Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Natura 2000 is a Europe-wide ecological network established under the European Union's Birds Directive (1979) and Habitats Directive (1992). It encompasses over 27,000 sites covering more than 18% of the EU's land area, as well as extensive marine territories. The network aims to safeguard natural habitats and species deemed critical for biodiversity, including rare plants, animals, and unique ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, grasslands, and coastal zones. Spanning all 27 EU member states and several candidate countries, Natura 2000 sites vary greatly in geography and ecology—from the Mediterranean olive groves and Atlantic coastal marshes to Alpine meadows and dense boreal forests. Though each site has distinct features, the unifying goal is maintaining or restoring favorable conservation status for habitats and species. Visitors to Natura 2000 sites often enjoy hiking, birdwatching, cycling, canoeing, and environmental education activities, facilitated by local management authorities. Some of the sites include established national parks, nature reserves, and wilderness areas, while others remain relatively undeveloped, offering quiet natural experiences. In addition to ecological importance, these sites play a crucial role in preserving cultural landscapes shaped by traditional, sustainable land use. The Natura 2000 framework promotes collaboration between conservationists, landowners, regional governments, and visitors to balance environmental protection with human activities. Visitor appeal lies in the extraordinary biodiversity and unspoiled nature found within these sites, combined with opportunities to support Europe’s green heritage by responsible outdoor recreation and awareness.
