Best National Parks In Europe 2024

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Europe is a home for one of the most beautiful National Parks offer a great opportunity to connect with nature and explore the stunning landscapes that your country has to offer. Camping in national parks is a cost-effective and rewarding vacation option, offering endless possibilities for adventure such as hiking, wildlife spotting, stargazing, and creating lasting memories with your loved ones. Pack your bags and embark on a road trip to explore the natural wonders of your country’s national parks.

Please be aware that in national parks and other protected areas, camping is only permitted in designated camping sites. Camping is generally not allowed elsewhere in protected areas. The majority of campsites are free of charge and come equipped with picnic tables, campfire rings, dry toilets, and well-stocked woodsheds for your convenience.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Plitvice Lakes National Park, established in 1949, showcases cascading lakes formed by travertine barriers

In the heart of Croatia, Plitvice Lakes National Park comprises 16 terraced lakes, connected by a series of waterfalls, nestled in deep woodlands home to deer, bears, wolves, boars, and rare bird species. The park is particularly famous for its waters that change colors from azure to green and gray, and the limestone caves beneath its surface.

What to do in Plitvice Lakes?

In Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes National Park, you will be able to submerge yourself in the paradise of 16 terraced lakes, connected with waterfalls, and located in the midst of grand woodland. The region abounds with deer, bear, and wolf, boars, as well as some rare bird species. Enjoy leisurely walking on wooden walkways and hiking trails that meander through the edge of the river and over the rapids. For a different view, one can opt to take to the water and enjoy clear boat rides over the lakes. Oh yes, and take the camera too. The otherworldly beauty of the park offers second-to-none photo opportunities, as the brilliant colors of the water contrast sharply with the land.

Sarek National Park, Sweden

Founded in 1909, Sarek National Park is one of Europe’s oldest and is celebrated for its untouched wilderness and traditional Sami culture.

Often referred to as the last wilderness among the National Parks in Europe, Sarek National Park has no marked trails and only a few huts. Covering an area of 2,854 square kilometers, this reserve is among the oldest national parks in Europe. It features everything from mountain peaks with sparse vegetation and wild rivers to extremely deep valleys and dramatic glaciers.
Sarek National Park offers an ideal destination for experienced hikers or anyone looking to be utterly amazed by untamed nature.

What to do in Sarek?

Sarek National Park in Sweden is an experienced hiker’s paradise who thirsts for untouched wilderness. With vast lands of high peaks, deep valleys, and over 100 glaciers, it’s one tough terrain which rewards with views that take away your breath. Traverse the Rjsonaapa Valley—beautiful sight—where the river has cut through the landscape. NB: There are no signposts here and also no lodges; the land here is owned by big foreign-controlled farms growing mainly roses for export. The park’s rugged beauty provides a profound sense of solitude and connection with nature.

Jotunheimen National Park, Norway

Jotunheimen National Park, named “Home of the Giants,” features Norway’s highest peaks and traces of ancient Viking pathways.

Translated as ‘Home of the Giants,’ Jotunheimen, a key site among the National Parks in Europe, is home to Norway’s highest mountains and most iconic hiking adventures, including the Besseggen Ridge and Galdhøpiggen, the highest peak in Northern Europe. Glacial summits, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife make Jotunheimen a picture-perfect destination in any season.

What to do in Jotunheimen?

One of the best known in this country is Jotunheimen National Park, which runs along high, sharp peaks of Norway, with deep fjords cutting in between. World-famous hiking tracks lead across the beautiful landscapes of the Besseggen Ridge. The park is a climber’s paradise, as some of the highest peaks in Norway can be scaled from the park. Whenever something more peaceful is needed, the numerous lakes in the park offer excellent fishing grounds. Jotunheimen serves as the stage for an ever-exciting adventure and paceful nature escape with a diversified program of activities in the beautiful countryside of Norway.

Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany

Saxon Switzerland National Park, named in the 18th century, boasts sandstone cliffs once traversed by Romantic painters.

Located in Germany, is a beautiful destination within the National Parks in Europe, featuring stunning sandstone rock formations, deep gorges, and dense forests. It is a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts looking for breathtaking landscapes and thrilling experiences. Despite its name, Saxon Switzerland is a sandstone sanctuary with the River Elbe snaking through its heart. This dramatically rocky landscape offers over 700 climbing peaks and miles of hiking trails in the Elbe Valley.

What to do in Saxon Switzerland?

The Saxon Switzerland National Park in Germany throws up a dramatic landscape of plunging sandstone cliffs and deep canyons cut in every direction, amidst a fertile carpet of forest. The park has more than 1,000 summits and is a perfect place for any rock climber. Most of the walking trails include the famous Malerweg. On this walking trail, tourists are able to observe the sceneries and rock formations up close, such as the Bastei Bridge. River Elbe cruises offer yet another peaceful way to enjoy the beauty of this park. This park is a haven for adventurers and nature lovers alike, seeking to explore its natural wonders and scenic beauty.

Picos de Europa National Park, Spain

Picos de Europa National Park, established in 1918, is Spain’s first national park, known for its dramatic limestone peaks.

Spain’s Picos de Europa National Park is a rugged and mountainous area that boasts jagged peaks. Verdant valleys, and picturesque villages, providing visitors with breathtaking views and cultural charm. The Picos de Europa, or Peaks of Europe, earned their name due to their towering cliffs that rise above the Atlantic Ocean. This northern Spanish park is a paradise for hikers, with an array of trails that cater to all levels. Discover glacial lakes, limestone caves, and charming Asturian villages.

What to do in Picos de Europa?

Picos de Europa National Park, located in Spain, is the rugged beauty of towered peaks with deep valleys. One such is the iconic Cares Route, which winds itself between breathtaking gorges. Wild animal spotting and flora observation on the dazzling aerial vistas was made easy with the Fuente Dé cable car. The blend of nature’s beauty, adventure, and accessibility is certainly what makes the park a must-visit place for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull, showcases volcanic activity beneath ice since its 2008 establishment.

Iceland is an otherworldly land of beauty within the National Parks in Europe. Featuring Europe’s largest glacier, stunning volcanic landscapes demonstrate the power of nature. Vatnajökull, the largest national park in Europe, covers much of Iceland’s interior and showcases some of the country’s most impressive natural landmarks. It features Europe’s largest waterfall, Dettifoss.

What to do in Vatnajökull?

Visit Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland to explore the largest glacier in Europe by area. In this park, expert guides offer several glacier tours, leading hikes across the icy expanse and delving deep into crevasses to reveal the mysterious ice formations within.Another exciting must-do activity is the visit to the mesmerizing blue ice caves that allow access during winters. Besides, the diversified landscape of the park provides opportunities for hiking on trails displaying beautiful views of ice caps and volcanic terrain.

Cinque Terre National Park, Italy

Cinque Terre National Park, established in 1999, preserves Manarola’s centuries-old vineyards and vibrant maritime heritage.

Experience the charm of Cinque Terre National Park in Italy, an enchanting blend of beauty and tradition. Its vibrant villages, terraced vineyards, and scenic trails showcase a coastal paradise. This UNESCO World Heritage site and national park boasts a harmonious blend of natural and cultural marvels. Its colorful fishing villages to the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters.

What to do in Cinque Terre?

Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts vibrant villages set against the stunning Ligurian Sea. Its steep slopes cascade into emerald waters, offering dramatic coastal views. Interconnecting paths lead to exploration of local vineyards and culinary delights. Among these romantic routes, the standout is Via dell’Amore, aptly named ‘Lovers’ Lane. For a unique experience, explore the underwater trails for diving enthusiasts, showcasing the park’s rich marine life.

Durmitor National Park, Montenegro

Durmitor National Park, established in 1952, is renowned for its limestone peaks and deep Tara River Canyon, Europe’s deepest.

Montenegro’s Durmitor National Park, a prominent part of the National Parks in Europe, is home to rugged terrain. Dramatic limestone peaks, and deep gorges offering breathtaking vistas for adventurers to explore. Durmitor showcases the beauty of the Balkans, with its glacial lakes. Tara Canyon (the second deepest in the world), and 48 peaks that soar over 2,000 meters. The park not only offers adventure through its numerous water and land-based activities but also provides a glimpse into Montenegro’s rich history and traditions.

What to do in Durmitor?

Montenegro’s Durmitor National Park, with activities matching the drama of its landscapes, offers an adventurer’s playground amid jagged mountains and plunging glacial lakes. Good for trekking, as there are lots of different views from trails, including the one heading toward Bobotov Kuk. The largest river canyon in Europe is the Tara River Canyon, which provides splendid experiences in connection with rafting. In the surrounding area of the park, lots of lakes called “mountain eyes” display spots for pasturing to make picnics and relax. The natural beauty of Durmitor and its activity variety is such that an adventurer cannot avoid the place.

Lake District National Park, UK

Lake District National Park, founded in 1951, inspired poets like Wordsworth with its pristine, picturesque landscapes.

The Lake District National Park in the UK is a beautiful place that attracts nature lovers and artists with its stunning mountains. Lake District has long inspired poets and writers. From Lake Windermere’s shores to the summit of Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak. The park’s diverse landscape beckons with seasonal vistas and outdoor adventures.

What to do in Lake District?

Lake District National Park in the UK is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts and literary fans alike. It’s an area overflowing with great lakes, wild fells, and pretty villages; offering timeless walking routes and boating pursuits, and the chance to step in the footsteps of the much-trotted poet William Wordsworth. Visitors may take a scenic drive to visit historic homes. however, it is at night when local cuisines are a must experience at the homely pubs and tea rooms. The natural beauty in the park connects people with the environment, offers great outdoor adventure activities, and relaxation.

Pollino National Park, Italy

This National Park is situated in the regions of Basilicata and Calabria in Italy. The park is characterized by rugged mountains, deep gorges, and dense forests. It is home to the Pollino Massif, which is the largest mountain range in the southern Apennines. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a wide range of flora and fauna, including rare Bosnian pine and golden eagles. Visitors can explore the network of trails, spot wildlife and discover ancient villages nestled within the park’s boundaries.

What to do in Pollino?

Italy’s largest national park, the Pollino National Park, covers a rough wilderness area that sends into neighborin’. It offers hikers a maze of outdoor activity spots, a long network of trails among old forests, and views from the mountaintops. An area rich in vegetation and biodiversity, with the opportunity to sight an Italian wolf or the very rare golden eagles that inhabit the park. The ancient villages within the park give one an authentic feel of how life was carried out in those areas many centuries ago. Pollino is a destination that combines natural beauty with a deep sense of history and culture.

Conclusion

Spending time in nature offers various health benefits, such as reducing stress, improving mood, and promoting physical well-being. Europe’s national parks, including the tranquil lakes of Plitvice and the rugged peaks of Jotunheimen, provide a sanctuary for both the mind and body. Whether you’re in search of adventure or just a moment of serenity, immersing yourself in nature will surely leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. So, why not embark on your own outdoor adventure and discover the wonders that Europe’s national parks have to offer? Your mind and body will thank you for it.

10 Most Beautiful National Parks In Europe