From jaw-dropping natural wonders to stunning man-made structures and everything in between, our world is jam-packed with gorgeous sights everywhere you look. Whether it’s canyons, waterfalls and mountains or quaint towns, impressive buildings and historic cities, there’s plenty on the planet to please the eye. Join us on an armchair tour of the world’s 103 most beautiful places.
Read on to discover the most gorgeous sights on Earth…
Acropolis of Athens, Athens, Greecelkunl/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Rhmp7hRbAVeXHw7Vi6g.pQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/49345f72895c832dba43fd47aa2ee8cc>
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of Kyoto’s most enchanting spots and it’s easy to see why. The lush green stalks of bamboo rise tall, filtering the light from above and creating a magical atmosphere down below.
Part of the Arashiyama district on the western outskirts of Kyoto, it’s a nationally designated Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty alongside the Moon Crossing Bridge, Tenryu-ji temple and the hamlet of Kiyotaki.
Moai, Easter Island, Chilealextrp/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/n8S6.8CIZ1NNM7lastvpXQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/83f98eafc61f97b8de8278f160a77ef2>
Far-flung Easter Island – one of the most remote inhabited islands on Earth – is a remarkable place, made even more so by its mysterious moai. These giant stone-carved heads and torsos stand stoically on sites around the volcanic island.
It’s widely thought, but not known for certain, that they were carved by the Rapa Nui people between the 11th and 14th centuries.
Salar de Uyuni, Potosí, Boliviasunsinger/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/n6frgoVetJFMzhM0wIB98w–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/67fb156e0d82a0fb1e96d9e45a5f23d4>
Stretching across an immense 4,086 square miles (10,583sq km), Salar De Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat – and a breathtaking natural mirror. The surface becomes reflective when water floods the plain, making it look as though everything is suspended in the clouds. The dream-like spot is located in Potosí, southwest Bolivia, near the crest of the Andes.
Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, UKAitormmfoto/Alamy src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/I6gOw1XAQ8znxqDX_KOVAA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/d72df5832b52de19baca0c64d57ff616>
It’s hardly surprising that this surreal rock formation on the coast of Antrim in Northern Ireland is steeped in magical legends. The curious, near-perfect hexagonal columns are a marvel of nature. According to folklore, the causeway was built by Irish giant Finn McCool so he could cross over to Scotland to confront his rival Benandonner. However, scientists would have it that the basalt ‘steps’ were caused by intense volcanic activity some 50 to 60 million years ago.
Munnar, Kerala, IndiaImagesofIndia/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Mlsben9m8UmlE2m0KPRMOA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/d83a5ead92539ab3372f0a0d8ca694f1>
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High in the Western Ghats, this hill station and former resort for the upper echelons of the British Raj looks out over lush plantations and mist-covered hilltops. It’s dotted by tea estates, which were originally established by the Scottish, and there are plenty of up-to-no-good elephants, which are often spotted (or heard) crashing through the greenery. The region is also famous for the elusive neelakurinji flowers, which only bloom every 12 years. The next event is due to happen in 2030.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan Province, Chinalkunl/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/e0b_6f6H9ku5.sNeylgW7Q–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/380c788146aaf05f15fcde51d6442d4f>
It’s not surprising the subtropical forests, deep ravines and towering sandstone buttes of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park served as the inspiration for the film Avatar. The place most definitely resembles a lost world.
This ethereal spot is part of the vast UNESCO World Heritage Site of Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area in central China’s Hunan Province, and is home to rare species such as the ginkgo tree as well as unusual primates and birds.
Whitsundays, Queensland, AustraliaJMP_Traveler/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/4VNgyiuJ5GevkKB7p7ftvQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/3573eef51bde294383eaee93859e79c8>
JMP_Traveler/Shutterstock
The Galápagos is an isolated group of islands 605 miles (974km) off the west coast of Ecuador. Famous for being the place that inspired naturalist Charles Darwin’s work On the Origin of the Species, the diversity of wildlife here is mind-blowing. The Galápagos is home to over 300 different reptile species and birds such as the blue-footed booby, with 50% of the world’s breeding pairs living here.
Provence, FranceStevanZZ/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/KzgwjsLKPJJ95Y7VhRrLNw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/bb06aebe62d3914cceae2ea5867d928c>
The lavender fields of France’s Provence region explode in a fragrant haze of purple from around mid-June up until August (although they’re at their peak in early July). The biggest concentration of lavender fields is on the high plateau around Sault, at the foot of Mont Ventoux and around Apt and Gordes. Lavender is an important part of life in Provence as it has countless uses, from beauty products and soaps to aromatherapy, natural remedies and cooking.
Taj Mahal, Agra, IndiaS.Borisov/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/qMAskQw0MYbGilev0y.StA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/53bffe5034be6560638e94cf28ad2620>
One of the world’s most famous waterways, Venice’s Grand Canal snakes through the heart of the famous floating city. At just over two miles long (3km), the Grand Canal is the main artery of Venice and flows past some of the city’s most famous landmarks.
This view, captured from the Ponte dell’Accademia, is undeniably one of the most stunning cityscapes in the world.
Palawan, the PhilippinesYunsun_Kim/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/sE2OhlaRNEVE1K7yG6_0xg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/000340e581b45376eef5f6349390f09b>
Stretching 249 miles (400km) from Torquay to Nelson along Australia’s southern coast, the Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most spectacular drives. Hugging the dramatic Victoria coastline, the road passes by forests, rocky seashore platforms, wild surf beaches and towering cliffs with soaring views of the Southern Ocean-lashed coast and famous rock formations Twelve Apostles and London Arch.
Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto, Japanthegrimfandango/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/pIGZW8PQGystIcM467yBqA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/f1eb502497a60d0d3ffaddfdb73d71d1>
thegrimfandango/Shutterstock
It’s almost impossible not to find a picture-perfect street in Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its entirety. The small town in Italy’s heel – Puglia – is famous for its unusual trulli homes, built from local whitewashed limestone and with conical roofs. The steps up to Piazza del Popolo reveal stunning views over the higgledy-piggledy town, with thousands of cone-shaped roofs piercing the typically blue sky above.
Mount Denali, Alaska, USARossHelen/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/INUCGLM2c4VnIxSj9377Aw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/31a7feb1f7d07899f4629da684ff26eb>
The narrow alleys, little stairways and pretty squares of Montmartre might typically be crammed with tourists but it still offers some of the most mesmerising sights. It’s a steep walk into the cobbled roads of this little hilly neighbourhood within Paris, but it’s more than worth it to stroll its atmospheric streets and to gaze down at the hubbub of the city.
Sunset is a great time to enjoy a long, lingering look at this most romantic of places before snapping up a table at a bistro for dinner.
Oia, Santorini, Greecesculpies/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/qT_NudGX8O9INM2CNtijMw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/351e7a340fc10b17a625c801bfccdb4d>
South Africa’s flat-topped mountain is one of the most famous and admired peaks in the world. It’s also one of the most ancient at over 260 million years old.
Now part of a national park, it’s home to an incredible array of flora and fauna, including endemic species such as the Table Mountain ghost frog and a whopping 1,470 flower species.
Niagara Falls, USA and CanadamageBROKER/Alamy src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/rnrNGXnBdJuF4ITRYvjVvw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/c7c3114f3b6c73fbdfba9c7d9cd5a9f7>
The Great Barrier Reef is famously so vast it can be viewed from space. Gorgeous both underwater and from dry land, it’s the world’s largest reef system, made up of nearly 3,000 reefs and encompassing more than 135,000 square miles (349,648sq km). And it’s made even more colourful thanks to whales, dolphins, sea turtles and thousands of species of fish that call it home.
Lake Bled, SloveniaNyokki/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/tfa5e4WoAUHMYvECkcjR5w–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/4c4c4ffb95d8fbd634e92b973f5ed0cd>
Famed for its awe-inspiring vistas, cliffs and lush forests, Yosemite National Park is full of big-hitter attractions, but there’s nothing quite like Yosemite Valley. Seen here from the Tunnel View viewpoint, you can really appreciate the jaw-dropping landscape in all its splendour.
Castle Combe, Wiltshire, England, UKRRong/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/B1sLkRCdhq2wqAeHtVUTTw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/3bf9ef8e2a46c20d3ca12c527421961e>
Thailand is sprinkled with incredible temples, but none are so stunning as Wat Rong Khun. Unusually, it’s privately owned and is more of an artwork than religious place.
Full of symbolism, the temple entrance is surrounded by a sea of grappling white hands representing human desire, while the temple’s interior walls are decorated with politically motivated murals, depicting demons and Western idols like the Terminator, Superman and Kung Fu Panda.
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, USAmickyteam/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/O0AVFQG9ykP2LMxT5IaUYw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/a1b2124c6b715de7678bbeb9defbf84a>
Talk about opulence. In 1853 ruler Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II had the whole city of Jaipur painted pink for a visit from Edward, Prince of Wales and the future king of England. To this day, the Rajasthani capital retains its signature rose-tinted hue across historic buildings, homes and shops, and is one of the stops on the popular Golden Triangle circuit. Pictured here is Patrika Gate, one of the seven gates along Jaipur’s city walls.
Manarola, Liguria, Italyemperorcosar/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Lh.8.rczPSAFlzKXmT_vBQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/b374b0acbd631cae6708e637208f76ba>
emperorcosar/Shutterstock
Most people who ascend to the ancient Inca city on a remote mountain ridge in the Sacred Valley are in awe of the spectacular sight. The most significant archaeological site in South America, it’s thought the emperor Pachacutec built the soaring citadel in the clouds in the 15th century, although its mysteries abound. Despite the crowds of tourists that normally visit this ancient site, Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most mesmerising sights.
Deadvlei, NamibiaMarchaugh/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/f.TWgZ1Uv6YSO9oLyugf6g–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/31ea18035ecfcb50bd55de86bc0b3c61>
Set within Somerset’s gorgeous countryside, Cheddar Gorge is one of the UK’s most unique natural landscapes. Measuring an impressive 400 feet (122m) deep and three miles long (4.8km), it’s the largest gorge in England. Characterised by limestone cliffs, its steep slopes were formed around one million years ago when melting glaciers carved out the rocks during the last Ice Age. The gorge was also where Britain’s oldest complete skeleton was found.
Nā Pali Coast, Hawaii, USAMichail_Voroev/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/w6fUtVq3pGP.g.LpaBmo7A–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/2593d6444fc8c3ae602e150600ca5d6d>
Michail_Voroev/Shutterstock
This row of fat-bottomed baobab trees is as bizarre and beguiling as the island’s tangerine-eyed lemurs, and probably just as frequently photographed. The Avenue of the Baobabs, on a dirt road between Morondava and Belon’i Tsiribihina in western Madagascar, is made up of majestic centuries-old trees, reaching up to 100 feet (30m).
Bruges, BelgiumIzabela23/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/gKpy0GjiQW16TgpGnOPOvg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/2e2bb0e06cf19a3f8e57f17f66dec7ab>
Bruges’ compact size and perfect prettiness can make it seem a little unreal, like a classic postcard come to life or perhaps a toy town, albeit infused with the scents of beer, frites and sweet crepes. The city is all cobbled lanes, canals, medieval spires and looping bridges. Life centres around its squares: Burg, dominated by the 14th-century Gothic Town Hall; and Markt, home to one of the city’s most famous landmarks, the medieval Belfry (bell tower).
Kirkjufell, IcelandDaniel_Kay/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/PF55L0LuIDdUASTskv5Vdw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/f8a3d35875fb10ddce60ce0ef47e9057>
Lofty fells, lakes, tarns, forests and waterfalls – this spellbinding landscape in the northwest of England is arguably the country’s most stunning and dramatic natural attraction. Its extraordinary beauty has captivated and inspired many renowned artists and literary greats. The 885-square-mile (2,292sq km) Lake District National Park was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 2017.
Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazilrudi1976/Alamy src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Isfgfvkfhk9T2YkQGF0dtA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/f589a23a2c0a977ec15395a732d79ef8>
Located in Austria’s mountainous Salzkammergut region, Hallstatt is the most incredible storybook town you could ever imagine. The 16th-century traditional alpine houses are perched on a narrow cliffside facing Lake Hallstatt, with dramatic mountain views in the background. Equally attractive in both summer and winter, it’s one of Europe’s most-photographed towns.
Five Flower Lake, Sichuan Province, ChinaEfired/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/fYt2ARumLDFmXxJBlxSCWg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/fc1b9aa09370c30ca6eed273a901e2e0>
China’s Jiuzhaigou Valley is on the UNESCO World Heritage list for very good reason and Five Flower Lake is perhaps its most dazzling feature. This serene lake is considered holy by many, thanks to its changing colours and the fact it doesn’t freeze, even in winter. Yet the mystery behind this unique wonder can be easily explained – it’s home to hot springs and the pool has aquatic plants which change colour when exposed to sunlight.
Monument Valley, Arizona and Utah, USAanek.soowannaphoom/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/wv1LAUgwBrZLMPRoFfk7aw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/ac6f755a5c7f73803517f3d8429dc9dc>
anek.soowannaphoom/Shutterstock
Still under construction, Gaudi’s most celebrated work normally draws millions of visitors to see its unfinished grandeur every year. The elaborate building’s most impressive part is its dramatic Nativity facade, which was created under the personal supervision of Gaudi himself and has thousands of intricate carvings depicting and related to the birth of Christ.
Pamukkale, Turkeyfrantic/Alamy src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ijvXpvqDqLyG5JyLrL_O4w–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/6444fd290da9f7fdf95cc2b174935917>
The town of Pamukkale in Turkey is celebrated for its natural travertine terraces which cascade down its hillside like clouds. These 17 mineral-rich thermal pools are part of an ancient Roman spa city.
The pools are formed by calcium carbonate deposits on the surface of the water and are said to have healing properties.
Las Lajas Sanctuary, Narino, ColombiaC’mondani/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/E4DVye_CP9I8QqqmXioYRQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/e166a126cdac2743be3936fd4c9806a0>
The most striking feature of this Catholic church is its setting: the grey stone structure spans a forested gorge 150 feet (46m) above a river. Its story is one of miracles and determination, beginning in 1754 when a mother and daughter, sheltering from a storm, saw an image of the Virgin Mary in the rocks.
According to the story, the daughter was cured of her muteness and deafness. After hearing of the miracle, a blind man spent 10 years collecting funds to build a chapel in the spot – and his sight returned.
Inspired by these marvels, the vertiginous church was finally built between 1916 and 1949.
Luskentyre Sands, Isle of Harris, Scotland, UKyari2000/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/.XbDQxlrIxsUTthmflP8Eg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/3a7a15d0e99fbc2aa919f2c2b40e07b4>
With its cliff-edge houses, deep fjords and rugged granite mountains surging out of the sea, Norway’s Lofoten archipelago is unapologetically untamed. The landscape is just as breathtaking on stormy days – when waves swirl ominously around the coastline – as it is on clear and serene days, when the sea acts as a mirror for Lofoten’s towering peaks. Pictured here is the ultra-photogenic island village of Hamnoy.
Mount Fuji, JapanYuziS/Alamy src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/kIFUVsuOA450o8kHnJQsvw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/9e2d38e917e2b76657a72465138310c9>
The state of Utah has a bounty of scenic vistas, from the jagged rocks of Bryce Canyon to the green peaks of Wasatch Mountain State Park up north. But one of the most impressive bird’s-eye views is of Reflection Canyon, a dramatic rock formation in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Here the remote canyon can be seen in all its glory.
Neuschwanstein Castle, Schwangau, Germanyrudi1976/Alamy src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/2ZpstkIZR_ctJjI4q7mOTw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/5f7e95ccda1322dc2f71532ba2a1170d>
This castle’s stunning architecture and hilltop location isn’t rivalled by many other fortresses and is arguably one of Europe’s most famous. Built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria to use as a private retreat from public life, the castle and its dreamy towers and turrets, which could have been plucked straight from a fairy tale, served as inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Bagan, Mandalay Region, Myanmarcanadastock/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/uFkr4Y5obVaOMgAxKCj9Zw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/774ad71fbc29926f3b44ccdbf6f1de1d>
Translating as the ‘red fortress above the Tauber river’, the ancient, red-roofed village of Rothenburg ob der Tauber leaves a lasting impression. Set along southern Germany’s Romantic Road, it’s one of many medieval storybook settlements with defensive towers, narrow timber-clad houses and cobbled streets.
If wandering around the picturesque place isn’t enough, there’s plenty to entertain visitors, including museums, gardens, enticing shops and buzzy cafes.
Skeleton Coast, Namibiasharptoyou/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/JLBMxR9XO0LOm7AZ2.IEiw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/a75587170a8526a150faaf4e7af5dee9>
A rugged landscape of jagged peaks, shimmering lakes, ancient forests and vast glaciers, Patagonia is a region that captures the imagination and has an irresistible appeal for adventurers. The three sharp granite towers that rise bewitchingly in the background of this image are one of the vast national park’s most striking landmarks. Known as Torres del Paine, they formed over 12 million years ago.
Uluru, Northern Territory, Australiabmgrapher/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0iJw15QwbmgSCfXq1jJXxA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/5efc8ade4c0ba8f56aa308ab22fe5514>
The imposing beauty and spiritual significance of this mammoth monolith, which thrusts out of the red dirt in the desolate centre of Australia, is unnerving. Surrounded by the Red Centre’s untamed wilderness as far as the eye can see, there’s something truly primeval about the ancient sandstone boulder. It’s a hugely sacred site for the Anangu people – the custodians of the land – and one of the greatest natural wonders of the world.
Milford Sound, Fiordland, New ZealandTTstudio/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/g2qFuE.qVzjGT4G7aXraBA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/68a0b89800c3c1b0c3a1593346348ac5>
Manhattan’s jagged, glinting, gleaming cityscape is one of the world’s most famous and recognisable vistas. It looks gorgeous in any light, from the pale haze of dawn to sunset and after dark, when New York City’s bright lights shimmer over the broad Hudson River. And it’s not just the skyline.
From the glorious green space that is Central Park and the famous cables of the Brooklyn Bridge to the city’s famous brownstones, every inch of the Big Apple is ridiculously photogenic.
Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh, Vietnammonticello/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/0QIodOrYsxQlm3NUuzChMw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/2e949525074b8d57f56a05d236d33073>
Encircled by walls laid in the 10th century, Itchan Kala (Khiva’s Inner City) has a singular collection of historic buildings, giving a fascinating insight into Central Asian Islamic architecture. But more than any individual sight – like the Kalta Minor Minaret, sumptuous Tosh Hovli Palace or ornately tiled Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum – Itchan Kala’s most astounding feature is how well-preserved it feels. Its mud-walled streets and courtyard homes seem barely touched by modern life.
Burano, Veneto, ItalyPixieMe/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/8LV4SLAkvUn5hIS.HikwCg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/5bf65239076f16d69d5229815fa02321>
It’s tricky to pinpoint the most eye-catching aspect of Abu Dhabi’s spectacular mosque, completed in 2007. Could it be the piercingly tall minarets, or the 80 marble domes that form the roof? Perhaps it’s the gold-topped pillars or the sheer amount of pure white marble that makes up the modern Islamic masterpiece.
It could equally be the chandeliers that shimmer in the main prayer hall, or the detailed floral designs laid into the floor. All of this together, though, places it among the most beautiful buildings in the world.
Nyhavn, Copenhagen, DenmarkGlennV/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/2phpGkbMico3B8u.Tg.ViQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/6b28f26d79bc4c3b53d659577780d525>
A striking string of chalk cliffs topped with a crown of green, the Seven Sisters have fascinated visitors since Victorian times when Eastbourne and Seaford, the towns between which they are sandwiched, became popular seaside resorts. The landscape is incredibly dynamic today, especially at Birling Gap, a coombe rock bay that erodes at a faster rate than the surrounding chalk cliffs.
Pink Granite Coast, Brittany, Francericok/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/qnRB948VD5j.1h2O3hlm.A–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/01c8ae1634f730fa30ca7c1c0e57de9b>
The unique colour of these rocks – a range of rosy tones from amber to coral, offset by the crystalline teal of the ocean – is created by an exceptionally rare natural combination of quartz and feldspar. The Pink Granite Coast, with its enchanting palette and amazing formations, runs along more than six miles (10km) of coastline in Brittany.
Zhangye National Geopark, Gansu Province, ChinaTHONGCHAI.S/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/J8qLGmqJveGCiWCbpTS4IQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/b3bda940e07d96f2a952d99c5da1c55a>
The rainbow-hued mountains in Zhangye National Geopark look just like an artist’s paint palette. Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning formation was created by natural erosion, when layers of sand, silt, iron and minerals blended together to create a kaleidoscope of colours. The incredible park appears to have been decorated by Mother Nature herself.
Dubrovnik, CroatiaBrookgardener/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ruwCmq7JT5qmuWRiXN92IA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/3345a083cc48f037f93c4d8ad5b93077>
Brookgardener/Shutterstock
A beach with pink sand sounds pretty dreamy – and, combined with turquoise sea and bright blue skies, it’s easy on the eye too. Bermuda is known for its unique, rose-hued stretches of sand, created by millions of pieces of crushed coral and shells. The wide sweep of Horseshoe Bay is one of the best, with pale pink-gold sand hemmed in by rocky headlands. Explore the bay’s caves by paddleboard or head to a beach bar and watch the sunset while sipping a rum swizzle.
Paradise Bay, Antarcticakavalenkau/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/cZWWtoTXWTeMnG27Mu0rrg–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/6bea7a066d86b10c0af0fc52077d4b47>
Built by the Islamic monarchs of Andalucia on a leafy plateau above the city of Granada, the majestic Alhambra is a sight to behold. This fortified palace was primarily constructed between 1238 and 1358, though several sections were reworked when Spain reverted to Christianity in the 16th century.
But the Arabesque influence still looms large in the Alhambra’s architectural details and decor, like its elaborate archways, painted tiles and reflecting pools.
Atacama Desert, Chilesunsinger/Shutterstock src=https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/59tEdT0b1GdWoec7TAlASQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYxOQ–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/loveexploring_uk_835/381a829feeace05dd5a817e362638c39>
The world’s driest non-polar desert (and its oldest of any kind) is the closest you can get to walking on the moon without leaving Earth. The lunar-like landscapes of the Atacama Desert, which spans around 600 miles (1,000km) of western Chile between the Pacific coast and the Andes Mountains, were even used by NASA to test equipment for outer space.
Far from being a lifeless abyss, it is marked by lakes, salt flats, volcanoes, geysers and dancing dark skies.
Now check out the best travel experiences you can have in South America
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Publish date : 2024-08-30 00:30:00
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