Scandinavia is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, and the region’s national parks are the perfect way to explore them. From Norway’s towering mountains to Denmark’s serene forests, the national parks in Scandinavia offer visitors an incredible opportunity to connect with nature and experience the region’s unique beauty.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the 10 best national parks in Scandinavia, focusing specifically on those located in Norway, Sweden, and Denmark.
The best national parks in Norway
Jotunheimen National Park
Jotunheimen National Park is a stunning natural wonder located in the heart of Scandinavia. The park is home to Norway’s highest peaks and some of the most impressive glaciers in the region. Visitors can explore over 350 kilometers of marked hiking trails, take part in guided tours, and enjoy the park’s many natural wonders, including waterfalls, lakes, and unique wildlife.
Jotunheimen is a paradise for hikers and mountaineers, offering a challenging but rewarding experience for those seeking an adventure in Scandinavia. The park is also known for its stunning panoramic views, which provide a glimpse of the breathtaking beauty of Norway and the wider Scandinavian region. With its rugged landscape and unique flora and fauna, Jotunheimen National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Scandinavia.
How to get there:
- By Car: If you have access to a car, you can reach Jotunheimen National Park by taking the E6 highway north from Oslo or south from Trondheim, then exiting onto Route 51 towards Beitostølen or Route 55 towards Lom. Follow signs to the park.
- By Public Transportation: You can take a train or bus to either Oslo or Lillehammer, then take a bus to Beitostølen or Lom. From there, you can take a taxi or shuttle to the park. The journey takes around 4-5 hours from Oslo or Lillehammer.
- By Bicycle: It is also possible to bike to the park, but it is recommended only for experienced cyclists. You can bike on Route 51 or Route 55, which both pass through the park.
Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park
Nestled in Scandinavia lies Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park, a mountainous paradise renowned for its diverse wildlife, sprawling glaciers, and extensive hiking trails. Visitors can glimpse musk oxen and wild reindeer while exploring the trails or taking a guided tour. The panoramic views of the Norwegian landscape are simply breathtaking.
As one of Scandinavia’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the region’s untamed wilderness. Its pristine landscapes and diverse wildlife make it an essential destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The park is a testament to the rugged beauty of Scandinavia’s terrain. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or seeking a peaceful respite from the city, it’s the perfect place to unwind.
How to get there:
- By Car: If you have access to a car, you can reach Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park by taking the E6 highway north from Oslo or south from Trondheim, then exiting onto Route 70 towards Oppdal or Dombås. Follow signs to the park.
- By Public Transportation: You can take a train to either Dombås or Oppdal, then take a bus to the park. The journey takes around 2-3 hours from either city.
- By Bicycle: You can also bike to the park, but it is recommended only for experienced cyclists. You can bike on Route 70, which passes through the park.
Rondane National Park
Rondane National Park in Scandinavia is a majestic mountain range with 10 peaks towering over the breathtaking landscape. The rugged terrain, valleys, and glaciers provide a stunning visual treat. With over 200 kilometers of hiking trails, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.
Home to diverse wildlife, including elk, reindeer, and foxes, the park offers trails of varying difficulty levels for hikers of all skills. It is open year-round, with skiing and snowshoeing available in winter.
Historic mountain lodges offer comfortable resting places for hikers and traditional Scandinavian cuisine. Rondane National Park is a haven for nature lovers, displaying the untamed beauty of Scandinavia. It is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.
How to get there:
- By Car: If you have access to a car, you can reach Rondane National Park by taking the E6 highway north from Oslo or south from Trondheim, then exiting onto Route 27 towards Otta or Route 51 towards Ringebu. Follow signs to the park.
- By Public Transportation: You can take a train to either Otta or Ringebu, then take a bus to the park. The journey takes around 2-3 hours from either city.
- By Bicycle: You can also bike to the park, but it is recommended only for experienced cyclists. You can bike on Route 27 or Route 51, which both pass through the park.
Hardangervidda National Park
Hardangervidda National Park, situated in Scandinavia, is Norway’s largest national park. It features a mesmerizing landscape of a high plateau, steep valleys, and icy glaciers. The park is home to various flora and fauna, including arctic foxes, wild reindeer, and snowy owls.
Hardangervidda National Park is renowned for its extensive network of hiking trails, ranging from short walks to multi-day treks. It’s also a popular spot for fishing and skiing in the winter months. Visitors can witness awe-inspiring views of the Northern Lights in the winter sky.
The park also features several cabins for hikers to rest and recharge while admiring the stunning surroundings. Hardangervidda National Park is an outdoor lover’s paradise and an unforgettable destination for those seeking adventure in Scandinavia.
How to get there:
- By Car: If you have access to a car, you can reach Hardangervidda National Park by taking the E134 highway from Oslo or Bergen, then exiting onto Route 7 towards Eidfjord or Route 50 towards Geilo. Follow signs to the park.
- By Public Transportation: You can take a train to either Geilo or Eidfjord, then take a bus to the park. The journey takes around 2-3 hours from either city.
- By Bicycle: You can also bike to the park, but it is recommended only for experienced cyclists. You can bike on Route 7 or Route 50, which both pass through the park.
The best national parks in Sweden
Sarek National Park
Nestled in the heart of Scandinavia, Sarek National Park is a true wilderness paradise. With vast glaciers, glistening lakes, and rugged mountains, the park offers an unforgettable visual experience. It’s home to several endangered species, including arctic foxes and brown bears.
Sarek National Park is a hiker’s dream, with over 200 kilometers of trails for all skill levels. The park is also popular among kayakers and rafters, with several rivers running through it.
Visitors can stay in cabins, pitch tents, or camp under the stars. Sarek National Park is open year-round, and the summer months offer a mild climate with 24-hour daylight.
Sarek National Park is an unspoiled natural paradise, offering the chance to disconnect from civilization and immerse oneself in nature. It’s an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts seeking a truly unique outdoor experience in Scandinavia.
How to get there:
- By Car: If you have access to a car, you can reach Sarek National Park by taking the E10 highway from Luleå or Kiruna, then turning onto Route 45 towards Kvikkjokk. Follow signs to the park. However, please note that the last part of the journey to the park must be done on foot or by boat, as there are no roads leading into the park.
- By Public Transportation: You can take a train or bus to either Gällivare or Jokkmokk, then take a bus or taxi to Kvikkjokk. From there, you can hike or take a boat into the park.
- By Air: You can also fly to the town of Stora Sjöfallet, which has a small airport. From there, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Kvikkjokk, then hike or take a boat into the park.
Abisko National Park
Abisko National Park, situated in the northernmost part of Scandinavia, is renowned for its breathtaking beauty. It features crystal-clear lakes, vast forests, and towering mountains.
The park offers various activities, including hiking, fishing, and skiing, with over 85 kilometers of hiking trails. It’s also a popular spot for viewing the Northern Lights, with clear skies and minimal light pollution.
Abisko National Park is home to several rare species, including the arctic fox and lynx. Visitors can stay in cabins or pitch tents, with camping available year-round.
The park is easily accessible, with a train station located in the nearby village of Abisko. The village also offers several amenities, including restaurants, shops, and a hostel.
Abisko National Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience in Scandinavia. With stunning natural beauty and endless activities, it’s a must-visit destination for any traveler.
How to get there:
- By air: The closest airport is Kiruna Airport, which is about 100 km away. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Abisko National Park.
- By train: Abisko has its own train station, which is served by the SJ night train from Stockholm. You can also take a train from Kiruna, Narvik, or Luleå.
- By bus: There are regular buses from Kiruna, Narvik, and other nearby towns to Abisko National Park.
- By car: You can also drive to Abisko National Park. The park is located on the E10 highway, which runs from Kiruna to Narvik.
Tyresta National Park
Located in the heart of Scandinavia, Tyresta National Park is a pristine natural wonder. The park boasts lush forests, tranquil lakes, and beautiful hiking trails.
Visitors can choose from over 55 kilometers of trails for all skill levels, including guided tours. The park is also a popular spot for birdwatching and nature photography.
Tyresta National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including elk, deer, and rare bird species. Visitors can stay in cabins or pitch tents, with camping available year-round.
The park is easily accessible from Stockholm, located only 20 kilometers away. It offers several amenities, including a visitor center, cafe, and souvenir shop.
Tyresta National Park is a hidden gem in Scandinavia, offering a tranquil escape from city life. With stunning natural beauty and endless activities, it’s a must-visit destination for any nature lover.
How to get there:
- By Car: If you have access to a car, you can reach Tyresta National Park by taking Route 229 south of Stockholm. The park is located off this road, and signs are directing you to the park entrance.
- By Public Transportation: You can take the subway (Tunnelbana) to Gullmarsplan station, and then take bus 807 towards Tyresta By. Get off at the Tyresta National Park stop. The journey takes around 30 minutes from central Stockholm.
- By Bicycle: Tyresta National Park is also accessible by bike. There are bike paths leading to the park, and you can rent a bike from various rental shops in Stockholm.
Skuleskogen National Park
Skuleskogen National Park, located in northern Scandinavia, offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Bothnia. The park is famous for its ancient forest and dramatic rocky coastline.
Visitors can explore over 40 kilometers of hiking trails, including the popular High Coast Trail. The park also offers canoeing and kayaking in the surrounding waterways.
Skuleskogen National Park is home to several rare species, including the Golden Eagle and the Peregrine Falcon. Visitors can stay in nearby hotels, hostels, or campgrounds.
The park is easily accessible from the nearby town of Örnsköldsvik, which offers several amenities such as restaurants and shops.
Skuleskogen National Park is a unique destination in Scandinavia, offering a mix of ancient forests and stunning coastal landscapes. With endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, it’s a must-visit for any traveler.
How to get there:
- By Car: If you have access to a car, you can reach Skuleskogen National Park by taking the E4 highway north from Sundsvall, then exiting onto Route 335 towards Docksta. Follow signs to the park.
- By Public Transportation: You can take a train or bus to Sundsvall, then take bus 30 or 31 towards Docksta. Get off at the Skuleberget stop, which is near the park entrance. The journey takes around 1.5-2 hours from Sundsvall.
- By Bicycle: You can also bike to the park, which is accessible via Route 335. There are bike racks available at the park entrance.
The best national parks in Denmark
Thy National Park
Thy National Park, located in western Denmark, is a unique destination in Scandinavia. The park boasts stunning coastal landscapes, sandy beaches, and dunes.
Visitors can enjoy over 40 kilometers of hiking and biking trails, with options for all skill levels. The park is also popular for birdwatching, with several rare species calling it home.
Thy National Park is a great spot for water sports enthusiasts, offering surfing, kayaking, and fishing. Visitors can stay in nearby hotels, hostels, or campgrounds.
The park is easily accessible from the nearby town of Thisted, which offers several amenities such as restaurants and shops.
How to get there:
- By Car: If you have access to a car, you can reach Thy National Park by taking the E39 highway west from Aalborg, then exiting onto Route 181 towards Thyboron. Follow signs to the park.
- By Public Transportation: You can take a train or bus to Thisted, then take bus 71 towards Agger. Get off at the Nationalparkcenter Thy stop, which is near the park entrance. The journey takes around 1-1.5 hours from Thisted.
- By Bicycle: You can also bike to the park, which is accessible via Route 181. There are bike racks available at the park entrance.
Mols Bjerge National Park
Mols Bjerge National Park, located in eastern Denmark, is a popular destination in Scandinavia. The park boasts rolling hills, coastal landscapes, and forests.
Visitors can enjoy over 180 kilometers of hiking and biking trails, with options for all skill levels. The park is also great for birdwatching, with several rare species calling it home.
Mols Bjerge National Park is a great spot for water activities, offering kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Visitors can stay in nearby hotels, hostels, or campgrounds.
The park is easily accessible from the nearby towns of Aarhus and Ebeltoft, which offer several amenities such as restaurants and shops.
How to get there:
- By Car: If you have access to a car, you can reach Mols Bjerge National Park by taking the E45 highway to Aarhus, then taking Route 21 towards Ebeltoft. Follow signs to the park.
- By Public Transportation: You can take a train or bus to Aarhus, then take bus 123 towards Ebeltoft. Get off at the Mols National Park stop, which is near the park entrance. The journey takes around 1.5 hours from Aarhus.
- By Bicycle: You can also bike to the park, which is accessible via Route 21. There are bike racks available at the park entrance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Scandinavia is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking and diverse national parks. From Norway’s dramatic fjords and high plateaus to Sweden’s vast forests and lakes and Denmark’s stunning coastal landscapes, the region is a nature lover’s paradise.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, scenic hikes, or simply a peaceful escape from city life, the national parks in Scandinavia offer something for everyone.
While this list highlights some of the best national parks in the region, there are many more waiting to be explored. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and discover the natural beauty that Scandinavia has to offer.