12 European Countries With the Most Beautiful Nature
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If you would like to explore the diversity of nature easily, the best place to do it would be in Europe. It is even more fascinating considering how physically closer the European countries are to each other and how easily you can traverse from one country to another.
Europe has something for every type of nature lover, whether you are into verdant mountain ranges, crystalline coastlines, lush countryside, charming villages, or vast meadows. These natural landscapes offer amazing sightseeing and exploration opportunities. The countries’ nature makes them great for backpacking, luxury travel, or anything in between; the choice is yours.
The nature of these European countries never ceases to impress travelers; add them to your bucket list.
Greece
Greece is not just about ancient ruins and beautiful islands; it’s also a paradise for nature lovers. The country is full of green forests, tall mountains, and peaceful rivers. Imagine walking through the Samaria Gorge in Crete, looking up at the tall cliffs, or staring in wonder at the Meteora’s giant rocks with old monasteries sitting on top.
There’s also the Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in the world in proportion to its width, hidden in the mountains. Whether hiking up Mount Olympus or enjoying the flowers in Pelion, Greece’s nature is as exciting as its beaches and ancient temples.
Read also: Top Greek Islands for Beaches
Italy
While Italy is known for its history and culture-filled cities such as Rome, Milan, and Florence, you want to go deeper and see natural landscapes outside the major urban centers. Nature lovers will be treated to pristine lakes, charming villages, wine-growing regions, picture-perfect coastlines, and the towering peaks of Italy. Whether you are into mountains, small village charm, or seeking beach destinations, you will find an ideal escape in Italy.
Marvel at Lake Como, hike in the Dolomites, tour the Cinque Terre, bask in the beaches of the Amalfi Coast, go wine tasting in the Tuscany region, or island hop in its long string of islands.
Read also: Top Things To Do in Rome
France
France is home to an unbelievable diversity of landscapes. Tourists who go beyond the romantic charm of Paris would be treated to perfect scenery and numerous exploration opportunities.
Hike in the Calanques of Cassis; climb the highest dune in Europe, Dune of Pilat; enjoy different outdoor activities in the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” Verdon Gorges; engage in all sorts of mountain activities in Mont-Blanc; tour the magnificent French Riviera; snap some photos in the lavender fields of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence; or visit some of the numerous pristine beaches in Cote d’Azur, Brittany or Normandy.
Read also: Unmissable Things To Do in Paris
Norway
Norway has some striking natural wonders you may not find in other countries. Rugged coastal mountains, striking fjords, an avalanche of glaciers, and midnight sun viewing opportunities – you will enjoy so much uniqueness in Norway.
Start by exploring the Geirangerfjord, the world’s most stunning fjord. Enjoy beautiful views of towering mountains, tranquil waters, and stunning waterfalls like the Bridal Veil and Seven Sisters.
Norway also has some of the world’s best northern lights viewing spots, including Tromsø, The North Cape, the Lofoten Islands, Alta, Kirkenes, and Senja Island. While not majorly associated with beaches, Norway is home to some breathtaking beaches, such as Godalen Beach, Mjelle Beach, Orre Beach, and Unstad Beach.
Read also: Must-Visit Cities in Europe
Croatia
Also known as a Medieval Mediterranean jewel, Croatia has plenty to offer nature lovers. From gorgeous beaches with sparkling blue waters to ancient walled towns, this country is full of natural beauty and unique cultural heritage.
Immerse yourself in Plitvice Lakes National Park’s wild nature and marvel at its blue waterfalls and well-preserved forests. Hikers can try scenic trails like Brač Island’s Golden Cape Beach Trail and The Premužić Trail. To explore the tranquil side of this country’s coastline, visit Dubovica Beach, Zlatni Rat Beach, Stara Baska Beach, Sveti Jakov Beach, and Punta Rata Beach. These offer fantastic opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, or sunbathing.
Read also: Charming Small Towns in Europe
Spain
Spain is known for its good weather, making it a perfect destination for explorers looking to escape frigid winter conditions. Its most stunning beaches to soak in the sun include Torrente de Paris in Mallorca, As Catedrais Beach in Galicia, Las Teresitas, Tossa de Mar, and Ballota Beach.
Get active by hiking through the magnificent San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, not because it was featured as the fortress of Dragonstone in the seventh season of Game of Thrones, but because of how epic it is. Other hiking trails that will let you experience the magnificence of Spain include the Masca Gorge Trail, Parque Natural de Penyal D’ifach Trail, La Ruta de Cares Trail, and Pasarelas del Vero Trail. These trails have incredible views of waterfalls, canyons, forests, and mountains.
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Other unmissable landscapes in Spain include Doñana National Park, Serra de Tramuntana, Montserrat, and Somiedo Natural Park.
Read also: Unmissable Things To Do in Barcelona
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Austria
Austria won’t disappoint if you love unspoiled nature, picture-perfect scenery, and stunning mountain ranges. It is a great destination for unwinding in nature.
It would be inexcusable to wind up your trip in Austria without visiting the charming wine region of Wachau Valley. Marvel at the well-manicured vineyards and sample some fine wine as you take in the views of the majestic Danube River. Take a Danube River Cruise through the country’s most pristine landscapes for a better perspective.
Nature enthusiasts also have to explore Krimml waterfalls and Kitzloch Gorge to witness one of the most impressive gorges in Salzburg. Lake Weissensee has crystal-clear water views and World of Ice Giants in Werfen, the largest walk-in ice cave in the world.
Read also: Insta-Worthy Spots in Europe
Switzerland
A list of the most beautiful countries in the world would never be complete without Switzerland included. The Swiss Alps are the star of the show. Enjoy the charming alpine environment, marvel at the cascading waterfalls, visit the quaint mountain villages like Interlaken, Zermatt, and Grindelwald, and take in towering peaks like the Matterhorn.
Some fantastic trails to explore include Panorama Trail, Lake Oeschinen Loop, the 5 Lakes Walk, Northface Trail, and Grindelwald Trail. Have more time in Switzerland? Visit the Rhine Falls, Lavaux Wine Region, Lake Lugano, Swiss National Park, and Lauterbrunnen within the Swiss Alps.
Read also: Unique Places for Your European Bucket List
Iceland
Iceland’s landscape is unlike anything you have ever seen. This country is a great destination if you want to explore otherworldly features. The Blue Lagoon is a must-see geothermal spa perfect for relaxing, breathtaking scenery and photography.
Take a scenic road trip along Ring Road to see the best of the country’s landscape. This route features views of Seljalandsfoss, one of Europe’s most stunning waterfalls; Skogafoss Waterfall; Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon; Lake Myvatn; Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach; Vatnajokull glacier; and Vatnajokull National Park.
The Ring Road is a strong contender for the most scenic road trip in the world. The scenery offers everything an outdoor enthusiast would want to experience.
Read also: Natural Wonders in Europe
Montenegro
Known as one of those budget-friendly countries you can visit in Europe, Montenegro is home to multiple beautiful places you should tour in your lifetime. Durmitor National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, should be on your Montenegro itinerary. You will be treated to spectacular views of deep canyons, soaring limestone peaks, healing natural springs, glacial lakes, and lush woodlands.
Beach lovers visiting Montenegro will be spoilt for choice. Some of the best options include Dobrec Beach, Lucice Beach, Pirates Bar Beach, and Sveti Stefan Beach. Lake Piva, a man-made freshwater lake, is another fantastic spot for nature lovers.
Read also: Best Beach Destinations in Europe
Scotland
Scotland has something for everyone, whether you are looking for miles of white sand beaches, massive dunes, stunning green-blue waters, or quintessential cottages. If the weather had been better, it would have been one of the most visited countries; the beauty is outstanding.
The majestic mountains and rugged coastline of The Scottish Highlands, the dramatic scenery of the Isle of Skye, the mythical Loch Ness, white sand beaches such as Traigh Hornais Clachan Sands, The Edinburgh Castle, and the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct—there is so much scenery to see and capture in Scotland.
Read also: Romantic European Destinations
Ireland
Out of picturesque Dublin, Ireland is home to natural wonders that appeal to any outdoor enthusiast. Start by visiting the Cliff of Moher in County Clare, where you can enjoy striking drops and views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Ring of Gullion in Northern Ireland should be your next destination. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape formed 600 million years ago.
If you have more time in Ireland, visit the Giant’s Causeway, which was formed by volcanic activity more than 60 million years ago and is the only UNESCO World Heritage site in Northern Ireland. Finally, you can hike Carrauntoohil, the highest mountain in Ireland, and be treated to beautiful views of red sandstone formed by geological ice action many years ago.
Read also: Hidden Gems in Europe
