What is Norway Known For? 17 Hidden Gems Revealed!

1. The Long Coastline

Norway is famous for its coastline that stretches beyond your wildest dreams. If you’ve got a thing for oceanic wonders, this marvel is enough to make you swoon.

Norway’s coastline, with all its nooks and crannies, stretches a mind-blowing 63,000 miles. That’s more than enough for a road trip to the moon and back!

Not to mention, its pristine fjords are nothing short of Instagram-worthy. Get ready for some serious #TravelGoals.

2. Polar Bears

Norway, the land of fjords and midnight sun, has a frosty secret up its sleeve; it’s home to the majestic polar bear, but not on its mainland. Instead, you’ll find these fluffy kings ruling over the remote island of Svalbard in the Arctic region.

Can you believe that Svalbard has more polar bears than people? With around 3,000 polar bears and only 2,600 humans, it’s a frozen paradise where these snow royals reign supreme.

You might ask, if not the mainland, why Svalbard? Well, Norway’s chilly outpost happens to be among the best locations for polar bear habitats.

Next time you’re feeling adventurous and want to get up close and personal with these polar giants, Svalbard is the place to be. Just don’t forget to pack your warmest coat!

3. The ‘Doomsday’ Vault

Norway, a land of fjords and Vikings, has tucked away an extraordinary treasure to safeguard humanity’s future: the Svalbard Global Seed Vault.

Nicknamed the ‘Doomsday’ Vault, this bunker deep within a remote mountain stores more than a whopping 1,000,000 seed varieties, just in case the world goes haywire.

You might ask, why gather seeds in a vault? Think of it as a backup plan for Earth’s food supply.

If pesky disasters – natural or man-made – wipe out our crops, we’ll still have an agriculture lifeline. How cool is that?

4. Voringfossen Waterfall

Oh, Norway, you never disappoint with your natural wonders! Allow us to introduce you to the pièce de résistance: Voringfossen Waterfall. Brace yourself for the awe-inspiring beauty and the irresistible charm of this cascading marvel.

With a dramatic 182-meter drop, Voringfossen will sweep you off your feet in no time. That’s roughly the height of a 60-story building!

It might not be Norway’s highest waterfall, ranking 83rd, but it’s undoubtedly the country’s most famous one.

5. Heart Shaped Waffles

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure to Norway? This voyage starts with Norwegian Heart Shaped Waffles.

These beauties represent more than just a delicious snack – they symbolize togetherness, warmth, and a precious piece of Norwegian culture.

You won’t believe how easy it is to make these heartwarming treats. They’re delightful with traditional toppings like sour cream, whipped cream, jam, or berries.

But, if you’re feeling truly adventurous, try the authentic Norwegian topping: myseost (brown whey cheese)!

6. Norwegian History

Let’s wind the clock back a bit and peek at Norway’s not-so-secret past. Around 12,000 BC, as the ice melted away, humans settled down and made the most of Norway’s gorgeous coastline.

But this country really skyrocketed to fame with sea-faring Vikings, striking fear and awe across Europe.

Today, Norway is still the talk of the town with spectacular fjords and eco-friendly initiatives.

7. Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights)

Norway’s night sky serves up a mesmerizing light show that’ll leave you starry-eyed. Feast your eyes on the dazzling display as you venture into the land of the midnight sun.

This cosmic dance of colors isn’t just for your eyes; it’s steeped in Sami legends too. Just imagine a magical fox prancing across the Arctic fells, its tail painting the sky!

So the next time you’re in Norway, don’t forget to look up and admire the stunning beauty of the aurora borealis. Trust us, you’ll be awestruck!

8. Norwegian Fjords

Consider yourself lucky, as Norway is best known for its fjords, and these natural wonders will leave you speechless.

Marvel at the Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in central Norway.

Don’t miss out on the Lysefjord either, located in Western Norway, where popular hikes like Kjerag and Preikestolen await.

Norway’s urban fjords, such as the Oslofjord, offer an intriguing mix of history and beauty.

9. Lærdal Tunnel

Feeling the need for a road trip? The Lærdal Tunnel is the longest road tunnel in the world!

Connecting the municipalities of Lærdal and Aurland in Vestland County, Norway, this marvel stretches an impressive 24.5 kilometers (15.23 miles) and has been turning heads as the fastest route between Oslo and Bergen since 2000.

You might wonder why a tunnel, right? It’s all about safety and reliability. The decision to dig deep into Mother Earth was made to avoid the treacherous terrain and high risks of rock falls on existing roads.

So, while you’re cruising through this monumental tunnel, you can breathe easy knowing that safety was a top priority.

With clever design choices like colored lights and cavern rest areas, you’ll feel like you’re on a magical voyage instead of merely driving through a tunnel.

10. Vikings

Get ready to sail the high seas and explore Norway’s renowned Viking history! Once upon a time, from around 800 CE to 1050 CE, the Viking Era swept across Scandinavia, and our beloved Norway stood at the heart of it all.

These seafaring Norsemen, skilled in craftsmanship, farming, and of course, conquering, set out on thrilling adventures throughout Europe and beyond. Little did they know that their legacy would stand tall for centuries to come.

Just think, from their humble beginnings as industrious farmers and merchants, the Vikings transformed Norway and the world with their sheer courage, determination, and endless curiosity.

Every time you explore a new corner of Norway or marvel at its breathtaking landscapes, just remember, our Viking friends were the original trailblazers, leaving a mark that would echo throughout history.

11. Cheese Slicer

Norway has gifted us with the life-changing invention of the cheese slicer. It’s not just any slicer; it’s the Ostehøvel, and it’s here to make your cheese game infinitely better.

Gone are the days of uneven, chunky slices. The Ostehøvel was invented in 1925 by a Norwegian furniture maker named Thor Bjørklund.

Inspired by a planer, he revolutionized the way we slice cheese. You can now achieve that perfect, paper-thin slice to make your sandwich or charcuterie plate truly pop with cheesy excellence!

12. Norwegian Salmon

Oh my, Norwegian salmon! It’s like the taste of the majestic fjords jumped onto your plate and started dancing a graceful waltz with your taste buds.

Seriously, one of the most popular fish in the world, Norwegian salmon has left its footprints on global cuisine in just a few decades.

Why is it so darn delicious, you ask? The secret lies in Norway’s pristine waters, where the salmon is nurtured with care. Sustainability is the name of the game, ensuring future generations can enjoy this delectable treat as well.

13. Midnight Sun

Ever wondered what it’s like to have a 24-hour day? When you visit the land of the Midnight Sun, your inner night owl and early bird can finally coexist.

Northern Norway is the stage for this jaw-dropping natural phenomenon during summer.

The Earth’s tilted axis and the North Pole’s angle towards the sun make the perfect combo for non-stop sunlight. So go ahead, bask in the everlasting sunshine and soak in nature’s endless beauty!

14. Skiing

Oh, the thrill of skiing in Norway! The mountains call, and you shall answer. A paradise for downhill skiing, Norway offers impeccable views and slopes that will make your heart race with excitement.

Norway’s got your back, with groomed trails that crisscross the entire country, maintained by eager volunteers who share your love for this national sport.

Skiing is in the genetic makeup of many Norwegians, and once you hit those slopes, you’ll feel like one of them – breathing in the crisp mountain air and feeling the invigorating rush of adrenaline.

15. Pulpit Rock

Pulpit Rock is one of those breathtaking must-see spots in Norway that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear.

Standing at a whopping 604 meters above the Lysefjord, it’s no wonder everyone raves about this natural marvel.

Did someone say #postcardworthy? You bet! Snap some envy-inducing pics atop the 25×25 meters flat plateau that resembles a preacher’s pulpit.

Grab your hiking boots, and embark on one of Norway’s most popular hikes to Pulpit Rock. But a small heads up—summer months might be a tad crowded.

16. Fårikål

There’s more to Norway than just its breathtaking landscapes and heart-pumping outdoor adventures. Let us introduce you to Fårikål, Norway’s national dish that’ll have your taste buds dancing.

Fårikål is a delightful dance of mutton and cabbage, simmered in perfect harmony for hours, seasoned with salt and whole black pepper.

Serve it with some boiled potatoes and you’ve got a scrumptious, cozy meal that shouts “I love you, Norway!”

This dish truly is the epitome of Norwegian cuisine and will always have a special place in the hearts of foodies everywhere.

17. Rail Journeys

All aboard for a thrilling ride! Norway is famous for its spectacular train journeys, offering cozy seats while showcasing the country’s breathtaking landscapes.

Each twist and turn unravels fascinating scenery, from fjords to mountains. The Flåm Railway is a must-try, a thrilling descent through the heart of Norway’s enchanting nature.

Grab that ticket, and let Norway’s railroads whisk you away on an awe-inspiring adventure you’ll be itching to share with your friends!