Ever stood at the edge of a fjord so vast it makes you feel like a speck of dust in the universe? Or watched the Northern Lights dance across the sky like nature’s own light show? Welcome to the magical world of Nordic landscapes – a playground for photographers, dreamers, and adventure-seekers alike. Spanning across Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland, the Nordic region offers some of the most dramatic and pristine natural scenery on Earth. From towering mountains that plunge into deep blue waters to endless forests that whisper ancient stories, these landscapes have inspired folklore, art, and a profound connection with nature for centuries. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect shot, seeking solitude in vast wilderness, or simply wanting to experience the sublime, the Nordic countries deliver experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. In this guide, we’ll explore the breathtaking beauty, practical tips, and hidden gems that make Nordic landscapes a must-visit for anyone with a camera, a love of art, or a spirit of adventure.
Fun Facts About Nordic Landscapes
- The Norwegian fjords were formed during several ice ages when glaciers carved deep U-shaped valleys that later filled with seawater.
- Finland is known as “the land of a thousand lakes,” but actually has over 188,000 lakes – that’s one lake for every 26 Finnish citizens!
- In northern Scandinavia, you can experience the midnight sun in summer, when the sun doesn’t set for weeks or even months.
- Iceland forms at the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates and grows about 2 cm wider every year.
- Denmark might be flat compared to its Nordic neighbors, but it boasts over 7,300 km of coastline – that’s more coastline than countries like India or Brazil!
- Sweden’s allemannsrätten (right to roam) allows anyone to camp, hike, and forage on virtually any land that isn’t private property.
- The world’s oldest tree – a 9,550-year-old Norway spruce named “Old Tjikko” – grows in the Swedish mountains.
Cultural Tourism: Landscape Through Nordic Eyes
The Nordic relationship with landscape runs deep, influencing everything from design aesthetics to national identity. Here’s how to experience it:
Art Museums & Galleries The landscapes of the North have inspired countless artists, with the most famous being Norway’s Johan Christian Dahl, Peder Balke, and Harald Sohlberg. Don’t miss the National Galleries in Oslo, Stockholm, and Copenhagen to see how these dramatic scenes have been captured through centuries of art.
Architecture Modern Nordic architecture often aims to blur the line between indoors and outdoors. Visit Snøhetta’s Norwegian Opera House in Oslo, where the roof becomes a public plaza extending into the fjord, or the stunning Juvet Landscape Hotel in Norway, where glass walls make nature the star of the show.
Literature Trails Follow in the footsteps of great Nordic writers whose work was shaped by the landscape. Iceland offers tours related to Nobel Prize winner Halldór Laxness, while Sweden has trails dedicated to Astrid Lindgren’s childhood landscapes that inspired Pippi Longstocking.
Folk Museums Open-air museums like Skansen in Stockholm show how traditional Nordic life adapted to the challenging landscape. See historic farms, wooden stave churches, and traditional building techniques that evolved in harmony with the environment.
Where Can Nordic Landscapes Be Found?
While spanning five countries, here’s a quick guide to the distinctive landscape features of each:
Norway: Dramatic fjords, jagged mountains, and coastal archipelagos dominate Norway’s landscape. The western coastline offers the most famous fjord landscapes, while the north features the rugged Lofoten Islands and expansive arctic plateaus.
Sweden: A land of forests, lakes, and rolling countryside. Northern Sweden features vast wilderness in Lapland, while the south offers idyllic farmland and thousands of islands in archipelagos surrounding Stockholm and Gothenburg.
Finland: Defined by its countless lakes, islands, and endless forests. The Lakeland region in eastern Finland provides classic Finnish landscapes, while Lapland in the north offers fells, tundra, and wilderness.
Denmark: Though less dramatic, Denmark charms with its pastoral landscapes, white sand beaches, and dune-covered coastlines. Look for the dramatic cliffs of Møns Klint and the windswept western coast of Jutland.
Iceland: A geological wonderland featuring volcanoes, geysers, black sand beaches, glaciers, and otherworldly lava fields. The entire country is essentially one massive landscape attraction.
Reasons to Go / Who Will Love Nordic Landscapes?
Photographers will find paradise in the quality of light – from the golden midnight sun to the blue hour that seems to last forever in winter. The dramatic contrasts, pristine nature, and unique weather conditions create endless opportunities for breathtaking images.
Artists and Creatives come for inspiration and often stay longer than planned. The space, silence, and ever-changing light conditions provide the perfect environment for artistic exploration.
Road Trippers are spoiled with some of the world’s most scenic drives – Norway’s Atlantic Road hopping across islands via arching bridges, Iceland’s Ring Road circling the entire island, or Finland’s lake-dotted routes through forests.
Outdoor Enthusiasts will never run out of adventures, whether hiking, kayaking, wild camping, or snow sports in winter.
Mindfulness Seekers discover that the vast open spaces and profound silence of Nordic nature creates perfect conditions for meditation, reflection, and disconnecting from the digital world.
Architecture and Design Lovers appreciate how modern Nordic buildings and infrastructure harmonize with rather than dominate the landscape.
Most Popular Nordic Landscape Locations
Norway
- Geirangerfjord & Nærøyfjord – UNESCO-protected fjords with dramatic waterfalls and towering cliffs
- Lofoten Islands – Fishing villages nestled between jagged peaks rising from the sea
- Trolltunga – The iconic “Troll’s Tongue” rock formation hovering 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet
- Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock) – A massive cliff platform with vertigo-inducing views over Lysefjord
Sweden
- High Coast (Höga Kusten) – UNESCO site with dramatic coastline and the world’s highest land uplift
- Sarek National Park – True wilderness with mountain massifs, valleys, and glaciers
- Stockholm Archipelago – Over 30,000 islands creating a maze of waterways and forested islets
- Gotland – Limestone landscapes, sea stacks, and medieval charm
Finland
- Lake Saimaa – Finland’s largest lake dotted with thousands of islands
- Koli National Park – The iconic Finnish landscape view over forested hills and lakes
- Archipelago National Park – Thousands of islands and skerries in the Baltic Sea
- Oulanka National Park – River valleys, rapids, and hanging bridges
Denmark
- Møns Klint – Dramatic white chalk cliffs plunging into the Baltic Sea
- Råbjerg Mile – Northern Europe’s largest migrating sand dune
- The North Sea Coast – Wild beaches, dunes, and picturesque fishing villages
- Thy National Park – Rugged dune heathlands and ancient landscapes
Iceland
- The Golden Circle – Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss waterfall
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon – Icebergs floating in an otherworldly blue lagoon
- Landmannalaugar – Colorful rhyolite mountains and geothermal areas
- The Black Sand Beaches of Vík – Dramatic basalt columns and volcanic beaches
Things To Do in Nordic Landscapes
Chase the Northern Lights (September to March) – Best viewed in northern Norway, Swedish Lapland, Finnish Lapland, and throughout Iceland.
Midnight Sun Photography (May to August) – Experience 24-hour daylight and the golden light that never ends in summer.
Fjord Cruising – Get up close to towering cliffs and waterfalls on small boat tours through Norwegian fjords.
Wild Swimming – Take a refreshing dip in crystal-clear Nordic lakes and fjords (brave souls only!).
Foraging – Pick wild berries and mushrooms in the vast forests (cloudberries in Norway and Finland are liquid gold).
Wildlife Watching – Spot moose, reindeer, Arctic foxes, and hundreds of bird species in their natural habitats.
Sauna and Ice Swimming – Experience the quintessential Nordic tradition of heating up in a sauna before plunging into an icy lake or the sea.
Landscape Photography Workshops – Join local experts who know exactly where and when to capture the most stunning images.
Glamping in Nature – Stay in glass igloos in Finland, treetop hotels in Sweden, or mountainside pods in Norway.
Dog Sledding – Glide through snowy landscapes powered by energetic huskies (winter only).
Aurora Hunting by Snowmobile – Speed across frozen lakes and through forests on guided night tours chasing the Northern Lights.
Events Not to Miss
Midnight Sun Film Festival (June, Finland) – Watch films around the clock during the perpetual daylight of Finnish Lapland.
Iceland’s Summer Solstice Celebration (June) – Experience magical light conditions and folklore traditions.
Landscape Photography Festivals – Check out Nordic Light in Kristiansund, Norway (April) or the Iceland Photo Festival (various dates).
Frozen Lake Festivals (February-March) – Many frozen lakes host winter festivals with ice sculptures, skating, and cultural events.
Autumn Foliage Tours (September) – When the Nordic forests explode with red, orange, and gold colors.
Winter Light Festivals – During the darkest months, cities across the Nordic region host light installations and events that transform landscapes.
Midsummer Celebrations (June) – Experience the magical atmosphere as locals celebrate the longest day of the year with bonfires and festivities.
Cycling Through Nordic Landscapes
The Nordic countries offer some of the world’s most scenic cycling routes:
The Baltic Sea Cycle Route spans all Nordic countries except Iceland, taking you along coastlines, through fishing villages, and across island chains.
Iceland’s Ring Road challenges even experienced cyclists but rewards with otherworldly landscapes at every turn.
Rallarvegen in Norway follows the historic railway construction road through mountains and valleys.
The Archipelago Trail in Finland lets you island-hop through the countless islands of the southwest coast.
Practical Tips for Nordic Cycling:
- Bring waterproof gear regardless of season
- Consider an e-bike for the many hills, especially in Norway
- Take advantage of excellent bike-friendly accommodations with the “Cyclists Welcome” certification
- In Denmark and southern Sweden, dedicated cycling infrastructure makes for stress-free riding
- Many trains and ferries accommodate bicycles, allowing you to create mixed-mode journeys
Hiking Trails Through Stunning Nordic Scenery
Kungsleden (The King’s Trail), Sweden – 440 km of marked trails through Swedish Lapland’s most spectacular mountain scenery, with huts available for overnight stays.
The Arctic Trail – Connects Finland, Sweden, and Norway through 800 km of Arctic wilderness.
Jotunheimen National Park Trails, Norway – Home to Norway’s highest peaks and dozens of marked trails for all skill levels.
The Laugavegur Trail, Iceland – A 55 km trek through some of Iceland’s most diverse landscapes, from colorful rhyolite mountains to black sand deserts.
The Archipelago Trail, Finland – Island-hopping trail combining short hikes with ferry connections.
Practical Hiking Tips:
- The hiking season runs primarily from June to September (shorter in the far north)
- Always bring layers – weather changes rapidly in Nordic mountains
- Take advantage of the extensive hut systems in Norway, Sweden, and Finland
- Download offline maps and bring a power bank – cell coverage can be spotty
- Remember the right to roam comes with responsibility – leave no trace
Skiing Through Nordic Wonderlands
The Nordic region offers some of the world’s most spectacular skiing opportunities, from world-class resorts to pristine backcountry terrain. Here’s where to find powder perfection:
Alpine Skiing Destinations
Åre, Sweden – Scandinavia’s largest and most developed ski resort with 100+ runs and vibrant après-ski culture. The views over frozen Lake Åresjön provide stunning backdrops for downhill enthusiasts.
Hemsedal, Norway – Often called “The Scandinavian Alps,” this resort offers high-alpine terrain with reliable snow conditions from November through May. Its dramatic mountain setting provides photo-worthy landscapes between runs.
Levi, Finland – Lapland’s premier ski resort offers the magical combination of pristine slopes and regular Northern Lights displays. Night skiing here under the aurora is an unforgettable experience.
Trysil, Norway – Norway’s largest ski resort nestled in a picturesque mountain valley with terrain suitable for all levels and spectacular forest views.
Riksgränsen, Sweden – The northernmost ski resort in Sweden offers the unique experience of skiing under the midnight sun in May and June, with slopes that remain open until midsummer.
Cross-Country Skiing Paradises
Lillehammer, Norway – Home to the 1994 Winter Olympics and offering hundreds of kilometers of impeccably maintained cross-country trails through stunning woodland and mountain terrain.
Lapland (Finland) – Experience the silence of snow-covered forests and frozen lakes on thousands of kilometers of marked trails. The national parks of Urho Kekkonen and Pallas-Yllästunturi offer particularly scenic routes.
Jämtland, Sweden – A vast network of trails connects mountain stations and villages, allowing multi-day trips through breathtaking winter landscapes.
Geilo, Norway – Perfectly positioned between two national parks with extensive cross-country networks and panoramic mountain views.
Backcountry and Ski Touring
The Lyngen Alps, Norway – A mecca for ski touring enthusiasts with its spectacular combination of mountains and fjords. Summit-to-sea descents offer unparalleled views and experiences.
Jotunheimen, Norway – Home to Norway’s highest mountains with endless opportunities for off-piste adventures and hut-to-hut ski touring.
Sarek National Park, Sweden – True wilderness skiing for experienced adventurers, with no marked trails or facilities but unmatched pristine landscapes.
Troll Peninsula, Iceland – Rapidly gaining fame for heli-skiing opportunities down pristine slopes that end at the Arctic Ocean.
Practical Skiing Tips:
- The main alpine ski season runs from December to April (longer in northern resorts)
- For midnight sun skiing, visit northern resorts like Riksgränsen in May-June
- Cross-country skiing season can extend from November to late April depending on location
- Backcountry skiing requires proper avalanche safety equipment and knowledge
- Many Nordic ski areas offer excellent facilities for photographers, including dedicated viewing platforms and mountaintop restaurants
- Consider combining skiing with Northern Lights hunting from December to March
- Film and photography workshops often run during the ski season, targeting the unique light conditions of the Nordic winter
Travel Tips and Practical Information
When to Go:
- For photographers: February-March (Northern Lights), June (midnight sun), September-October (fall colors)
- For road trippers: June-August offers most reliable weather and all mountain passes open
- For hikers: July-September when trails are clear of snow
- For budget travelers: May and September offer lower prices with still-decent weather
Budget Considerations:
- Nordic countries rank among the world’s most expensive destinations
- Self-catering and camping dramatically reduce costs
- Alcohol is heavily taxed – consider duty-free options on arrival
- Public transportation passes can save money over rental cars
- Many natural attractions are completely free
Transportation:
- Rental cars provide the most flexibility for landscape exploration
- Public transportation is excellent but may not reach remote scenic spots
- Consider one-way car rentals between major cities
- Ferry networks connect coastal areas and islands
- Nordic countries are leaders in electric vehicle infrastructure
Accommodation:
- Book well ahead for summer months (especially in Norway and Iceland)
- Consider unique options like lighthouses, mountain huts, or converted barns
- “Freedom to roam” laws allow wilderness camping in most natural areas
- Farm stays offer authentic experiences at reasonable prices
- Hostels are clean and well-organized but still pricey
Photography Tips:
- Bring neutral density filters for those long-exposure waterfall shots
- A sturdy tripod is essential, especially for Northern Lights photography
- Weather-sealing on camera equipment is highly recommended
- The “blue hour” lasts much longer at northern latitudes – plan accordingly
- Consider drone regulations, which vary between Nordic countries
General Advice:
- English is widely spoken throughout the region
- Weather can change rapidly – always bring layers and rain protection
- Insect repellent is essential in summer, especially in Finland and Sweden
- Tick protection is important in forested areas
- Download offline maps before venturing into remote areas
Final Thoughts
The Nordic landscapes offer a rare combination of accessibility and wilderness, allowing visitors to experience some of Europe’s last truly pristine natural environments. What makes these landscapes truly special isn’t just their physical beauty, but the cultural context that surrounds them – the profound Nordic connection to nature that permeates art, design, lifestyle, and national identity.
For photographers, the region offers an unparalleled canvas of dramatic light, pristine wilderness, and ever-changing conditions. Art lovers will find countless ways to explore how these landscapes have shaped creative expression for centuries. And road-trippers discover that the journey itself becomes the destination when surrounded by such breathtaking scenery.
Perhaps what visitors cherish most about Nordic landscapes is the sense of perspective they provide. Standing before a massive Norwegian fjord or on a remote Finnish lake at midnight, watching the sun hover just above the horizon, reminds us of our place in the natural world. In our increasingly digital and disconnected lives, the landscapes of the North offer something increasingly rare – a genuine connection with nature at its most dramatic and pure.
Whether you’re capturing that perfect golden light on a Swedish archipelago, hiking through Iceland’s otherworldly terrain, or simply sitting in silence before Finland’s thousand lakes, the Nordic landscapes have a way of leaving their mark on your soul. They remind us that in a world of constant change, these ancient mountains, forests, and waters remain – patient, pristine, and profoundly beautiful.
Ready to start planning your Nordic landscape adventure? Remember that these landscapes have existed for thousands of years and will hopefully remain for thousands more – so travel responsibly, tread lightly, and take only photographs as you experience some of Earth’s most spectacular scenery.
