Scandinavia is known for holding some of Europe's most jaw-dropping natural sites with out-of-this-world scenery guaranteed to make you gasp. If you're looking for the best views and escapes of nature that Europe has to offer, there's no better place than the stark northern crest of the continent. Here's our roundup of the best scenic places you can find around Scandinavia.
Lofoten Islands, Norway
The Lofoton Islands are home to some of Norway's most dramatic scenery, which is saying something for a country known for its impressive peaks and beautiful fjords. Although the chain of islands are so far north, the climate is actually relatively mild due to the Gulf Stream, a warm current of air that blows across the islands. Some of the best scenic spots include the view from Reinebringen, Kvalvika beach and Henningsvaer, home to probably the most spectacular football field in the world. For the more adventurous climbers, check out The Goat, a huge towering pinnacle of rock with vast views down across the town of Svolvær and the ocean.
Sarek National Park, Sweden
Offering some of the most beautiful, stark scenery that Sweden has to offer, this national park sits in Swedish Lapland, an area known for dramatic landscapes, valleys and mountains. While the Finnish side is much flatter with gentle slopes perfect for sledding and snowmobiling, the Swedish side is simply breathtaking and places like Sarek are perfect for visiting in the Spring or Summer for camping and hiking around the beautiful wilderness.
Troll Wall, Norway
An impressive mountain facade that rises up almost six thousand feet over the valley below, Norway's Troll Wall is truly an incredible sight to see and stand in front of. As the highest vertical rock face in Europe, the location is popular for advanced climbers wanting to test their skills. Not for the faint-hearted however, the sheer drop as you climb up is enough to put off all but the most-hardened of adrenaline junkies.
Riisitunturi National Park, Finland
In the lower reaches of Lapland, Riisitunturi is a winter wonderland that's covered in a thick blanket of powdery white snow during the winter months. The area is particularly famous for its heavy snow-laden spruce trees but also the sloping hills and scenic lakes that contribute to its natural beauty. The unique scenery here is unlike anywhere else in Europe, making it perfect for those interested in photography, or just gazing at the beautiful vast whiteness.
Trolltunga, Norway
Another of the stunning rock formations found in Norway, Trolltunga or 'troll's tongue' in English is a unique stretch of stone jutting out from the huge cliffs that tower above the fjord valley. The hike here is far from easy, it takes at least 10 hours to get there, but those who manage it are highly rewarded with breathtaking views over the dramatic surrounding scenery.
Saimaa Lake, Finland
Known as the Land of a Thousand Lakes (there's actually 187,000) it's not surprising Finland has its fair share of beautiful lakeside scenery. One of the country's true gems however is Saimaa Lake, near the border with Russia. The largest lake in the country, Saimaa stretches for miles on end as it winds around the country, with multiple islands and surrounded by beautiful, green forests. The landscape here is simply stunning, perfect for camping or sailing around the pristine waters.
Preikestolen, Norway
One of the most famous spots to trek to in Norway, Preikestolen is an adventurer's dream. The uniquely-shaped flat mountain towers 604 meters above the fjord below, giving impressive views out over the surrounding landscape. Along with hiking up to the top, don't miss out on taking a cruise through the fjords, to appreciate the beauty from another perspective.
Romsdalseggen, Norway
One of the most popular spots for hiking in the country, Romsdalseggen is a stunning expanse of mountains and fjord valleys close to the country's western coast. The area like much of the fjord-lands are hugely popular for camping and hiking around. It's not as popular as some of the other hiking areas such as Preikestolen, but the scenery here is just as incredible, with the fjord valleys covered in farmland which add to the picturesque visage.
Conclusion
If scenery is your thing, there's no better places to head to in Europe than these spots. If you're heading to places in the north of Scandinavia throughout the winter months, be sure to check the weather forecast, if the conditions are right you might be able to see the incredible natural light show that is the aurora borealis.