Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Mura River Natura 2000 Site encompasses a transboundary protected area spanning Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, and Hungary, centered on the Mura River and its surrounding floodplains and wetlands. This site is part of the Natura 2000 network established by the European Union to safeguard Europe's most valuable and threatened species and habitats. The river flows through a predominantly rural landscape characterized by meandering channels, oxbow lakes, and extensive alluvial forests. These habitats support a diverse range of flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the European otter, white-tailed eagle, and various rare migratory fish. Historically, the Mura River corridor has maintained its largely natural dynamics, relatively free of extensive river regulation, allowing natural flooding processes which maintain ecological diversity and productivity. Visitors to the area can enjoy hiking and cycling along scenic trails that follow the riverbanks and explore the tranquil wetlands. Canoeing and kayaking are popular ways to appreciate the river’s landscapes from the water, offering opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife photography. The site’s cultural heritage reflects traditional agricultural practices harmonized with natural conservation, visible in small rural settlements and historic watermills. Overall, the Mura River Natura 2000 Site is a significant example of integrated cross-border conservation, combining scenic beauty, rich biodiversity, and sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities within a deeply interconnected river ecosystem.
