Whilst the pandemic is still present, the plan to get out of lockdown is starting to take shape, so you may be looking to book your next getaway. Now, if the urban scenes of different cities aren’t what you are looking for, there are plenty of naturally beautiful sites to see all over the world.
1. Australia
Sure, this country is famous for the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, but there are numerous natural sites to behold in this country too:
- Great Barrier Reef Marine Park- Established to protect the ecosystem, it includes over 3000 coral reefs, as well as inshore mangrove islands and 600 continental islands. As one of the seven natural wonders of the world, this is one to add to your bucket list.
- Blue Mountains National Park- This UNESCO world heritage site is perfect for those who want to feel like they’re on top of the world. The site protects over 664000 acres of wilderness and encompasses 140km of hiking trails.
- Uluru (Kata Tjuta National Park)– Formerly known as Ayers Rock, this is an area of the world that is one of the most photographed by tourists. The best time to go and visit this historical site would be at sunset, where the red of the rock deepens.
2. Italy
Italy is another country famous for its landmarks (i.e the Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa), but it is also home to some naturally picturesque locations too:
- Lake Como- This is one of the most beautiful places in the country, surrounded by mountains and small towns. It is only a short train ride from Milan, and you can go on boat trips around the lake or take it all in at your own pace.
- Lake Garda- A great holiday destination surrounded by a fascinating lake. Lake Garda is somewhere to consider if you wish to have a relaxing lake-side vacation.
- Capri- The Blue Grotto on the Italian island of Capri is one of the most visited spots in Italy, though this is only one natural sea cave. The island itself is made up of cliffs overlooking an exceptionally blue sea, so it is quite a sight to behold.
- Amalfi Coast- Another UNESCO heritage site, this stretch of coastline lies just south of Sorrento and Naples. You have the opportunity to tour the coastlines by road, or you can hop on a boat and see the sights from there.
3. Spain, The Balearic Islands, and The Canary Islands
Spain, the Balearic Islands, and the Canary Islands all have their charms. Here are some of the most breathtaking ones:
- Picos de Europa- A mountain range that stretches for around 20km. Forming part of the Cantabrian mountain range in the north of mainland Spain, this is the perfect place to go for those who enjoy hiking.
- Puerto Portals- Located in Mallorca, this stunning location has been compared to the stunning nature of Monte Carlo in Monaco. It is lined with great restaurants and visitors will also see numerous luxury yachts.
- Loro Park- Situated in Tenerife, this is the perfect place to go if you’re an animal lover. This park contains an aquarium with an underwater tunnel, a bat cave, and one of the largest collections of parrots in the world (to name but a few features).
4. Thailand
This beautiful country is around a 12-hour flight from the UK, so you might want to consider some 12-hour flight tips before you go. Though the flight times are long, what awaits you on the other side is worth it:
- Erawan Falls- Part of a national park that covers 550 square kilometres of land. Whilst the hike to the falls takes around 4 hours, you won’t be disappointed by what you find. The waterfalls are paired with a plunge pool and offer cascade, ledge, and plunge waterfalls all in one place.
- Khao Yai National Park- This is also a UNESCO world heritage site, as well as being Thailand’s 3rd largest national park. There are a variety of things to do here, including hiking along with one of the five different routes, wildlife watching in Mo Singto, or climbing the summit of Khao Rom, the park’s highest summit.
- Phi Phi Islands- Located only a 45-minute speedboat ride (or a 90-minute ferry ride) from Phuket and Krabi, these islands give you the ultimate tropical feel with picture-perfect views and clear turquoise water.
5. Canada
Canada is the home to many different natural locations that will take your breath away, such as:
- Niagara Falls- An obvious one, but extremely worth it. It falls on the border between the USA and Canada, and about 20 million people visit it each year.
- Moraine Lake- This is part of Banff National Park and is supposed to be among the most photographed places in Canada. This beautiful lake is surrounded by mountains and once featured on the Canadian $20 bill, which is the reason for its nickname: The 20 Dollar View.
- Smuggler’s Cove- Historically, this was a prime space for smuggling liquor when it was banned in the 20s, earning its name. During the low tide, you can walk right down to the ocean level and look out at the sea.