With the arrival of spring, the Arcturos Bear Sanctuary in Nimfeo, Greece, has once again come to life, as the resident bears have fully awakened from their winter hibernation. After nearly three months of deep sleep, the bears are now active, enjoying the sunny weather and eagerly resuming their favorite activities.

A Joyful Awakening

Each bear at the sanctuary has reacted differently to waking up. Patrick and his best friend Louiza immediately began playing and rolling in the remaining snow, while Duke wasted no time diving into his pool, reluctant to leave even after hours of swimming. George climbed trees to take in the view from above, while Sandy, true to her habits, was the last to emerge from her den. Meanwhile, Mira seemed a bit disoriented, much like someone struggling to wake up after a deep sleep.

Interestingly, not all post-hibernation moments were peaceful—Sasha and Alexandra, once inseparable friends, continue to avoid each other for reasons unknown, showing that even bears can have complicated friendships.

The Arcturos Bear Sanctuary: Protecting Greece’s Bears

The Arcturos Bear Sanctuary, operated by the Greek nonprofit Arcturos, is a vital center for the rescue and rehabilitation of bears, many of whom were previously kept in captivity or found injured in the wild. The organization, founded in 1992, works to protect Greece’s wildlife, focusing on the conservation of brown bears, wolves, and lynxes. In addition to offering a safe haven for animals that cannot survive in the wild, Arcturos engages in environmental education, scientific research, and habitat preservation.

The sanctuary is now open to visitors, allowing people to observe the bears in their naturalistic enclosures and learn about their behavior and conservation efforts. The sanctuary operates every day except Wednesdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with guided tours available at specific times throughout the day.

Nimfeo is a picturesque village of north Greece and a very popular winter destination. Arcturos organisation which protects brown bears was founded in Nimfeo.

Other Arcturos Conservation Centers Open to the Public

In addition to the Bear Sanctuary in Nymfaio, visitors can also explore:

  • The Wolf & Lynx Protection Center in Agrapidies, Florina, which houses rescued wolves and lynxes.
  • The Bear Information Center at Nikeios School in Nymfaio, where guests can learn more about Arcturos’ conservation work.

These centers are open on weekends and public holidays, providing an opportunity for visitors to engage with wildlife conservation firsthand.

A Unique Wildlife Experience in Greece

For nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, a visit to the Arcturos centers offers a rare chance to witness the magnificent bears of Greece up close while supporting crucial conservation efforts. Schools and group visits can arrange tours by contacting the sanctuary.

As the bears shake off their long winter’s sleep and return to their lively routines, the Arcturos Bear Sanctuary is once again a place of activity, education, and hope for wildlife conservation in Greece.