In the delta of this Lithuanian river lies the island of Rusnė, which is, with its area of ​​4800 hectares, the largest island in the country. Moreover, it is still increasing by 15 to 20cm annually. The island is a haven for 270 of the 325 Lithuanian bird species. Wetlands here are a paradise for ornithologists. The best place for bird watching is Naikupė, Uostadvaris or Rusnė. Among the millions of species of birds that flies over the island every year, you can see also rare species such as black stork, white-tailed eagle, Black-tailed Godwit etc.

Neman (Nemunas) river, Lithuania by Claire

Rusnė Island is also a place of migratory water birds, as it lies on a major bird migration route – East Atlantic Flyway (birds flying from the Arctic through Europe to East Africa). Birds stop here to gain strength.

In Nemunas Delta Natural Park there is also an important ornithological station and museum. The first Ringing station was founded here already in 1929, but just in the years of 1959 – 1960, the large bird traps were installed here. In 1998 the station celebrated its interesting anniversary – ringed its millionth bird.

The information centers, located in Rusnė, Ventė and Šilutė, offer educational trips associated with bird watching and fishing. Another option is a boat trip with an English or German speaking guide, which guides you through the many waterways in the park. It is also possible to arrange accommodation in the farm or to arrange fishing permits.

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Gauja National Park was established on 14 September 1973 and is therefore the oldest national park in Latvia. The area was formerly sometimes known as the “Livonian Switzerland” and tourists started to visit this area in the 19th century.

The territory of the Gauja NP contains more than 500 monuments of history and culture – castle mounds, castles, churches, manors, water and windmills as well as numerous archaeological and art monuments.

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Although the history of Bulgaria is closely connected with Turkish influence, cultural roots date back to the days of the Roman Empire. At that time, today’s territory of Bulgaria became a Roman province. Bulgaria was founded in the 7th century. Part of the residents were Slavic, and part came from Asia.

In the 11th century Bulgaria was conquered by Byzantium, and from the late 14th century it belonged to Turks throughout five centuries. Perhaps due to this fact, Bulgaria didn’t build any castles during the Middle Ages, just like in Central Europe. The resistance against Turkish domination culminated in the early 20th century, when Bulgaria became independent. However they didn’t enjoy the independence for a long time and before 1 World War II it was merged with neighboring countries against Turkey. After inappropriate policy Bulgaria has lost part of its territory in a dispute with its allies. After World War I and later after World War II, Bulgaria again had to give up other parts of its territory. The inclusion of Bulgaria into Eastern Bloc meant to stop economic development. Just the revolutionary period in the late of 20th century enabled the reforms and reorientation. Today Bulgaria is one of the leading tourist destination countries.

Further information:

Official name: Republic of Bulgaria
Capital city: Sofia
Area: 110.910 km2
Number of residents: 7.537.929
Density: 74 people per km2
Time zone: GMT + 2 h (+ 3 h in summer)
Currency: lev (Lv)
Official language: Bulgarian
Water area: 360 km2
Land area: 110550 km2
Board lengths: 1808 km
Coast lengths: 354 km
Neighbours: Romania, Serbia, Republic of Macedonia, Greece, Turkey
Average age of man: 70
Average age of woman: 76
Ethnic group: Roma
Religion: Orthodox 30%, Muslim 7%, Atheists 60%
GDP per person: 1510 $
The highest mountain: Musala – 2.925m above the sea level
The lowest point: Black sea
The longest river: Marica (526 km)
Biggest city: Sofia (1.125.000 people)
Ports: Burgas, Lom, Nesebur, Ruse, Varna, Vidin

Why visit Bulgaria?
- Bulgaria is an interesting country that has everything: sea, sandy beaches, quaint historic towns, cultural and architectural attractions, old monasteries, modern resorts, high mountain… In Bulgaria, everyone can find something interesting, whether you like to relax by the sea, discover the historical treasures, walk through the picturesque streets of coastal towns or mountain hiking.
- Bulgaria is cheaper than Croatia, France, Italy, Spain and other traditional tourist destinations.
- In Bulgaria you can taste various dishes typical for Bulgaria (Shopska salad, kaškaval, Moussaka and many others)

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