Many travelers to European countries may associate these destinations with medieval architecture, romanticism or a versatile culinary culture. But the continent is also home to some of the most adventurous hotspots for travelers. I am thrilled to list some of the best countries in Europe for adventure-lovers and nature photographers. Are you ready to conquer these lands?
Norway
Explore Scandinavia to go back in time where Viking legends started. Visit Norway, where some of the most breath-taking fjords and mountains in Europe can be found in Bergen, Trolltunga, Geirangerfjord, and Romsdelseggen. The country also offers some of the most splendid hiking trails, including Lysefjord Hike, Kierag, and Preikestolen. Going on a road-trip with some friends and camping outdoors rather than staying in a hostel is the best way to experience the north.
Germany
The Berchtesgaden Alps and abundant national parks have made the land of beer another adventurous destination for visitors to Europe. While winter sports enthusiasts can go climbing, hiking or mountaineering throughout the alps, inexperienced travelers can relax in a cable car or go sledging in national parks such as Eifel or Harz. Harz National Park offers rides with narrow gauge steam trains into the Upper Harz so you can explore the mysteries surrounding the park while adoring the breath-taking panoramic view of the Brocken - the highest summit of the Harz Mountains.
Luxembourg
Heading west from Germany, you will be amazed to find this tiny green country of Luxembourg to be another adventurous destination. Its wilderness attracts many hikers with a vast network of trails with a wide range of difficulty. The peaceful and fresh atmosphere surrounding the country makes it a great place for a family-friendly outing. The Mullerthal Trail is one of the most popular tracks in Mullerthal, Luxembourg’s Little Switzerland.
Italy
Italy is not only known for lots of romantic dreamlands, but also adventures, with the Dolomites dominating the northeastern part of Italy. While you can enjoy endless fun on skiing, biking, and hiking vacations and trips in the Dolomites, less-experienced travelers can also go for the more relaxed experiences in Como or Cinque Terre. Cinque Terre offers lots of hiking trails that may not be open to all visitors if there’s bad weather. This year (2016), the government is even attempting to decrease the number of tourists coming here because it has been too crowded during the high season in previous years. Como is famous for its beautiful lakes, the breath-taking funicular ride, and the beautiful hike up to the Lighthouse.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria is not only known for beautiful beaches along the eastern coastlines in Varna, the beautiful old town in Plovdiv, and interesting communist-style architecture in Sofia, but also has various locations for adventures. Head outof the capital city for about 20 minutes to Vitosha Mountain and Rila village, where you will find the famous Rila Monastery. Head north to Veliko Tarvano and indulge yourself in the beauty of Hotnitsa Waterfall that’s not very far from there.
Slovenia
Known for its breath-taking gorges, Slovenia is another ideal off-the-beaten-path country to seek new adventures. After hiking around the beautiful Bled Lakes, hike up to the splendid Bled Castle and try many water sports above the lake. Do not miss a mountain-biking trip to Triglav National Park; the most gorgeous trails through the gorges and waterfalls can be found here.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
One of the most unknown lands in Europe turns out to be my favourite country in the Balkan region - Bosnia and Herzegovina. This mysterious land is filled with dazzling waterfalls (Kravice and Jajce), aboveground and underground waters (Sarejevo, Blagaj and Mostar), hypnotizing hiking trails and city walls (Kotor), stunning lakes, and even ancient pyramids. Archeologists and geologists have found several hills in the region that are the largest human-made ancient pyramids on earth. They are in the country’s central part. Within the pyramids they also found tunnels, stone blocks, and ancient mortars. No longer do you have to travel far away to Egypt to see man-made pyramids!
Plenty of other destinations
Europe offers far more destinations for explorers as well … Go trekking throughout Iceland, hike up the Swiss Mountains, ski along various Austrian slopes. Whether you are experienced on the road or not, it’s possible to go on an adventure in Europe. So what are you still waiting for? Put on that backpack and get on the plane!
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