POLAND IN SPRING
PRIMAEVAL EUROPE
Bialowieza Forest is a delight for those who have yearned to see ancient wildwood. In the shady depths of the forest we can find many of the species which were part of our own forest flora and fauna hundreds of years ago, and which are now rare over much of Europe.
We will be taken into the heart of the forest where awesome Oak, Limes and Ash trees grow upwards for a hundred feet before they begin to branch. The wildlife remains undisturbed, as only a few people are allowed into these restricted areas each year. Life under the green mantle is rich and diverse. Birds-nest Orchids, Mezereon, Wintergreens and Martagon Lily line woodland rides where we hope to come across that most magnificent of European mammals, the European Bison, as well as Wild Boar and up to eight species of Woodpecker including White-backed and Three-toed. Just to the north lie the wonderful Biebrza Marshes where Elk (Moose) graze sedge marshes as Common Cranes are hatching their young. Well-known for its special birds such as Aquatic Warbler and Great Snipe, Biebrza also hosts 78 species of butterfly including Pale Clouded Yellow, Scarce Fritillary, and the intricately marked spring brood of the Map Butterfly. As magnificent Whitetailed Eagles fly overhead we'll enjoy close up views of diminutive Fire-bellied Toads, Brilliant Emeralds and Ruby Whitefaces, and we'll seek out the magical marshland flowers that bestride Biebrza in such abundance. Acres of Yellow Flag and blue Siberian Iris are sure to be a highlight. Adjacent to Lithuania, Wigry National Park protects forests and lakes where Cranberry and starry-flowered Bogbean decorate peat bogs home to rare Moorland Clouded Yellow and Cranberry Blue. Yellow-legged Clubtails, Two-spotted Dragonflies and very many damselflies inhabit this beautiful landscape along with the European Beaver, a shy species that will require a little dedication to see!
INFORMATION
Focus
Flowers, Butterflies, Mammals and Birds.
Leaders
Walking
Quite easy. Usually two to four miles in a day, sometimes up to six or seven. Always at a relaxed pace, perfectly suited to photographers.
Included in the Price
All flights. Accommodation, transport and meals in Poland. Services of your leaders. Reserve and Restricted Area entrance fees. Please note; items of a personal nature including insurance, drinks and tips are not included.
Group Size
Minimum group size is 4 and the maximum is 15.
Accommodation
In Bialowieza, we will stay at the comfortable Bialowieski Hotel in Bialowieza Village. The village is set by a little river in the only clearing in the forest. At Biebrza we’ll be at the excellent new Zagroda Kuwasy. This wooden built hotel is very pleasant and welcoming and is set in a great location, just 200m from the park boundary. In Wigry National Park we’ll stay at the fine new Pensjonatu Wigierski, an excellent little guesthouse in fine countryside and with great home cooking. All rooms on this holiday have en suite facilities.
Climate
Varying from pleasantly warm to quite hot. Rain is likely at some point and though usually just showers, it can sometimes be prolonged.
How To Book
Download a booking form (or contact us and we will send one to you)from the Booking Information section. Complete and send to us. You will receive confirmation of your place and a detailed information pack will be dispatched to you about twelve weeks before departure. Bird, flower and butterfly checklists are available.
