Eastern Austria
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We return to the lakes, forests and mountains of wonderful Eastern Austria in spring, at a time when the breeding season is in full swing, and the mountains are in flower, and again in early autumn, with the excitement of passage migrants. Why not join us - spring or autumn - for the best of central European birdwatching?
Neusiedl has long been a firm favourite of ours - and with good reason! One of Europe's largest lakes, it's also one of the very best for birds. To the east lie the splendid wetlands of the Seewinkel and the start of the Great Hungarian Plain; to the north, the riverine forests of the March; and to the west, the pine-clad foothills of the Austrian Alps - which we shall access via a scenic rack-and-pinion railway journey aboard the Fire Salamander. The whole presents a tapestry of habitats surpassed only by the impressive range of birds to be found there.
During the week, we'll also enjoy two or three longer days out, travelling west to the alpine habitats of the Hohe Wand and the Schneeberg for the likes of Alpine Chough and Nutcracker, and north to wonderful Marchegg reserve in search of Black Stork, Goshawk and Middle Spotted Woodpecker. Accommodation: Our hotel in the sleepy town of Illmitz right on the edge of the famous saline lake of Seewinkel is run by a family that understand birdwatchers and are interested in birding and wildlife themselves. All rooms have been recently renovated to a high standard with en suite bathrooms, including some with a bath (please request one if you would prefer this). The hotel has a birding library and a viewing platform where we can watch the White Storks on their nest on top of the roof of the local bank. There's also a Syrian Woodpecker's nest in the 'hof' or yard, and if the weather's kind, we can take breakfast or dinner there and watch the adult woodpecker's comings or goings! Meals: All included in the price. Breakfasts and dinners at the hotel. Lunches are our popular mix of picnics and leisurely sit-down meals taken at one of the region's traditional restaurants or Gasthofs. Walking: The countryside around the lake itself is flat and the going easy, with short walks (1-3 miles). Expect a few short uphill stretches along good trails in the surrounding hills and mountains, all taken slowly. Ground Transport: By minibus Numbers: Max. 12 clients |
Price: £ 1,595
The price is per person, and is fully inclusive of return scheduled flights* London-Vienna, all accommodation, meals, minibus transport, Schneeberg Mountain railway excursion, admissions, permits and entry fees to reserves, airport taxes, tips, map, bird & butterfly checklist, and services of the leaders.
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Click here for a full, printable itinerary |
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