, and bison—many of which are currently endangered. Beyond just the animals, Europe’s most sought-after wildlife-watching spots boast breathtaking scenery and welcoming establishments for dining and accommodation. A commitment to sustainability also shines through, as numerous destinations feature eco-friendly lodgings and can be accessed by train, minimizing the need for flights. Here’s a look at some of the best places to experience wildlife right here in Europe.
Lundy Island
Why it’s great: Stretching a mere three miles long and towering 400 feet above the Bristol Channel, Lundy Island is celebrated for its robust birdlife, with over 35 species breeding each year. Although Lundy’s puffin population faced significant decline in recent decades, it has made a remarkable comeback following the removal of invasive rats. Among the impressive avian residents are raptors like the Peregrine Falcon; if you find a sheltered spot from the wind, you might catch a glimpse of the falcon’s extraordinary aerial hunting prowess. To top it off, the waters surrounding Lundy form England’s sole Marine Nature Reserve, teeming with diverse marine life, including sponges, corals, and a colony of gray seals. Summer visits often bring basking sharks close to shore, easily visible from the mainland. From May to October, the Island Warden offers a variety of enriching activities such as snorkeling safaris and guided walks. Just a two-hour ferry ride from the Devon coast, Lundy feels like a world apart, with signs of modern life almost nonexistent. Expect tranquil evenings unless you head to the Tavern, where you can mingle with the ‘Lundyites.’
Need to know: All lodging on Lundy is managed by the Landmark Trust. While the facilities can be somewhat basic, the accommodations themselves are consistently stunning, ranging from a 13th-century castle to a converted lighthouse or a quaint hillside fisherman’s cottage. All options are self-catering, though the Marisco Tavern provides some dining choices.
Find out more: www.landmarktrust.org
Pyrenees
Why it’s great: Nestled along the border between France and Spain, the Pyrenees are a haven for a variety of birdlife, including golden eagles and imposing bearded vultures. As you hike through the High Pyrenees, you’ll likely encounter all manner of avian wonders. Companies like Fanus Wildlife ECO Tours organize specialized wildlife holidays, including week-long bird-watching trips, and come highly recommended by explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes. Whether you’re keen on bird-watching or prefer alternative activities, the Pyrenees cater to all interests. Thrill-seekers will find rock climbing and parachuting beckoning at the high altitudes.
Need to know: Most tours include accommodation, but for independent travelers, the family-run l’Orri de Planès eco-lodge is an excellent choice. It proudly operates on clean energy and serves sustainable, locally sourced meals.
Find out more: www.pyreneesguide.com
Scottish Highlands and Inner Hebrides
Why it’s great: A captivating blend of accessibility and adventure, the Hebrides and Highlands can easily keep you entertained for weeks. The Isle of Rum is renowned for its abundant red deer herds, in addition to wild goats, ponies, seals, otters, and majestic sea eagles. The island’s volcanic cliffs house a colony of Manx shearwaters, and watching 120,000 seabirds take to the skies is nothing short of breathtaking. Meanwhile, Ranoch Moor represents one of the UK’s last true wilderness areas, home to mountain hares, red deer, and golden eagles. While the drive to the Moor is feasible, consider taking the scenic West Highland Railway for a truly unforgettable journey.
Need to know: Accommodation on the Isle of Rum is limited to Kinloch Castle Hostel, which offers both self-catering and full-board options. On the mainland, consider the environmentally conscious Huntingtower Lodge at Loch Linnhe, a Silver award recipient from the Green Tourism Board due to its sustainability efforts.
Find out more: www.visitscotland.com
Croatia
Why it’s great: Croatia’s diverse landscapes, with mountain ranges to the east and the sparkling Adriatic to the west, make it one of Europe’s biodiversity hotspots. Off its coast lies an impressive 1,000 islands, with the Brijuni archipelago, part of a national park, housing some of Europe’s last griffon vultures. On the island of Cres, dolphins frolic along the eastern shores, often visible from land, and dedicated boat trips offer the chance to see these charming creatures up close. Hikers will find plenty to admire in the Dinaric Alps, where lynx, wolves, and brown bears roam.
Need to know: Eco-friendly accommodation options on Cres are somewhat limited, with mainland Croatia faring similarly, though Naturetrek offers wildlife tours with included lodging.
Find out more: www.croatia.hr
Finland
Why it’s great: A prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts, Finland boasts vast forests that cover an astonishing 86% of the country. Home to brown bears, wolves, lynx, and beavers, Finland is teeming with opportunities for wildlife encounters. For a truly memorable experience, Royle Safaris can lead you deep into the Elimyssalo Nature Reserve for an overnight stay dedicated to bear spotting. Birdwatchers will be in their element here, with six species of owl and thousands of migratory birds populating renowned spots like Kussamo and Oulu.
Need to know: Most organized tours provide accommodation in cozy cabins or wooden lodges, perfect for those tracking bears and lynx deep in the wilderness. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a stay at Finland’s Ice Hotel, uniquely carved from ice and snow.
Find out more: www.visitfinland.com
Bay of Biscay
Why it’s great: While whale watching might conjure images of South Africa’s Atlantic coastline or New Zealand’s South Island, the Bay of Biscay along northern Spain is a fantastic alternative. Expect to spot fin, pilot, and beaked whales, with the occasional blue, humpback, or sperm whale making an appearance. The Atlantic Research Coalition has partnered with Brittany Ferries, providing opportunities for whale watching on the Portsmouth to Santander route, where data collected aboard helps further conservation efforts. Additionally, some companies organize dedicated whale and dolphin watching cruises departing from Portsmouth.
Need to know: This year, whale-watching trips from France won’t be available, but opting for a ferry trip to Spain can significantly reduce your carbon footprint while offering stunning glimpses of these magnificent marine mammals not often seen in European waters.
Find out more: www.companyofwhales.co.uk
Slovakia
Why it’s great: Home to the critically endangered Tatra chamois and robust populations of brown bears, Slovakia’s Tatras Mountains present a unique chance to witness majestic wildlife in its natural habitat. Conservation enthusiasts can engage in monitoring efforts with Hands Up Holidays, which blends wildlife tours with environmental protection initiatives. Easily accessible via train, the Tatras form a natural boundary between Slovakia and Poland, providing a prime spot for spotting lynx and wolves.
Need to know: Aquacity in Poprad is an eco-friendly retreat for those seeking some luxury amidst nature, powered by on-site renewable electricity and boasting the world’s only solar-powered luxury swimming pool.
Find out more: www.slovakia.travel
Norway
Why it’s great: Just a stone’s throw from the UK, Norway offers a surge of wildlife surprises, including European wolverines living alongside brown bears, wolves, elk, and lynx in its lush pine forests. In northern Norway’s semi-frozen fjords, you can watch, and even swim with, orcas, which follow vast shoals of herring along the coastline. From late October through January, local charter companies organize whale-watching excursions from Tysfjord complete with options for snorkelling.
Need to know: Norway has its own eco-label, Nordic Swan, recognizing eco-friendly products and services, with establishments like the Radisson Blu Hotel in Oslo earning accolades for their sustainability.
Find out more: www.visitnorway.com
The Camargue
Why it’s great: Situated on France’s southern coast, the Camargue is a vast plain that surprises visitors with its extraordinary ecosystem. Home to more than 400 bird species, the Camargue is one of Europe’s few locations where greater flamingos can be observed. During the summer, up to 20,000 of these stunning pink birds inhabit the area, alongside colorful bee-eaters and marsh harriers. Of course, the region is also renowned for its wild gray horses and horned bulls, both intrinsic to the local culture.
Need to know: While dedicated eco-hotels are lacking in the Camargue, an abundance of Gîtes can be found, and locally-sourced cuisine is readily available throughout France. If you’re driving south, you might discover a few eco-friendly options along the way, such as Les Terres d’Héphaïstos and Auberge Les Liards in Auvergne, just off the southbound E11 route.
Find out more: www.tourisme.ville.arles.fr
Belarus
Why it’s great: With over 40% of its land blanketed in dense, historical forests—former havens for resistant fighters during World War II—Belarus is rich in wildlife. European bison, wild boar, elk, and packs of wolves can all be spotted in its vast woodland. The Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park, recognized by UNESCO since 1979, is one of the last refuges for the majestic European bison. While tourism in the area is still in its infancy, Nature Trek organizes captivating trips into these ancient woodlands.
Need to know: Unfortunately, the eco-friendly movement has yet to penetrate Belarusian hospitality, so options for sustainable accommodations remain scarce. Nevertheless, with fewer hotel chains dominating the landscape, local guesthouses provide a unique and genuine experience.
Find out more: www.belarustourist.minsk.by
Norfolk
Why it’s great: At first glance, the east coast of England may not seem like a prime destination for wildlife observation, but the Norfolk coast is home to sizable colonies of seals and a diverse array of seabirds. Blakeney National Nature Reserve serves as a vital breeding ground for both gray and common seals, whose numbers continue to grow. From April to October, seal-watching trips to Blakeney Point are offered multiple times a day by Bishop’s Boats.
Need to know: For those seeking eco-conscious lodging, the Starttons Hotel in Swaffham stands out as a converted Grade II listed building and was the first in the UK to be awarded the Queen’s Award for Outstanding Environmental Performance, featuring initiatives like a discount for guests traveling by public transport.
Find out more: www.visitnorfolk.co.uk
Across Europe, these stunning destinations not only invite you to connect with nature but also encourage responsible travel practices that protect our planet’s precious wildlife. As you plan your next adventure, consider the stunning and diverse wildlife experiences available closer to home.