Getting to Know Europe’s Nature Scene: Best Natural Attractions in Europe
Europe is a destination of dreams for many people. It was the center of the biggest civilization advancement known in history, Renaissance. Visiting Europe is considered an educational trip because people will be able to see the very many facets of culture, including famous paintings and monuments.
Europe is not only about its significance in civilization, though. This continent offers a very interesting natural vista that is so breathtaking that you will yearn to return to this place as soon as possible.
In the next passage you will find what are considered to be best natural tourist attractions in Europe. These places are scattered in several countries within the continent.
1. Svalbard in Norway
This place used to be called Spitsbergen. The island group is located in the middle of the Arctic Ocean. Svalbard is located right in the middle en route of Norway Mainland to the North Pole.
Because of its location, you can expect it to have an Arctic climate. Even during summer, which is the hottest season, the temperature is measured around 4 to 6 degree Celsius. During the winter season the temperature is way below the freezing point.
This place used to be called Spitsbergen. The island group is located in the middle of the Arctic Ocean. Svalbard is located right in the middle en route of Norway Mainland to the North Pole.
Because of its location, you can expect it to have an Arctic climate. Even during summer, which is the hottest season, the temperature is measured around 4 to 6 degree Celsius. During the winter season the temperature is way below the freezing point.
2. Santorini in Greece
Santorini is another example of the best natural tourist attractions in Europe. In fact, this is arguably the most renowned one. It is a group of islands with Thíra as its largest one. From a geological perspective, this place is very mesmerizing.
It is because the entire archipelago is located near an active volcano. The crater of that volcano is interestingly located below sea level. It is one of many reasons people are visiting the place. Santorini has a spectacular natural view, combined with beautiful residential landscapes of unique Greek architecture.
Active persons are likely to want to explore the island through rigorous activities such as horseback riding and hiking. Water sports like kayaking and water skiing are also available. However, if you plan to go there for leisure, sightseeing around the town is already more than enough. You can also fulfill your gastronomic needs there.
3. Reykjavik in Iceland
Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland. However, despite being the capital (and in fact most populated city in the country), it is relatively sparse if compared to other metropolitan cities around the globe.
The natural public spaces in Reykjavik are abundant. There is an island called Videy in which you can observe wild birds native to the country. You can also visit parks and botanical gardens that contain diverse vegetation only found in Iceland.
The first popular activity that people commonly do in the city is fishing. Grandi, a district there, is known to be a place for packing fish products to be distributed across Iceland. In the public garden you can enjoy picnics when the temperature is warmer. More than nature, though, the nightlife of Reykjavik is also very vibrant. You can enjoy cocktails while swaying to good club music and get to know locals.
4. Las Médulas in Spain
Many people visit the big cities in Spain and granted, Barcelona and Madrid certainly offer diverse entertainments. However discussing a Spanish contender for the natural tourist attractions in Europe, it is a mistake to not include Las Médulas. This mountainous area is known to be a gold mine. Historically, this area is occupied by the Roman Empire. Thus, the empire had an authority to mine the gold in this area.
It is suspected that Las Médulas used to have more wholesome landscapes than it is today. However, the exploitative process of gold mining done by the Romans had aggravated its structure.
It does not mean that the place is unable to take your breath away, though, because it does. This location has a spectacular view of vegetation surrounding the old mining area. The surrounding area is now used for agriculture.
5. Lucerne in Switzerland
Switzerland is often considered as the most peaceful country in the world. Not only for its political standpoint, the natural landscapes of Switzerland are what attract people into visiting the country.
Lucerne is without doubt one region that you ought to visit while in the country. The region is located within the Alpine so you can expect to see spectacular mountains and lakes over there. The cities are also maintained to have that classic Alpine style that people find nostalgic.
Switzerland is often considered as the most peaceful country in the world. Not only for its political standpoint, the natural landscapes of Switzerland are what attract people into visiting the country.
Lucerne is without doubt one region that you ought to visit while in the country. The region is located within the Alpine so you can expect to see spectacular mountains and lakes over there. The cities are also maintained to have that classic Alpine style that people find nostalgic.
6. Samobor in Croatia
Not many people are considering Croatia as a travel destination on their Europe tour. That is such a pity because despite being less popular compared to other destinations, Croatia certainly owns some natural tourist attractions in Europe. Samobor is one of the prime examples. This small town is only located twenty kilometers away from the country’s capital, Zagreb.
The variety of activities that you can do in Samobor encompass sightseeing, hiking, and even cruising. You can also go on more extreme activities such as windsurfing, rock climbing, and rafting.
However, one thing that you should not miss while being there is experiencing its culinary wonder. There are many restaurants and local cake shops offering tasty Croatian food to satisfy your craving.
7. Eger in Hungary
Eger in Hungary would be dubbed by the inner circle as one of the most beautiful natural tourist attractions in Europe but many novice tourists tend to overlook it in favor of more famous places.
This place is recognized as its high quality wine production and water springs which are believed to have superior healing properties. It is a town where you can find that nature (mostly consists of vineyards) and cultural buildings stand harmoniously together.
Sightseeing is certainly a favorite activity for people because the vista in this city is without doubt amazing. However, you can also do other activities such as plane tours, cycling, and even hiking through a wildlife preserve. People also like to go observing the winemaking process. You can bring home some of the finest wine variants you will ever taste in your life.
8. Dordogne Valley in France
The valley is located in a region named Nouvelle-Aquitaine. It might be one of the best views that you will see throughout your life. When you set your foot in Dordogne, you will see the valley overlooking classic style buildings.
The valley is heavily populated with green vegetation which is the characteristic of Southwestern France. In the middle of the valleys, there is the Dordogne River which runs across.
This place is perfect if you are expecting a peaceful trip away from the bustling city. You can enjoy activities such as hiking and cruising there. Not only that, you can go fishing in the river too if that is more of your niche. Another thing that you should try to experience there is the cuisine. You will find it so different from the one you find in the cities.
9. The Northern Lights in Finland
Finland’s Northern Lights is an example of natural tourist attractions in Europe that is already renowned worldwide. You will only be able to find such mesmerizing beauty in this place. The phenomenon is also known as Aurelia borealis.
At the northern part of Finland, you will be able to see the night sky having greenish to bluish hue which extends upwards. The view is so spectacular that you will brave the cold just to see it.
In Finland, you will be able to see the Northern Lights from October to March. This means your chance to witness this natural phenomenon is very great. Lapland is one of the places in which you can see the lights. Not only can you enjoy camping under the stars to see it, you can also go skiing during the day there.
10. Sarek National Park in Sweden
Sweden is a magnificent country, offering equally magnificent natural scenery. Sarek National Park is one of the landmarks in this country.
The national park encompasses an area of 1,970 square kilometers. During the warmer seasons you will be able to see green grass overlooking icy mountains. Meanwhile in the winter season, the entire place is covered in snow.
You will be able to see a variety of wildlife while visiting the park. Animals like wolverines, lynx, and bears live in this area. The plants are also so varied. You can see some medicinal herbs used by Sammi people there. The sight of green against white, especially during spring season, is thrilling.
