European tourism Gardens of Eden no 15

Prizewinning community tourism in Slovenia, Romania, Poland and Holland

River Kolpa (Slovenia)

The River KolpaThe River Kolpa is located in the far south-eastern part of Slovenia. This green beauty is comprised of a 113km-long strip of land which borders the Republic of Croatia. The river is considered the longest Slovenian "coastline" and one of the warmest and intact rivers in Slovenia.

Passing along several waterfalls from Osilnica, Kostel, Kočevje, ÄŒrnomelj, Semič and Metlika, it is a magnificent location for a grand variety of activities and an unforgettable holiday. The river is particularly popular in the summer months, as the water's temperature rises up to 30°C.

One of the special features of the area is its unique geographic location. This piece of land along the southernmost Slovenian river has formed a special cultural identity, which has been influenced by numerous ethnic groups which resided in the area. History, culture and exceptional concentration of natural values contribute to the harmony of this region.

The scenery would not be complete without mentioning the picturesque villages, old town centers, castles, mills and sawmills which add a touch of the local life to the overall impression of the region. Local traditions are still very strong in the area and are an important part of its entourage.

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Geoagiu Băi (Romania)

Clocota WaterfallGeoagiu Băi is hidden in the heart of the historical region of Transylvania – a watering and climatic resort. The rich hydrographic network featuring the Homorod, Geoagiu and MureÅŸ rivers, together with the picturesque mountains create a unique natural landscape worth being discovered.

The locals call the resort the ‘gift of the mountains’ referring to the mineral richness of the soils and the curative properties of the thermal springs. Today, the resort features various comfortable vantage points from where you can marvel at the magnificent scenery and soak up the tranquility of the setting.

Apart from the beauty with which nature has blessed the region, the refreshing climate with mild winters and pleasant summers allows the resort to be open to visitors all year long.

Geoagiu Băi has something to offer to everybody as it is the perfect location to get active or simply unwind in the extensive and impressive wellness and spa facilities. Those in need of complete relaxation can recharge their batteries through aero-therapy, hot mineral water baths, thermal mud or herbs treatments.

With its rich history and heritage, the springs are now one of the most important assets to the region as the locals believe they were blessed by Bendis, the Dacian goddess to keep their bodies and souls always young.

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The Biebrza Valley and Wetlands (Poland)

The Biebrza Valley and WetlandsBiebrza is one the biggest national parks in Europe and one of the rare biologically intact marshlands of the continent. Located in the north-eastern part of Poland, this area is often called the Green Lungs of Poland for its natural beauty and clean, fresh air. The Biebrza river is a natural, meandering lowland river and one of the few such rivers in Europe.

Protection of the unspoilt nature and careful cultivation of traditional farmland are the two factors for keeping Biebrza’s biodiversity and beauty alive. With its many attractive activities, like water sports, hiking and biking tracks, rare animal and bird species and traditional local villagers Biebrza National Park is the ideal place for an active and recreational vacation in an unspoiled surrounding.

The floodplains of Biebrza are among the last untamed rivers in Europe so the unique wilderness of the area offers many delights for nature lovers. For example, the meandering Biebrza River is a living river which floods in spring, thus turning large meadows into lakes. Apart from picturesque scenes,

Biebrza is home to a large bird population, which represent one of the major bird clusters in Central Europe. The exceptional beauty of the area remains largely undisturbed so is therefore an amazing gateway for holiday makers who are looking for new experiences.

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WaterReijk Weerribben Wieden – Giethoorn & the wetlands (the Netherlands)

WaterReijk Weerribben Wieden – Giethoorn & the wetlandsWaterReijk Weerribben Wieden which is situated in the north-eastern part of the Netherlands, in the province of Overijssel. It has the most extensive area of wetland in Northern Europe and a rich rural history which is rooted in peat extraction and reed farming. In the WaterReijk Weerribben Wieden, scenic landscapes with stretches of water, reeds and woods are interlaced with historic towns and villages.

The area WaterReijk Weerribben Wieden is big enough to escape daily lives and worries whilst being small enough to feel at home immediately. There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the landscape and the rich culture and take part in more active leisure activities.

It is the natural beauty of the area that contributes to the very special character of the district. Similarly, all the activities offered in the area have a personalised touch, to create a deeper connection between each visitor and nature. Furthermore, since innovation and sustainability are the key drivers of tourism development in the area, all the activities embrace nature and progress and aim at finding a balance between the two.

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Valere Tjolle

Valere is editor of the Sustainable Tourism Report Suite 2011 Special Offers HERE

See also:
NO 14 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148859.php
NO 13 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148786.php
NO 12 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148671.php
NO 11http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148546.php
NO 10 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148482.php
NO 9 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148389.php
N0 8 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148290.php
No 7 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148189.php
No 6http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147978.php
No 5 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147875.php
No 4 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147779.php
No 3 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147673.php
No 2 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147583.php
No 1http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147467.php