Norway

Landscape

Norway has a long, mountainous coast deeply cut by fjords. Glaciers shaped many of these steep valleys before the sea flooded them. Inland terrain includes high plateaus, forests and mountain ranges, while lower land is limited in many coastal districts.

The Lofoten Islands combine sharp peaks with sheltered bays and narrow coastal settlements. Other regions contain broad upland surfaces and large valleys. Norway’s great north-to-south length adds major differences in daylight, temperature and vegetation.

Climate & seasons

The North Atlantic moderates coastal temperatures, especially in the west. Inland and northern areas are colder, while the western coast receives abundant rain.

Sea & mountains

Atlantic influence keeps many coastal areas milder than inland places at similar latitude. Rain and snow feed short, steep rivers. Forest, alpine and Arctic habitats occur in different parts of the country.