The Cairngorms, Scotland
Located in the Eastern Highlands region, The Cairngorms is a national park that covers a vast area of Scotland. At its core, the mountain range boasts the only herd of wild reindeer in Britain, making it a unique and fascinating place to visit for nature lovers. The region’s high altitude and diverse landscape also offer a plethora of outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and rock climbing.
Chefchaouen, Morocco
If you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy location, the picturesque Moroccan city of Chefchaouen is a must-visit destination. Known as the “Blue Pearl of Morocco,” it’s famous for the striking shades of blue that adorn the buildings in its northwest region. But the city has much more to offer, from its charming old town to its delicious local cuisine and friendly locals.
Fiordland, New Zealand
Named after the Norwegian fjords, Fiordland is a remote and breathtaking region in New Zealand’s South Island. Its rugged landscape, characterized by steep valleys and stunning waterfalls, makes it a popular destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Apart from hiking, kayaking, and camping, visitors can also explore the area’s rich flora and fauna, including rare birds, seals, and dolphins.
Torres del Paine, Chile
While Patagonia is already a popular destination, Torres del Paine National Park in Chile remains a hidden gem. The park’s awe-inspiring scenery includes glaciers, mountains, and turquoise lakes, all set against the backdrop of the Southern Andes. Besides hiking, visitors can also go horseback riding, fishing, or take a scenic flight over the park for a truly unforgettable experience.
Chamarel, Mauritius
Beyond its luxury resorts and idyllic beaches, Mauritius also has some hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Chamarel, a small village in the southwestern part of the island, is one of them. The village is known for its seven-colored earth, a unique geological formation caused by volcanic activity. Visitors can also explore Chamarel’s waterfalls, nature trails, and the Rhumerie de Chamarel, a local distillery that produces some of the best rum on the island.
Wulingyuan, China
Wulingyuan Scenic Area, located in Hunan Province, is a natural wonder that will leave you speechless. Its unique rock formations, lush forests, and misty valleys inspired the fictional world of Pandora in the movie Avatar. Visitors can explore the park’s many trails, take a cable car ride for stunning views, or watch a traditional dance performance by the local Tujia ethnic group.
Jökulsarlon Beach, Iceland
Diamond Beach, also known as Jökulsarlon, is one of Iceland’s most surreal and otherworldly locations. The beach is littered with icebergs that have broken off from the nearby glacier, creating a stunning contrast against the black sand. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the glacier lagoon, hike to nearby waterfalls, or catch a glimpse of the elusive northern lights.
Budva, Montenegro
Perched on the Adriatic Sea, Budva is a charming coastal town that offers a quieter alternative to Dubrovnik in neighboring Croatia. The town’s medieval old town, known as Stari Grad, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts stunning architecture and picturesque alleys. Visitors can also enjoy Budva’s beaches, nightlife, and fresh seafood, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking relaxation and culture.
Tsingy Stone Forest, Madagascar
Located in Madagascar, Tsingy de Bemaraha is a massive nature reserve that was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1990. The park is known for its incredible wildlife, including several species of lemurs and birds that are unique to the area. The reserve’s most unusual feature is a collection of towering limestone spires that look like a petrified forest.
Saint Michel d’Aiguilhe, France
The Chapel of St Michel d’Aiguilhe is situated on top of a volcanic rock pinnacle in Le Puy-en-Velay, a small town in south-central France. The church is an incredible feat of medieval engineering, as it was built entirely by hand in the tenth century. Visitors can climb the 268 steps to reach the top and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Huacachina, Peru
Nestled in the Peruvian desert, Huacachina is a small oasis town that boasts a fascinating history and a wide range of modern amenities. According to legend, the oasis was created when a beautiful princess was bathing in a nearby lagoon and was surprised by a hunter. She fled, leaving behind a pool of water that turned into an oasis. Today, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as sandboarding, dune buggy rides, and stargazing tours. The town also features a variety of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs that offer a taste of Peruvian nightlife.
