Norway, located in the western part of Scandinavia, is a Nordic country renowned for its unique fjord landscape characterized by an extremely winding coastline. With one of the highest forest covers in the world and the spectacular aurora borealis, Norway is a paradise for nature lovers.
1. Sognefjord
Norway boasts four major fjords, namely Geirangerfjord, Sognefjord, Hardangerfjord, and Rüsselfjord. Among them, Sognefjord is the longest and deepest fjord in the world, stretching for 204 kilometers with a maximum depth of 1,308 meters.
The towering mountains and deep valleys on both sides feature steep slopes and rise to a height of 1500 meters above sea level. The crystal-clear water of the fjord reflects the magnificent scenery of the surrounding mountains and lush forests.
2. Pulpit Rock
Ranked as one of the 50 most magnificent natural landscapes in the world, Pulpit Rock is located in the middle of Rüsselfjord, near the city of Stavanger in southern Norway.
This naturally formed boulder stands abruptly upright in the deep fjord with a 604-meter vertical drop and a platform of about 625 square meters at the top. Standing on the platform of Pulpit Rock, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking view of the Lüserfjord Canyon, which is beyond description.
3. Trolltunga
Named after its tongue-like shape, Trolltunga is an incredible rock formation and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It is situated on Skjeggedal Mountain in Norway, and visitors can take a cable car halfway up the mountain at 950 meters above sea level before ascending to the rock via steps or a hiking trail.
4. Lofoten Islands
Located in Norrland County in northern Norway, the Lofoten Islands offer a picturesque climate despite their harsh conditions. With a population of about 24,500 Vikings, the islands have a long history of fishing, which remains one of their main economic activities.
The archipelago was formed by glacial action, and the islands appear connected when viewed from a distance.
5. The Atlantic Road
The Atlantic Road, situated on Norway's west coast, is rated as one of the best road trip destinations in the world. This 8.69-kilometer road, which opened in 1989, winds through islands and reefs to the sea. Visitors can stop along the way to marvel at the beautiful scenery of the Atlantic Ocean and the numerous scattered islands and reefs.
6. Seven Sisters Waterfall
Located in the Geirangerfjord, north of Bergen on the southwest coast of Norway, the Seven Sisters Waterfall is the most stunning waterfall in the fjord. It consists of seven separate streams, the highest of which drops 249 meters.
The seven waterfalls cascade down into the fjord, creating a spectacular sight, especially when the volume of water is high.
7. Kjeragbolten
Kjeragbolten is a 5-cubic-meter stone lodged between two walls and suspended vertically about 1,000 meters from the valley floor in Rüsselfjord. This "brave man's stone" is not for the faint of heart, but those who dare to climb to the top can enjoy an infinite view of the valley below.
8. The Northern Lights
In winter, the Aurora Borealis dominates Norway's skies, making it the world's premier destination for viewing the Northern Lights. Tromsø, located inside the Arctic Circle, offers the best chance to witness this breathtaking phenomenon. It is the largest port city in northern Norway, yet it is not frozen in winter because of the warm North Atlantic current passing through.