June 2008 – Poland

Once so remote that is was known as the “Land of Devils” the Bieszczady Mountains in the far south east of Poland are still delightfully unexplored.

A host of wildlife such as nutcrackers, lesser spotted eagles, yellow bellied toads, red and roe deer are all regularly seen.

A unique speciality of this region is the Carpathian blue slug which is so garishly aquamarine you will hardly believe your eyes! Hutsul horses - a rare breed endemic to the region – graze the wild flower rich nature conservation meadows. Although difficult to observe large carnivores such as brown bear and lynx exist in the mountains and a herd of over 150 European bison roam the surrounding forests.

Dusk tours will attempt to spot endemic Ural owls – one of the largest European species – and foraging European beavers. This tour will combine a fabulous wildlife experience with an exploration of the architecture of this region with visits to wooden Orthodox churches and traditional sheep cheese smokeries.

Costs excluding flights and insurance - £620