Have you found your favorite spot on Earth yet? A place where you can let go of all your worries and get inspired by nature surrounding you? Haven’t encountered such a place yet? Well, probably you weren’t looking at the right locations. In this case, you should meet what we assure you to be one of the most mystically enchanting places in Europe:
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Hardangervidda – Europe’s largest mountain plateau
This fantastic destination is not so hard to find as it is hard to pronounce. Nevertheless, we are talking about a vast mountain plateau, known to be one of the largest in Europe, located in central southern Norway. If you tend to be more specific, this area can be found divided between the counties of Telemark, Buskerud, and Hordaland. And if you’re traveling to Norway to visit the charming town of Rjukan, then you should plan on spending a day at Hardangervidda, since the city of Rjukan is the closest city located to this magnificent mountain landscape.
An interesting fact about this area is the origin of its name. The name Hardangervidda comes from the name of the district Hardanger, which is combined with the Norwegian word “vidde” meaning ‘wide plain, broad mountain plateau.’
Explore the beauty of Hardangervidda National Park
The natural landscapes of Norway are somewhat authentic and worth visiting. If you’re an outdoor type of person, there is no doubt that you will quickly fall in love with Norway once you get to visit this marvelous European country. What is most interesting about this area is that the Hardangervidda National Park is the biggest national park in Norway. Officially opening its doors to visitors in 1981, the Hardangervidda National Park today is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country.
If you are looking for some natural beauty, then this national park has a lot to offer. The plateau covers an area of about 6,500 km2, where the highest point is called Sandfloegga. The land is not so much hidden by trees, but there are plenty of rivers, streams, lakes, and pools spread throughout the terrain. It is fascinating how the surface is not consistent. What we mean by this is that by strolling through the park, you will come across to finding out that the west side differs quite a lot from the east side. On the one hand, you will find a rocky terrain and different rock formations, while on the other the terrain is much flatter and more densely vegetated.
Also, part of Hardangervidda’s geology is considered to be extremely ancient, some of the experts associating it with the events of the Ice Ages.
Main attractions
If you’re interested in visiting one of Norway’s largest glaciers, then be sure that you can find it here. It is called Hardangerjøkulen, and it is the sixth largest glacier in Norway. If you are that adventurous and wish to visit the glacier, then you should know that this is possible from the village of Finse with, of course, some special equipment and preparations. Have no doubts that this icy beauty will take your breath away.
If you want to experience the sight of a waterfall, one like from a movie, then again you’re at the right place. Vøringsfossen is the name we are looking for here, a waterfall flowing through the mountainside with a free fall of 145 meters. This spectacular sight will stay in your memories forever.
Another great attraction is Måbødalen, a scenic valley with some quite impressive roads offering a lovely route. The roadway reveals some amazing tunnels and a great experience for the person driving or walking through.
How to prepare for a trip here
Norway is a Scandinavian country in Europe, which means that you should expect that the weather will be cold and chilly most of the time. Well, the climate in this area is no exception. If you’re thinking of visiting this place, then be prepared for some shivering since this place characterizes with a cold year-round alpine climate. Dig up your warmest clothes and boots and get ready for a chilly weather out in nature. Since we are talking about a national park, there is rarely an opportunity for you to enter a warm cabin and warm up your body, so pay attention to the preparation of the right equipment.
As mentioned before that the terrain may differ between the east and west side, well it is similar with the climate. This means that you can expect a different environment type and some temperature differences between the two sides of the park.
Discover the wildlife
During your visit here you may encounter many species of arctic animals that you have probably never had the chance to see before. This land is mainly known for the wild reindeer herds that are known to be among the largest in the world. The animals here migrate from one side to another throughout the year, so you might want to do a simple research before visiting if you are interested in seeing a particular animal.
What to do in Hardangervidda
At a place like this, there are plenty of activities you can do. From hiking, biking and climbing to simply relaxing in the peace and tranquility that this place offers, there are many ways how to enjoy a day at this magnificent plateau. Accessibility is possible all year round so you can count on fishing, hiking, horse riding, canoeing or whatever you are interested in doing here whenever you want. Also, if you are interested, you can always pass by the two visitors centers. Just imagine a day full of excitement and joy followed by camping in a place like this and waking up the next morning under a clear blue sky: pure happiness.
Spread the word about this beautiful place located in Norway and plan a trip to what may be an adventure of a lifetime. Visit Hardangervidda and encounter its mystical beauty, for it is a destination you will certainly enjoy.
