1. Jotunheimen Valley
Located in Norway, Jotunheimen Valley is one of the most unique glacial valleys due to its dramatic landscape of steep mountains, glaciers, and picturesque lakes. The valley is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, with over 100 hiking trails to explore its scenic terrain. Jotunheimen Valley covers an area of approximately 2,200 square kilometers (849 sq mi). The valley's unique geology dates back to the last ice age, when the glaciers carved out the valleys' distinctive landscape.
2. Vatnajökull Valley
Situated in Iceland, Vatnajökull Valley is known for its stunning glacial landscapes and diverse wildlife. The valley is home to Europe's largest glacier, Vatnajökull, which covers over 8% of Iceland's landmass. Vatnajökull Valley features breathtaking waterfalls, black sand beaches, and picturesque glaciers. The valley's unique geology dates back to the Miocene epoch, around 23 million years ago.
3. Biało Lake Valley
Located in Poland, Biało Lake Valley is a unique glacial valley formed by the retreating ice of the last ice age. The valley features a series of picturesque lakes, glaciers, and mountains that stretch for over 30 kilometers (19 mi). Biało Lake Valley covers an area of approximately 150 square kilometers (58 sq mi) and is a popular destination for hiking and skiing. The valley's unique geology was shaped by the Last Glacial Maximum, around 26,500 years ago.
4. Kongsfjord Valley
Situated in Norway, Kongsfjord Valley is one of the most remote glacial valleys in the world, located on the island of Spitsbergen. The valley features stunning glaciers, mountains, and picturesque fjords that are accessible only by boat or dog sled. Kongsfjord Valley covers an area of approximately 2,000 square kilometers (772 sq mi) and is home to a diverse range of Arctic wildlife.
5. Storglaciären Valley
Located in Sweden, Storglaciären Valley is one of the most beautiful glacial valleys in Scandinavia. The valley features stunning glaciers, lakes, and mountains that stretch for over 20 kilometers (12 mi). Storglaciären Valley covers an area of approximately 350 square kilometers (135 sq mi) and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The valley's unique geology dates back to the last ice age, when the glaciers carved out the valleys' distinctive landscape and created the Lake Storsjön reservoir.