Geography and Environment of Norway

Country Physiography

Natural Zones

Norway has 44 national parks, seven of which are in the Svalbard Archipelago. Each offers stunning landscapes and, for many, multiple opportunities for summer hikes and other outdoor activities, some even in winter. Additionally, camping is allowed within these sites, except in certain fragile areas where access is restricted or regulated.

From a tourism perspective, these parks and natural sites are often the primary motivation for visiting the country. Among the most popular places, besides Svalbard with its unique but expensive and remote setting far from mainland Norway, are:

• The numerous waterfalls across the country (Langfossen, Mardalfossen, Rjukan, Steinsdalsfossen, etc.), which, beyond their breathtaking scenery, allow the more adventurous to try ice climbing in winter.

• The iconic fjords, typical of the country. The Hardanger, Naeroyfjord, Sognefjord, and the famous Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the country’s main attractions, are the most well-known. They can often be explored by car, on foot, or even by cruise ships or ferries.

• Svartisen Glacier: Located near the town of Mo i Rana, in the vast Saltfjellet-Svartisen Park, this is the country’s second-largest glacier. Hiking is possible in the park.

• Folgefonna National Park: A beautiful park encompassing three glaciers southeast of Bergen. Trekking is available here.

• Hardangervidda National Park: Norway’s largest national park. Situated between Bergen and Oslo, it offers stunning landscapes and various outdoor activities (cross-country skiing, hiking, climbing, fishing). You can also see many reindeer herds here.

• Jostedalsbreen National Park: This park in the southern part of the country is home to the largest glacier in continental Europe, the Jostedalsbreen, as well as others like the more accessible Briksdalsbreen. Hiking is possible here.

• Jotunheimen National Park: A magnificent park of mountains, glaciers, and valleys between Oslo and Ålesund. It’s one of Norwegians’ favorite spots for fishing, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

• Preikestolen: This cliff near Stavanger, towering over the Lysefjord by more than 600 meters, has become one of the country’s main tourist sites thanks to its extraordinary panorama. Hiking is also possible in the surrounding area. Other impressive promontories in the region include Kjeragbolten (with its boulder wedged between two cliffs) and Trolltunga.

Alongside these sites, there are several tourist routes like the Atlantic Ocean Road and the Trollstigen Road that allow visitors to discover remarkable landscapes.

Wildlife and Flora