Top 20 Lakes in the Scandinavian Mountains
Best lakes in the Scandinavian Mountains are renowned for their crystal-clear, glacial-fed waters and dramatic mountainous backdrops. This majestic range, spanning Norway and Sweden, is home to a multitude of lakes offering diverse natural features. Visitors can explore these bodies of water, which are often surrounded by towering peaks and provide opportunities for outdoor activities. The region's lakes are a key natural attraction, showcasing the unique geology of the Scandes.
Best lakes in the Scandinavian Mountains
- The most popular lakes…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Svartisen Glacier
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First we took the Isprins ferry across the Hollandsfjord. From the pier to the “Engabreen” tongue …
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Blåisvatnet
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Åndervatnet Cabin
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Komsatoppen
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STF Abiskojaure Mountain Cabin
Highlight • Mountain Hut
The STF Abiskojaure is located in the Abisko National Park on the clear mountain lake Abiskojaure. The hut is beautifully situated on …
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Å Village and Coastal Views
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Prestvatn Lake
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Lake Stuvdalsvatnet
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Pieljekaise National Park
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Abisko National Park
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In the summer always rub well with mosquito repellent!
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Popular around Scandinavian Mountains
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful hike to the blue lake. The path is very rocky and partly goes over wooden planks.
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The Abiskojaure hut is a comfortable first stop on your Kungsleden winter journey. The excellent hut hosts (Stugvärd) offer warm lingonberry lemonade when you arrive (bring your own cup!) and explain the procedures for staying in the mountain huts. Expect to collect water, chop wood, and help with kitchen chores while you stay. You'll have all of the things you need to make meals in the kitchens, including pots and pans and dishware. One of the best things about the winter huts are the saunas, which are typically open after 5 pm, with times for women only, men only and mixed groups.
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Prestvannet (Prestvatn), on the island of Tromsøya: a small urban lake located at the highest point of the city, originally created as a water reservoir in 1867 and now part of a protected natural area much loved by locals. In February, it looks like a silent Arctic basin: a frozen surface, compact snow along the shoreline, birch trees and conifers covered in white, and low winter light with bluish Nordic tones that make the landscape feel almost monochromatic. Around it runs an easy loop of about 1.7–1.9 km, perfect for a short but very scenic winter walk. It is worth visiting on foot in this season because it offers real nature without leaving the city, a simple trail, crisp air, outstanding photogenic scenery, and, on clear evenings, even a good chance to look for the Northern Lights. In winter, it is best enjoyed from the paths around the lake: the municipality notes that the ice may have uneven thickness in some areas.
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Very nice campsites in the wind-protected forest, but you have to pay for them. The fee includes a bastu, toilets, and a kitchen.
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Stuvdalsvatnet is one of the lakes you'll pass on the way to the Munkebu Hut and the spectacular Munken. You can expect beautiful views along this section. On the trail, there's a rock step that is tackled via a chain – very much necessary when the rock is wet and slippery.
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Komsatoppen (213 m) is Alta's local mountain. Once you reach the top, you're rewarded with a fantastic view over Alta and the surrounding area. TOP! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
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Very beautiful lake, which is located above the city, but is also easily accessible on foot. There is a circular hiking trail around the lake.
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An absolutely beautiful lake with an almost unreal color. Extremely beautiful - especially in autumn when the birch trees start to turn yellow - which makes a great contrast with the intense blue waters of the lake. The hike is easy enough but somewhat annoying - 3km on a dry riverbed, walking on uneven ground and lots of rocks. Still, it's absolutely worth the view!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in the Scandinavian Mountains are known for their unique colors?
Blåisvatnet in Norway is famed for its extraordinary turquoise and blue hues, which come from glacial meltwater and shift throughout the day. Another Norwegian lake, Lovatnet, boasts a mesmerizing green hue from its glacier-fed waters.
What are some of the deepest lakes in the Scandinavian Mountains?
Hornindalsvatn in Norway is Europe's deepest lake, known for its exceptionally clear waters. In Sweden, Lake Hornavan is the deepest, formed by ancient glaciers and almost entirely surrounded by national parks.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities in the Scandinavian Mountains?
Yes, many lakes offer family-friendly activities. For instance, Mjøsa, Norway's largest lake, provides swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. Lake Abiskojaure in Sweden has a shallow sandy beach perfect for a refreshing swim. Additionally, Prestvatn Lake is categorized as family-friendly.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes are often surrounded by dramatic mountainous backdrops, steep peaks, and cascading waterfalls. You can also find glaciers like the Svartisen Glacier, which feeds into some lakes, and diverse ecosystems supporting birdwatching, especially around Lake Vänern.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The region offers a wide array of activities. You can enjoy hiking, kayaking, rowing, and swimming. For specific routes, consider exploring the hiking trails, easy hikes, or gravel biking routes available in the Scandinavian Mountains.
Which lakes are good for hiking and offer scenic views?
Gjendevatnet in Jotunheimen National Park is vibrant and encircled by towering mountains, offering scenic boat rides and views from the demanding Besseggen hike. Lake Stuvdalsvatnet also provides beautiful views along its section, especially on the way to the Munkebu Hut. Lake Stora Lulevatten in Swedish Lapland offers mesmerizing views, particularly during the midnight sun season.
Are there accommodations near the lakes in the Scandinavian Mountains?
Yes, there are various accommodation options. For a unique experience, the Norwegian Trekking Association's oldest cabin, Gjendebu, is located at Gjendevatnet. Additionally, the Åndervatnet Cabin and STF Abiskojaure Mountain Cabin offer simple, open-to-all lodging for hikers.
What is the best time to visit the lakes in the Scandinavian Mountains?
The summer months are generally ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and boating. However, some lakes like Torneträsk in Sweden are ice-covered for much of the year (November to June) and are prime locations to witness the Northern Lights during winter.
Can I go wild swimming in the lakes?
Yes, wild swimming is possible in many lakes. Blåisvatnet offers an 'icy but refreshing' swim, and an exhilarating swim in the crystalline depths of Hornindalsvatn is also possible for the adventurous (with appropriate gear). Lake Abiskojaure features a shallow sandy beach perfect for a refreshing dip.
Are there any hidden gem lakes in the Scandinavian Mountains?
The 'secret lakes' of Svansjön and Bolagen in the Tänndalen mountains, right on the Sweden-Norway border, are considered hidden gems. They offer breathtaking views, excellent hiking, and wild camping spots for outdoor enthusiasts.
Which lakes are part of national parks?
Gjendevatnet is found in the renowned Jotunheimen National Park. Lake Abiskojaure and Lake Torneträsk are located within Abisko National Park. Lake Hornavan is almost entirely surrounded by national parks, and the Åndervatnet Cabin is nestled in Ånderdalen National Park.
What makes the lakes in the Scandinavian Mountains unique?
The lakes are characterized by their crystal-clear, glacial-fed waters, dramatic mountainous backdrops, and diverse geological features. They range from deep, clear waters to those with unique blue and green hues, offering varied experiences from serene vastness to fjord-like drama. The region is also home to Europe's deepest lake, Hornindalsvatn, and Norway's largest, Mjøsa.
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Still not found your perfect lake in the Scandinavian Mountains? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
