The beauty of Norway is incomparable, and this is evident in each of the 47 national parks found in the region. Forty of these parks are located on the mainland, while the Svalbard Islands boast seven stunning national parks.
That’s why all seasoned travelers advise visiting one of these impressive national parks in Norway. These sites allow us to get close to nature, admire truly unique landscapes, and also observe many of the animal species that inhabit Norway. This country is the natural habitat of polar bears, musk oxen, reindeer, foxes, wolves, brown bears, martens, hundreds of species of seabirds, and whales that roam the coasts.
Moreover, in Norway, there is the right of access, an important part of the Outdoor Recreation Act. This right seeks to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy nature, so anyone is completely free to wander or stroll wherever they wish.
The view of the mythical red fishermen’s houses takes you back in history. The origin of the village and its essence
This peculiar right to roam freely applies in national parks, so we can enjoy all the natural attractions of these incredible areas. However, environmental protection is a priority, so there are a series of rules we must follow to ensure the conservation of nature. It is therefore important to pay attention to the limitations that are usually applied during the nesting periods of some species. In addition to obtaining special permits for fishing activities, there are certain rules that regulate camping to be carried out while respecting environmental protection.
And of course, when it comes to nature, the most important thing is to show respect for the environment, so Norwegian authorities always mention that we should leave the least possible trace when visiting any of their charming protected areas.
The Most Impressive National Parks in Norway
Norway is a country that stands out for the many natural attractions that can be admired in its territory. Therefore, if we are going to travel to Norway, we cannot miss the opportunity to visit some of these impressive national parks:
Jostedalsbreen National Park
This national park is famous for hosting the largest glacier in Europe, so this national park has an incredible expanse of 1,310 km². Due to its vast expanse, we can find a geography with a significant contrast in addition to three different museums and a visitor center.
Norway’s national parks offer many activities. From enjoying the high views surrounded by mountains to watching the snow melt in the summer season
Jostedalsbreen National Park also stands out for being a perfect place for hiking activities. That’s why it’s worth enjoying the views that can be admired from the top of Kattanakken, a rocky formation from where we can admire the Briskdal glacier. And if this is not enough for us, in this national park, we can also find abundant wildlife. So we will have the opportunity to admire red-toned reindeer, lemmings, wolves, lynxes, and brown bears.
Rondane National Park
Among the most visited national parks is Rondane National Park, and this park holds fascinating treasures. From here, we can admire stunning mountains and waterfalls that seem to be taken from fairy tales. Rondane is also a fantastic place for adventure lovers, as there are numerous hiking trails and it can be a wonderful place to enjoy cross-country skiing.
Rondane National Park with fascinating autumn scenery
Rondane National Park is also very popular for its unparalleled views, as there are places like the Sohlbergplassen viewpoint from where you can contemplate the natural beauty of the region. And of course, we cannot forget about the Rondane panoramic route, one of the favorites for its fascinating landscapes.
Moreover, if we want to stay in the area and enjoy Norwegian cuisine, we can stay in cozy cabins or mountain shelters.
Rago National Park
If we venture to northern Norway, we can visit the wonderful Rago National Park, a place that offers us 171 km² of natural attractions. It is also said that this area is perfect in any season of the year. So, regardless of the weather conditions, we can have an incomparable experience.
Rago National Park with marked hiking trails in the countryside
In Rago National Park, we can be close to the wildest side of Norway, as there are abundant colorful valleys and large waterfalls, and it is also a place where we can admire Norwegian wildlife. Moreover, this national park is also fantastic for those seeking tranquility and relaxation. Because there are many of the most charming forests in the area.
And the most peculiar thing about this park is that it borders several national parks in Sweden, so together they form one of the most impressive wilderness areas in all of Europe.
Hardangervidda National Park
If we travel from Oslo by road, it will take us about four hours to reach Hardangervidda National Park. This national park is huge, as it covers nearly 3,445 km² and is one of the largest mountain plateaus in northern Europe. Also, if we visit this park, we will have the opportunity to admire unique moors, rugged mountains, the Vøringfossen waterfall, and explore sites full of natural attractions.
In summer, Norway never ceases to show its charm. A glimpse of its greenery
We also cannot forget to mention that this park is ideal if we enjoy hiking or cycling. Since we can find numerous trails in the vast expanse of Hardangervidda National Park.
Nordvest-Spitsbergen National Park
In the Svalbard Islands, there are 7 national parks, and among the most beautiful is the Nordvest-Spitsbergen National Park. This national park has existed since 1973, covers a total area of 9,914 km², and inside, we can find remnants of volcanoes and thermal springs. And if we want to admire the fauna of the region, this national park inhabits reindeer, Arctic foxes, polar bears, walruses, and various species of seabirds.
Northern Norway, with its fjords and mountains, is a unique place to see the Northern Lights
There is no doubt that the national parks in Norway are areas that enclose all the natural charm of this Nordic nation. So we shouldn’t be surprised to know that Norwegians really care about preserving the essence of each of their national parks. That is why, if we plan to visit Norway, we have to visit one of the 47 national parks that this fascinating Nordic country offers us. And we cannot forget to admire the fascinating landscapes. The rugged mountains, the gigantic glaciers, and the wildlife of each region.
Images courtesy of Norway Tours and Visit Norway
