A stroll through the brown bear sanctuary
Get ready for a journey of deep rejuvenation in the heart of the Macedonian landscape. Near the picturesque settlement of Nymfaio, Florina, Arcturos awaits you, an environmental NGO that, since 1992, has been dedicated to the protection of wild fauna in Greece.
The main station is the Brown Bear Protection Centre, an area of 50 stremma, perched at an altitude of 1,350 m. The Centre operates as a safe haven for bears rescued from circuses or abuse. Here, these impressive animals find a new, semi-free life, in an environment that simulates their natural habitat. This action is vital for the conservation of the species, highlighting the harmonious coexistence of man and wildlife.
Your visit to Arcturos is a living lesson and a unique opportunity for contact with nature. Through specially designed areas, observe the bears in their natural environment without disturbing them.
The Sanctuary is closed during the animals' winter hibernation, usually from November until the end of March; however, the information continues! In Nymfaio, the ground floor of the historic Nikeios School hosts the Arcturos Information Centre. There you will learn about the resident bears and visit the educational workshop.
Nymfaio has been declared a protected traditional settlement. Walk among its stone mansions, which bear witness to its history as an important silversmithing centre, and enjoy the local gastronomy. The settlement is an ideal spot for hiking in the dense surrounding forests. Follow the signposted trails that offer views of the mountain landscape. Take the time to gaze at the lush vegetation and the endemic species that thrive in the beech forest. Florina will show you how love for wildlife becomes action, inspiration, and a promise for a better tomorrow.
The main station is the Brown Bear Protection Centre, an area of 50 stremma, perched at an altitude of 1,350 m. The Centre operates as a safe haven for bears rescued from circuses or abuse. Here, these impressive animals find a new, semi-free life, in an environment that simulates their natural habitat. This action is vital for the conservation of the species, highlighting the harmonious coexistence of man and wildlife.
Your visit to Arcturos is a living lesson and a unique opportunity for contact with nature. Through specially designed areas, observe the bears in their natural environment without disturbing them.
The Sanctuary is closed during the animals' winter hibernation, usually from November until the end of March; however, the information continues! In Nymfaio, the ground floor of the historic Nikeios School hosts the Arcturos Information Centre. There you will learn about the resident bears and visit the educational workshop.
Nymfaio has been declared a protected traditional settlement. Walk among its stone mansions, which bear witness to its history as an important silversmithing centre, and enjoy the local gastronomy. The settlement is an ideal spot for hiking in the dense surrounding forests. Follow the signposted trails that offer views of the mountain landscape. Take the time to gaze at the lush vegetation and the endemic species that thrive in the beech forest. Florina will show you how love for wildlife becomes action, inspiration, and a promise for a better tomorrow.