Reine, Norway
Tucked away in the Lofoten archipelago, far above the Arctic Circle, Reine is an impossibly picturesque fishing village that seems to rise directly from the sea. While Lofoten is gaining fame, Reine remains a tranquil base for some of Europe’s most dramatic
scenery. The village is surrounded by granite peaks that plunge into the Reinefjord, creating a landscape of breathtaking scale and beauty. For nature lovers, the appeal is immediate and visceral. The most famous activity is the challenging hike up Reinebringen, a steep trail that rewards climbers with an iconic panoramic view of the village and surrounding fjords. Kayaking is another popular way to experience the landscape, allowing you to paddle through the serene fjord and visit the tiny islands of Sakrisøy and Hamnøy at your own pace. In winter, the spectacle continues as the Northern Lights dance across the sky, turning the already stunning scenery into something truly magical.
Savonlinna, Finland
Nestled in the heart of Finland's Lakeland, Savonlinna is a city built on islands, connected by bridges and surrounded by the vast, labyrinthine waters of Lake Saimaa. This region offers a gentler, more serene version of Nordic nature. The area is a mosaic of shimmering blue water and lush green forests, perfect for those who find peace near the water. Two nearby national parks, Kolovesi and Linnansaari, are havens for paddlers. Here, you can kayak or canoe through ancient waterways, spot rock paintings, and, if you are exceptionally lucky, catch a glimpse of the critically endangered Saimaa ringed seal. The landscape is ideal for hiking, cycling, and simply unwinding in a lakeside sauna, an essential Finnish experience. Savonlinna proves that nature's appeal isn't always about dramatic peaks; sometimes it's found in the quiet tranquility of a thousand lakes and forests.
Seyðisfjörður, Iceland
While most visitors to Iceland stick to the southern coast, the Eastfjords hold some of the country's most charming and untouched landscapes. Seyðisfjörður is a creative, colourful town nestled at the end of a long, deep fjord of the same name. Its remote location has preserved its character and kept it off the main tourist circuit. The town is flanked by steep mountains streaked with an astonishing number of waterfalls. The Fjarðará river, which flows through the valley, creates a series of over 25 cascades, including the impressive Gufufoss. A popular hiking trail follows the river, offering a new waterfall vista at nearly every turn. The Vestdalsfossar trail is another local favorite, leading hikers through a lush valley to a series of beautiful falls. For bird watchers, the coastal cliffs provide nesting grounds for puffins in the summer, adding another layer of wild appeal to this secluded Icelandic gem.
Ystad, Sweden
Located on the southern coast of Sweden in the Skåne region, Ystad offers a different kind of Nordic nature experience, one defined by serene coastlines, rolling countryside, and rich biodiversity. While known to fans of crime novels, its natural appeal is less famous. The town is a gateway to some of Sweden’s most beautiful coastal nature reserves. Just to the east lies Ystad Sandskog, a protected forest that stretches along a popular sandy beach, with trails for walking and cycling. Further along the coast, the connected nature reserves of Sandhammaren and Hagestad feature some of Northern Europe's most significant sand dunes, windswept heathlands, and unique plant life. This area is a sanctuary for birdwatchers, especially during migration seasons, and the nearby Fyledalen valley is renowned as a prime location for spotting birds of prey. It’s a perfect destination for those who appreciate the subtle beauty of coastal landscapes and quiet forests.
