Natural
Fjords de l’Ouest de la Norvège - Geirangerfjord et Nærøyfjord
Photo : Vesna Vujicic-Lugassy (CC BY-SA 3.0 igo)
Located in western Norway, this natural site comprises two of the country's most significant fjords: Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord. Both fjords exemplify the dramatic landscape formed by glacial erosion during successive ice ages, characterized by steep mountainsides, numerous waterfalls, and deep valleys that descend to sea level. The fjords represent outstanding examples of fiord topography and glacial geomorphology, displaying the geological processes that shaped Scandinavia. The landscape features pristine natural environments with vegetation adapted to the Nordic climate and steep terrain, presenting distinctive visual characteristics marked by near-vertical rock walls and narrow passages of water. The site documents important stages in the Earth's geological history and demonstrates the ongoing processes of glacial activity and landscape evolution. This designation recognizes the fjords as areas of particular scientific interest and natural beauty within the broader context of Scandinavian fjord ecosystems.
