Norway, a land of breathtaking natural beauty, is home to some of the most stunning lakes in the world. From crystal-clear waters reflecting snow-capped mountains to serene fjord-like lakes nestled in lush valleys, Norway’s lakes offer visitors a chance to experience nature at its finest.
We’ll explore the top 10 most beautiful lakes in Norway that you should add to your travel bucket list. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply seeking tranquility, these lakes will leave you in awe of Norway’s natural wonders.
Read More: Hiking in Norway
1. Lovatnet Lake
Lovatnet Lake, located in the Stryn municipality of western Norway, is a true gem of nature. Its turquoise waters are so vivid that you might think you’ve stepped into a postcard. Steep mountains surround the lake, creating a dramatic backdrop that will captivate you.
Key features:
- Location: Stryn, Western Norway
- Color: stunning turquoise
- Length: About 11 kilometers
- Activities: boat trips, fishing, hiking
Lovatnet’s unique color comes from glacial meltwater, which carries fine rock particles known as glacial flour. This gives the lake its distinctive milky blue-green hue. The area around Lovatnet has a tragic history, including two devastating landslides in the early 20th century. Today, it’s a peaceful spot where you can take boat trips, go fishing, or hike in the surrounding mountains.
2. Gjende Lake
Gjende Lake is one of the most famous lakes in Norway, thanks to its role in Henrik Ibsen’s play “Peer Gynt.” This long, narrow lake is located in the Jotunheimen National Park, known for its rugged mountain landscape.
Key features:
- Location: Jotunheimen National Park
- Length: 18 kilometers
- Depth: Up to 149 meters
- Color: Emerald green
- Popular hike: Besseggen Ridge
The lake’s emerald green color comes from rock flour carried by glacial meltwater. One of the most popular activities at Gjende is hiking the Besseggen Ridge, a challenging but rewarding trek that offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The hike takes about 6–8 hours and is considered one of Norway’s most beautiful day hikes.
3. Hornindalsvatnet Lake
Hornindalsvatnet holds the title of Europe’s deepest lake, with a maximum depth of 514 meters. Despite its impressive depth, the lake’s surface area is relatively small, creating a unique and picturesque setting.
Key features:
- Location: Nordfjord region
- Depth: 514 meters (deepest lake in Europe)
- Length: 22 kilometers
- Activities: fishing, boating, swimming
Small villages and farmland surround the lake, providing a glimpse into rural Norwegian life. Fishing is a popular activity here, with trout and char being common catches. During the summer, brave swimmers can plunge into the pristine waters, but be ready for chilly temperatures even on warm days.
4. Bondhusvatnet Lake
Bondhusvatnet is a small but incredibly beautiful lake located near Folgefonna National Park. It’s known for its mirror-like surface that perfectly reflects the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
Key features:
- Location: Near Folgefonna National Park.
- Size: Small, easily walkable
- Main attraction: Reflections of Bondhusbreen Glacier
- Activities: hiking, photography
The lake is easily accessible via a short, scenic hike from the parking area. The trail takes you through a beautiful forest before opening up to reveal the lake and its stunning surroundings. The highlight is the view of the Bondhusbreen glacier arm, which seems to cascade down the mountain towards the lake.
5. Eikesdalsvatnet Lake
Eikesdalsvatnet is a long, narrow lake in Norway’s Romsdal region. It’s known for its dramatic scenery, with steep mountain walls plunging directly into the lake’s deep waters.
Key features:
- Location: Romsdal region
- Length: 19 kilometers
- Depth: Up to 155 meters
- Nearby attraction: Mardalsfossen waterfall
- Activities: fishing, boating, hiking
Small farms and villages surround the lake, providing a glimpse into traditional Norwegian rural life. One of the main attractions near Eikesdalsvatnet is the Mardalsfossen waterfall, one of Europe’s highest waterfalls, with a total drop of 705 meters. The lake is also a popular spot for fishing, with abundant populations of trout and char.
6. Trollsjön (Trolls’ Lake)
Trollsjön (or Rissajaure in Sami), while technically located just across the border in Sweden, is often associated with Norway due to its proximity and similarity to Norwegian mountain lakes. It’s known as one of the clearest lakes in Scandinavia.
Key features:
- Location: On the Norway-Sweden border
- Altitude: 1,032 meters above sea level
- Depth: Up to 32 meters
- Main attraction: Incredibly clear water
- Activities: hiking, wild swimming
Trollsjön is only accessible via a challenging 5-kilometer hike from the nearest road. The clear lake water lets you see the bottom even at its deepest point, making it worth the effort. The surrounding landscape is rugged and beautiful, with rocky outcrops and sparse vegetation typical of the Arctic environment.
7. Lysevatnet Lake
Lysevatnet is perhaps best known for the famous Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), which towers above it. This fjord-like lake offers some of the most dramatic scenery in Norway.
Key features:
- Location: Ryfylke, Rogaland County
- Length: 40 kilometers
- Depth: Up to 422 meters.
- Main attraction: Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock)
- Activities: hiking, boat trips, base jumping
The lake is actually part of the Lysefjord, one of Norway’s most famous fjords. The sheer cliffs rising from the water create a sense of awe and make for incredible photographs. While hiking to Preikestolen is the most popular activity, you can also take boat trips on the lake or, for the truly adventurous, try base jumping from the surrounding cliffs (with proper permits and experience, of course).
8. Innerdalsvatnet Lake
People often refer to Innerdalsvatnet as Norway’s most beautiful mountain valley. Dramatic peaks, lush meadows, and traditional seter (mountain dairy) farms surround the lake.
Key features:
- Location: Trøndelag county
- Size: 6.3 square kilometers
- Nearby peaks: Innerdalstårnet, Skarfjellet
- Activities: hiking, fishing, mountain biking
The area around Innerdalsvatnet is a hiker’s paradise, with trails ranging from simple walks to challenging mountain climbs. The most iconic view is of the Innerdalstårnet peak reflected in the lake’s calm waters. In summer, the surrounding meadows are filled with wildflowers, adding splashes of color to the landscape.
9. Lustrafjorden
While technically part of the Sognefjord, Lustrafjorden deserves a mention on this list for its lake-like qualities and stunning beauty. It’s one of the innermost arms of the Sognefjord, Norway’s longest and deepest fjord.
Key features:
- Location: Sogn og Fjordane county
- Length: 42 kilometers
- Nearby attraction: Urnes Stave Church (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Activities: kayaking, fishing, sightseeing
The waters of Lustrafjorden are calm and reflective, often mirroring the surrounding mountains and sky. The area is known for its fruit orchards, which bloom beautifully in spring. Don’t miss a visit to the Urnes Stave Church, Norway’s oldest stave church, located on the fjord’s eastern shore.
10. Fountain Lake
One of the largest continuous wilderness areas in the country surrounds Femunden, Norway’s third-largest lake. It’s a paradise for those seeking solitude and untouched nature.
Key features:
- Location: Eastern Norway, bordering Sweden
- Size: 203 square kilometers
- Depth: Up to 130 meters
- Activities: canoeing, fishing, hiking
- Nearby: Femundsmarka National Park
Femunden is popular among canoeists and anglers, with numerous islands and bays to explore. The surrounding Femundsmarka National Park provides excellent hiking opportunities, as well as the opportunity to spot wildlife such as reindeer and moose. In winter, the area is popular for dog sledding and cross-country skiing.
Conclusion
Norway’s lakes are a testament to the country’s natural beauty and diversity. From the turquoise waters of Lovatnet to the deep, clear depths of Hornindalsvatnet, each lake offers a unique experience. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or simply breathtaking views, these 10 lakes showcase the best of Norway’s stunning landscapes.
As you plan your visit, remember to respect the natural environment and follow local guidelines for responsible tourism. Many of these lakes are located in or near protected areas, so it’s important to practice Leave No Trace principles and help preserve these beautiful places for future generations.
Norway’s lakes offer more than just scenic beauty; they provide a window into the country’s geological history, cultural heritage, and the delicate balance of Arctic and sub-Arctic ecosystems. Whether you’re photographing the perfect reflection, casting a line for trout, or simply sitting on the shore and soaking in the view, these lakes will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
