When you think of iconic landmarks in Europe, most people conjure up images of the Colosseum, Buckingham Palace, the Eiffel Tower, and Neuschwanstein Castle. However, for nature travelers, Europe has a different type of awe-inspiring landmarks.
Let’s talk about six awesome nature adventures in Europe that feature some of these landmarks.
Iceland
Iceland is a land of fire and ice, boasting incredible landscapes that range from towering glaciers including Vatnajokull (Europe’s largest) to volcanic craters and geysers and Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe. Iceland is truly a nature lover’s paradise.
Greenland
Greenland is known for its rugged landscapes and untouched wilderness. The island’s icy fjords, towering icebergs, and Arctic tundra are perfect for adventurers looking for a unique outdoor experience. Visitors can go dog sledding, snowmobiling, or hiking through beautiful and remote landscapes. Greenland is also a perfect place to witness the northern lights.
Portugal
Portugal is known for its stunning beaches and beautiful coastline, but it also has so much more to explore. Portugal’s Douro River slices through steep schist mountains terraced with vineyards. Visitors can hike through the Peneda-Gerês National Park, which is filled with beautiful waterfalls, mountains, and forests.
Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia and Slovenia are two neighboring countries that offer some of the most picturesque natural landscapes in Europe. Croatia boasts beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning islands, while Slovenia is known for its rolling hills, lush forests, and beautiful lakes. Visitors can hike among the aquamarine pools and waterfalls of the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park, go rafting on the crystal-clear rivers, or explore the underground caves in Slovenia. Visit the island of Cres, with its reserve protecting endangered griffon vultures.
Scotland
Scotland is a land of rugged beauty, with rolling hills, jagged peaks, and dramatic coastlines. For those looking to experience Scotland’s wild side, visitors can hike through the stunning Scottish Highlands, go camping, or take a wildlife safari to see red deer, eagles, and other wild animals. View the Old Man of Storr, an imposing rock pinnacle surveying the ocean, and take a private boat cruise to the Shiant Isles, home to a quarter-million puffins.
England
England is a country of rolling green hills, charming villages, and picturesque coastlines. Visitors can hike through the stunning Lake District, explore Cornwall’s rugged coastline, or stroll through the idyllic Cotswold villages. Walk along the Windrush Valley among grazing sheep and wildflowers, and visit Slimbridge Wetland Center, a mosaic of habitats in the Severn Estuary known as the “Avian Serengeti,” where vast numbers of wild birds thrive.
Europe is home to some exciting nature adventures. Whether you’re looking for glaciers and geysers, lush forests and crystal-clear lakes, or rugged coastlines and charming villages, Europe has something for every nature lover.
