Five of Europe’s best wildernesses for spotting big beasts
Romania
Carpathian Mountains
Vampires may be Transylvania’s most infamous predatory carnivores but the region’s population of wolves comes close. This southern corner of the Carpathians – an arc of wooded mountains, meadows and canyons that rises from central Romania – offers some of the most accessible wildlife watching in Europe; and though it comprises wild swathes of rugged, old-growth forest, it is easily reached from Transylvania’s centuries-old villages. Those who want to explore Saxon citadels, perfectly pickled medieval towns, bucolic rural villages, fortified churches or Dracula’s Bran Castle alongside vultures (bearded, Egyptian, griffon and cinereous species have been spotted in the region, too), can easily fit these in on their way to wilder territory.
Why go? The Southern Carpathians are home to some of the largest populations of wolves, lynx and bears in Europe, as well as chamois, wild cats, red and roe deer and wild boar. Over a million hectares of protected biodiverse land is linked through wilderness corridors here, one of eight key areas run by Dutch non-profit organisation Rewilding Europe, and a small number of European bison have been reintroduced.
How to do it If you’re keen to go on a Carpathian bear hunt, you’ll get long wavy grass, deep cold rivers and wildlife-spotting galore on Exodus Travels’ Carpathian Walking and Bears trips. Starting and finishing in Bucharest, and running from May to October, these seven-night trips are based in a guesthouse in Măgura, at the foot of the Carpathians. Daily guided hikes blend cultural excursions with nature activities, including forester-led visits to bear hides. Prices start at £1,199pp including flights, transfers, full-board accommodation and activities. Or sign up for Discover Adventure’s new Transylvanian Winter Wilderness Trek, a five-day group trip running next February which takes in chamois-spotting and snow-shoeing in the region as well as an overnight stay at Lake Balea’s Ice Hotel. Prices start at £900pp, including flights, transfers, accommodation and most meals.
