The most beautiful natural parks of Europe

2023-08-12 20:56:00, Kulturë CNA

The most beautiful natural parks of Europe

Cinque Terre, Italy. The segment of one of the most spectacular railways in Europe passes through this area.

Are you tired of the intensity of work and the daily routine and longing for a vacation somewhere far away in wonderful natural surroundings? DW recommends 10 national parks in Europe that are worth visiting.

Hossa National Park, Finland

Brown bear in Kajaani Park, Finland

Visitors to the far north-eastern region of Finland may, if lucky, catch glimpses of wolves, deer and brown bears. Hossa National Park is notable for its dense coniferous forests and crystal clear lakes, which are ideal for hikers who want to get off the beaten path from the alpine trails.

Sarek National Park, Sweden

Sarek Park, Sweden under the spell of the Aurora Borealis

Those who wish to experience the untouched Nordic wilderness should head to Sweden's Sarek National Park. The vast and completely uninhabited area is a paradise for tourists with a spirit for outdoor adventure. The reserve contains some of Sweden's highest mountains, as well as many glaciers. With a bit of luck, visitors may even experience the magic of the Aurora Borealis, the polar lights.

Jotunheimen National Park, Norway

Jotunheimen, national park in Norway

This 3,500 square kilometer nature reserve in southern Norway is an ideal getaway for lovers of stunning mountain scenery. Jotunheimen, which translates to "home of the giants", also contains numerous impressive lakes. Lake Gjende, a must-see, gets its emerald green color from melting glaciers.

Sandstone cliffs of the Elbe between Germany and the Czech Republic

Rock formations along the Elbe

This rugged mountain range, straddling the German-Czech border, offers fantastic hiking trails for enthusiasts and beginners alike. And the views from Decunsky Sneznik, the region's highest mountain on the Czech side of the border, are nothing short of stunning.

High Fens Nature Reserves, Belgium and Germany

Landscape from the High Fens bog forest

This region along the German-Belgian border has one of Europe's last remaining bog forests, which can be explored by walking through the bog thanks to a whole network of wooden paths and bridges set up especially for visitors. The area's high average annual rainfall and humidity levels have created a unique ecosystem in this forest.

Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

Plitvice Falls, Croatia

Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the oldest and largest of its kind in Croatia. Located in the mountainous karst area of ??the country, it is known for its beautiful, interconnected lakes and waterfalls. Visitors can also remember these panoramas from the many films shot here.

Lake Shkodra, Montenegro and Albania

Image from Lake Shkodra

Lake Shkodra is the largest body of water in the Balkan Peninsula, although its exact size varies depending on the season. Go here if you like idyllic island monasteries, birdwatching or just want to immerse yourself in unspoiled nature.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre stands out for its nature and architecture on the hilltops above the sea

This coastal strip in Liguria, northwest Italy, is world famous for its picturesque villages and great trails. Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, it is perfect for walking, relaxing and burning off calories thanks to hiking. However, you can regain those calories quickly, as the area is also known for its cuisine.

Calanques, France

Calanaques, national park, Marseille, France

The Calanques National Park, near the French port city of Marseille, stretches along the Mediterranean coast with its stunning views. Its fjord-like bays and its wealth of flora and fauna evoke a sense of heaven on earth to nature lovers, especially hikers and cyclists.

Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park, Spain

Rio Yaga Abyss in the Spanish Ordessa National Park

Located in the Spanish Pyrenees mountain range, the Ordesa y Monte Perdido National Park features deep valleys and snow-capped mountain peaks, verdant forests and an abundance of wildlife. The area is ideal for hiking, rock climbing or just enjoying the stunning views./ DW