National parks in Norway, iconic fjords
Norway's national parks are renowned for their breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Each park offers a unique slice of Norway's natural beauty, from the high mountains and glaciers to the deep forests and coastal archipelagos.
Fjords of Norway
Fjords are one of nature's most spectacular creations, formed when a glacier cuts a U-shaped valley while moving towards the sea and the weight of the subsequent ice sheet pushes the valley below the water line, after which the sea fills the void. Fjords are characterized by their deep waters, which are usually very still, mirroring the cliffs on either side, while their long shores are typically rugged, with waterfalls or glaciers tumbling down from some of the world's highest elevations. They serve as natural harbors and support rich ecosystems on land and in the sea that are home to a wide variety of marine and terrestrial animals. Fjords can be found in multiple countries, but they have become synonymous with Norway, where some of nature's most stunning and iconic landscapes are found.
Land of contrasts
Contrast is the essence of Norwegian landscapes, where nature plays out on a grand scale. Rugged coastline, formed by plunging fjords, give way to spectral northern lights dancing over the Arctic. There is both diversity and drama in the natural beauty of Norway, and central to it are the national parks that guard its most pristine and untamed landscapes.
Norway’s geography is a tale of two stories. To the south, you’ll find rolling fells and thick forests, teeming with a variety of animal and bird species. Further north, the landscape becomes more dramatic – the Scandinavian Mountains, for instance, offer some of the most challenging and rewarding hikes to be found anywhere in Europe. Then, to the north of the Arctic Circle, the flora, fauna, and terrain take on a whole new guise that of the tundra and ice fields of the High Arctic – a place where the midnight sun and polar night dictate the rhythm of life. Look how the National parks are located, on our map!
Most beautiful parks in the world
Here are some of the notable national parks in Norway...
Jotunheimen National Park
Jotunheimen National Park is one of Norway's true treasures. Its name means "Home of the Giants," for good reason – it's home to the tallest mountains of Northern Europe. Picture massive peaks, pristine lakes, and wide-open vistas stretching as far as you can see – that's Jotunheimen.
There are many reasons people come here, but above all, they come to hike and climb. With over 200 mountain peaks over 2,000 meters tall – including storied Galdhøpiggen and Glittertind – it's a haven for hardy souls who love the rush of altitude and endless views they've earned.
But it's not only for those who love heights. There are plenty of easier trails that allow you to get up close and personal with the park's beauty without the need for rappelling ropes. You can walk in the valleys, by the rivers, and around the lakes at a slow and easy pace, taking some time to just soak in the beauty of it all.
One of the coolest things in Jotunheimen is the fabled Besseggen Ridge. It's a hike that's not too tough, but what an experience it brings to you! The ridge walk gives you a view of two incredibly blue and green lakes, side by side. You must see this.
And if fishing is your thing, the clear waters of Jotunheimen offer a whole bunch of chances to catch the big one, no matter if you prefer fly fishing in the rivers or angling for lake fish. And the wildlife? It's everywhere. Along the way, you might see reindeer, mountain foxes, and an endless variety of birds.
In a nutshell, that's Jotunheimen National Park. Whether you're bagging peaks, strolling along a quiet trail or just looking out across the land, Jotunheimen captures the essence of Norway's wild and rugged heart and lets you take your love of nature and the outdoors to its farthest limits. And bring home a lifetime's worth of memories, too.
