GETTING A BUZZ
IN
ABRUZZO
Naturetrek’s 8-day natural history holiday focuses on the alpine and Mediterranean plants, birds and butterflies of the Abruzzo National Park, in Italy’s central Apennines, home of the endemic Marsican Brown Bear and Apennine Wolf. Tour departs London 23rd May 07.
Stretching the length of Italy, the Apennine Mountains provide a refuge for much of Italy’s most interesting natural history. Ancient forests and flower-filled meadows are abuzz with insect-life and birds, whilst mammals include healthy populations of both Brown Bear and Wolf, though typically elusive. Set in the heart of the Apennines, the Abruzzo National Park, protecting an area of over 400 square kilometres, is the focus for the holiday. Guests will be based in a comfortable, family-run hotel on the edge of the village of Pescasseroli, in the foothills of the Apennines. Delicious and wholesome Italian cuisine, a garden home to Redstarts, Firecrests, Collared Flycatchers and Red Squirrels, and the nearby mediaeval quarter add further interest to this delightful village base. Daily explorations will reveal the wealth of local flora, birdlife, butterflies and mammals, including Chamois and perhaps even a glimpse of an endemic Marsican Brown Bear or Apennine Wolf, for which the park is renowned. The Camosciara, a dramatic dolomitic amphitheatre, provides a perfect habitat for plants such as Swallow-wort, Glaucous Spurge and the rare and beautiful Lady’s Slipper Orchid. Nearby, amongst the forests and clearings, birdwatching is good, listen out for Firecrests, Coal Tits, Serins, and with luck, the elusive Black Woodpecker. The Prato Rosso (Red Meadow) will occupy another day’s exploration. Named after the profusion of Wild Strawberries that grow here, the Prato Rosso offers a fine selection of plants, including Spring Gentian, Tunic Flower and a scattering of orchids (amongst them Pyramidal, Adriatic Lizard and Few-flowered), plus an abundance of butterflies – over 100 species have been recorded here. Amongst the highlights of each day will be selecting a scenic spot to stop, enjoy a leisurely and delicious lunch made from local produce, reflect on the many charms of this region and maybe catch sight of a Marsican Brown Bear!
The tour costs £985 p/p including scheduled flights, transfers, hotel accommodation, all meals and expert guiding.
