Category: North Macedonia

Simon Reeve’s new Wilderness series is a reminder of just how remote some of the planet’s wild places remain (which is why they’re still wild). But you don’t need to take a long-haul flight or trudge for days through a rainforest to find landscapes where nature still sets the terms. The Balkans are home to some of Europe’s wildest places: primeval forests, free-flowing rivers, high mountain pastures frequented by bears and wild horses, and wetlands alive with birds. Increasingly, their importance is being recognised internationally, including through UNESCO designations. But what do we mean when we talk about wilderness? Strictly speaking, true wilderness means large, little-disturbed areas without permanent human settlement. There is very little of that left in Europe. Most of the places on this list are better described as wild: landscapes where nature remains dominant, but where people have lived, farmed, fished, grazed animals and travelled for centuries. These aren't places to rush to before they're “gone”. They're living landscapes and the best way to experience them is responsibly. Here are seven of the Balkans' wildest places — many of which you can visit with us on our adventure holidays. 1. Perućica Forest, Bosnia and Herzegovina Located in Sutjeska National Park, Perućica is one of Europe's most remarkable surviving primeval forests. Mighty beech and fir trees, some centuries old, rise from untamed limestone slopes and tumbling streams. The forest has never been commercially logged and is protected as a strict nature reserve. It is also on Bosnia and Herzegovina's tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage status – recognition that would underline its extraordinary ecological importance. Getting into Perućica isn't a case of simply turning up and following a trail. Access is restricted and visitors must be accompanied by a specialist guide to manage impact and protect this precious