Wild Flowers in Norway 2025

Delicate flowers add liveliness and color to seemingly barren Arctic's Nordic fields

Best time: May–August

As spring comes to Norway, Arctic wildflowers pop up everywhere: arctic Willow, Moss Campion, Sedum, Draba, Svalbard Poppy, Arctic Chickweed, Snow Buttercup, and Tufted Saxifrage.

The greatest saxifrage beds are found in Svalbard Archipelago. Such species as spiked snow-grass, Svalbard poppy, and sulfur-colored buttercup are also abundant in Svalbard during the summer. Cottongrass and other wildflowers can be spotted in Longyearbyen along Adventfjorden, on the west side of Spitsbergen. The fields of wildflowers are abundant on Bear Island, the southernmost island of the Svalbard archipelago.

One of the best sites to enjoy flowery wilderness is the Lofoten Islands. In some villages, like Reine for instance, flowers bloom even on the grass roofs of houses, which are typical for Nordic lands. Their ability to regulate the temperature inside the building during cold winters and warm summers is an amazing advantage to have! Also, check out Horseid beach in Moskenesøy, meadows in Flakstadøy, and Ramberg Beach on the north side of Flakstad for beautiful wildflowers in June and July.

On the mainland, the Sognefjellet Mountain Road (Route 55) is an excellent destination to spot wildflowers. The road passes beautiful landscapes of Skjolden and the Jotunheimen National Park. Mørkridsdalen Valley, near Skjolden, is rich with rare flowers and vegetation.

Practical info

When can you see Arctic wildflowers in Norway?

Arctic wildflowers such as arctic Willow, Moss Campion, Sedum, Draba, Svalbard Poppy, Arctic Chickweed, Snow Buttercup, and Tufted Saxifrage bloom in Norway between May and August. The Lofoten Islands are known for their gorgeous wildflowers in June and July. These types of wildflowers are also found on Bear Island which is the southernmost island in the Svalbard archipelago.

What is unique about the grass roofs on houses in Nordic lands and how does it benefit the buildings?

Grass roofs on houses in Nordic lands regulate indoor temperature during severe weather conditions. They ensure buildings remain warm during winter and cool in the summer, making it an incredible advantage during harsh seasons. In Reine, Lofoten Islands, the grass roof on houses is adorned with flowers that bloom even on the top. This feature is unique to Nordic architecture and is a significant attraction for tourists.

What are some of the wildflowers that can be found in the Svalbard Archipelago, and where are the greatest beds of Saxifrage found?

The Svalbard Archipelago offers diverse wildflower species such as spiked snow-grass, Svalbard poppy, sulfur-colored buttercup, and cottongrass. The greatest beds of Saxifrage, however, are found in the archipelago. Bear Island which is located in the southernmost part of the archipelago is covered with wildflowers, including arctic Willow, Moss Campion, Sedum, Draba, Svalbard Poppy, Arctic Chickweed, Snow Buttercup, and Tufted Saxifrage.

Which is the most scenic location to view wildflowers alongside mountain landscapes in Norway, and which is the best time to take the Sognefjellet Mountain Road trip?

Sognefjellet Mountain Road (Route 55) offers the best views of wildflowers alongside scenic mountain landscapes in Norway. The road passes through beautiful landscapes in Skjolden and the Jotunheimen National Park. The Mørkridsdalen Valley near Skjolden is also filled with rare flowers and other vegetation. The road trip on Sognefjellet Mountain Road during May-August is a great chance to enjoy the stunning scenery of Norway and catch a glimpse of rare, colorful wildflowers.