Europe is known for a lot of things – history, culture, spectacular architecture – but natural scenery isn’t usually at the top of the list. Beyond epic cities, however, you’ll find that Europe’s best national parks are just as spectacular as its man-made landscapes, offering a range of wonderful environments to explore, from rugged coastlines and towering mountains to lush forests and crystal-clear lakes. Imagine: hiking through the Alps, exploring the Mediterranean coastline, or wandering through the vast northern wilderness.
All in all, Europe is home to more than 500 national parks – which makes the list below rather narrow. For nature lovers, adventurers and travelers seeking the ultimate European outdoor vacation, or for armchair travel dreamers, here are 3 of Europe’s best national parks.
1. Sixteen Lakes National Park, Croatia
Sixteen Lakes National Park is one of the most iconic national parks in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located in central Croatia and is known for its beautiful lakes, cascading waterfalls and lush greenery. Connected by waterfalls, the park’s 16 terraced lakes are nestled in dense forests and are home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves and rare birds.
Visitors can explore the park via wooden walkways and hiking trails that surround the lakes and waterfalls, with breathtaking views at every turn. The combination of vibrant turquoise waters and lush green foliage creates a magical atmosphere that really is a little too good to be true. Spring and fall are the best times to visit, as the park is less crowded and the colors of the lakes and forests are at their most vibrant.
2. Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany
Despite its name, the Saxon Switzerland National Park is located in eastern Germany, near the border with the Czech Republic. The park is loved for its striking sandstone rock formations, deep valleys and dense forests. The Elbe River also winds through the park, adding to its magnificence. National parks in Europe, at least on the continent, don’t get much better than this.
The park’s most famous landmark is the Bastide Bridge, which offers a breathtaking view of the Elbe and the surrounding cliffs. Beyond the bridge, hikers can also enjoy an extensive network of trails, including the Malerweg, which inspired many 18th- and 19th-century artists. The park is especially beautiful in the fall, when the forests burst into vibrant fall colors.
3. Jotunheimen National Park, Norway
For those who love rugged mountain terrain, Norway’s Jotunheimen National Park offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Europe. The park is home to some of Norway’s tallest peaks, including Galdhøpiggen, which rises to about 8,100 ft. The park’s name translates to “home of the giants,” and it’s true: the park is nothing but snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes, and the views are spectacular.
The Jotunheimen National Park is a popular destination for hikers, with numerous trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints, such as the Besseggen Ridge – where hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the turquoise Gjende Lake and the surrounding mountains. In the summer, visitors can also enjoy glacier hiking and mountaineering. For those looking for a true wilderness experience, the Jotunheimen National Park is a perfect choice.
