Do you want to know more, much more, about the nature of Southern Europe?
Then this course is for you.
We take you to the most beautiful areas of the South of France and Spain.
Areas we visit include the Vercors, Provence, the Pyrenees, Asturias, Castilla y León, Aragon and Extremadura.
Southern Europe boasts a rich biodiversity. France and Spain are among the best bird-of-prey countries in Europe, and large mammals such as the brown bear, wolf, chamois, red deer, roe deer, fallow deer, wild boar, (Iberian) lynx, and ibex also occur there.
The flora of both the mountains and the plains is very special and don't forget the many species of reptiles and amphibians.
A whole new world will open up for you!
The course isn't physically demanding; it's about seeing things, experiencing things, and learning to identify species. During the walks, we'll take time to enjoy ourselves. We'll also make time to visit the charming villages and terraces so characteristic of this region. It's often hot in the middle of the day in summer, so a shady spot with a drink is sometimes welcome.
Naturally, we work together with local specialists.

The course is suitable for anyone who loves Southern Europe and nature.
Are you just an enthusiast or do you want to use the course for your work as a guide, for example? Then this course is for you.

Looking for bears and wolves in Asturias, birds of prey and the Iberian Lynx in Extremadura, flora, butterflies, ibex, chamois and vultures in the Vercors, Provence and the Pyrenees or exploring the semi-deserts in Castile-León and Aragon, looking for birds, snakes and lizards.
An online lesson program focused on Southern European species is included.
In this course we also provide tips on the best areas for wildlife in Southern Europe and the most beautiful walks in France and Spain.
We have been visiting Southern Europe since the 1970s and know the best spots for birds and mammals, among other things.
These lessons will be available from 2026
The trips consist of 5 to 10 days and sometimes you can combine trips into one trip or one period.

You have two years from the date of your first trip abroad to complete the course. You can register at any time. From the moment you register, you'll have access to the online course materials.

You can spread your international trips over two years, and you can choose which trip you take and when, depending on what's available, of course. You can also take a specific trip twice. Do you prefer birds of prey? Then you could go on two trips to Extremadura, for example.

Course Duration: Minimum 20 course days in France and Spain spread over several trips of your choice.

The course will conclude with an online theoretical Species Knowledge exam if you want to earn the North and South Western Europe Specialization Certificate. This isn't required, of course. You can also simply participate for the knowledge and experience.

Costs: €1400,-
20 training days in France and Spain and access to the online course program.
(excluding travel, accommodation and insurance)
Students must provide their own transportation to the location.
You must arrange your own overnight stays, but we will of course provide tips for campsites, hotels and/or B&Bs.

We currently have three trips planned for 2026 (Extremadura, Vercors and Somiedo twice). We are working on a fourth trip and/or adding days to existing trips.

More information soon on this page

It is also possible to book some of these trips separately.
(including Somiedo, Extremadura and Vercors)

Link > Information individual trips

Raoul has been visiting Spain and especially France several times a year since 1974
He is writing a handbook about Southern Europe with information about species, the best areas for wildlife, the most beautiful walks and much more information.
This manual will be available to students in the summer of 2026 and will be updated regularly.