The largest protected river area in Europe, a biosphere reserve that stretches across Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Hungary and Serbia to nearly a million acres and 700 miles of river flow, is the first of its kind in the world.
It is an international example of the synergy of nature protection, climate resistance and sustainable development. Due to its unique habitats and numerous rare species, this biosphere reserve is also known as European Amazon.
Within the biosphere reserve there is also a network of 13 protected areas that emphasize the ecological importance of rivers. Areas include world famous ones Nature Park "Kopački rit", Regional Park "Mura-Drava" in Croatia, The Gornje Podunavlje Special Nature Reserve in Serbia and the Danube-Drava National Park in Hungary, as well as Natura 2000 sites in Slovenia and Austria.
Amazon of Europe – 1250 kilometers of cycling
It leads to this spectacular area 1,250 kilometers duga international cycling trail European Amazon (Amazon of Europe Bike Trail), which follows the river landscape of the Mura, Drava and Danube, and provides a unique opportunity for an active and unforgettable vacation. The trail runs on both sides of the rivers and takes cyclists through the beautiful natural and cultural landscape of all five countries - through areas where nature knows no borders.
The route is divided into two paths – Northern (550 kilometers) and Southern (700 kilometers). Along the mentioned paths there are numerous tourist attractions and a unique river landscape. Each trail is divided into daily stages – 11 on the Northern trail and 16 on the Southern trail. The beginning of the cycle path is in the Austrian town of Mureck, and it ends in the Hungarian town of Mohács.
The European Amazon International Cycle Path is a unique project of the European Union. Connects 15 partners in five countries who jointly worked on its development and implementation. The final result is two breathtaking bike paths. They were designed to enable cyclists to immerse themselves in the largest river wilderness in Central Europe, and in the cultural diversity of five countries in the heart of the Old Continent.
Cycle for nature
27 daily cycling stages lead through shady, mystical forests and along the banks of lazy rivers, offering views unforgettable scenes of untouched nature. In addition to cycling, along the trail it is possible to try other sports activities such as canoeing or kayaking, and have fun exploring nature or bird watching. For an urban experience, there are historical sights, cultural events and festivals. After all, it is possible to relax in one of the numerous spas nearby, and enjoy the local gastronomy.
Programme "Cycle for nature" was designed to preserve both this beautiful region and the ecosystem of the UNESCO 5-state Mura-Drava-Danube Biosphere Reserve. For this purpose, an organization was founded to manage the destination of the European Amazon Bicycle Path. The network is an organization that has joined forces to ensure the long-term functioning of the track as an international tourist product.
Their main goal is to create an economic and environmental framework for the sustainable success of this trail. Vacation reservations through the Center directly support the protection of nature and the preservation of endangered species - such as the bald eagle and the black stork - and their habitats.
Cover photo: the confluence of the Drava and the Danube / Author: Denis Despot
Article originally published on October 30, 2021.
