Before the pandemic, nearly 10 million international tourists visited annually, according to Visit Norway. The landscape is often cited as the main attraction, so it was no surprise when Telegraph Travel’s comprehensive study revealed that it is the most beautiful country in Europe. In fact, Norway has been turning heads for decades. Appreciation of Sunnmore’s towering peaks began in the late 19th century, when explorers and aristocrats discovered hiking trails that crossed the magnificent Hjorundfjord. Even esteemed writers such as Karen Blixen and Henrik Ibsen, whose visits are honored with rooms at the area’s historic Union Oye Hotel, have failed to truly articulate its charm. A condensed dose of Norway’s best features, this part of northwest Fiordland more than lives up to its reputation. But it wasn’t the first – or only – place that sparked my love affair with the Nordic country.
Epic mountain view
Towering above pancake Denmark and forested Finland, the glacier-carved mountains give this Nordic giant unparalleled altitude. So many of the high moments of my trip have been experienced at these high points: being carried by strong winds to the top of Senja’s sail-shaped Segla peak. watching the clouds drift beneath my feet on Vestland’s rugged Trolltunga Plateau.
