Diversity in Europe

The most important factor in determining the location of plants is the climate. Europe stretches from the coastal regions of the Mediterranean and Black Seas to the Arctic Ocean north of the Scandinavian Peninsula. Although most of Europe is in a temperate zone, the regions bordering the Mediterranean are almost frost-free. In addition, the mountains divide Europe in latitude. The division is perhaps more pronounced than on other continents because the Alps move from west to east and the highest peaks are devoid of vegetation.

Since the climate is highly dependent on latitude, there is in fact a double line separating the flora of the part of Europe along the Mediterranean Sea, from the part that lies north of the Alps. Another factor that determines the spread of plants is soil. The soil in southern Europe tends to be sandy; the low annual rainfall on the Mediterranean coast quickly passes through the soil, leaving only a small amount of moisture to the plants.

In the north, most of the soil is constantly frozen, so only plants can be found there that are capable of growing in the short summer and surviving the long winter months. Between these areas, European soils range from those that create ideal conditions for plant growth, and those that are thin layers above the underlying rocks or trap water just below the surface, creating wetlands.

The east-west factor also affects which plants are found in Europe. The Atlantic coast is warmed all year round by the Gulf Stream, so the parts of the continent affected by this current have warmer temperatures in winter than is typical for their latitudes.For example, Southern Norway is at the same latitude as Greenland, most of which is covered in ice and snow throughout the year; but many plants, including agricultural ones, grow in the south of Norway thanks to the Gulf Stream. Because of the high rainfall, these regions of Europe are more humid and cooler in summer than other parts of the world at the same latitudes. Europe has been inhabited by humans for such a long period of time that there are almost no areas where vegetation has not been affected by human influences. There are practically no "virgin forests" left in this part of the world.

Northern forest zone

This zone consists mainly of spruce-fir combinations with moss undergrowth, and includes the largest forested region in Europe. Forests of this type are rich in fur-bearing animals, including bears, foxes, wolves, badgers, deer, and a wide variety of birds.The fauna of Europe in the steppe zone is jerboas, foxes, steppe wolves, saigas. In the mountainous areas goats, gazelles, porcupines and a large number of reptiles live. There are also many proud birds: mountain eagles and sea eagles, long-eared owls and wise owls. The eagle is one of the most dangerous predators. Few managed to escape from the claws of a cruel bird, which can kill to death with one blow. Eagles hunt birds, fish, foxes, livestock. There are cases when people became their victims, especially children left unattended.

Tundra zone

Only a narrow strip along the Polar Sea and the Scandinavian Highlands falls into this zone. The fauna is limited to lemmings, foxes, arctic foxes and polar hares, as well as a small number of wolves and bears on land. Polar bears, walruses and seals can be found in the Arctic seas. In winter, reindeer live in a wide border zone in the south, and in summer they live in the open tundra. The tundra is also home to numerous insects and birds. Many different animals can be seen in the taiga - these are brown bears, red deer, lynx, wolverine. Ermines, sables, chipmunks and squirrels are found here.

Weasel sable is one of the most valuable fur animals. This is a resident of the Siberian mountain and lowland taiga of Russia. In winter, the black-brown sable fur is very thick and fluffy. A yellow spot stands out on the chest and throat of the animal. In summer, its fur is not so luxurious. And the sable appears thin and long with a disproportionately large head and wide paws. The ermine is a close relative of the weasel, but it is larger and has a black tip of its tail. He prefers places with a lot of rodents, which form the basis of his diet. When there is enough food, the ermine stores in its burrow, which it digs itself. His house has not only a large number of entrances and exits, but also many rooms and bedrooms. There are times when this predator does not bother digging a hole, but becomes the owner of the house of large rodents, which it destroyed.

Mediterranean zone

The Mediterranean area abounds in numerous reptiles and amphibians: vipers, snakes, turtles, lizards. Mountain rams, wild goats, wild cats, and wild boars also live here. Seagulls, puffins and guillemots have chosen the shores of the seas. Unfortunately, Europe is the most built-up part of the world. Therefore, in order to preserve rare and endangered animals, reserves, sanctuaries and various protected areas are being developed. And also many actions and processes are being taken to preserve the unique fauna of Europe.

Enjoy the farm life

When you stay in a farm, you will never be bored. In the Netherlands, you can experience many things, but France is also very suitable for a farm holiday. In France, you can enjoy the best Burgundy and this all starts with the farmer. He makes all those delicious cheeses, wines and other French delicacies. French cuisine is one of the best in the world, so it's worth learning more about the different dishes and ingredients by staying on a farm! Depending on your culinary preferences, the best places to go are the different regions of France.

Do you really like Camembert cheese? Then Normandy is the place to be. The Beaufort cheese comes from the French Alps. For anyone looking for an unforgettable holiday in the open air, staying in a farmhouse room is a great experience. With the farmer, you experience real farm life and learn more about the local cuisine, culture and animals. Throughout Europe, we have collected the most beautiful farmhouse accommodations for you, right in the middle of nature. So you can completely relax on the farm and enjoy everything there is to enjoy in the open air!

Besides the activities that you can experience as a family on the farm, there is of course a lot more to experience! While one day you can see what it is like to feed the animals, milk the cows and take care of the animals, the next day you can go out together. How about a visit to the zoo?

Calling all nature lovers

Extreme in Mont Blanc

As the highest peak in all of Europe, Mont Blanc has always attracted its fair share of visitors. Climbing to the top is not for the faint of heart, which is why tourists looking for a thrill love it so much. Mont Blanc promises adventure, dramatic and breathtaking views, and challenges it not everyone can meet. It is the perfect vacation spot for those looking for extreme attractions in Europe. And if you're not in the mood to climb, you can still experience Mont Blanc through paragliding. Alternatively, explore Glacier on one of the many guided hikes that are popular in the region. You can reach Chamonix by train and then travel to Mont Blanc aboard the Mont Blanc Express.

Scottish Highlands

Filled with wildlife, the Scottish Highlands are the wildest place of the UK. The rolling hills and mountains create a magnificent landscape. There are many hiking trails and amazing castles. It is the perfect location for any nature lover. You can also find lonely isles which support great colonies of birds and you can reach by boat. Due to the fast-changing weather the Highlands have a mystical touch.

Dolomites, Italy

The Dolomites mountain range is located in northern Italy. The 18 peaks occupy over 350,000 acres of land and can be a bit intimidating if you don't know where to begin. Hikes and driving are popular activities. Sass Pordoi, for example, is a Dolomite mountain pass that connects the Stella and Marmolada groups and is ideal for a peaceful journey. It is a region bursting with natural beauty and diversity.

Locations for your farm adventure

Le Marche, Italy

It is known mostly for art, culture and culinary wonders. Still, this reputation does not mean that there is nothing else in this beautiful area. Le Marche is known for a unique and unexpected reason. She looks great when she jumps from a plane flying over him. Experienced skydivers know this, but Le Marche is also a great place to experience Extreme Landmarks in Europe and especially skydiving for the first time. If this sounds exciting to you, you can take a nice, panoramic train ride through Italy to Le Marche.

Austria

Austria is the ideal destination for active holidays. Due to the great variety of nature, you will find activities for young and old here. Of course, Austria lends itself perfectly to an unforgettable winter sports holiday. Skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and après-skiing are all possible in this country. Also outside the winter, there are plenty of reasons to go here. For hikers it is a true paradise with impressive mountain ranges and hills with marked hiking trails. Start your hike with good equipment so that you are well prepared and can go all day!

France

France has all the ingredients to make it an active holiday. Thanks to the diversity in nature and seasons, you can enjoy a nature holiday all year round. The long beaches on the west and south coasts invite you to long beach walks along cosy coastal towns and historical points such as in and through historical Normandy. The mountains are perfect for mountain bikers, hikers and abseilers who are not averse to a challenge and beautiful views, the Camargue invites you to make beautiful trips on horseback, the Loire has some good cycle paths and the French rivers not only offer beautiful views of the landscape but also possibilities to do active outdoor activities, such as rafting or kayaking on the Ardeche, Rhone or Dordogne.

Weather in Europe

The weather can of course be important when choosing your farm holiday. Do you want to enjoy the sun and swim and relax? Then a holiday to a warm country is a must! But do you just want to enjoy the farm life together and the weather doesn't matter? Then the options are endless. In that case, you can choose a country like England, Austria or the Netherlands Germany and Belgium are also good choices in that case. If the weather doesn't matter, the season doesn't matter either. In this case, you can simply go on holiday in spring or autumn, so that you don't have to deal with the crowds.

Would you rather enjoy summer temperatures during your farm holiday? Then it is best to choose a holiday in the months of July or August in places where there is a Mediterranean climate. This climate applies mainly to countries around the Mediterranean. In that case, choose a holiday in a country like Portugal, Croatia or Italy. France is also a good choice! Summers there are very hot and dry and winters quite mild, but wet. In some areas, this even means that you can spend the winter there!

Book your farm in nature

On this page you will find various farms, all differing in their level of luxury. You can find smaller ones, like cabins and tents, but also many larger farms like cottages and villas. You can also benefit from breakfast, next to your accommodation, with a b&b farmhouse of your choice. The best part is that you can choose the natural surroundings yourself. Mountains, forests, meadows, whatever you'd like. If it's your summer holiday, explore the secrets of organic farming in a home by the sea. If you prefer to be secluded from the world and emerge in the natural environment completely, choose a secluded farm in the middle of nowhere. You also have the option to stay in a farmstead that is close to a charming village from the region.