6 Beautiful National Parks You Must Visit In Europe

Visiting the national parks of Europe is more than just taking in the scenic views in front of you, enjoying these places of nature means getting out into the countryside and actively experiencing what they have to offer. To help you plan your trip to the parks, here are the best national parks across Europe that you should add to your next European getaway.

From craggy peaks to intriguing ancient forests and massive icefields, Europe has a stunning variety of natural features to discover. We have come up with a list of 6 gorgeous and must-visit national parks in Europe, ranging from the tundras of Finland to the spectacular gorges of Slovenia.

So if you want to escape the civilised world for a while, then pack your backpack and start exploring these beautiful national parks in Europe.

# Plitvice Lakes National Park – Croatia

Superlatives are not enough to describe the allure of this reserve in Croatia. UNESCO did place this stunning national park on its World Heritage List in 1979 for legitimate reasons. Plitvice’s beauty lies within its combination of lakes and waterfalls, the latter naturally connecting the lakes. The emerald colour of the lakes contrasts with the lush foliage and the foamy white of the pounding waterfalls. One of the highlights of the park is Veliki Slap, a waterfall that drops from a height of 78 metres.

You can explore Plitvice Lakes National Park via 8 different walking trails, with lengths varying from 3 to 18 kilometres. If you’re reasonably fit, it’s wise to pick the longest route, as this leads you to all the best spots of the park.

# Tre Cime National Park – Italy

Tre Cime National Park – or Three Peaks National Park – is located within the Dolomites, Italy’s most iconic mountain range. The Three Peaks of Lavaredo tower above their surroundings, and have become a pilgrimage site for hikers and rock climbers alike.

This triplet of pointy peaks can be navigated through a day-hike which loops around the pinnacles for 10 kilometres. The start and finish points of this jaw-dropping track is Rifugio Auronzo, a hut that also offers accommodation. From this refuge, shorter walks with grand views of the Three Peaks are available as well.

# Lake District National Park – England

Lakes, forests, waterfalls, and mountains: the Lake District National Park is about as wild as the UK gets. This northwestern part of England measures 2362 square kilometres and has some of the country’s highest mountains and largest lakes. Ullswater and Windermere are some of the most scenic lakes, with lovely villages and woodlands encircling them.

Standing at 978 metres, Scafell Pike is the highest mountain in the district, and climbing enthusiasts will be pleased with the presence of more soaring peaks. A fun walk is a tramp up to Catbells, from where panoramic vistas of the Derwentwater lake and mountains are the ultimate reward. A great bonus you’ll get when visiting Lake District National Park is the number of activities on offer. Apart from hiking up to majestic summits, you can rent a kayak or rowing boat to paddle on the lakes, or walk around in quaint villages and carefully curated English gardens.

# Bohemian Switzerland National Park – Czech Republic

Unlike a part of its name suggests, Bohemian Switzerland is actually a nature reserve in the Czech Republic. Although this national park only makes up for 79 square kilometres of the country’s north, it’s packed full of outstanding natural features. Think thick forests, picture-perfect creeks, and prehistoric rocks that seem to pop up from the forest floor.

Pravcická brána is often considered to be the highlight of the Bohemian Switzerland National Park. This dazzling natural sandstone arch is the largest of its kind in Europe and draws many visitors to the park. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing hike through the pretty Kamenice Gorge. Here, impressive rock walls, charming timber houses, and a peaceful creek can be explored over a marked walking trail, or via a boat ride. Most can be experienced through a tour such as those with Northern Hikes.

# Hossa National Park – Finland

Brace for an adventure in the wilderness if you’re deciding to head to the east of Finland. Hossa National Park consists of pine forests, lakes, and old rock formations. Home to over 90 kilometres of tramping trails and a diversity of canoe routes, Hossa National Park certainly speaks to the imagination of outdoor-minded travellers.

This scenic reserve is also a fine spot for mountain biking and fishing. During any activity in Hossa National Park, you might bump into reindeer and foxes. In winter, the northern lights often appear to set the snow-covered landscapes on fire.

# Bialowieza Forest National Park – Poland / Belarus

The Bialowieza Forest National Park isn’t just your average bush. This Polish-Belarussian reserve is Europe’s last remaining primaeval forest reserve, which used to stretch all over the continent in prehistoric times. Nowadays, these woodlands only measure 150 square kilometres, but it’s still awe-inspiring to drift through the century-old forest.

One creature to look out for in this ancient park is the European bison. This majestic creature was once hunted to extinction in these lands, but a reintroduction program allowed these animals to graze the plains once again. Those who are captivated by macro life will rejoice about the abundance of plant species, rare insects, and mushrooms.