Spanning 59,000 hectares, Biebrza National Park is the largest national park in Poland. It was established in 1993, but the area has been covered by varioushe Biebrza Valley has been protected since the 1920s. It encompasses a section of the Biebrza Basin, protecting, among other things, the largest peatlands in Europe. The Biebrza Basin is more than 100 km long and is divided into three basins: the northern one, which is characterized by moraine hills and a valley width of only 1-3 km; the middle one - formed mainly by sandy dunes and dry peatlands; and the southern one, where the valley reaches a width of up to 15 km, the peatlands rest on sands, loams and gravels, and the river flows in many meanders. The park includes the "Red Swamp" strict protection area, established in 1921 and encompassing the most primeval wetlands. Unlike the riverside wetlands, this part of the park has a so-called "high bog" overgrown with low trees, which provide shelter for many animal species. Although the area is not directly open to tourists, it can be viewed from a kilometer-long footbridge built, which partially enters the bog area and ends with a viewing platform. The site is important not only for natural reasons, but also for historical reasons. The area was a refuge for partisans during World War II and was the site of one of the largest partisan battles in 1944.The areas of the Biebrza National Park are rich in flora. There are more than 900 different species of vascular plants, 90 of which are under total protection. These include, for example, common horsetail, crow's-foot fork, long-leaved sundew, and common sundew. The moss communities in the park are also exceptionally interesting and valuable. Forested areas are dominated by alders, birches and willows. Located on the Biebrza River, the Czerwone Bagno reserve is home to Poland's largest concentration of elk, numbering around 400. Beavers, raccoons, muskrats, otters, badgers, foxes, ermine, roe deer and deer can be found in the river and surrounding forests. The park's regions are also a unique enclave for wetland birds. Among the 271 diverse species are gulls, terns, mute swans or ducks and geese. Of other birds, we can see an eagle owl or a marsh owl. The Biebrza National Park is very well suited for visitors. For tourists who like activity, canoeing and rafting on the river are organized. Those who prefer hiking will find more than 150 km of trails, while cyclists can take advantage of 7 designated bicycle routes with a total length of 60 km. After purchasing a license from the park's management, it is possible to fish in the Biebrza River. The 36 species of fish found here, including pike, catfish and eel, are a big attraction for anglers. The park has quite extensive accommodation and catering facilities.
12.06.2014
