8 national parks to visit in Europe for a magical wildlife experience

May 18, 2025 TIMESOFINDIA.COM

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Plitvice Lakes is famous for its pretty turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls. It offers a habitat for brown bears, wolves, lynx, and over 120 species of birds. Visitors can explore the landscape via wooden boardwalks. Canva

Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

Cairngorms is the largest national park in the UK, featuring mountains, moors, and ancient forests. It’s home to red deer, golden eagles, and the elusive Scottish wildcat. The park is a leader in conservation and rewilding projects. Istock

Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany

This park boasts dramatic sandstone cliffs, dense forests, and the scenic Elbe River. Wildlife includes peregrine falcons, lynx, and wildcats. Visitors can hike along cliffside trails. Istock

Durmitor National Park, Montenegro

Durmitor is a rugged alpine park with glacial lakes, deep canyons, and soaring peaks. It shelters chamois, brown bears, and over 160 bird species. The Tara River Canyon is one of the deepest in Europe. Istock

Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy

Gran Paradiso, Italy's oldest national park, lies in the heart of the Alps. It is home to Alpine ibex, marmots, and golden eagles. The park's scenic trails lead through meadows, rocky slopes, and snow-capped mountains. Istock

Doñana National Park, Spain

Doñana is a vast wetland reserve and one of Europe’s most important bird migration stops. It supports species like the Iberian lynx, Spanish imperial eagle, and flocks of flamingos. Guided safaris take visitors through dunes, marshes, and pine forests. Istock

Oulanka National Park, Finland

Oulanka is located near the Arctic Circle and features wild rivers, pine forests, and dramatic rapids. It’s a haven for reindeer, elk, otters, and rare birds like the Siberian jay. Visitors can enjoy photography opportunities. Istock

Białowieża National Park, Poland

This one is Europe’s last and largest primeval forests noted for its population of European bison, lynx, wolves, and rare woodpeckers. The park offers guided tours that reveal its ancient and biodiverse ecosystems. Istock

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