Røros, Norway

At just 5,638 residents, Røros is a tiny town with an outsized presence. The municipality's 1,957 square kilometers make it one of Norway's largest, but its population density of 2.9 people per square kilometer means isolation and bureaucracy are persistent headaches. Winters in this subarctic climate regularly see temperatures plummet below -40°C, and the town's historic wooden buildings do little to insulate against the cold. Yet Røros' UNESCO-protected status and copper mining heritage have made it a draw for tourists, who flock by the tens of thousands each February for the traditional Rørosmartnan market. For hardy Norwegians seeking a connection to the country's rugged past, Røros may be an enticing option, but its remote location and extreme climate pose significant challenges for all but the most dedicated.