‘Only one Earth’

Europe’s oldest national park is a fitting place to contemplate nature’s beauty on World Environment Day. Established in 1909, Sarek National Park encompasses 1,968 square kilometres of pristine wilderness in northern Sweden. Rapadalen (Rapa Valley), a 35-kilometre-long valley surrounded by steep mountains, is considered one of Europe’s most enchanting landscapes. As beautiful as the remote, high-alpine region is, it is only recommended for experienced and well-equipped hikers. The weather is severe and unpredictable, and there are no accommodations available for tourists.
© Alena Vishina/Alamy