As for me, nature is never left unnoticed, and Norway is one of those countries. It is the most diverse and the least intervened in Europe; therefore, it is an inexhaustible source of unspoiled territories and locations.
Epicenter of Nature
Thus, Norwegian is a language spoken in a northern European country – Norway – with Oslo being its capital. The Gulf Stream, therefore, plays a role in warming the climate, making it relatively warmer than one would expect at that latitude. Even in the winter months, provided the location is not covered in a particularly thick blanket of snow, the air is rather dry, which is not nearly as debilitating as in many other parts of the globe. The weather is generally good as most of the time the sky is clear, giving one magnificent sceneries of the surrounding environment.
Due to the northern location of Norway, the conditions of snow from the middle of November till April are perfect even in rather low altitudes. Such factors make the country of Norway naturally suited for cultural as well as natural touring.
Concerning the natural attractions, Innovation Norway, which is a tourism promotion body, holds that the top ten are:
- Vøringfossen waterfall
- Trollstigen trail
- Kjosfossen waterfall
- Geirangerfjord
- Låtefossen waterfall
- Steinsdalsfossen waterfall
- Nærøyfjord
- Briksdalsbreen glacier
- The Atlantic Ocean Road
Some of the Best Natural Sceneries in Norway
Thus, it is almost embarrassing to make a short list of the most fantastic views: the peninsula of Sorrento, the island of Capri, the gulf of Naples, the Amalfi coast, the island of Ischia, Rome with the Vatican, Florence, Bologna, Ravenna, Venice, Milan, etc. However, based on the above natural comparative advantages, we would like to present to you this selection for your next trip to Norway.
Bergen and the Westfjords
Bergen also serves as the starting point to some of the most popular fjords in Norway being the Sognefjord that is the longest and deepest fjord of Norway and Hardangerfjord famous for the Trolltunga. As for many fjords, their equally beautiful but indisputably less popular branches exist. The most preferred way to get to the village of Flåm is through Flåm Railway which is listed among the top scenic railroads in the world.
Activities: Picnicking, canoeing/kayaking, train tours
Highlights: Fjord: Nærøyfjord, Trolltunga, Flåm mountain train.
Besides, the way to Bergen is also spectacular, it is filled with beautiful views of landscapes and the glimpse of history of that area. The significant and beautiful harbor, wooden houses, and the fish market introduced the destination for the fjords exploration.
The Flåm Railway is considered one of the beautiful railway rides in the world; the ride passes through mountains with the waterfalls and steep landscapes. This is not just a railway for people to travel but it gives them a look of some of the fantastic sceneries that exist in Norway.
Trondheim and Trøndelag
Detailed, Trøndelag is located in the central Norway region, and the area is interesting for history lovers, gourmets, and fans of outdoor activities. Sights and points of interest are the fishing which could be done by rods, cycling, skiing, and trekking along one of the St. Olav ways leading to the fantastic Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim. Take a trip back in time in the Røros mining town and fjord listed as UNESCO heritage or watching musk oxen in Dovrefjell.
Activities: History and culture, walking and trekking, viewing wildlife
Highlights: Nidaros Cathedral, Røros, Dovre mountain range
Trondheim was earlier known as the Viking kingdom of Norway and hence is filled with tremendous historical value. It will be also useful to visit the Nidaros Cathedral as being one of the examples of Gothic architecture and the spiritual center for centuries. Cultural life is considered to be also rich and diverse since there are many festivals, museums, and galleries in the city.
Røros is an example of well-preserved mining town that tells about the history of industrialization in Norway. Wooden houses and cobblestone streets are the main distinctive features of the town, which contributes to the corresponding setting. At the same time, such objects as the Dovrefjell mountains, let people to observe musk oxen in a natural surroundings.
Kristiansand and Places to See in Southern Norway
Southern Norway is a true summer destination with lovely shores, thousands of isles, and more sunshine than pretty much anywhere else in the country. Wander through the towns with narrow streets and wooden houses built in white located on the coast including Risør, Arendal, Grimstad, Mandal, and Flekkefjord. From Kristiansand by car is only tens of kilometers to the picturesque Lindesnes Lighthouse which marks the southern end of mainland Norway; and to the unforgettable culinary marvel that is the world’s largest underground restaurant – Under.
Activities: Sunbathing, visiting the lighthouse, eating
Highlights: Tjørna Church, Lindesnes fyr, Under restaurant in coastal towns
Norway has other amazingly beautiful coasts where well-developed counties lie but compared to the northern coast the Norwegian Riviera is as different as night and day. Here you get a familiar warm relaxed atmosphere that one can easily associate with summer holidays. Southern coastal towns with their residences made of wood and noisy seaports have an irresistible atmosphere.
Lindesnes Lighthouse which is recognized as the oldest is located at the southern end of Norway. Tourists can go up this landmark for a bird’ eye view of the North Sea and also there is a lighthouse museum for the history seekers. Adjacent to it, there is the Under restaurant with the dining room located underwater making the clients view the sea life.
Valleys and Mountains of Eastern Norway
Eastern Norway has the forest areas, deep valleys, and large mountain plateaus ideal for starting an outdoor holiday. This region is famous for some of the well-developed ski destinations including Geilo, Trysil, and Hemsedal. For families, one will find Valdres, Hallingdal, Lillehammer, as well as the Gudbrandsdalen valley interesting places to visit, with amusement parks, typical farms, for example, and wonderful walking areas.
Activities: Skiing, hiking, and spending time with family
Highlights: Geilo, Trysil, Gudbrandsdalen
Eastern Norway is rich in valleys and mountains and can be described as a paradise for lovers of different kinds of outdoor activities. Located in Southern Norway, Geilo is one of the oldest skiing resorts that provides its guests with everything from alpine skiing to cross-country tracks. Trysil, which is the largest skiing resort, has all types of slopes as a result, anyone can have a good time skiing.
In the summer, these regions turn into havens of hiking. Gudbrandsdalen valley elaborated with a beautiful and elaborate green blanket background is an ideal place for families to visit. Here one can find typical agricultural households, watch the amusement recreational farms and areas, and go for the sightseeing routes through the picturesque valleys.
Geirangerfjord
This is a world heritage site with deep blue waters, and tall cliffs complemented by waterfalls that include the seven sisters and bridal veil falls. It is quite ideal for boating, hiking, and admiring the great works of nature, and scenery.
Activities: Sightseeing, boat rides, hiking
Highlights: Seven Sisters Waterfall, the Bridal Veil Waterfall, the viewpoint on Eagle Road
Norway, specifically the Geirangerfjord, is one of the most bizarre looking regions of the world. The cliffs which surround the fjord, waterfalls, and the blue color of the water make the area look like a movie scene. The waterfall consisting of seven streams is called the Seven Sisters Waterfalls, another waterfall called the Bridal Veil Waterfalls because the water showered down like a veil.
One can go for boat rides to get closer to these natural formations and on the other hand, there are trails to get still other views of the fjord. The interesting place that is a must-see for anyone traveling to this area is the Eagle Road viewpoint where you get a panoramic view of the whole area.
Lofoten Islands
The Lofoten Islands are majorly characterized by large mountains, charming fishing villages, and white sandy beaches. This also has such features as hiking, fishing, kayaking, and also the Northern lights that dominate the wintertime.
Activities: Backpacking, fly fishing and sea-kayaking, the aurora borealis
Highlights: Reine village, Kvalvika beach and Trollfjord
Rich in the landscapes and fishermen’s houses, Lofoten Islands become a perfect union of the untouched nature and the culture of the region. The village of Reine that many a travel guide presents being one of the most stunning in Norway is an ideal starting point for island-hopping. There are several red and white fisherman cabins prevalent in the village known as rorbu, which are embedded in the background of mountains and blue waters.
Kvalvika beach is a beautiful sandy beach with crystal clear water that is to be reached on foot through a gorgeous trail. The Trollfjord is a rare and geologically young, narrow and steep-sided fjord that provides quite a special impression. Lofoten Islands are wonderful in winter as it gives the opportunity to watch the Northern lights which was, in my opinion, amazing.
Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
Preikestolen or Pulpit Rock is a huge cliff with a plateau that provides a breath-taking view over the Lysefjord. Getting up the mountains is a little bit tiresome and that is why it is advisable to have a guide, but on getting to the top, then you will be rewarded with one of the best views ever in Norway.
Activities: Hiking
Highlights: Tentative photo perspective of the Lysefjord, the horizontal plateau at the summit of the cliff
Preikestolen is one of those destinations that one has to pass over rocks and hillside terrains after going through the forested zones. The trail is fairly steep but broken and well sign-posted and there are many fine views to be had en-route. Arriving at the summit, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree view of the area including the magnificent view of the Lysefjord – the fjord which waters look incredibly blue and the cliffs stun with their steepness.
Thus, at an altitude of 604 meters, Preikestolen has a flat table-like formation which is an ideal place for taking photos and enjoying the scenery. The satisfaction felt after climbing the top and the breathtaking view one gets to see makes this a must-do activity for anyone who will be visiting Norway.
Sognefjord
Sognefjord is the longest and the deepest fjord in Norway, that has a depth of 1,308 meters and extends 204 kilometers inland. It is located near astonishing sceneries such as Jotunheimen Mountains and beautiful villages.
Activities: Cruises, walking, skiing
Highlights: Nærøyfjord which is listed under world heritage site, Flåm railway and Jotunheimen mountain area
Sognefjord, which is also officially entitled as the ‘King of the Fjords’, is unquestionably heterogenic. For one, the natural impressive appeal of the fjord largely due to its size and depth cannot be questioned. Since the fjord has branches, visitors aboard the boats get a chance to see the branches of Sognefjord all of which are magnificent.
Nærøyfjord is a part of Sognefjord and is yet a branch of fjord that is most famous and is far from polluted zone and recognized by UNESCO. Also of historical importance and ranking as a prominent fjord tourist attraction is the Flåm Railway along the fjord. There are also many possibilities for hiking and skiing because the main part of them area is taken by Jotunheimen National Park with the tops of mountains and unlimited glaciers.
Trolltunga
The Troll Tongue is the name of the horizontal projection from the mountain that forms a great view over the Ringedalsvatnet lake. The trek to Trolltunga takes a long time and it is tiresome but the view and the feeling of climbing the rock and getting that perfect shot is amazing.
Activities: Hiking
Highlights: The Troll’s Tongue is a large mountain rock that rises out of the landscape; it provides panoramic views of the surrounding lake namely the Ringedalsvatnet.
Trolltunga is the most popular hike in Norway and the hike is a bit demanding but spectacular. This trail measures about 14 km one way and it is best done in a single day. But it is worth the climb because the rewarding view that one gets is worth the climb and the energy that has been used.
Trolltunga rising 700 meters above the Ringedalsvatnet Lake adds to the photogenic backdrops making it a great place for photographers. The feeling of satisfaction when reaching the Trolltunga and what the viewers can see there makes this hike one of the best in Norway.
Jotunheimen National Park
Jotunheimen National Park covering some parts of central Norway is home to some of the Norway’s tallest mountain and remarkable terrains, thus, various trails for trekking such as the one to the Galdhøpiggen, the highest peak in Northern Europe.
Activities: Hiking, climbing, skiing
Highlights: Galdhøpiggen mountain, Besseggen Ridge, the waterfalls and the glaciers.
Jotunheimen National Park or the giants’ country is a true mecca for lovers of the outdoors. Due to its geographic nature, its status and serene landscape encompassing a number of elevated terrains such as mountains and deep valleys it has a number of adventurous activities for everyone. Galdhøpiggen situated at 2,469 meters is another challenging hike, but the most prestigious one, as it is the highest mountain in Northern Europe.
Besseggen Ridge trail is one of the most famous hiking trails in Norway, where hikers can see two lakes; Gjende and Bessvatnet. The other attractions the park has include waterfalls and glaciers which enhance the beauty of the park. Anyone touring Norway or willing to visit the park should include the Jotunheimen park.
The Landscapes of Norway: A Place Known as Home or a Place One Will Be Happy to Return To
Majority of travelers who have had the opportunity of visiting Norway, agree with the need to revisit in order to explore even more of the unending scenery, inherent culture, and pleasant cities. There aren’t many locations in the world that can offer such a colorful, crazy, and healthy dose of nature. Thus, there cannot be any doubt that at some point or the other, you will find out what Norway has to offer.
Actually, the geography of Norway can be described as unique and rather diverse; there is something in it for any nature enthusiast. As the paradigmatic fjords of the Pulpit Rock, the unstressed landscapes of the Lofoten Islands, the challenging hikes of the Jotunheimen national park prove Norway is one of the most beautiful country among all. Should you be looking for adventure or even if you need a secluded place or just the right background for the perfect picture, if you are still shopping for the best scenery in Norway, then, this country will leave you breathless and wanting for more.
Conclusion
Norway is undoubtedly a country of incredible nature where one can find an incredible sight in every zone. The country has blessed with serene and stunning landscapes that range from fjord and mountain, to the beach and the forests. Whether this is your first time in Norway or your umpteenth trip to this country, without doubt the country’s natural beauty will touch your heart and soul. Thus, grab your suitcase, your camera, and go for the great hike to find the most stunning landscapes in Norway.
Norway’s allure is timeless. Every time you visit you will discover something new and cherish every moment that you spend there. Well, why the wait then? The stunning landscapes of Norway are ahead waiting for you and your next traveling adventure.