These are the most beautiful nature parks in Europe

You don’t have to travel to America, Asia or Africa for breathtaking landscapes, impressive mountain peaks and dazzling viewpoints. These nature parks are closer than you could’ve ever imagined!

1. Sächsische Schweiz, Germany

After only 8.5 hours of driving, you’re standing in a phenomenal mountain landscape that’s reminiscent of Peru? It’s possible! Located on the Czech border, Germany’s Saxon Switzerland is an underrated nature park and a paradise for hikers and mountaineers. Don’t let the name confuse you: this park has nothing to do with Switzerland, but everything to do with endless forests and towering rock formations. During sunrise and sunset, you can immerse yourself in magical atmospheres here. The park’s most popular spot is the Bastei Bridge, a historic landmark built of sandstone. When you see it, you’ll understand why countless artists found inspiration for their work here.

2. Triglav, Slovenia

When planning a (nature) holiday, many people overlook Eastern Europe. Unfair! With this, you would almost forget Triglav in Slovenia, a breathtaking nature park including the mountain of the same name. Whether you want to hike, kayak or ski, the coniferous forests, crystal clear lakes and high mountain peaks are suitable for different purposes. Extra nice: you can really enjoy the peace and quiet of nature here. A haven for hikers!

3. Lake District, England

England shouldn’t be missing from this list. I mean, obviously. The Lake District is a walker’s paradise. Located in the northwest of the country and less than two hours’ drive from cities such as Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds, you’ll find the highest mountains and deepest lakes in the country. Here you can hike for days on end while enjoying the wonders of nature.

4. Plitvice, Croatia

Few natural parks will amaze you as much as Plitvice in Croatia. Here you’ll find the most beautiful waterfalls in Europe, located in a gorge and flowing into clear green water. Thanks to the wooden walkways, you can walk on the sixteen lakes of Plitvice and imagine yourself in the wild. Disclaimer: Plitvice has become a tourist hotspot and can get very busy later in the day, so a visit is no longer as relaxing as you might think. Therefore, be there early, preferably as soon as it opens in the morning.

5. Jotunheimen, Norway

When you think of Scandinavia, you might think of clear lakes, impressive waterfalls, fjords, rivers and glaciers. Rightly so, as the Jotunheimen National Park in Norway proves. A visit to this country isn’t cheap, but it’s well worth it. Here you’ll undoubtedly make one of the most beautiful walks of your life.

6. Durmitor, Montenegro

Montenegro is becoming increasingly popular among travelers and rightly so. Not only is this holiday destination (still) relatively cheap, it’s also rich in dizzying natural landscapes, such as the Durmitor area. Here there are no less than 24 mountain peaks higher than 2000 meters, surrounded by coniferous forests and deep valleys. A gem for nature lovers, hikers and skiers.

7. Dolomiti Bellunesi, Italy

Fancy Southern Europe? Even then, there’s plenty of impressive things to see when it comes to nature. The Dolomites in Italy are known as an idyllic place on earth. Here you’ll find a special mix of Italian and Austrian nature and culture. In need of hiking trails through a beautiful green mountain landscape? Then you’ve come to the right place.

8. Peneda-Gerês, Portugal

In the far north of Portugal you’ll find the still relatively unknown nature reserve Peneda-Gerês. Mountain landscapes alternate with cute villages, castles and traditional architecture. For those who don’t like crowds, but do want to enjoy nature and forests!

9. Bialowieza, Poland

Bird and animal lover? Then you’re in the right place in Bialowieza in Poland, Europe’s last primeval forest full of wildlife and enormous biodiversity. Combined with other nature reserves in the east of the country, you’ll have a great nature holiday here. The pictures show once again: don’t underestimate Poland.

10. The Veluwe, Netherlands

The Veluwe is perhaps the most famous National Park in this country. The predominantly forested region is located in the province of Gelderland, is rich in birds, wild animals and in the months of August and September the fields turn a fairytale purple. This is the area for a weekend of hiking, surrounded by hotels and special nature houses.

Love, Skye Lewis ❤

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Image source: Pexels