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.

View Nemunas Delta Natural Park – Venice of Lithuania in a larger map

The post Nemunas Delta Natural Park – Venice of Lithuania appeared first on Europe Explored.

Best known cliffs are the Wissower Klinken and together with the Königsstuhl (King’s seat) offer an imposing view.

Hiking, cruising, horse riding and cycling are much loved options to explore the almost pristine nature of the Jasmund National Park, a picturesque place perfect for relaxing vacation everybody should have seen.

View White chalk cliffs in Jasmund National Park in Rügen island, Germany in a larger map

The post White chalk cliffs in Jasmund National Park in Rügen island, Germany appeared first on Europe Explored.

Ant-hill in Natural Park Šebeň, The Czech Republic by Huhulenik

The Natural Park Šebeň is composed entirely of forest land. And although there are a number of villages located throughout the park, they are scattered throughout the 133 hectare parcel. These villages include the Jívoví, Dobrá Voda, Radenice as well as Cyrilov.

According to the scientists and naturalists in charge of operating the Natural Park Šebeň and observing the ant population, there is more than 900 million ants that live within the park boundaries. Likewise, at any given time there are more than 1400 anthills; roughly 10 per hectare. There are so many ants, that it is possible for a new hill to be created in a single day’s time. To make things even more interesting, it is not uncommon to see hundreds of Queen ants in a single anthill.

And while there is much more to the Natural Park Šebeň than just the ant population, the vast majority of visitors to the region specifically make their way to the park for the ant experience. So popular is the ant tourism industry in the region, that a specialized ant trail has been opened in the park, which provides you with up close and personal access to the ant population, as well as offers a smorgasbord of information about the different types of ant species that populate the Park.

The post European rarity – 1400 ant-hills with one billion ants in Natural Park Šebeň, Czech Republic appeared first on Europe Explored.

The Serra da Estrela Mountains are the largest in all Portugal. One of the most interesting aspects about the mountain range is that its highest point is not a peak but rather it is a plateau. Known locally as the tower, the 1204 meter tall peak is fully accessible by vehicles virtually year-round.

Serra da Estrela, Portugal by ines saraiva

During the winter months, the Torre is also home to a very popular local ski resort which is known as the Vodafone Ski Resort. It is a very popular destination for many locals who want to spend the day playing in the freshly powdered snow. It is also a very affordable skiing destination in the country.

Several rivers meander their way through the Serra da Estrela Mountains. Three of these have their headwaters located within the mountain range itself. The largest river that makes it way through the mountain range is that of the Mondego River, which is the largest river in Portugal. There is also the Zêzere River which makes its way down the mountainside along with the Alva River.

Lagoa Comprida, Serra da Estrela, Portugal by Unukorno

The vast majority of the Serra da Estrela mountain range falls within the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. There are many things to see and do within the park boundaries. There are multiple different ski resorts including those found in Loriga as well as Seia.

When you choose to visit the Serra da Estrela Mountains, do not forget to also try out the local Queijo Serra da Estrela cheese which has been made the same way for more than 2000 years. This scrum Swiss cheese is made of sheep’s milk and is known as a very soft and gooey delicacy. It would be an impossibility to visit the mountain range without also try now a little bit of the local culinary delights.

Serra da Estrela mountains, Portugal by Sérgio Santos

There literally is a lot of things to see and do when you choose to visit the Serra da Estrela mountain range. From skiing in the winter time to hiking in the summer, you will always find something to keep you busy no matter what time of year you choose to visit Portugal.

The post Serra da Estrela – the higest mountains in Portugal with a ski resort appeared first on Europe Explored.