Norway is one of the most picturesque countries in the world. Its nature was formed under the influence of a severe northern climate, which only slightly softens the warm course of the Gulf Stream. Not surprisingly, it is here that about 900 glaciers are located, which form powerful waterfalls scattered throughout Norway.
Some statistics
Waterfalls are an integral part of the biodiversity of the Norwegian landscape. The organization, called the World Database of Waterfalls, estimated that there are 30 waterfalls around the world located in the highlands. At the same time, 10 of them are concentrated in this country.
Some waterfalls in Norway serve as a link between mountains and fjords , while others are a continuation of mountain rivers . But, certainly, each of them differs by force, speed and indescribable beauty.
The most visited waterfalls in Norway
The most popular waterfalls in this country are:
- Voringfossen;
- Lotefossen;
- Kiel (Kjelfossen);
- Seven Sisters (Sju Sostre);
- The bride's veil (Brudesloret);
- The groom (Friaren) and others.
Perhaps the most visited waterfall in Norway is Veringsfossen . This is due to the fact that it flows not far from the motorway linking Oslo with Bergen . The waterfall originates in the river Biorhea. Its height is 183 m: 38 m fall on a rocky cliff, and 145 m fall on a free fall. To appreciate the beauty and power of this water flow, you need to climb a winding path of 1500 steps.
Another picturesque and equally popular waterfall in Norway is Lotefossen . It is interesting in that it divides into two channels, which then rush down from a height of 165 m.
On the territory of this country are located one of the highest waterfalls in the world, including the Kile Falls. Some sources indicate that its height is 840 m, while 755 m fall on free fall. If you look at the map in Norway, you can see that the Kile Falls is located in the county of Sogn og Fjordane. At the same time, it can be seen from a distance, even from the highway E16.
Geirangerfjord waterfalls
In the southern part of the Norwegian county of Møre og Romsdal there is a 15-kilometer Geirangerfjord , which is a branch of Storfjord. It is a narrow and winding sea bay, over the banks of which there are steep cliffs and glaciers. During the melting of glaciers, powerful water currents are formed, which formed waterfalls, "The Seven Sisters", "The Bridegroom" and "Veil of the Bride".
In Norway, the waterfall "Seven Sisters" , a photo of which is presented below, is very popular. Its name is due to seven water streams, which fall from a height of 250 m to the bottom of the Geirangerfjord gorge.
A little to the west of the "Seven Sisters" is another no less amazing waterfall of Norway - "The Fat of the Bride". He was so called because of the thin streams of water, which, falling from the rock, create a spider pattern. This makes it look like a light lace, which always decorates the bride's outfits.
Opposite these waterfalls is another small stream, the jets of which form on the rocks a pattern resembling the silhouette of a bottle. The inhabitants of Norway gave this waterfall the name "Groom". According to the legends, he had long tried to get one of the seven sisters in the bride, but after unsuccessful attempts "took up the bottle."
Waterfalls in the south-west of Norway
Tourists who arrived in the country around May-June, to study waterfalls, it is best to go to its south-west. At this time melting of glaciers occurs, as a result of which the water level in the rivers becomes maximum. This is especially evident in the so-called Valley of Waterfalls - Hussedalen. They originate in the Kinso River, which drains from the highland plateau of Hardangervidda .
In the valley of Hüsäden in Norway there are four giant waterfalls:
- Nyastolsfossen;
- Nykkjesoyfossen;
- Sotefossen;
- Tveitafossen.
To see all these attractions , you have to spend 2-6 hours. At the same time, it will be necessary to overcome literally a steep wall that adjoins the Nykkjesofyfossen waterfall.
Svalbard Reserve
Not all Norwegian attractions are within the tourist routes. For example, the Svalbard Reserve, although remote from the central cities, but also deserves the attention of tourists. It is located midway to the North Pole and was formed due to the Arctic cold, which created here giant glaciers and crystal clear waterfalls. If it were not for the warm current of the Gulf Stream, then the local flora and fauna would be even more scarce. Perhaps then tourists would not have had the opportunity to appreciate the ice waterfalls located here in the north of Norway, in the Svalbard Reserve.
Glaciers cover almost 60% of the area of the protected zone, which is 62 thousand square meters. km. During their melting, huge water currents are formed, which collapse into the sea directly from the surface of the glaciers. This spectacle is incredible, because it demonstrates the beauty and destructive force of the natural elements.
In addition to the Svalbard Reserve, on the territory of northern Norway you can look at the waterfalls of Vinnufossen and Skorfossen. They are located near the place called Sundalsora.
When visiting the waterfalls in Norway, remember that they can be very dangerous. Therefore, you should not leave the trail, go beyond the fence or try to climb to the waterfall yourself. The land around is always wet and slippery, and the rocks themselves are high and steep. Observing simple rules, you can safely enjoy the beauty of these natural objects.