While the United States boasts some amazing national parks, offering all types of terrain, Europe isn’t far behind. With travelers weary after the pandemic, many are looking for adventure and relaxation in beautiful surroundings. Like the US, Europe also offers impressive biodiversity and enjoyable hikes for those seeking a break from working life. After a survey was conducted by Money.co.uk, Euro News has shared the top five open, natural spaces in Europe as follows.
1. The Swiss National Park, Switzerland
According to the list, the top national park in Europe is Switzerland’s, Swiss National Park. This protected area offers rich biodiversity and low pollution, as well as many activities and wellness centers to enjoy. Meanwhile, the park is home to beautiful lakes and is backed by the Alps. However, Not only can visitors enjoy the amazing landscapes, but they can also take in the charming medieval villages tucked in the countryside.
2. Göreme National Park, Turkey
For a surreal experience, Göreme National Park in Cappadocia, Turkey is a unique landscape. Sculpted by erosion over extinct volcanoes in the area, the sky is filled with colorful hot air balloons as visitors can have an aerial look at the national park, which extends for 39 square miles.
Besides admiring the rock formations from the air, visitors can hike in the beautiful valleys, visit historic churches and more. All this has earned the national park UNESCO World Heritage status as one of the leading examples of the post-iconoclastic Byzantine art period.
3. Cinque Terre National Park, Italy
The Cinque Terre coastal region in Italy is known for its beautiful and colorful villages, as well as its delicious seafood. Located in northern Italy in La Spezia, Liguria, the coast offers spectacular landscapes and pretty towns to visit.
Meanwhile, as one of the country’s parks, the government is promoting sustainable tourism in Cinque Terre National Park. Here, visitors can admire the beautiful flora and fauna, visit organic farms and get to know the local community. Meanwhile, the park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
4. Lake District, United Kingdom
The Lake District of England is a beautiful natural environment to explore and decompress from daily stresses. Here, lush green landscapes include pretty lakes for swimming and boating, and walking and cycling routes to enjoy. Meanwhile, the dark skies at night are perfect for star gazing.
The park is open to the public at all times and offers many events and guided tours. Visit the Lake District’s official website for more information.
5. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
This truly impressive national park is located in central Croatia on the Bosnian-Herzegovina border. The forest reserve features a series of spectacular, turquoise lakes connected by waterfalls, with convenient paths to explore. Along the way, visitors can explore caves hidden in the hillsides.
Meanwhile, as the largest national park in Croatia, Plitvice is home to wolves, bears and many bird species among its spectacular landscapes. Moreover, the Plitvice Lakes national park was added to the UNESCO World Natural Heritage List in 1979.
Make sure to explore some of Europe’s best natural spaces in 2023 for the ultimate in fresh air and glorious landscapes.