It’s no surprise that Norway is regularly named one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Readers of Rough Guides voted it seventh in their shortlist of stunning spots – and once you start planning a trip here, you’ll soon see why. From the fjords to the famous northern lights, Norway has no shortage of spectacular scenery. So, whether you want to hike among magical mountains, take a road trip to remember or marvel at the midnight sun above the Arctic Circle, the views will never disappoint. Explore our round-up of unmissable landscapes in Norway to get to know this nation of natural beauty better.
- Aurlandsfjord: Idyllic Inlet
- Trolltunga: Rock Star
- Tromsø: Arctic Appeal
- Trollstigen: The Scenic Route
- Lofoten: Summer Stunner
Aurlandsfjord: Idyllic Inlet
Fjord fans are spoilt for choice in Norway. There are more than 1,000 fjords around the country; boasting blissfully blue-green waters surrounded by steep cliffs and snow-capped peaks. Each one is a beauty, but one of our favourites is the 18-mile-long Aurlandsfjord. The best place to begin exploring this landscape is the pretty village of Flåm, which sits on the southern shores of the Aurlandsfjord. Arrive in style via the gorgeous Flåm Railway (considered one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys). Then, choose between a cruise or hire a kayak to see the serene scenes of the fjord. If your legs still have more to give, head into the nearby mountains for a birds eye view of the idyllic inlet. Make sure you have space on your camera roll for the Stegastein viewpoint, which sits 2,000 feet above the Aurlandsfjord; a panoramic vantage point for admiring one of the best-loved landscapes in Norway.
Trolltunga: Rock Star
One of Norway’s most-photographed natural wonders is Trolltunga, or the ‘Troll’s Tongue’. A narrow rock formation that extends into the awe-inspiring abyss above the blue beauty of Lake Ringedalsvatnet, it is well worth the journey it takes to get there. Striking a pose on this perilous-looking point is the epic highlight of this 16-mile round route that takes between ten and 12 hours. Come well-prepared for a demanding day out that’s hard on the legs; the ascent is tough, making that summit snapshot even more memorable when you finally reach the rock. Join a guided hike with Trolltunga Active; local pros who’ll get you to the top and back with a smile on your face.
Tromsø: Arctic Appeal
There are lots of reasons to add Tromsø to your Norwegian itinerary. Firstly, it’s one of the best places in the country to see the Northern Lights. Secondly, the city sits above the Arctic Circle. So, for one month in early summer, it’s the land of the midnight sun, where there’s no such thing as sunset. And thirdly, there’s a natural vantage point for taking in the vistas, whether by starlight or non-stop sunlight. Mount Storsteinen overlooks the city and offers panoramic views from its peak; reach the top by riding the cable car or hiking the 1,200 steps of the Sherpa staircase. From the celestial ballet of the aurora to the golden nights of summer, Tromsø has one of the most beguiling landscapes in Norway. There’s a reason this vibrant city is also known as ‘the Paris of the north’, so there’ll be plenty to entertain you aside from the picturesque setting – including outdoor concerts beneath the glow of the midnight sun.
Trollstigen: The Scenic Route
No summer road trip around Norway would be complete without a drive along the snaking Trollstigen mountain pass. Its name means ‘Troll Trail’ – and driving the twists and turns of this serpentine stretch of tarmac is almost as hair-raising as an encounter the mythical creature. Daring drivers must navigate 11 hairpin bends as Trollstigen spirals up the mountainside. And much of the route is single-lane (complete with perilous passing and trailing traffic jams). Add in the cascading waterfalls which drench the road after a heavy rainfall and you have motoring that isn’t for the faint hearted. At the top of the pass, cliffside viewpoints provide a place to pause after the thrilling (and slightly terrifying) ascent. Stop to look out over the road as it snakes through the mountainous scenery – then get back behind the wheel to discover more stunning landscapes in Norway.
Lofoten: Summer Stunner
The archipelago of Lofoten is particularly popular between September and May when the Northern Lights put on their annual show. But we love these islands just as much in summertime. Imagine surfing above the Arctic Circle from the impossibly beautiful beaches of Flakstad, where you can practise on beginner-friendly waves; riding across the sand on horseback, admiring the scenery at a slower pace, staying in a rorbu (fisherman’s cabin) beside the sea and unwinding in your own private sauna at the end of a delightful day. And because the midnight sun makes an appearance here too, you’ll have a full 24 hours of light to fall in love with the landscape. That landscape is one of the prettiest in Norway and not be missed if you’re planning a trip with picturesque vistas in mind.
Header Image by Julia Nimke