By Noreen Kompanik
From TravelPulse
Humans have always been fascinated with nature. And we’re blessed to have so many awe-inspiring natural wonders around the world to explore.
Amid the millions of miles and kilometers that span the Earth, there are natural standouts that leave us almost speechless when we see them ourselves—magnificent structures that formed entirely in nature without the help of human influence. Here are some of our favorites in Europe.
Norwegian Fjords, Norway
One of the most stunning and iconic natural landscapes in the world, the Norwegian Fjords are deep, glacially carved inlets surrounded by steep cliffs and rugged mountains. Located along the western coast of Norway, the fjords were formed millions of years ago during the last Ice Age when glaciers carved out valleys later flooded by the sea. The fjords are known for their dramatic beauty, with lush greenery, waterfalls, and serene waters.Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most famous fjords in Norway, known for its breathtaking beauty, clear blue waters, steep cliffs, and stunning waterfalls such as the Seven Sisters.
Plitviče Lakes, Croatia
Located in central Croatia, this protected national park is one of the country’s most famous and breathtaking natural landmarks. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional beauty and ecological significance, the park, home to 16 picturesque lakes, is renowned for its stunning waterfalls and lush greenery.The lakes are connected to a series of waterfalls ranging from small cascades to larger more dramatic falls, and the lakes vary in color from deep azure to turquoise and even a fascinating grayish cast.
Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
One of Ireland’s most iconic and awe-inspiring natural landmarks, the Cliffs of Moher are situated on the west coast of Ireland in County Clare. The massive cliffs, stretching for five miles, rise dramatically from the waters of the Atlantic, offering some of the most astonishing views in the country.The Cliffs are made from Burren limestone, formed around 320 million years ago, with distinctive rock layers and unique geological formations, and are part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark, highlighting their geological importance and immense natural beauty.
The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's most iconic and awe-inspiring natural landmarks. Dreamstime/TNS
Blue Grotto, Capri
This stunning sea cave on the Isle of Capri and accessible only by boat measures 60 meters long and 25 meters wide. Since the entrance is only three feet wide, only small rowboats can enter the cavern. Inside, the waters are calm and deep, and the cave’s high walls are covered in vibrant algae, adding to its immense beauty.Sunlight enters the cave through a small underwater opening and as it is refracted and penetrates the water, it interacts with the particles and water surface, giving it an intense otherworldly blue appearance, hence the name.
Gullfoss Waterfall, Iceland
There’s no doubt that the country of Iceland has been blessed with Mother Nature’s finest gifts. One of the most notable is Gullfoss, meaning “Golden Falls,” one of Iceland’s most famous and spectacular waterfalls.Gullfoss consists of two distinct drops, its rushing waters flowing over the edge of the cascades with immense force, creating a powerful spectacle often resulting in misty rainbows above the falls before falling into a deep gorge below.
Isle of Skye, Scotland
Scotland’s famous Isle of Skye, known for its expansive valleys, sweeping coastlines and enigmatic mountain ranges, is another piece of the European landscape that inspires the nature lover. Constantly shrouded in a thin layer of mist, this otherworldly location is often regarded as one of Europe’s most beautiful places.The Cullin Range is the island’s most famous mountain range, with its towering peaks, and the Old Man of Storr is a dramatic pinnacle of rock rising dramatically from the landscape. Then, there is the Quiraing, a surreal mix of cliffs, valleys, and rock formations and the incredible Fairy Pools, a series of crystal-clear waterfalls and vibrant turquoise pools.
The Dolomites, Italy
Located in northeastern Italy, the Dolomites encompasses a majestic mountain range with 18 jagged peaks, deep breathtaking valleys, and dramatic cliffs.In 2009, the Dolomites were inscribed as a UNESCO Heritage Site due to their unique geological features and exceptional natural beauty. Their distinctive pale-colored limestone cliffs create a stunning contrast with surrounding verdant meadows and deep blue skies above. They are especially magnificent at sunrise and sunset, when the peaks reflect shades of pink and orange, an effect known as the alpenglow.
Algarve Caves, Portugal
The Algarve, located in the southernmost region of Portugal, is known for its extraordinary coastline, picturesque hidden beaches, and dramatic cliffs. One of the most fascinating features of this region is the numerous caves and grottoes that have been carved out by the sea over centuries, creating a breathtaking and almost otherworldly landscape.Though there are many natural sea caves and underground passages here formed by erosion, probably the most iconic cave in the Algarve, the Benagil Cave is a stunning sea cavern with a large opening at the top, allowing sunlight to stream through and illuminate the interior. It is located near the village of Benagil, about 10 kilometers east of Albufeira.
Bengali Cave is best accessed by boat or kayak or by swim from nearby beaches. Inside the cavern, visitors will find a circular opening in the ceiling, creating a “skylight” effect accompanied by crystalline water. The natural beauty of the cave is often described as mystical and is highly photographed by visitors.
Northern Lights, Tromso, Norway
One of the best places on Earth to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) is Tromso, Norway. Situated around the 69-degree north latitude places it well within the Aurora Oval, the area around the magnetic pole where the Northern Lights are most active.The awe-inspiring phenomenon occurs in the polar regions where interactions between the Earth’s magnetic field and charged particles from the sun, create a dazzling multi-colored display lighting up the night sky.
Verdon Gorge, France
Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” the Verdon Gorge is one of the most spectacular natural sites in France.Located in the southeastern Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, the gorge was carved by the Verdon River over millions of years and is famous for its turquoise waters due to the high concentration of limestone particles carried down from the mountains. Its vibrant color, towering limestone cliffs and striking scenery make the river and gorge highly photogenic.
The Matterhorn, Switzerland
One of Europe’s natural gems that can rival the beauty of the Norwegian fjords is the Swiss Alps and its stunning snowcapped peaks.The Matterhorn, one of the most famous and iconic mountains in the world, straddles the border of Switzerland to the north and Italy to the south, standing at an elevation of 14,692 feet, making it one of the highest peaks in the Alps. Its distinctive pyramidal shape, with steep, almost symmetrical slopes, makes it easily recognizable, and one of the most picturesque and photographed mountains in the world.
The Matterhorn, in Switzerland, is one of the most famous and iconic mountains in the world. Anthony Hathaway/Dreamstime/TNS
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