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• A 2024 Compilation Of 59 Weirdest Places Across the World You Should Stop By

25 Nov 2022

Where words fail, pictures do the trick. And in this blog, you require the pictures to understand the baffling beauty and sublime grace of some of the strangest places on earth. You will be shocked to read about some weird places in the world that are too shocking to believe. We have carefully shortlisted 59 weirdest places across the world based on human interactions with these destinations. We bet you will be rushing to change your bucket list just about now. Take a look at the most bizarre destinations in the history of the world. You will be taken in by shock, awe, surprise; in a nutshell, the entire spectrum of human emotions.

59 Weirdest Places Across The World

The world we live in is a very interesting place. Each place on this Earth has its own unique features. Some features are not just unique but can also seem weird to our human minds. Here are the 59 weirdest places across the world that are a must-visit:

• Salar De Uyuni – Explore The White Salt Bed
• Lake Natron – The Scariest Lake
• Die Rakotzbrück – The Nature’s Own Ring
• Spotted Lake Khiluk – Puddles Of Water
• Slope Point – Windy Spot
• Dead Vlei – The Beautiful Yet Dead Forest
• Underwater Park – Fun Below The Water
• Eternal Flame Falls – Nature’s Unique Phenomena
• Tunnel Of Love – Walk Amidst The Greenery
• Christ Of The Abyss – Explore Underwater
• The Silfra Rift – Experience The Two Continents Underwater
• Caño Cristales – The River Of 5 Colors
• Jellyfish Lake – See The Creatures
• Blood Falls – Witness The Red Water Flow
• Painted Hills – Witness The Nature’s Painting
• Confluence Of Rhone And Arve Rivers – See The Merge
• Sea Of Stars – Walk Down The Glowing Water
• Huashan Mountain – Road To Heaven
• Nelson Lakes National Park – Witness The Beauty
• Giant Crystal Cave – See The Unreal Beauty
• Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain – Painted Picture
• Yonaguni Monument – Dive And Explore
• Crooked Forest – Spooky Yet Beautiful
• Pink Sands Beach – See Something Different
• Richat Structure – See The Nature’s Unique View
• Great Blue Hole – Take A Dive At Sinkhole
• Dead Sea – Float Over The Water
• Lake Retba – Witness The Pink Waterbody
• The Wave – Just Out Of A Painting
• Mt. Kelimutu – Witness 3 Different Color Lakes
• Al Naslaa Rock Formation – Bewildering Natural Phenomena
• Mendenhall Ice Caves – Walk Amidst The Ice Crystals
• Fingal’s Cave – Symmeterical Natural Wonder
• Ruby Falls – Visit The Underground Waterfall
• Oneuli Beach – Black Beach Will Fascinate You
• Marble Caverns – Unusual Marble Creations
• Nyaung Ohak – Explore The Jungle Village
• Iguazu Falls- World’s Widest Waterfall
• The Doorway Railway – Get A City Tour
• Koekohe Beach – The Beach With Giant Boulders
• Monolith Of Uluru – The World’s Largest Rock
• Mount Roraima – Witness The Highest Mountain
• Danakil Depression – The Place With Acid Pools
•   Travertine Pools – Explore The Cotton Castle
• The Giant’s Causeway – Ancient Volcanic Eruption
• Pancake Rocks – Natural Staircases
• Lencois Maranhenses National Park – White Sand Dunes Structures
• Red Beach – Get A Break From White Beaches
• The Seven Giants – Incredible Rock Structures
• Cat Island – What Is Too Many Cats?
• Sailing Stones – See The Stones Moving
• Magnetic Hill – Get Ready For A Tough Ride
• Moeraki Boulders – Looks Like Giant Eggs
• Aokigahara Forest – The Suicide Forest
• The Stone Forest – Not Trees But Stones
• Nazca Lines – Find The Discovered City
• Easter Island Heads – An Unusual Site
• Island Of Dolls – Spooky Forest
• Tianzi Mountains – See The Tall Natural Structures

1. Salar De Uyuni – Explore The White Salt Bed

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One of the top weirdest places across the world is located in Potosí and Oruro departments, this is the world’s largest salt pan and one of the strange places in the world. And when a thin film of water gathers on the surface it is also the world’s largest natural mirror. The best sight of this space can be observed from the central Incahuasi Island. Salar De Uyuni is the remains of a prehistoric lake that dried off and left behind void space of bright-white salt, rock formations, and cacti-islands. This place harbors large flocks of beautiful pink flamingos that can be seen grazing in the water. The best time to visit this place is in the months of July and October. This is definitely one of the most strange places in the world .

Location: Bolivia Best time to visit: July to October How to reach: Fly or take a train/bus to Uyuni and then take a hired vehicle to the salt flats.

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2. Lake Natron – The Scariest Lake

Looking for some weird places in the world? How about this terrifying lake? Animals that die in this African lake are turned into statues, through calcification. The presence of huge volumes of sodium bicarbonate ensures they turn into mummies. And because of the high alkaline collection, the lake looks red in color, especially during summer in Tanzania . This is the reason why this lake is also known as the ‘Petrifying Lake’. In spite of all these conditions, it is grazing ground for the Lesser Flamingos. Fancy a dip? Don’t even think about it!

Location: Tanzania Best time to visit: June to August How to reach: Fly to Tanzania and book a guided tour of Rift Valley of which the lake is a part.

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3. Die Rakotzbrück – The Nature’s Own Ring

The Die Rakotzbrück bridge is another strange places and comes under the weird places in the world. Constructed in the 19th century is famed for its unique construction accuracy, with the bridge and its reflection merging into a complete and perfect stone circle, no matter where you see it from. Spooky! It is in fact one of the weirdest places across the world. This is probably why the bridge is also known as the ‘Devil’s Bridge’. It seems that the makers of the bridge emphasized more on its aesthetics than its utility. Both the ends of the Rakotzbrücke have thin rock spires installed, to make it look like natural basalt columns, which commonly occur in many parts of Germany.

Location: Altes Schloß 11, 02953 Gablenz, Germany Best time to visit: May to September How to reach: Fly to Dresden and take a train to Gablenz from Dresden Hauptbahnhof. From there you can take a taxi to the Devil’s Bridge.

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4. Spotted Lake Khiluk – Puddles Of Water

Spotted Lake Khiluk is the most mineralized lake in the world. Another bizarre place that makes it to the weirdest places across the world. The lake is spotted with 365 separate pools arranged in a strange mosaic-like pattern. Each of these spots holds a unique and highly concentrated chemical content and is said to cure different diseases. Definitely one of the nicer strangest places in the world.

Location: Northwest of Osoyoos, British Columbia Best time to visit: April to October How to reach: Fly to British Columbia and take a bus or train to Osoyoos.

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5. Slope Point – Windy Spot

Slope Point is the South Island’s southernmost point is another of the strange places in the world . The forest here is home to trees that are permanently twisted and windblown thanks to the intense Antarctic gusts . Windy much? This is one of the windiest strangest places in the world. The sight is all the more intensified by the rugged cliffs, eroded by the strong winds and time. The place is used for sheep farming, though there are no houses around. Another highlight of this place is the AA signpost that is installed here showing the distance to the Equator (5,140 km) and the South Pole (4,803 km).

Location: New Zealand Best time to visit: December to February How to reach: Fly to Auckland and take a ferry to South Island.

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6. Dead Vlei – The Beautiful Yet Dead Forest

The name Deadvlei means ‘dead marsh’ and the place is also known as ‘Dooie Vlei’. It is a sun-blackened dead forest in a white clay pan which is basically a dried oasis. An amazing yet counted as one of the strange places in the world, the lack of water forces the roots of trees to come outside looking for moisture. The struggle is real! The place is surrounded by rust-orange giant sand dunes that form a contrasting backdrop. This place is also said to be surrounded by the highest sand dunes in the world.

Location: Namibia Best time to visit: March to May How to reach: Fly to Namibia and take a bus or taxi to Namib-Naukluft Park.

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7. Underwater Park – Fun Below The Water

This list won’t be complete without some underwater beauties. One of the most weird places in the world, located in the Green Lake in Tragoess, this is not just a gimmick, but a genuine park that goes underwater during spring. After all, the scuba divers do need to rest and relax. It is considered as one of the most fabulous waters to dive in around Europe due to the rarest natural phenomenon in one of the most beautiful lakes in Austria . Have you booked your tickets yet?

Location: Austria Best time to visit: April to May How to reach: Fly to Vienna and take the train to Bruck an der Mur using the OEBB. From there, you can take bus 175 that will get you to the lake in 35 minutes.

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8. Eternal Flame Falls – Nature’s Unique Phenomena

The Eternal Flame Falls is one of the most craziest places in the world. However, it is a quaint waterfall located in Shale Creek Preserve, which is a section of Chestnut Ridge Park in Western New York. A small item at the waterfall’s base emits natural gas. Interestingly, it can be lit to produce a flame. This flame is visible all year round. It can be extinguished and must occasionally be re-lit. The flame is fueled by natural gases and burns bright right under a waterfall.

Location: New York, the US Best time to visit: April to October How to reach: Fly to New York and take a train to Buffalo. From here, take a train or bus to Orchard Park where the falls are located.

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9. Tunnel Of Love – Walk Amidst The Greenery

A section of industrial railway in Ukraine, this green leafy tunnel seems like something out of a fairy tale. It is known for being a favorite place for couples to take morning or evening strolls. If you’re planning to surprise your significant other on Valentine’s day, ditch the usual trip to Disneyland and book your trip to Ukraine . You will not be disappointed by everything that Ukraine has to offer, especially if your reason to visit it is to see one of the weirdest places across the world. The beauty of the Tunnel Of Love will astound you.

Location: Ukraine Best time to visit: May How to reach: Fly to Ukraine and take a bus or train to Rivne. Get to Rivne train station where you’ll be able to see the tunnel.

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10. Christ Of The Abyss – Explore Underwater

This is 2.50 meters, you read that right, it is a 2.5 METRES TALL bronze statue of Jesus Christ, which is under water. A favorite place for deep sea divers, and definitely one of the strange places around the world situated underwater. It is a submerged bronze statue of Jesus Christ by Guido Galletti and is one of the best tourist spots in Italy for thrill seekers. The original copy of the same is located in the Mediterranean Sea, off San Fruttuoso, between Camogli and Portofino.

Location: Italy Best time to visit: May to June How to reach: Fly to Milan and take a train to Genoa city. From here, take a taxi, bus, or another train to either Portofino or Camogli. Book a diving tour here to swim down to see the Christ Of The Abyss.

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11. The Silfra Rift – Experience The Two Continents Underwater

The Silfra Rift, one of the most obscure places in the world separates two continents and two tectonic plates, namely the North American and Eurasian plates. It occupies an area of approximately 600 by 200 meters. It is touted to be one of the most unique phenomena on Earth. Snorkeling in Silfra Rift is one of Iceland’s awesomest experiences. Make sure to indulge in it on your trip to Iceland. You will be blown away by the beauty of this natural marvel. Prepare to be bedazzled by one of the weirdest places across the world.

Location: Iceland Best time to visit: June to August How to reach: Fly to Reykjavik and take a taxi or hired vehicle to drive to Silfra (one hour away).

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12. Caño Cristales – The River Of 5 Colors

In the summer months, this Colombian river turns red. Counted as the most weirdest places in the world, the river bed is covered by a unique species of plant, and that is what turns red. Another one of those mysterious places on earth underwater. The river is commonly called the “River of Five Colors” or the “Liquid Rainbow”. It has been called the most beautiful water body on Earth. You can make a time lapse here of the water cascading down the rocks.

Location: Colombia Best time to visit: How to reach: Fly to Bogotá or Villavicencio and take an internal flight to La Macarena. From here, book a local tour of the national park which will cover the land transfers to and fro.

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13. Jellyfish Lake – See The Creatures

There are 70 marine lakes located in this region. What makes Jellyfish Lake stand apart from the rest is that it contains jellyfish. Too many of them! It was closed for public in 2012 owing to the diminishing population of jellyfish in this lake, one of the weirdest places across the world for sure! Scientists assumed that it was the end of this beautiful lake. But the population of jellyfish grew in recent years and it has once again been opened for the public. Cool, right?

Location: Palau Best time to visit: November to April How to reach: Take a speedboat from Palau mainland to Eil Malk Island and opt for a snorkeling tour in the Rock Islands to see the jellyfish.

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14. Blood Falls – Witness The Red Water Flow

Amidst the unending whiteness of the snow, Blood Falls provides a creepy relief. The water is red in color due to the presence of huge amounts of Iron. Definitely makes the list of the strangest places in the world. According to Forbes, the mystery surrounding Blood Falls has been solved. According to the researchers of the University of Alaska, the red coloring is due to “oxidized iron in brine saltwater, the same process that gives the iron a dark red color when it rusts.”

Location: Antarctica Best time to visit: November to March How to reach: Fly to Taylor Valley and hike to the waterfall with a guide.

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15. Painted Hills – Witness The Nature’s Painting

How often do you come across a place and are simply left awestruck by its beauty? Painted Hills is one of those weirdest places across the world. Don’t believe us? Book a trip to Oregon right away and see for yourself. We promise you will change your mind after you find it in every Oregon travel guide and when it you see it for yourself! At Painted Hills of John Day Fossil Beds, the presence of minerals stain the hills in myriad hues. The ever changing light and moisture levels affect the yellows, reds, golds, and blacks.

Location: Oregon, the US Best time to visit: June to August How to reach: Fly to Oregon and drive (or take a taxi) via the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway to get to the hills.

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16. Confluence Of Rhone And Arve Rivers – See The Merge

There is a defined contrast between these two rivers of Switzerland ; one is blue and the other brown. They never fully mix due to the difference in density. They mix in Geneva, which is situated in Switzerland. It is hard to walk by this beautiful marvel of nature and not feel overwhelmed by whatever nature has to offer us. Go ahead and Google search this place to check out beautiful photographs of this place. You will be blown away by the beauty of one of the most scenic places in Switzerland .

Location: Switzerland Best time to visit: March to June How to reach: Fly to Geneva and either take a taxi or walk to the confluence point.

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17. Sea Of Stars – Walk Down The Glowing Water

Bioluminescent sea plankton that shines bright blue during the night makes the sea area at Vaadhoo Island look like the Sea of Stars. The sea of stars of Vaadhoo Island Maldives attracts millions of tourists every year. The tourist footfall seems to be only increasing after the sea was featured in far and few Bollywood and Hollywood films. The Maldives is listed as one of the cheapest destinations in the world and this beach is one of the weirdest places across the world. So, what’s stopping you from seeing this sight?

Location: Maldives Best time to visit: May to November How to reach: From to Male and take a speedboat to Vaadhoo Island.

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18. Huashan Mountain – Road To Heaven

What’s weird about Huashan Mountain, you say? Well, look closely On the end of this treacherous death-defying trail in China is a mere tea house, but this Mount Huashan Plank Walk in the Sky is famed for its adrenaline raising effects. It is known as the Road to Heaven. Would you walk the plank here, at one of the strangest places on earth? Let us know in the comments section below. Tag your friends and get going.

Location: China Best time to visit: April to October How to reach: Take a train to either Xian Railway Station or Xian Cheng Dong Coach Station and take a bus to Huayin.

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19. Nelson Lakes National Park – Witness The Beauty

Do you get extremely excited about jungle safaris and walking tours of the national park in general? This one might just surprise you with its quirkiness. There is an interesting Blue Lake at the Nelson Lakes National Park, one of the weirdest places across the world. But what’s so weird about it? How about the fact that this is a lake so clear that you can see all the way to the bottom, and can’t even make out the depth. Go ahead, visit it. We dare you. Don’t blame us for your mind being blown to smithereens.

Location: New Zealand Best time to visit: December to February How to reach: Fly to Nelson or Blenheim and take a bus or taxi to Lake Rotoroa.

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20. Giant Crystal Cave – See The Unreal Beauty

Giant Crystal Cave at Naica Mine is also one of the weirdest places on the Earth. Deep down in the bowels of the Earth, these huge shiny mineral pillars are enough to make you feel claustrophobic. This mammoth structure has been growing underneath Mexico for more than 500,000 years. It makes for an exceptional case study on how organisms survive in extreme heat and humidity. All nature lovers must visit this place at least once.

Location: Mexico Best time to visit: December to April How to reach: Fly to Chihuahua and take a bus or train to Naica. From here you can get a taxi to the caves.

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21. Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain – Painted Picture

Covered in wide lines of pastel blue, intense red, green, pink and yellow. There are currently no scientific explanations for this phenomenon. Often referred to as Vinicunca or Montaña de Siete Colores, Rainbow Mountain is a colorful peak in Peru. It is extremely difficult to reach, we will not lie. But the strenuous effort is worth the trek. The sights that you will behold from the top of the mountain will dazzle you and tell you why it’s on every list of the weirdest places across the world. Are you ready to do this?

Location: Peru Best time to visit: June to August How to reach: Fly to Cusco and hike to Rainbow Mountain on the well-laid out trail for the same.

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22. Yonaguni Monument – Dive And Explore

Scientists have only been able to confirm that this monument underwater in Japan is five thousand years old. It is still not confirmed if it is natural or manmade. Theorists say that it could be alien-made. Which theory do you believe in? If you believe in the former, you probably are of the school of thought that renders the existence of unicorns impossible. Jokes apart, visit this region for a day full of mysterious adventures.

Location: Japan Best time to visit: November to May How to reach: Fly to Ishigaki and and then a ferry to Yonaguni Island from there.

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23. Crooked Forest – Spooky Yet Beautiful

Came across any oddly-shaped pine trees outside Nowe Czarnowo near the town of Gryfino, West Pomerania? Welcome to the most bizarre place on Earth. Very few people visit this region, so why you happened to be there is a mystery in itself. In an otherwise normal forest in Poland, full of straight trees, there is this collection of curved trees, for which there is no scientific explanation. One of the world’s weirdest places in Poland , indeed.

Location: Poland Best time to visit: March to June How to reach: Fly to Warsaw Chopin Airport and take a train or bus to Crooked Forest.

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24. Pink Sands Beach – See Something Different

The sand at this beach is pink in color due to the presence of certain minerals and plankton. According to recent scientific research, the pink hue comes from foraminifera, a microscopic organism that actually has a reddish-pink shell. The sand is a mix of coral, shells, and calcium carbonate. Only a few pink sand beaches exist in the world. The rarity of these beaches adds to the charm and mystery they hold among the human population.

Location: The Bahamas Best time to visit: December to May How to reach: Fly to the Bahamas and take a ferry or private boat to Harbour Island where the beach is located.

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25. Richat Structure – See The Nature’s Unique View

With a diameter of almost 30 miles, this is a structure in the deserts. One of the most unique places in the world, it looks like a massive fossil. Or maybe an alien spaceship landing strip? It is a prominent circle-shaped structure smack in the middle of Mauritania. You can get to the destination from the quaint desert town of Ouadane in the west-central part of Mauritania in western North Africa. Make sure to pack according to the weather of the region. Keep a lookout for the weather.

Location: Mauritania Best time to visit: December How to reach: Fly to Mauritania and take a bus or taxi to the destination.

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26. Great Blue Hole – Take A Dive At Sinkhole

A gigantic natural submarine sinkhole! No one knows the depth of the sinkhole. The Blue Hole is a popular spot for freediving. You will be amazed at the power this sinkhole exudes. It is also touted to be the most dangerous and deadliest spots in the world by experts. We suggest that you exercise caution in this area. It has claimed the lives of many divers in the past. Do not be reckless and take care of yourself and your fellow divers.

Location: Belize Best time to visit: January to May How to reach: Fly to Cancun and then take an internal flight to Belize City. Take a bus or taxi to Ambergris Caye from where you’ll need to snorkel or take a boat to the Great Blue Hole.

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27. Dead Sea – Float Over The Water

Can’t swim? No problem! The Dead Sea, a salt lake, will ensure you can float without any effort, due to the high volume of salt and other minerals in the water. The Dead Sea is 10 times as salty as the ocean, with a salinity of about 34%. Just a disclaimer, if you open your eyes while in its water, it will sting quite a bit. It is inhospitable. Interestingly, in the Greek Era, it was inhabited by savage tribes. Visit the site to know more awesome facts.

Location: Jordan Best time to visit: November or December How to reach: Take a train to Be’er Sheva and from there a bus to the Dead Sea.

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28. Lake Retba – Witness The Pink Waterbody

Ever seen a lake that’s pink in color? That’s what is weird here, thanks to the presence of certain plankton and minerals. It is located some 30 kilometers northeast of Dakar. The reason behind the water being pink is the huge presence of Dunaliella salina algae in the water body. It is known for its high salt content, up to 40% in some areas. It will surely catch your eye in Senegal. Swimming in this water is safe, so pack your swimsuit and head here.

Location: Senegal Best time to visit: November to June How to reach: Fly to Dakar and take a bus or taxi to Lake Retba.

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29. The Wave – Just Out Of A Painting

The Wave is a sandstone rock formation located near the northern border Arizona shares with Utah. It is a dreamlike world of swirling colors and psychedelic patterns. The rock formations are said to be from the Jurassic era. In an effort to preserve the natural beauty and integrity of this natural site, there are no signage for hikers. You have to find your way in and out of this site. Sounds like a challenge. Who is up for it?

Location: Arizona, the US Best time to visit: November to January How to reach: Fly to Arizona and get to North Coyote Buttes permit area by bus or taxi. Trek on the Wire Pass Trailhead of the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument to get to The Wave.

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30. Mt. Kelimutu – Witness 3 Different Color Lakes

The result of a volcanic eruption, this wonder is home to three separate lakes, all of the different colors – black, blue, and turquoise. Weirdly, at the summit of Mount Kelimutu summit, there are three crater lakes in three different colors, and those colors change all the time. If this isn’t the most bizarre thing that you have read this week, we don’t know what is. It is often times blue. Make sure to stop by this lake and tell us in the comments section below which color it was when you saw it.

Location: Indonesia Best time to visit: May to September How to reach: Fly to Ende and get a bus or taxi to the nearest village from where people usually trek (2.5 hours) to the lakes and mountains.

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31. Al Naslaa Rock Formation – Bewildering Natural Phenomena

There are many natural occurrences that can bewilder the traveler. This is one of them. This little slice of perfection. See the uniform slit between the flat faces of these two standing stones? Al Naslaa is one of the most photogenic petroglyphs in the area. Its natural shape is a big mystery that no one has been able to solve yet. Make sure you embark on a holiday to Saudi Arabia to catch a sight of this natural structure.

Location: Saudi Arabia Best time to visit: October and early March How to reach: Take a taxi or drive a hired vehicle to Tayma oasis from Tabouk.

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32. Mendenhall Ice Caves – Walk Amidst The Ice Crystals

The different shades of blue in the ice crystals inside these caves is a natural phenomenon that has left scientists baffled for years. As global warming is on the rise, there is a chance that these ice caves might be affected. Geologists are doing everything possible in their capacity to save these ice caves from becoming extinct. The glacier was named Auke (Auk) Glacier by naturalist John Muir for the Tlingit Auk Kwaan band.

Location: Alaska Best time to visit: mid May to mid September How to reach: Ride to Tongass National Forest in Juneau and then trek to the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Caves with a guide.

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33. Fingal’s Cave – Symmeterical Natural Wonder

As a rule, caves are round in shape with round rocks, right? Wrong! Take a look at these symmetrical square caves. These caves are situated on the uninhabited islands of Staffa in Scotland. Except for researchers and scientists, people don’t usually visit these caves. But you can still look at this photograph and admire the bounties of nature. Doesn’t this strike as beautiful to you? The cave has a large entrance and is filled by seawater.

Location: Scotland Best time to visit: April to October How to reach: Take a ferry from Fionnphort to the Isle of Staffna.

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34. Ruby Falls – Visit The Underground Waterfall

A 145-foot high underground waterfall that is illuminated to create this lovely purplish hue. It is located within Lookout Mountain near Tennessee. They have existed for millions of years. Ruby Falls Cave features prominent cave formations like stalactites and stalagmites, columns, drapery, and flow stone. The caves were opened to the public only recently, so make sure you don’t miss out on a trip to this destination.

Location: Tennessee, the USA Best time to visit: Year-round How to reach: Fly to Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport and take a bus or taxi to the Lookout Mountains.

Suggested Read: 8 Enthralling Places To Visit in Tennessee That You Might Not Want To Miss Out On In 2023!

35. Oneuli Beach – Black Beach Will Fascinate You

A remarkable beach that boasts of pitch black sand due to volcanic activity in the past. If you know how to swim or snorkel, you will have the time of your life here. If you don’t, you can train with certified instructors first and then take a dive into this beautiful black sand beach. You will not regret a visit to this destination. We promise you will be blown away.

Location: Hawaii, the US Best time to visit: April to May How to reach: Drive from Wailea towards the Grand Wailea Resort in Makena. 4 miles south of the resort is a dirt path, taking which will lead you to the parking lot of this beach.

Suggested Read: 28 Offbeat Honeymoon Destinations In The World For 2023 You’d Have Never Heard Of!

36. Marble Caverns – Unusual Marble Creations

The Marble Caverns of Carrera Lake have amazingly smooth and cool caves of marble. The water is clear enough to see deep down to the bottom. The Marble Caves, Marble Chapel, and Marble Cathedral are an unusual geological formation in the General Carrera Lake or Lake Buenos Aires (as it is popularly called) located in Patagonia. Hop on a ferry and take a trip to these unusual marble formations. Don’t forget to get your camera with you.

Location: Chile Best time to visit: December to March How to reach: Fly to Santiago and then take an internal flight to Balmaceda. From there, you can take a taxi or hired vehicle to drive down the Carretera Austral road to Puerto Tranquilo, and from here you’ll get a motorboat or kayak to reach the Marble Caves.

Suggested Read: 16 Most Expensive Islands In The World To Check Out In 2023

37. Nyaung Ohak – Explore The Jungle Village

Myanmar may not be the most popular destination, but it definitely features on the list of places you should visit once before you die. Here is why. Myanmar houses Nyaung Ohak, which is a beauty in its own right. A surreal jungle-village of over 1000 crumbling temples is hard to come by elsewhere. This destination is covered in greenery. It is a sight to behold. Getting to Nyaung Ohak involves an exciting boat ride.

Location: Myanmar Best time to visit: November to February How to reach: Take a train or bus from anywhere in Myanmar.

Suggested Read: 24 Best Honeymoon Destinations In February To Explore Around The World In 2023!

38. Iguazu Falls- World’s Widest Waterfall

One of the widest waterfalls in the entire world . Iguazu Falls will give Niagara Falls a run for its money. The falls divide the river into the upper and lower Iguazu. The power of the falls was not utilized until the construction of Itaipu Dam. It is a dam built jointly by Paraguay and Brazil. It was completed in 1991. If cascading waterfalls mesmerize you, plan a visit to this beautiful destination and prepare to be blown away.

Location: Brazil Best time to visit: July to October and February to April How to reach: Fly to either Foz do Iguaçu Airport (IGU) in Brazil or Cataratas del Iguazú (IGR) in Argentina. The falls are a bus or taxi ride away from both Buenos Aires and Rio.

39. The Doorway Railway – Get A City Tour

The Doorway Railway of Hanoi is a railway line passes inches away from the doorsteps of shops, through the residential neighborhood and commercial area of Hanoi. There’s a street in Hanoi, Vietnam where a speeding train passes straight through twice a day. If you’re in the way of the train, you are supposed to press tight into the adjoining wall or duck into a nearby cafe to escape being killed. You can feel the iron resonate against your skin. Sounds terrifying, right?

Location: Vietnam Best time to visit: February to April and October-November How to reach: Take a taxi or shared cab from anywhere in Hanoi to get to Train Street.

Suggested Read: 20 Best Beaches In Vietnam For Some Sun, Sand & Surf!

40. Koekohe Beach – The Beach With Giant Boulders

Unusually-giant boulders dot the eroded Otago coastline along a stretch of Koekohe Beach. Scientists are unable to explain what is expected to be a natural phenomenon. They are unusually large and either occur scattered in the region or in clusters. Though the beach faces erosion now and then, the rocks refuse to change their structure and remain firmly cemented in the ground. This is a must-visit site for nature lovers. It is also one of the top cool things to do in New Zealand .

Location: New Zealand Best time to visit: December to February (visit the site between low-tide and mid-tide at sunrise) How to reach: It’s a 30-minute drive on State Highway 1 from Moerkai or Hampden to Koekohe Beach.

Suggested Read: 19 Adventure Sports In New Zealand That Will Make The Thrillist In You Super Happy In 20233!

41. Monolith Of Uluru – The World’s Largest Rock

This is a single rock. One single, gigantic rock, which is a mountain in itself. With a height of 348 meters and a circumference of 5.8 miles, this is the world’s largest rock and one of the weirdest places on earth. While the rocks surrounding it eroded, it stood its ground to become the longest surviving Monolithic rock structure. If this rock doesn’t inspire you to keep hustling in life and staying true to all the promises you made to yourself, we don’t know what will.

Location: Australia Best time to visit: September to November How to reach: Fly to Yulara and take a taxi, hired vehicle, or bus to Uluru.

42. Mount Roraima – Witness The Highest Mountain

An enormous surreal flat top mountain said to be one of the most mysterious, with an abundance of unusual plants and animals. Welcome to one of the weirdest places on earth. This is the highest mountain in the Pakaraima chain. It is furthermore, the highest point in Venezuela. The mountain’s highest point is named as Laberintos del Norte. Hire a tour guide and trek these mountains to marvel at nature’s wonders. Don’t forget to take your friends along.

Location: Venezuela Best time to visit: December to April How to reach: Fly to Boa Vista and take a bus or taxi to Mount Roraima.

43. Danakil Depression – The Place With Acid Pools

These are not your average run-of-the-mill pools; these are actually acid pools. Even what looks like land are brittle crusts of salt and sulfur. Totally one of the strangest places on earth. The tectonic plates underneath the Danakil Depression continue to move, even after millions of years. Scientists believe that if the movement doesn’t cease, the land will drop further below sea level. Won’t that be a sight to behold?

Location: Ethiopia Best time to visit: November to early January How to reach: Take a bus or taxi from the nearest town of Berahile.

44. Travertine Pools – Explore The Cotton Castle

A group of small pools that result from calcium carbonate deposits. Looks cold, but these are actually pools of warm water, fed by an underground spring. The area is immensely famous among the locals and tourists alike for the carbonate mineral left by flowing water, which lends this natural site the name “cotton castle”. This place in Turkey is a sight to behold and we recommend you to stop by there on your trip to the region.

Location: Pamukkale, Turkey Best time to visit: April to mid-June How to reach: Fly to Denizli Airport from where you can get into any of the shuttles or mini buses to reach Pamukkale.

Suggested Read: 9 Best Museums In The World For Every Historophile

45. The Giant’s Causeway – Ancient Volcanic Eruption

The result of an ancient volcanic eruption, these are perfectly straight rocks jutting out of the sea. Around 60 million years ago, this place was subjected to intense volcanic eruptions. As the lava cooled and the smoke enveloping the region disappeared, people found pillar like structures jutting out. They were amazed and began researching the origin of the Giant’s Causeway. To date, scientists are perplexed by the firmness of these rocks.

Location: Ireland Best time to visit: April to June How to reach: Take a bus from Dublin to Bushmills. From there, take another bus or taxi to Giant’s Causeway.

46. Pancake Rocks – Natural Staircases

The thousands of layers of sandstone and limestone accumulated on the ocean floor has given shape to these stacks of pancake-like rocks. The Pancake Rocks are reachable by a number of walkways winding through the rock formations, parts of these wheelchair-accessible and others carved into stairways up and down the rock faces. Make sure to visit this place on your trip to New Zealand. Prepare to be bedazzled by this natural wonder on Earth.

Location: New Zealand Best time to visit: January How to reach: Take a train or bus to Greymouth and then a taxi or hired vehicle to drive to Punakaiki where the rocks are located.

47. Lencois Maranhenses National Park – White Sand Dunes Structures

Lencois Maranhenses National Park is one of the mysterious places on Earth which is a protected area in Brazil. There is a reason why this place has a special status in the country. Although it deceptively looks like a desert, this national park of Brazil has many small pools bordered by the sandy dune-like structures. Have you ever come across white sand dunes on your desert trips? If your answer is no, pack your bags and head to Lencois Maranhenses National Park.

Location: Brazil Best time to visit: May to August How to reach: Fly to São Luís International Airport where you can get taxi or private van to get to the park.

48. Red Beach – Get A Break From White Beaches

Red beach is famed for its red-hued sand which is one of the unique places to visit . It is a renowned tourist attraction. The place receives a tourist footfall of tens of thousands of people each year. The tourists seem to be in love with this place. Every year in autumn, The Red Beach in Tianjin, China comes alive with Suaeda salsa, a red colored plant that thrives well in salt water. The entire beach blooms red, leaving only thin strips of sea visible. Make sure to come here with your friends and get a photograph for your Instagram.

Location: China Best time to visit: May to October How to reach: Get to Panjin City by bus or train from anywhere in China.

Suggested Read: Visit These 10 Uninhabited Islands For A Trip Of A Lifetime In 2023!

49. The Seven Giants – Incredible Rock Structures

Locally known as the Seven Strong Men of Russia or The Little Mountain of the Gods, these behemoth stone pillars, created by frost and snow over many years, are a mystery as yet unsolved by science. You will find seven rock formations here. Their heights vary from 30 to 42 meters. Behold them and get lost in the divine wonders of nature. We dare you to book a ticket to this region, which is officially one of the most mysterious places in the world. You’ll be amazed at the sight of this unusual places to visit .

Location: Russia Best time to visit: March to August How to reach: Take a bus to the Ural mountains.

50. Cat Island – What Is Too Many Cats?

An island that is home to a mere 100 humans, and thousands of cats which makes it one of the strange places on Earth . The locals love the living situation though. For a dog-lover like me, this is one of the strangest places on earth. Cat Island is located in a remote region of Japan that goes by the name of Ehime Prefecture. Here, the cats outnumber human beings by a ratio of 10:1. People were introduced to combat rodents on fishing boats but remained on this island. They procreated and thus, the human settlement flourished.

Location: Japan Best time to visit: mid-December to mid-April How to reach: Take a train from Sendai to Ishinomaki Station and then a bus and ferry from the station to Tashirojima Island.

51. Sailing Stones – See The Stones Moving

Image Source The Death Valley in California is one of the weirdest places in the world owing to the phenomenon of the Sailing Stones that have bewildered people for generations. In 1915 people had discovered a track here which indicated that a particular stone had moved from its place in the dry land. This sailing stone had immediately been recorded and the locals began further study so that they could learn more about this mystery. A lot of rocks have moved on their own since then, and the natives believe it happens because of the formation of ice around the stones, though it’s not confirmed.

Location: Death Valley, California Best time to visit: mid-October to mid-May How to reach: The nearest airport is McCarran International Airport from where you can get a taxi or bus.

Suggested Read: 12 Things To Do In California: Indulge In Activities That Treasure Forever

52. Magnetic Hill – Get Ready For A Tough Ride

Magnetic Hill in Ladakh, India, is known to be one of the most unique places in the world where you can experience a truly unusual phenomenon. When you travel into the land of Ladakh, you will come across this place which tends to pull vehicles. This is essentially a tiny stretch of road on a hill that lies on the Srinagar-Leh highway. The mystery is that you can park your vehicle here and turn off the ignition of your car, your vehicle will slowly start moving on its own!

Location: Ladakh, India Best time to visit: July to September How to reach: Take a flight to Leh, or a road trip on the Delhi-Manali-Leh route.

Suggested Read: Magnetic Hill In Ladakh: A Handy Guide To Unravel This Mystery In 2023

53. Moeraki Boulders – Looks Like Giant Eggs

Image Source The first thing you’ll notice about these weird rocks is that they look like giant eggs! Moeraki boulders are said to be one of the most unique places in the world and are laid out on the Koekohe Beach in New Zealand while people come to see them from far and wide and end up being puzzled! It’s a rare sight to gaze at and the mammoth 12-feet high boulders are scattered around in the most peculiar formation, which makes them even more bizarre! The locals believe the rocks have been formed as a result of tremendous mineral and sediment accumulation around this area which eventually fossilized.

Location: New Zealand Best time to visit: December to February (visit the site between low-tide and mid-tide at sunrise) How to reach: It’s a 30-minute drive on State Highway 1 from Moeraki or Hampden to Koekohe Beach.

54. Aokigahara Forest – The Suicide Forest

Image Source The Aokigahara Forest is said to be one of the weirdest places in the world by locals and travelers alike, at least the ones who did not venture into it! In fact, the Hollywood flick The Forest is entirely based on this forest itself, the story in that movie explores the spooky nature of this very jungle which is said to have been haunting people for a very long time now. Also called the Suicide Forest, this place is situated at the foothills of the famed volcano Mount Fuji in Japan and is notorious for its endless cases of haunting and apparitions that have occurred here. The worst part is that more than 500 people are said to have committed suicide in this forest.

Location: Japan Best time to visit: mid-June to mid-September How to reach: You can take a taxi or bus from Tokyo to the entrance of the forest (don’t go inside!)

Suggested Read: 7 Best Gardens In Japan Which Will Take You Into A Utopian World!

55. The Stone Forest – Not Trees But Stones

Image Source Another one on our list of the most unusual places in the world is the Stone Forest in the world which draws most of its fame on the grounds of how strange it is! Unlike the green and wildlife nurturing forests in the world (that is what the word “forest” is usually associated with), this one is compiled mainly of strange rocks and stones. That’s right! Located in Yunnan Province of China, this Stone Forest is a one-of-its-kind Shilin Stone Forest where you will find towering limestone rock formations instead of the usual tall trees and shrubs. These tall limestone structures have cropped up over an area of around 100,000 acres and make the whole place look like a “forest”, thus the name!

Location: Yunnan Province, China Best time to visit: March to October How to reach: Take a train to Shilin from Kunming Train Station and then a bus to the forest area.

56. Nazca Lines – Find The Discovered City

Image Source You may remember the Nazca Lines reference from the movie Indian Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull where they played a huge role in enabling the explorer-cum-professor where the hidden city lied. Most people are not aware that this place is real and actually exists on the world map.

One of the most unusual places in the world, these are humongous lines scarred into the desert landscapes of southern Peru. As explained in the movie itself, these only make sense from the skies (a plane!) from where people can make out the strange shapes carved into the otherwise barren desert landscape. These prehistoric remains in South America are amongst the most awesome phenomenon and one of the most revered they UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing thousands of tourists here every year.

Location: Peru Best time to visit: May to October How to reach: Fly over Nazca or get a bus ride to the mirador (viewpoint) in the middle of the desert for a restricted view.

Suggested Read: 9 Coolest Things To Do In Peru In 2023 For The Adventurous Souls

57. Easter Island Heads – An Unusual Site

Image Source Made by the Rapa Nui civilization back in the first millennium AD when this place wasn’t even called the Easter Island, there are countless carved effigies of gigantic heads spread across the beach. They have been made by the Para Nui people using the early tools and have been carved right out of the black rock boulders on the island, chiseled and chipped to perfection. Displaying a brilliant example of the masonry and creativity at that time, these Easter Island heads are some of the earliest examples of prehistoric art, many others being cave drawings and the like. They have surely made this island one of the most unique places to visit in the world for travelers who come here every year in huge numbers.

Location: Polynesia Best time to visit: April to June or October to December How to reach: Get a seat on the LATAM airline from Santiago which is the only airline that flies to this island.

58. Island Of Dolls – Spooky Forest

When it comes to exploring the weirdest places in the world, among all the list comes this crazy island in Mexico. The uninhabited Mexican island of Xochimilco has eerie and roughed-up dolls hanging up on the trees. The sight looks like just out of a horror movie where there are dolls hanging amidst the wilderness. According to the legends, these dolls started washing down the shore after a girl died in one of the canals in the vicinity. After this one of the single inhabitants hung them from the trees for some creepy reasons. Tourists often make a trip to this place during the Day of the Dead festival in Mexico .

Location: Xochimilco

59. Tianzi Mountains – See The Tall Natural Structures

The Tianzi Mountains are one of the unique places to visit in the world which was the sole inspiration for the sets of Avatar. These mountain peaks abruptly rose from the ground to create a beautiful landscape. Spread across an area of 21 square miles, these mountain landscapes are located inside the Wulingyuan Scenic Area. These mountains are a product of millions of years of sedimentary rock erosion.

Location: Hunan Province of China

Further Read: 20 Weird, Strange Islands Of The World You Should Visit In 2023

So, what do you think about this list of 59 weirdest places across the world? Do you think they are worth visiting? Did we miss out on any? What is your opinion on the aforementioned destinations? Any place that you think is not bizarre or quirky enough? Any place that you’d love to visit solo or with a group of friends? Don’t wait. Book your world trip with TravelTriangle now! You will not regret visiting any of these strange places on Earth, we assure you.

Disclaimer:  TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Weirdest Places Across The World

Is it safe to travel amidst the ongoing pandemic.

Yes, it is perfectly safe to visit these places as the place has a relatively low number of cases. But don’t take our word for it: check up on the latest travel advisory, Covid-19 measures, and the number of cases before your departure. It is safer to undertake solo travel or with a small group of people to somewhere that is not overly crowded at the moment.

Which are the weirdest places in the US?

You will find numerous weird places in the US in terms of their architecture, nature, spook level and quirk. Here are a few of the weirdest places in the US that are kind of a must-visit.The sandstone waves in Arizona colored in orange, purple, and red are as alluring as they are hypnotizing. It puts you in wonder how nature is so amazing. You may not believe but there is Thor’s well in reality in Yachats in Lincoln County, Oregon. There is a fountain of gurgling ocean tides by the sea but don’t plunge in because nobody knows how deep it is. You will also find a house in Rockport, Massachusetts made entirely out of newspaper. Everyone knows about Area 51, of course, bt o one knows what is inside it.

Which are the weirdest places in London?

For starters, there is A Clown Gallery and Museum where you will find clown dolls, clown portraits, and clown costumes on display. Creepy much? Then there is Dennis Severs House that will give you a glimpse of London that was hundreds of years ago. Check into the oldest prison in England, the Clink Prison Museum, and discover the historical graveyards – The magnificent Seven, where famous historical figures like Karl Marx are buried.

Which are the weirdest places on google maps?

The sprawling Swastika designs in Kazakhstan were spotted on Google Maps that date back to 2,000 years ago. There is an island-in-a-lake-on-an-island-in-a-lake-on-an-island in the Philippines where no man has ever stepped foot. A phantom island popped up on Google Maps in 2012 located northwest of New Caledonia.

Which are the most dangerous places in the world?

Here are some of the most dangerous places in the world: 1. Snake Island, Brazil 2. Danakil Desert, East Africa 3. Sahel, North Africa 4. Oymyakon, Russia 5. Mount Sinabung, Indonesia 6. Skeleton Coast, Namibia 7. Lake Nyos, Cameroon 8. Lake Natron, Tanzania 9. Bermuda Triangle, North Atlantic 10. Mailu Suu, Kyrgyzstan 11. Manaus, Brazil 12. Dallol, Ethiopia 13. North Sentinel Island, India

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The Most Untapped Destinations in the World—and How to Travel Them in Style

From remote islands to unexplored deserts and jungles teeming with wildlife...

The true wonder of travel inherently lies in coming face to face with the unknown and getting lost in the beauty of a place on the very brink of discovery. There is no more rewarding feeling than being among the first few to reach and explore a destination that others haven’t yet had the pleasure of witnessing. From remote islands to unexplored deserts and jungles teeming with wildlife, this glorious planet is constantly at the ready with new untapped destinations to make even the most intrepid traveler swoon in awe-struck delight. For the true adventurers out there, get out and discover this latest trove of unspoiled global treasures and find an inspiration all your own.

Puglia, Italy

Puglia, the heel of Italy’s stylish boot, has a wonderfully distinct allure stemming from its rural landscape and patchwork past of Norman, Spanish, Greek, and Byzantine influences. The region is quickly rivaling Tuscany’s gourmet title, offering a glimpse into true Italian traditions and values.

With miles of bountiful coastline, replete with verdant landscapes of olive groves and vineyards, this pristine region produces some of the country’s best, oft undiscovered wines and olive oils. Treat yourself to sensory overload and savor Puglia’s famed cucina povera, a stripped-back, authentic style of Italian cooking focusing on simple, fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods–it's the slow-food movement at its best.

The region is also home to distinctly luxurious lodgings like the fabulous hideaway, Borgo Egnazia , a stone-carved haven set amongst Puglia’s shady olive groves. The creation of one of the most inspired hoteliers, Aldo Melpignano, and his family, Borgo Egnazia is modeled on a traditional local Apulian borgo (village). Here, the cream-hued estate features romantic suites and villas that are decked out in calming tones and elegantly equipped to meet every creature comfort. While in town, check out their gorgeous sister boutique property, Masseria Torre Maizza , which reopened May 2019 under the estimable Rocco Forte banner and is setting the stage to be a very chic oasis, indeed.

For those seeking a “still relatively off the radar” escape, look no further than wild and virtually unexplored Madagascar. This thriving hotspot of biodiversity is a dream for naturalists and adventurers alike; the island is teeming with endemic wildlife, 80% of which can be found nowhere else on Earth.

Unknown to most, Madagascar has some of the best beaches in the Indian Ocean. Check out Nosy Be, Madagascar’s most scenic coastal spot, where guests can spot humpback whales and lemurs on the shoreline.Located on the north-eastern coast of the island, Miavana is the perfect private escape. With only 14 private villas, staying at this luxurious eco-lodge will feel as though you’ve stumbled upon your own Robinson Crusoe haven. Think days exploring lush tropical rainforests and watching turtles nest on the deserted white sand beaches.

The Himalayan Kingdom of Ladakh is one of the few places on Earth that remains virtually untouched and unexplored. Situated at an average altitude of 11,500 feet, Ladakh is crisscrossed by four mountain ranges, The Great Himalaya, The Ladakh, The Zanskar and The Karakoram. Boasting mesmerizing views at every turn, it’s one of India’s best kept secrets. Enjoy the calm serenity of the fresh mountain air, incredible views, and rich Buddhist heritage throughout the region. Guests in Ladakh can opt to stay in beautiful homestays like the Shakti Village Houses in unknown villages of the Indus Valley and remote luxury tented camps. Tour the city of Leh with local royalty, meet local monks, stargaze to your heart’s content and even catch a game of Ladakhi Polo, all while enjoying the ultimate escapist’s dream.

Salta, Argentina

In contrast to the Italo-Spanish metropolis of Buenos Aires and the surrounding grassy Pampas, Argentina’s north-west boasts a strong Andean and spiritual heritage as a meeting point for South America’s indigenous communities. The region is famed for its spectacular scenery and richly colored landscapes–think red rock valleys, multi-colored and monochromatic hills and terra-cotta peaks magically set against stark blue skies. The diversity of this area makes it a haven for trekking, horseback riding, rafting, driving 4x4s and a plethora of other adventure activities.

The city of Salta boasts some of the best preserved colonial architecture, attractive plazas and regional cuisine in all of Argentina, making it an off-the-beaten-track cultural gem. Feel like you’re being let in on a local secret as you step inside La Merced del Alto, in the heart of the Calchaquí Valley. Built as a traditional manor house with wide interior patios and tall galleries, La Merced del Alto is a beautiful reflection of its rustic surroundings in the heart of the Argentinian countryside.

Faroe Islands, Denmark

Located in the chilly waters between Scotland and Iceland, the Faroe Islands are a real retreat. The dramatic landscapes completely redefine the notion of an ‘untouched archipelago,’ giving travelers access to a wilder side of the Danish Kingdom.

Rugged coastlines once considered Viking territory are home to natural wonders best explored via old fishing boats for a mystical effect. But the Faroes are also beginning to take their first steps towards modernization, with chic shops and the island’s 2 Michelin-star restaurant, KOKS , serving up inspired Faroese delicacies.

Stay at the new boutique Hotel Havgrim Seaside Hotel , a beautifully restored historic home right on the water, full of Nordic charm. Design here is inspired by the calming seas, featuring large glass windows and private balconies with mesmerizing views. The property possesses a palpable sense of peace to remind you this is exactly where you should be. With good reason, the Faroe Islands are limiting tourism to preserve the ecosystem and authentic culture, so plan ahead (far in advance) if this adventure piques your interest.

With the renewed fervor surrounding this country and its importance in the history of the Silk Road, now is the time to head to Georgia while it’s still very ‘in the know.’ Underneath the surface of this mostly rural country lies a unique European culture most travelers have little knowledge of, where hospitality and warmth shine as travelers and guests are considered ‘gifts from God’.

Rich in history, unique culinary traditions, green hilltops, snow-capped mountains, and spring waters, Georgia will easily capture your attention. The birthplace of wine, Georgia’s Signagi, has a history of producing wine as far back as the fifth millennium BC and many vintners still employ the traditional methods of their ancestors. Oenophiles will be enchanted with the rare opportunity to stay at Chateau Svanidze , owned by its namesake family of winemakers, a truly captivating way to discover the importance of wine (and even bring back a bespoke bottle yourself).

Georgia’s indulgent culinary specialties, which include cheese filled khachapuri and mtsvadi skewers cooked on aged grapevine, only leave room after for a glass of chacha, a local whiskey regularly on the menu for Georgians, so hit up the local watering holes.

The art-deco Stamba Hotel in Tbilisi, a converted Soviet printing house headquarters, now serves as a testament to the growing art and design interests of modern Georgia and is an inspiring backdrop to the historic churches, iconic statues, and 11th century castles scattered throughout the city.

Stockholm Archipelago

Located east of Stockholm, the Stockholm Archipelago is the discreet spot where Sweden’s well-heeled flock for the summer. Known by locals as skärgården, setting sail is the best way to see all of the skerries and rocks in this Swedish gem.

Untapped by tourists and preserved by locals, the Stockholm Archipelago is a cluster of 3,000 islands that offer incredible views and access to Stockholm’s scenic soft sand beaches, historic castles, lush forests, and stunning coastlines. Locals and visitors alike can cruise like royalty as you split your time between land and sea, with mornings sailing through the untouched, scenic waters and afternoons exploring storybook villages and Stockholm’s Old Town.

From the calm waters of Grinda to the charm of Wardhaus, the Stockholm Archipelago’s magnificent views from the seas, and cobblestoned streets from the land, are simply enchanting. Post up in the stylish and charming Rival Hotel , perfect for Swedish culture lovers as this property is owned by ABBA’s own Benny Andersson.

Guacalito De La Isla, Nicaragua

Perched on the Emerald Coast of Nicaragua, home to 30 miles of untouched beaches, Guacalito De La Isla is an under the radar Central American haven. Be sure to stay at the Mukul Resort , the brainchild of local entrepreneur Don Carlos Pellas, whose family poured their heart and soul into the region in an effort to preserve its beauty and share it with like-minded travelers. The property's name translates from the Mayan word for ‘secret,’ and it lives up to its status as a hidden gem, comprised of fairy-tale beach villas and ‘bohios’ nestled on the stunning, mile-long Manzanillo beach awash with light powdery sand and glorious Pacific sunsets.

From surfing and ash boarding down volcanos, to nature and bike paths through pristine jungles where monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds abound, the chances for adventure here are endless. Here, the infinite pleasures of doing nothing are also not be underestimated; simply lie back, relax, and take in those panoramic views of the Pacific.

Sao Tome and Principe

In the Gulf of Guinea off the coast of West Africa, the nation of Principe is an intimate, discreet island oasis enveloped by enchanting flora and fauna, ocean breezes, and lush tropical forests.

Ecologically-savvy travelers will relish the pristine, well-protected environment as a remarkable base to explore this lost world of beaches, bays, and jungles. Sundy Praia’s luxe tented accommodations at the wild northwest tip of the island of Principe will help in losing all sense of time and place while searching for turtles, whales, birds, and dolphins. True explorers will enjoy discovering historical churches on biosphere trails hidden throughout the island.

Between September and April, you can check out the incredible hatching of the sea turtles, while year-round you can spot any of the 29 endemic species of birds on the island. When you’re not lounging in a private tented villa or on a four-wheel drive through the local plantations, dine at Sundy Praia’s terrific restaurant that has adapted local traditions and flavors including tuna, wahoo, passion fruit, and pineapple. A dinner (or two) here is a must.

For travelers looking to get off the beaten track and go where few tourists have been before, there are few destinations that rival the Congo. A whole new kind of safari destination, the Congo offers luscious forests, rare and exotic wildlife, and safe cities in between.

The Congolese capital, Brazzaville, is known as ‘The Paris of Africa’; it's a must-see, boasting some of the safest and cleanest streets in Africa. Trek, kayak, and cruise through the heart of the Odzala-Kokua National Park and track endangered Western Lowland Gorillas before you wade through the Lango bais in search of Forest Elephants and Buffalo.

Stay at Odzala Discovery Camps and unearth a leafy green paradise where you can get closer to nature than ever before. These three gorgeous camps in North-West Congo are all about stripped back luxury, and unleashing your inner explorer. For the true globetrotter, this is really adventure at its purest.

Mancora, Peru

Often overlooked, Mancora, Peru is home to the tranquil Mancora Beach and the beautiful stone, wood, and mud boutique hotel, KiChic . Once the personal home of the owner, Kichic is now a destination in and of itself for visitors to retreat and unwind with yoga, fish for the daily catch, and dining on nutritious, pescatarian and vegetarian soul food. Naturally, all the dishes here feature locally produced ingredients and flavors such as coconut and gomasio.

Rooted in its love for the sun, fresh fish, and surfing, Mancora’s barefoot bohemian vibes make it a must-visit destination for those with an uninhibited affinity for the natural world. Seemingly in a constant summer, Mancora is a year-round haven for kitesurfing, plunge pools, and fresh dining options year-round. Humpback whale spotting season is a prime time to visit, and runs from June to October.

Wadi Rum, Jordan

The dramatic and desolate desert landscapes of Jordan have enticed explorers to trek through its unforgiving landscapes for millennia. But what most travelers don’t know is that it’s more accessible than you might think; unlock the area’s hidden gems and Bedouin culture via Wadi Rum, a must on every intrepid traveler’s bucket list.

Planning a comprehensive trekking tour through this historic, otherworldly landscape is highly advised and the best way to explore the very setting that scenes from the film Lawrence of Arabia were staged. For a cultural must, travelers can explore the seven jagged rock columns natural landmark from which T.E. Lawrence’s famed novel, “The Seven Pillars of Wisdom,” takes its names. Thrill-seekers can tour via camel or Jeep, stopping off at Bedouin communities along the way and overnighting in luxury desert camps where traditional meals are served around a fire under the stars.

Andaman Islands

A hidden jewel off the coast of West India, the Andaman Islands are a secluded hideaway known for pristine shores and impressive aquatic life. The tropical jungles and secluded islands are a tranquil (and quite perfect) way to round out a trip after spending time in the mainlands of India.

The newly opened Taj Exotica Resort & Spa in Havelock gives travelers more reason to visit than ever before. Touting its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, the Taj Exotica Resort and its surrounding scenery set the scene for your days quietly exploring the archipelago, and indulging at the hotel’s sun-drenched pool and spa. A few days on the Andamans will help you reset and restore after being immersed in the vibrant colors, bustling crowds, and sensory overload from exploring buzzy Mumbai or romantic Udaipur.

Lofoten Archipelago, Norway

This unrivaled wilderness offers the perfect base for sailing, kayaking, and hiking in the remote Fjords of Norway for intrepid travelers. Spend a few nights at Manshausen , a remote island enclave featuring glass cabins perched above the Lofoten waters, to hike mountain ranges over the islands of Maløya and Grøtøya, rock-climb the red-hued cliffs of nearby Nordskot, or fully unwind with a fresh water soak in your room.

Explore the impressive mountains that dominate the landscape by foot, and take in incredible views of the frozen wilderness’ steep jagged peaks and ocean. For a show-stopping experience, ski down slopes of virgin powder right to the water’s edge, where an antique sailing schooner awaits. While you're out on the arctic waters, be sure to look up–the beauty of the Northern Lights is amplified from the water. There are also some wildlife sightings not to be missed; the Lofoten islands often see white-tailed eagles only visible during the summer, when there is access to steep-sided fjords such as Trollfjorden.

One of Africa’s most fascinating and culturally captivating countries has only recently become more accessible to intrepid travelers. The area has seen a wave of new experiential lodges in (now more easily accessed) remote parts of the country, offering travelers a chance to discover the cultural and natural wonders of Ethiopia (which is home to the most UNESCO world heritage sites of any country in Africa).

Within this stunning backdrop, head on safari in search of the elusive Ethiopian wolf and fully immerse yourself in the local culture, savoring coffee and wild honey at local markets. For the adventurous, sojourn through the Denakil Depression, where guests can trek via camels across lakes of salt, view volcanoes that light up the night sky, and climb the summit of Erta Ale for the ultimate sunrise vista.

For accommodations, check out the unforgettable, rustic Bale Mountain Lodge and the breathtaking Simien Lodge , the highest hotel in Africa, perched above a UNESCO world heritage site.

Southern Namib Desert, Namibia

This remote destination in Namibia is known for its mesmerizing dark skies, making it a tranquil and inspiring backdrop for nightly stargazing (and one of the best spots in the world to do so).

The sophisticated, luxurious, and newly-opened Sonop Lodge tented camp is nestled in the Karis region perched above boulders with sweeping desert views—it is truly the best place to experience this destination. Spend your time here walking, biking, horseback riding, and hot air ballooning, taking in the fragrant scents wafting from the opulent cigar lounge. Aromas and tastes also abound at the lodge's white glove, five-course, gala-style dinner.

Easily hop between other Namibian destinations from this region, like Sossuvlei, Windhock and Omaanda camp, or stay put at the lodge and soak in the majestic surroundings and wildlife. If you're after the ultimate in serene experiences, take a soak in the infinity pool overlooking the enchanting desert of Namibia.

Tom Marchant is the co-founder of luxury travel company and trip planner, Black Tomato , which delivers high-touch experiences around the world via inspiring itineraries and access to the globe's up-and-coming, exclusive, and remote destinations. Marchant's finger on the pulse of travel trends and the world's best in hotels, restaurants, destinations, and honeymoons is unique and incomparable–and he's sharing his expertise and curated lists of where to visit, stay, eat and more in his travel column on BAZAAR.com .  

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The 14 most underrated travel destinations in the world

From a little-known Greek island to an English seaside city brimming with culture, these are the world’s most overlooked destinations

Want to make  2023 the year you travel somewhere new ? Well, we’ve got some pretty spectacular suggestions for you. We asked our global network of travel writers and editors to tell us what they think is the world’s most overlooked travel destination. The resulting list spans everything from tiny islands and seaside towns to massive lakes and whole countries – and makes for some serious travel inspo. 

What, exactly, makes a destination underrated? Are we talking about places that don’t regularly appear on top travel lists? Places that don’t get their fair share of tourism? Places that are legitimate hidden gems, off-the-tourist-trail, or offer great (or quiet) alternatives to popular spots in the same region? The destinations on this list fall into at least one of those categories. From Bali ’s overlooked neighbour to an untouched area of natural beauty in Zimbabwe, these are the world’s most underrated places to travel to this year.

RECOMMENDED: 🏰 The most underrated travel destinations in Europe 💘 The most romantic places in the world 🌈 The most colourful places in the world

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The world’s most underrated travel destinations

1.  Mongolia

Known for its traditional gers (yurts), friendly nomadic people, and herds of wild horses stomping across untouched steppes, Mongolia has to be experienced to be believed. With a new international airport and affordable local-led tours, this seemingly far-flung country is more accessible than you’d expect. For a perfect introduction to the country, spend a couple of days in the capital, Ulaanbaatar – it’s surprisingly clustered and easy to explore – then take in the picture-perfect ranges and fresh mountain air of Gorkhi Terelj National Park. Stay the night under the stars in your own ger and don’t be surprised if nomadic herders stop by to welcome you.

2.  Lake Bacalar, Mexico

The tourist towns of Tulum and Cancún tend to dominate dialogue about Mexico ’s Yucatan Peninsula, while Lake Bacalar – also known as the Lagoon of Seven Colours thanks to its forget-me-not, peacock and cyan waters – is often overlooked. It makes for a welcome change of pace, where you can take in all the beauty this corner of Mexico has to offer away from the influencers and spring breakers. Kayak to white-sand beaches, relax on the docks while spotting migratory birds, swim in cenotes and bed down in a spate of new eco-hotels, including dreamy Boca de Agua, located in its own nature reserve.

3.  Cuenca, Ecuador

For a relatively small city (although Ecuador’s third largest), Cuenca packs a mighty punch when it comes to culture. It’s an architectural beauty whose historic centre was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. It’s home to many artisans and artists, who showcase their work at the city’s annual arts festival, the Bienal de Cuenca. It’s a hub of traditional crafts – it’s here that the renowned Panama hat (actually called a Montecristi) is made, and travellers can visit workshops to see the intricate hat-making process in full swing. Often overlooked in favour of Ecuador’s more accessible cities like Quito or the bucket list-tickable Galápagos, Cuenca is a picturesque showstopper worth travelling up the Andes mountains for.

4.  Srebrenik, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Arguably Europe’s most underrated destination, Bosnia and Herzegovina is packed with  charming towns, and Srebrenik (87 miles north of Sarajevo) is as charming as it gets. The  ‘ King’s Town’ is home to Bosnia’s best-preserved medieval fortress, a fascinating twelfth-century structure overlooking the valley, packed with myths and legends. The peak of Majevica offers incredible views, while the relatively-recently-discovered Lake Ingram oozes  romance. Add delicious food, vibrant cafés and graceful mosques, and you’ve got a darling  waiting to be discovered.

5.  Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico

A colourful beach town on the southwest coast of Puerto Rico, Cabo Rojo is home to all the white sands and turquoise seas you expect from a Caribbean getaway. It’s three hours by car from San Juan with a laidback vibe that feels light years away from the hustle and bustle of the capital. There are plenty of beaches to choose from, like Combate Beach, with a natural reserve separating the beach from the town, Buyé, an off-the-beaten-path beach you may share with local horses, and Boquerón, a lively beach village with restaurants and bars. Void of big resorts, you can find small family-owned inns and vacation rentals such as the family-friendly Combate Beach Resort or the luxury Cuatro Casitas . End your day sipping a passion fruit mojito with a view of the sunset the west coast of Puerto Rico is known for.

6.  Gippsland, Australia

Located in Victoria’s eastern corner (around a 4.5-hour drive from Melbourne ), Gippsland is a bountiful wonderland encompassing alpine roads, snaking waterways, fertile farmland and deserted stretches of white-sand beaches. Devastated by the bushfires of summer 2019-20 (which saw towns isolated for weeks, the local wildlife population decimated and more than 400,000 hectares of land burned) and then further impacted by the global pandemic, Gippsland’s recovery has been slow and steady. But with natural attractions aplenty, one-of-a-kind villages and a fast-growing food and drink scene that’s all about championing local produce (think seafood, cheeses, free-range meats, cool-climate wines and organic fruit), there’s truly never been a better time to visit this Victorian gem.

7.  Plymouth, England

If the Devon city of Plymouth were any smaller, it’d be considered a jewel of a day-trip destination. If it were any bigger, it simply couldn’t be overlooked. Perhaps because of its middling size, it’s slipped under the radar, and that’s pretty unfair, if you ask us. Like art? The Box is a brilliant, recently opened gallery that celebrates local artists. Like architecture? You’ll be dazzled by the newly done-up Market Hall , which also has its own ‘immersive art dome’. Like swimming? Few pools are more spectacular than the Tinside Lido . Like gin? England’s oldest distillery is smack bang in the historic city centre. Book a room at the Bistrot Pierre B&B , in the revamped Royal William Yard, and you’ve lined up pretty much the perfect weekend away.

8.  Burlington, Vermont

Burlington’s charm as a waterfront University town is established, but with five Vermont chefs and eateries recently selected as semifinalists for the 2023 James Beard awards, it’s becoming one of the country’s unmissable food and drink destinations. From pastry chef Amanda Wildermuth’s tahini sundae at the Eastern Mediterranean-influenced Honey Road , to spicy brussels sprouts with a cult following thanks to chef Mojo Hancy-Davis’s farm-to-table menu at May Day – plus a rotating selection of craft beers from the small experimental brewery Foam Brewers – Burlington’s restaurant and bar scene is bustling.

9.  Turku, Finland

There’s a longstanding rivalry between the Finnish cities of Turku and Helsinki – and rightly so. Turku, the country’s second city and historic capital (a title it gave up in 1812) is every bit as spectacular as Helsinki. Nicknamed the ‘Paris of Finland’ thanks to its waterside charms on the Aura River and thriving café and canteen culture, Turku is also Finland ’s oldest city (teeming with medieval attractions like its castle and cathedral) and a hub for green innovation. Our tip: go on a local produce-tasting tour on an electric boat and soar down the Aura in style.

10.  Karpathos, Greece

While tourists flock to watch the sunset in overcrowded Santorini or  bronze back-to-back on Mykonos ’s packed beaches, Greeks in the know take the four-hour ferry ride from Rhodes to the tiny Dodecanese island of Karpathos. Do the same and you’ll find yourself chilling on a string of near-deserted beaches lapped by pristine waters and frequented by Mediterranean monk seals. Lap up local food in the tavernas of Olympos, a mountain village that feels frozen in time, where women still wear colourful traditional outfits and donkeys are the only traffic.

11.  Lombok, Indonesia

Considering how crowded the beaches can get in neighbouring Bali , it’s astonishing that more people don’t make the short trip over to the island of Lombok. The south’s white-sand beaches see more slow-moving buffalo than traffic, while Instagrammers are a rare breed in the east’s terraced rice fields. Up north, the majestic Mount Rinjani ( Indonesia ’s second tallest active volcano) offers tough climbs and epic views. For the non-hikers, lush rainforests and thundering waterfalls beckon. And with the island recovering from the double blow of a large earthquake and the pandemic, there’s never been a time when your visit will be more appreciated.

12.  São Tomé and Príncipe

Cast adrift in the Gulf of Guinea off West Africa, the volcanic islands of São Tomé and  Príncipe together make up the second-smallest country in Africa, and remain one of the  unsung beauties of African travel. A declared UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, here lush  rainforests tumble into clear tropical waters, offering a wealth of nature-based adventures.  There’s a rich cultural landscape to discover too, from the island’s history as the world’s  largest cacao producer to charming overnight stays in traditional plantation rocas. In 2024,  look out for the long-awaited reopening of Bom Bom Resort on the northern tip of  Príncipe, a tropical haven that straddles forest and coast.

13.  Bray, Ireland

It was the arrival of the railway in 1854 that made Bray, just twelve miles south of Dublin , so popular it became known as the Brighton of Ireland. After years of decline, its mile-long Victorian seafront now buzzes with cafés and restaurants. Stroll from the harbour along the esplanade to the 800-foot high Bray Head, worth the hour’s climb for panoramic views from its rocky summit. Refuel at Butler & Ba​​rry on the beach, before a Guinness at ace local institution the Harbour Bar .

14.  Eastern Highlands, Zimbabwe

While most travellers to Zimbabwe will make a beeline for the majestic Victoria Falls or the renowned Hwange National Park, the country’s eastern border is home to a place of equally astonishing beauty that has remained relatively unknown. Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands comprise the three hilly ranges of Bvumba, Nyanga, and Chimanimani. It’s home to Mutarazi Falls, Zimbabwe’s highest waterfall, where you can zipline and attempt the dizzying skywalk; Mount Nyangani, the region’s highest peak and holy grail for hikers; and further to the south, the quiet, mist-laden Bvumba Mountains. With its steep hills, cool winds and scenic drives, this is Zimbabwe’s answer to the moors of Scotland .

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Wander-Lush

35 Unusual Holiday Destinations for Alternative Travellers

The very best quirky, unconventional and unusual holiday destinations for travellers who love to go their own way.

Do you consider yourself an unconventional tourist, or are you happy enough to stick to the path well travelled?

‘Off the beaten track’ is one of the most overused phrases in travel writing. In this day and age, there are few destinations truly worthy of such a title. But it’s also true that there’s never been a better time to break from the crowd and travel off the radar.

Also read: 25 best alternative city breaks in Europe .

Some of these holiday destinations are considered unusual because they’re remote and difficult to reach. Others have a harsh climate or are misunderstood, while some are simply overlooked for more touristy alternatives.

Whether it’s pristine nature, complete solitude or authentic cultural encounters you seek, this list has something for you. Compiled by a list of expert travellers, each of these places is utterly underrated and more than worthy of your consideration as an alternative holiday destination.

Browse the full list or use the links below to find a favourite.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

35 unusual holiday destinations that should be on your radar

With the help of my favourite travel bloggers, I scoured every continent to find the best unusual travel destinations worthy of a mention. Here’s what we came up with!

If you have anything more to add, please leave your suggestions in the comments section at the end!

1. Azerbaijan, the land of fire

Editor’s choice

Azerbaijan is a strong contender for the world’s most underrated holiday destination.

Compared to its more-popular neighbours, Georgia and Armenia , Azerbaijan’s relatively strict visa policy has been a deterrent for many travellers. But an e-visa introduced in 2017 now makes it easier than ever to travel to Azerbaijan .

Baku, the biggest city, is one of the most curious capitals in the world . Enriched by decades of oil wealth, it boasts ambitious architecture and large-scale civic projects including the Bulvar, a massive seaside boulevard along the Caspian, and the world’s largest flag pole. Icherisheher , Old Baku’s historic core, is a complete contrast, with its Zoroastrian tower and stone caravanserais.

Beyond the city, the otherworldly landscape of the Absheron Peninsula includes mud volcanoes and flaming hillsides (a result of all that subterranean oil). Go mountain hiking, visit the small towns of Guba and Lahic where artisans ply their traditional trades, and visit Sheki , home of the legendary UNESCO Site , the Palace of the Sheki Khans.

2. Oman, for a Middle Eastern road trip

The Middle East is the last place most people think of when planning a road trip. But Oman is the perfect place for self-driving.

New highways, cheap fuel and a surplus of things to see make this the perfect spot for an adventurous holiday. If you’re on a budget , you’ll be pleased to know that it’s perfectly legal to pitch a tent almost anywhere you fancy in Oman. A night of glamping in one of the country’s desert camps is also a must.

Start your road trip in Muscat, where you’ll find Oman’s premier cultural institutions and the lively Muttrah Souq, before making your way down the coast. At Ras Al Jinz, the easternmost tip of the Arabian Peninsula, you can visit one of the world’s most active turtle nesting sights.

Inland, Oman offers sweeping deserts, dramatic mountains and valleys for hiking, and a variety of historic fortresses. Drop into some of the many wadis and sinkholes as you go to cool off from the desert heat.

Don’t judge Oman by it’s location on the map – this is an overwhelmingly safe, relatively budget-friendly and abundantly beautiful country with a strong tradition of hospitality and a vibrant, well-preserved cultural heritage.

3. The far north of Vietnam

Aside from super-popular Sapa and Bac Ha , far Northern-Vietnam is home to a number of lesser-visited national parks and alternative trekking spots. Second or third-time visitors to Vietnam should prioritise spending time in the north.

Ha Giang and Pu Luong both offer underrated landscapes largely free of crowds, while the charming colonial port city of Hai Phong has a similar vibe to Hanoi but with a much slower pace of life. Picking tea in Thai Nguyen, trekking in Moc Chau during spring bloom or tea-picking season , taking a boat out on Ba Be Lake and gazing up at the vertiginous rice terraces around Son La are just a few of the totally unique experiences you can have in Northern Vietnam.

Treat yourself to a local homestay while you’re there – this is far and away the best strategy to get an inside look at some of Vietnam’s many ethnic minority cultures. In Da Bac , yet another hidden gem in the far-north, you can stay with the community in traditional wooden houses while using the small villages as a base for trekking.

4. Transnistria, a breakaway state in Eastern Europe

By Luda from Adventures with Luda

Transnistria is an unconventional travel destination for two reasons. First, it’s referred to as ‘a country that doesn’t exist’. Even though it has its own constitution, army, currency, and citizenship, no other sovereign nation actually recognises it as such.

Secondly, Transnistria feels as though it’s stuck in time thanks to the Soviet posters, Lenin statues and 60s-style Khrushchyovka buildings sprinkled around town. Many travellers have called it a ‘Communist theme park’ because of how well-preserved everything is.

Transnistria is the perfect place for travellers who are interested in Soviet history and off-the-beaten-path experiences. It’s easy to reach from Chisinau, Moldova or Odessa, Ukraine and can be part of a day trip or a longer journey.

The majority of things to do in Transnistria are in Tiraspol, the capital. Start off with a walk along October 25th Street, the main road that runs through the city, before stopping at the colourful House of Soviets. See the historical moments on Suvorov Square and take a peek inside the City Library, which still has its Soviet-era murals.

5. Nicosia, the world’s last divided capital

By Helen from Helen on her Holidays

Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, is the world’s last divided capital city.

Since 1983, the city has been split by the ‘Green Line’, a border between the Republic of Cyprus and Turkish-controlled Northern Cyprus.

The border was completely sealed and crossed only by UN peacekeeping forces for decades, but in 2008 the restrictions were relaxed. Today it’s possible to visit both parts of Nicosia . The border crossing and distinct character of the two sides of Nicosia make it one of the world’s most unusual city breaks.

The Greek-speaking Republic side of the border is much like other European capitals, with Starbucks, McDonalds and H&M all present. But at the end of the main shopping street there’s a border crossing, and if you cross into North Nicosia it’s immediately clear that you’ve stepped into a completely different culture.

Both sides of Nicosia have interesting sights, but North Nicosia has the edge in atmosphere and attractions. Don’t miss the stunning mosque set in a former cathedral and the medieval caravanserai.

6. Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley, a hidden gem in Canada

By Lee & Stacey from One Trip at a Time

Most visitors to Nova Scotia will likely visit Halifax, the South Shore, or drive the Cabot Trail. Those who are a little more adventurous might hike the Skyline Trail in Cape Breton , part of the coastal road that encircles the island.

If you’re looking for somewhere less travelled, check out the Annapolis Valley , which may be more than you expect!

History buffs will find places to learn about this part of Canada including the Grand-Pré, a UNESCO World Heritage site that tells the tragic story of Acadian expulsion, and Port-Royal, the first European settlement in Canada founded in 1605.

Food and wine lovers can savour the flavours of the region: Taste hand-picked berries, take a wine tour and tasting at one of the many vineyards, and try the apples the Valley is known for. Locals have been celebrating the annual Apple Blossom Festival here since 1933.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to love. You can go whale watching in the Bay of Fundy, hike along coastal cliffs or forest trails leading to waterfalls, or canoe and back-country camp in one of the province’s parks or wilderness areas.

All of this is just a taste of what this vibrant region of Nova Scotia has to offer.

7. Mississippi Gulf Coast, the ‘secret coast’

By Charles from McCool Travel

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is one of America’s most underrated destinations and should top every intrepid traveller’s wish list.

This relatively undiscovered area – also called Coastal Mississippi (or The Secret Coast) – is located between New Orleans and Mobile Alabama, and highlighted by gorgeous beaches (with magnificent sunrises and sunsets), abundant waterways, fresh seafood, and a quirky culture.

Popular Coastal Mississippi outdoor activities centre around the USA’s largest man-made beach and largest free-flowing river. At 26 miles wide and 200 feet deep, the continuous beach from Pass Christian to Biloxi is a constant enticement for travellers on the Gulf Coast Scenic Byway. Explore the Pascagoula River on a guided McCoy’s Swamp Tour or rented kayak from Pascagoula River Audubon Center.

Mississippi Gulf Coast is a wonderfully unique and rare coastal ecosystem because of its magnificent live oak trees which magically enhance its two phenomenal small beach towns, Ocean Springs and Bay St Louis.

During your Coastal Mississippi visit, try every version of shrimp and grits and savour as many sunsets as you can.

8. Mongolia’s Gobi Desert, the ‘singing sands’

By Dean and Laynni from Routinely Nomadic

Despite being the most popular destination in Mongolia (which really isn’t saying much considering how few tourists make it there), most travellers still know very little about the sprawling natural beauty of the Gobi Desert .

Fascinating and diverse, it features an impressively desolate and atmospheric desert, along with the 300-metre high ‘singing sands’ of Khongoryn Els, the tallest and most picturesque of the country’s extensive series of wild sand dunes. But there is far more to the Gobi than just desert.

The most efficient way to visit is by rustic-but-adventurous jeep tour. On a typical 7-day, 6-night excursion, you can try horseback riding through the steppes and camel riding through the dunes, enjoy cosy nights and typical Mongolian BBQ in traditional gers , and explore the Flaming Cliffs, the Olgiid Khiid monastery, Yolyn Am gorge, and the deceptively named White Stupa (which is actually a set of stupa-like rocks).

Needless to say, the Gobi Desert has a little something for everyone, except maybe those looking for a decent toilet.

9. Lithuania, a history buff’s dream

By Monica from This Rare Earth

Lithuania is a little-known country in Eastern Europe filled with castles and forests, shore line and old-town charm.

The capital city of Vilnius was the first of four places in Lithuania to be named a UNESCO World Heritage Sight. A charming blend of old and new, Vilnius is a city of contradictions that any traveller can fall in love with.

Many of the notable sights in Vilnius, Lithuania are completely free to visit. St. Anne’s Church offers an amazing example of architecture, with its stunning gothic-style facade, and the Cathedral Square with its tall white bell tower is stunning. So much of the city’s history can be discovered on a walk around Old Town Vilnius .

An extensive bus system covers the country and can take you to locations such as Trakai Castle, the port town of Klaipeda, and – reachable by ferry – the unbelievable Curonian Spit.

Thirty percent of the country is covered with forest and nature. Between the unspoiled wilderness and the charm of the historical cities, there is truly something for everyone in unexpected Lithuania!

10. The Bahamas Out Islands, an unconventional island paradise

By Jackie from Enjoy Travel Life

If you’re thinking of a tropical getaway to the Caribbean but feel discouraged by overcrowded beaches and towering resort chains, look to The Bahamas Out Islands. This collection of small islands south of the popular Grand Bahamas offers deserted beaches, unspoiled nature and secluded bungalows.

Here you’ll find an exclusive, unconventional island paradise.

Perhaps you’ve heard about The Abacos or Eleuthera, but as you travel further south along the archipelago, the islands become almost unknown: Cat Island , Crooked Island and Ackins each offer unique island beauty. 

You’ll enjoy the laid-back beach vibe, fruity rum drinks and delicious Bahamian seafood dishes – try Conch and Grouper! If you’re seeking more adventure, you can scuba dive along the islands’ rich coral reef or kayak through the mangroves. You might even try bonefishing or wind-sailing.

Be sure to pack several bathing suits and leave your laptop behind. While some resorts may have Wi-Fi in the common areas, it’s spotty at best. Rest assured, there’s no better place for a digital detox.

11. The High Canadian Arctic

By Mikaela from Voyageur Tripper

Nunavut is a seldom traveled destination, but one that deserves a place on any traveller’s bucket list. The largest territory in Canada, Nunavut covers one fifth of the country and extends into the High Arctic, nearly reaching the North Pole.

This land is vast, characterised by rolling tundra and meandering icebergs, ragged cliffs and frozen sea ice. As one of the most remote regions on the globe, activities out on the land are varied and plentiful, including snowmobiling, dog sledding, hiking and kayaking.

Travellers on a budget can explore the capital city of Iqaluit and experience a taste of life north of the 60th parallel. Those with larger budgets can join wildlife safaris and witness wild animals including polar bears, narwhals, beluga, walrus and caribou.

Regardless of the type of trip, any time in Nunavut will leave you craving more. Its magical environment is one that lingers long after the flight home has landed.

12. Lichtenstein, a tiny country with big heart

By Derek & Mike from Robe Trotting

An amazing destination in Europe that doesn’t attract a lot of tourism is the micro-state of Liechtenstein. One reason this tiny country is so unconventional is the fact that it’s doubly land-locked by Austria and Switzerland. It’s also a mere 25 kilometres long. 

While it may lack territory, there are surprisingly a lot of things to do in Liechtenstein . There are five castles to visit, two of which have been fully restored and three more that are ruins. The royal family also maintains a vineyard and wine cellar in Vaduz, the largest city and capital. Visitors can enjoy a walk-in tasting and wine dinners can be arranged for larger groups. 

In Liechtenstein you’ll also discover beautiful natural wonders. Hiking is one of the most popular activities and Eschnerberg Trail is one of the most-hiked trails in the entire region. The views of the Alpine Rhine and mountains are reason enough to visit Liechtenstein.

13. Iran, the home of hospitality

By Coni from Experiencing the Globe

Iran is often portrayed in the media as a dangerous destination, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s one of the most diverse countries in the world, which makes it a great destination for any kind of traveller.

In Iran, you’ll find rich history, nature, architecture, culture and adventure. But what defines this country is its people. The hospitality you experience has no comparison; it’s simply reason enough to book a ticket.

The country is big, so dedicate as much time as possible to explore it. In a couple of weeks, you can fit in the main sights: Tehran, Isfahan, Yazd, the Silk Road city of Shiraz and Persepolis. If you have more time, add Kerman and the Lut desert to the list, the ancient citadels of Rayen and Bam, and Qeshm and Hormuz islands for stunning nature.

If you want to go absolutely off the beaten path and experience the nation’s hospitality at its very best, also include Iranian Kurdistan in your itinerary.

14. Iraqi Kurdistan, a diverse corner of the Middle East

By Diana from The Globetrotting Detective

Iraqi Kurdistan  is not a well-known travel destination due to the negative portrayal and misconceptions fuelled by the media. First of all, it’s crucial that we understand that Iraqi Kurdistan is an autonomous region recognised by the Republic of Iraq.

It means that Iraqi Kurdistan has its own borders and their own government and military. Therefore, when you hear something about Iraq in the news, that’s most probably not valid for Iraqi Kurdistan.

To see the reality, we have to travel to Iraqi Kurdistan. Iraqi Kurdistan, similarly to Iran, is an extremely safe travel destination.

The first thing that you will learn about in Iraqi Kurdistan is Kurdish hospitality. Hospitality is definitely running in the veins of Kurdish people. They cherish their visitors like a precious jewel and treat them with utmost respect and care. People are so friendly and deeply kind that Iraqi Kurdistan will just get under your skin and you will not want to leave. One feeling that this place can give visitors is that the world would be a much better place just by simply being kind to each other.

In Iraqi Kurdistan, there are tons of mind-blowing places to visit.

Kurdistan offers a plethora of natural beauties such as the Rawanduz Canyon, Halgurd Mountain and Dukan Lake which are perfect hiking destinations as well. You can also witness a lot of cultural diversity in Iraqi Kurdistan. You can learn about Muslim, Christian and Yazidi cultures.

The capital, Erbil, is one of the oldest cities in the world where you can find historical sites, old bazaars, cosy cafés where you can get to know friendly locals.

Some of the oldest Christian monasteries of the world, namely Mar Mattai Monastery and the Rabban Hormizd Monastery are to be found in Iraqi Kurdistan. Another iconic and very important cultural site is Lalish, the most sacred place of the followers of Yazidi faith, where you can only enter barefoot.

15. Pakistan, mother nature at her finest

By Samantha from Intentional Detours

Pakistan might just be the most underrated holiday destination in the world. Dozens of record-breaking mountain peaks, lush green valleys, hundreds of kilometres of coastline, a rich cuisine that constantly awes the tastebuds – plus some of the friendliest people in the world – all make this South Asian destination a traveller’s dream.

Perhaps the best thing about Pakistan is that it yet remains mostly undiscovered by foreign tourists. Though numbers are steadily increasing, it’s not uncommon to go weeks without meeting a fellow foreigner when you’re on the road.

Pakistan’s mountains are its crown jewel, and no trip to the country would be complete with a visit to Gilgit Baltistan. Though the Hunza district gets all the glory, don’t be afraid to get a bit off the beaten path and explore places like Ghizer Valley, a beautiful hamlet filled with the bluest lakes and rivers you could ever dream of.

It’s easy to get lost in the mountains, but skipping out on Pakistan’s historical places would be akin to a crime. The country boasts thousands of years of human history, and cities such as Lahore reveal pieces of the Mughal Era everywhere, from the 300-year-old mosques to summer pavilions, tombs, and vast gardens.

The southern province of Sindh is also teeming with historically and culturally important sites and should not be missed, especially when it cools down come October.

16. Sumba, a Bali alternative

By Sarah from Hotels & Hand Luggage

Sumba is a relatively unknown Indonesian island that’s just an hour and a half flight from Bali.

The landscape is teeming with beautiful photo spots including deserted beaches, dancing trees, rolling hills, traditional villages and hidden lagoons. Unlike Bali however, it’s likely you’ll arrive at these enchanting places without any other tourists around.

Sumba is larger than Bali so hiring a driver is a must if you want to make the most of your time here. The island is divided into east and west, with the locals on each side holding different ancient traditions.

There aren’t many hotel options on the island and most offerings are still very basic, but the lack of comfort is worth it to experience a place still steeped in tradition. One accommodation option well worth a visit is Maringi Eco Resort by Sumba Hospitality Foundation, a small, eco-friendly hotel and restaurant that trains young Sumbanese students in hospitality.

17. Small-town Slovakia, one of the most unusual holiday destinations in Central Europe

By Kami from Kami & the Rest of the World

Slovakia isn’t exactly the most popular country in Europe Even if tourists decide to visit, they usually only go to the capital city, Bratislava. But Slovakia has so much more to offer. There are so many amazing yet lesser-known places to visit in Slovakia that you should visit before everyone else does.

While Bratislava is a nice place to see, the second-largest city, Kosice offers even more attractions – from historical monuments to amazing cultural spaces and a wonderful food scene.

In Slovakia, you can find one of the most beautiful and impressive mountain ranges in Europe, the High Tatras, with its highest peak Gerlachovský štít at 2,655 metres AMSL. The nearby Spiš Castle is one of the largest castles in Central Europe and a truly remarkable site.

If you like to visit charming Central European towns, you’ll find plenty of them in Slovakia. Bardejov, Banska Stiavnica and Levoca are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

18. Grenada beyond the beach, for a unique holiday in the Caribbean

By Michele from A Taste for Travel

Although famous for its white-sand beaches, this fertile mountainous island might be one of the most overlooked destinations in the Caribbean when it comes to outdoor adventure and cuisine. And while beautiful Grand Anse beach does deserve its many accolades, unconventional travellers will discover it’s well worth exploring beyond Grenada’s beaches.

Top things to do include trekking to sky-high crater lakes, jumping into Concord Waterfall or snorkelling among coral-draped statues within the Underwater Sculpture Museum. After a full day of outdoor adventure, it’s possible to relax in comfort at one of the luxury hotels in Grenada where accommodation options include beach bungalows with plunge pools, hilltop suites and contemporary villas overlooking the sea.

Unlike other destinations in the Caribbean where all-inclusive resorts promote mass tourism, many of Grenada’s hotels are independently owned and operated. They offer travellers a way to experience the island’s unique rhythm, character and local cuisine.

Must-try dishes and drinks to try when visiting the ‘Spice of the Caribbean’ include rum punch topped with freshly-grated island nutmeg, oil down (a hearty stew featuring callaloo, root vegetables, coconut milk and chicken), bean-to-bar chocolate and doubles, a savoury spiced snack.

19. Chile’s Atacama Desert, the driest place on Earth

By Dalya from Sweet Little Journey

If you love extreme, unique and completely remote holiday destinations, the Atacama Desert should definitely be on your list.

Located on the northern tip of Chile and spanning over 40,000 square-miles, this is the driest place on Earth. Walking through the landscape will make you feel like you’re treading on a completely different planet. In fact, given its uncanny similarity to the surface of Mars, NASA uses this terrain to simulate conditions when testing their rovers!

Aside from the extraterrestrial landscapes, you’ll find various volcanoes, red and pink lagoons , salt lagoons, alpine lakes, and an abundance of wildlife. There’s only one small town in this whole desert, San Pedro de Atacama , which serves as the perfect home base for exploring all the different attractions here.

Given that there are no other settlements for many miles aside from San Pedro, the Atacama Desert has the clearest night skies on Earth.

20. Tajikistan’s Kulikalon Valley, prime hiking country

By Stephen from MonkBoughtLunch

Tajikistan’s Kulikalon Valley is off the beaten track even for a relatively un-touristed country. While most international travellers head primarily to the Pamir Mountains in the east of the country, the Fann Mountains in the northwest offer just as much in terms of scenery – and are arguably even better for trekking.

Of all the treks in the region, camping in Kulilkalon is one of the most popular – and for good reason. A string of sparkling mountain lakes that stretch across Kulikalon are fed by glacial streams that run down the valley, and on every side towering snow-capped peaks and a handful of beautiful glaciers dominate the view.

Though transport options are limited and expensive in rural Tajikistan, Kulikalon is made even more attractive by proximity to a rough road. It’s possible to hike up and back as a day trip from the nearby Artuch camp or to make a multi-day trek over the Alaudin Pass and down to the eponymous lake below, returning to a different trailhead in the Alaudin Valley or pushing on deeper into the heart of the Fann Mountains.

21. Asturias, Spain’s cheese capital

By Dagney from Cultura Obscura

The Asturias region of Northern Spain is definitely one of the most underrated parts of this otherwise highly touristed country.

For visitors from outside of Spain, the most likely reason for visiting is the Camino, which passes through the Asturian countryside. In general, it’s a nature lover’s paradise. The countryside is full of picturesque towns and beautiful lakes.

However, there is so much more to see and do here. Foodies in particular will love Asturias. The region produces over 50 different cheeses, while nearly every town and city has at least one local cider.

Oviedo, the capital of the region, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just outside the city, you’ll find La Iglesia Skate, a church that’s been converted into a skate park and is full of beautiful, vibrant paintings.

In Gijón , another major Asturian city in Spain , you can visit the Universidad Laboral, the biggest building in Spain, or head to the International Bagpipe Museum.

22. Palestine, the heart of the Middle East

By Claudia from My Adventures Across The World

Palestine is a terribly underrated destination, and many who travel to the Middle East decide not to visit for fear that it may be dangerous or unwelcoming. It’s actually quite the other way around.

People in Palestine are the epitome of friendly, and they go above and beyond to make visitors feel like guests of honour. Add to that the rich, intricate history, the archeological sites, the natural wonders and the delicious food (and even wine and beer!), and it’s easy to see why this is a place you should not skip when you’re in the region.

Among the highlights of visiting Palestine there’s exploring the city of Bethlehem, where you will find the Church of the Holy Nativity, the Chapel of the Milk Grotto and the West Bank Separation Wall that has been adorned with many murals. There also are also a few Banksy pieces scattered around. Not far from Bethlehem, the Israeli-controlled Palace of Herodion is another very interesting site.

Hebron, a city terribly fought over by Jews and Muslims, should also be visited. Similarly, Ramallah – the current administrative centre – is a city thriving with life. Finally, make sure to go to the Baptismal Source at the River Jordan for a truly mystical experience.

The easiest way to get into Palestine is from Jerusalem. Take bus 231 from the bus station near Damascus gate. Be sure to bring your passport with you and the Israeli custom slip you get at the airport, as you’ll need it to get back into Israel to continue your journey.

23. Gopeng, Malaysia’s little-known heritage town

By Marco from Penang Insider

Gopeng is only 20 km south of Ipoh , but it’s shamefully overlooked, notwithstanding being one of West Malaysia’s top adventure eco-tourism destinations.

Set on a bend of the Kampar river, Gopeng is tiny but boasts natural wonders including Gua Tempurung and Gua Kandu, two of the country’s biggest caves, and tall waterfalls such as Ulu Geruntum, a popular abseiling spot. There are plenty of eco-friendly activities around, including stand up paddle boarding and a tree-top obstacle courses offered by Nomad Adventure.

Further inland is Ulu geroh, an orang asli (Malaysian aboriginal) village from where you can strike out on a short trek to see the Rafflesia in bloom. The world’s biggest flower can be a bit smelly, but the packs of rare rajah Brooke butterflies you’ll spot along the way make up for the stink big time.

Back in town, don’t forget to visit the Heritage House for a dive into the area’s colonial history, and the Gopeng Museum for a simple yet informative look at the town’s tin mining past.

24. Bhutan, for time-honoured traditions and unspoiled landscapes

By Sonakshi & Mainak from Places In Pixel

Bhutan is a tiny landlocked country perched in the Himalayas. Due to its location and restrictions around tourism, Bhutan remains an under-explored destination even today. But it’s exactly this reality that makes Bhutan scenically spectacular and a must-visit unconventional destination.

Apart from the usual things to do and places to visit in the major cities of Thimphu, Paro and Punakha, Bhutan has a lot to offer travellers who are willing to try something different. The most unique things to do in Bhutan include:

• Hiking up to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery – nestled high on a precarious cliff, it’s said that a Buddhist Master (Guru Rinpoche) flew on a ‘flying tigress’ and meditated here for months.
• Trying Ema Datchi (Chilli Cheese) – the national dish of Bhutan is a deliciously spicy stew made of chilli peppers, onions and locally produced yak cheese.
• Watching the ‘flag down’ ceremony in Thimphu – this takes place every evening at 5pm with great honour and traditional flair.

25. Benin, the birthplace of Voodoo

By Helen from Helen in Wonderlust

Benin is a magical place full of mystery and superstition. Whilst West Africa is a notoriously difficult area to travel to due to the heat, visa restrictions and lack of tourist infrastructure, Benin is an incredibly rewarding destination for the intrepid traveller.

It is also the birthplace of the Voodoo religion.

Voodoo is one of the oldest and most complex religions in the world. It’s often demonised in popular culture, and yet there’s a lot more to this ancient way of life than meets the eye. The word Voodoo itself means ‘spirit’; practitioners believe that everything is alive and connected spiritually.

As well as discovering the ‘secrets’ of Voodoo , there are plenty of other things to do in Benin. You can gain an insight into the trans-Atlantic slave trade on the Route des Enclaves, relax on the beaches of the south coast, see a very different way of life at the Ganvie Stilt Village, and learn about the history of the powerful Dahomey Empire in Abomey. 

Benin is a French-speaking country, therefore having a good understanding of the French language or having a guide that can translate for you is essential.

Go with an open mind and prepare to be blown away.

26. Northern Tunisia, for unusual beach holidays

By Stephanie from The Africa Cookbook

While most travellers think of Sousse and other popular beaches in Tunisia when they start planning a vacation, anyone who heads to the north instead of the south will find a wealth of hidden gems to discover.

The white-washed town of Sidi Bou Said on the water has a Greek-island feel, while Lake Ichkeul is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also head to Cap Angela, the northernmost point in the country, where you’ll find a beautiful lighthouse and a statue of the African continent as well as some gorgeous seascapes.

If you’re interested in Carthaginian and Roman history, you can visit the ancient city of Utica, which you’ll find practically empty for much of the year. Yes, you can walk around a millennia-old city and imagine what it would have been like in its heyday without competing with noisy, modern crowds.

Be sure to enjoy the local Tunisian cuisine, which is both tasty and economical.

27. Greenland, for remote adventures

By Kay from The Awkward Traveller

There are many myths and stereotypes about Greenland , simply because it’s not the first country most people think of for a holiday.

Technically a territory of Denmark, it’s a challenging destination to visit due to expensive flights and limited availability. There are so few visitors that some airports don’t even have a baggage carousel.

However, if you can manage to get there, you’ll find this is a country full of colourful buildings, dramatic landscapes, and unique culture.

Although it’s one of the least populated capitals in the world with only 16,000 residents, Nuuk is the busiest and most active of all Greenlandic cities. Somewhat surprisingly, it’s filled with art and museums as well as nods to Greenlandic history and mythology in its various statues and memorials.

In Greenland, the availability of activities varies entirely based on the seasons. Summer offers hiking and festivals , while winter brings snowmobiling, sledding, and amazing displays of the Northern Lights.

28. The Falkland Islands, for extreme wildlife encounters

By Nadine from Le Long Weekend

The Falklands Islands, or Islas Malvinas as they’re also known, are a destination like no other. They’re a place where you can truly get away from daily life and enter a world that seems unencumbered by modern distractions.

Here, the wildlife rules, and you’ll get well-acquainted with many species as you tour some of the islands that make up this Southern Archipelago off the coast of Argentina. The penguins of the Falkland Islands are the main drawcard, and there are five different species to discover – from the regal King Penguins to the curious little red-eyed Rockhoppers.

Then there are the formidable elephant seals, the talkative sea lions, the hundreds of different birds, and a few unlikely additions too. Both reindeer and foxes roam on two of the islands.

Wildlife aside, the islands are an amazing place to go trekking, explore untouched beaches and enjoy old-school hospitality. Get around by using the Falklands’ dedicated air service, FIGAS, to island-hop.

29. Montenegro’s national parks, beyond the bay

By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

Most visitors to Montenegro spend their time in the Bay of Kotor. While undeniably beautiful, there is so much more to discover beyond the coastline.

Take the scenic and winding Kotor Serpentine to the village of Njegusi to visit the humble home where Njegoš, Montenegro’s most influential poet-philosopher, was born. Head further up to Lovcen National Park where you can hike and visit the mausoleum of Njegoš. Stop by the old Montenegrin capital of Cetinje to visit the iconic monastery and admire the architecture.

Lake Skadar National Park is another must-visit in Montenegro . Boat tours are available from Virpazar or the sleepy village of Rijeka Crnojevica. The surface of the lake is covered with lily pads, and you can see any number of birds here.

Up north, Durmitor National Park , the only UNESCO-designated park in Montenegro, offers stunning vistas and the chance to do some epic hikes. Go river rafting on the Tara River and visit the Tara Canyon Bridge, which spans one of the deepest canyons in the world.

30. The Faroe Islands, A self-governed archipelago in Europe

By Supriya from Fun Travelog

Europe has thousands of island destinations to choose from, but the Faroes still remain relatively unspoiled thanks to their location.

The Faroe Islands is an independent nation comprised of 18 small islands located between Iceland and Norway. Governed by Denmark, it’s a paradise for hikers and birdwatchers particularly.

Begin your journey by flying into the small and vibrant city of Torshavn, the country’s capital, which is connected by short flight from Copenhagen , Paris, Reykjavik, Bergen or Edinburgh . Make your first stop at the Gásadalur to see the famed waterfall from a marked trail.

From there, every moment of your journey in this small country will be replete with awe-inspiring sights. There are lots of hikes in Faroe Islands , but the most beautiful ones are definitely on the coast of Vagar Island and in Gjógv.

For a completely unique experience, take a 30-minute boat ride to the island of Mykines, which is home to thousands of puffins. They aren’t at all perturbed by human presence and watching them in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

31. Ukraine, for budget-savvy travellers

By Inessa & Natalie from Through a Travel Lens

There are only a few destinations left in Europe that still remain under the radar. Ukraine is definitely one of them. 

Geographically one of the biggest countries on the continent, Ukraine offers something for every travel taste, from sunbathing by the Black Sea in Odessa to hiking in the Carpathians, wandering the magical streets of old Lviv, and exploring the caves of the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Pechersk Lavra in Kiev.

It’s best to save at least two weeks to explore Ukraine’s most popular locations. Kiev alone deserves at least four days, let alone the numerous great weekend breaks and trips you can take from the capital. In addition to the aforementioned Odessa, Lviv, and Kiev, smaller towns such as Uzhgorod, Chernihiv, Kamyanets-Podilsky, and Chernivtsi are also highly recommended.

Besides being an underestimated and unconventional destination, Ukraine also remains one of Europe’s most budget-friendly travel adventures, with the daily budget for food, accommodations, transportation, and activities remaining under 30 USD.

32. Latvia, the lesser-visited capital of Art Nouveau

By Eden from Rock a Little Travel

Home to a historic city centre, a thriving arts scene and vast countryside dotted with castles, Latvia is one of the world’s most underrated travel destinations.

Visitors to Latvia should experience Riga , the lively capital city best known for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture. In fact, Riga has the world’s highest concentration of Art Nouveau buildings, examples of which are on display across the city.

Riga’s walkable centre also features local boutiques, cafes , restaurants, bars, and even a few city parks. Riga Beer District is home to several local breweries that serve a variety of craft beers. This is the perfect destination for a night out and a great opportunity to mingle with the locals.

Outside the capital, visitors to Latvia can tour the country’s many medieval castles and fortifications. Those looking to spend some time outdoors can head to Latvia’s beaches along the Baltic coast, or to one of the country’s many national parks.

33. North Macedonia, home of Europe’s Quirkiest capital city

The tiny nation of North Macedonia is quirky even by Balkan standards. Formerly known as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, it may have undergone several name changes in its recent history, but it’s status as a unique destination in Eastern Europe has endured.

North Macedonia’s capital, Skopje, is a mix of archaic Ottoman architecture (the Old Bazaar is one of the largest in Europe) and brand new, shiny sculptures and facades installed as part of Skopje 2014, a huge project to give the city a facelift. The result is a Disneylandesque mix of styles that pushes the ambit of imagination.

Skopje makes for a wonderfully offbeat city break, but when visiting North Macedonia , you should also explore beyond the capital. Lake Ohrid is the biggest tourist draw, while the second-largest city, Bitola , and the alpine town of Krusevo – with its wonderful spomenik – both promise off-the-beaten-path, history steeped travel experiences.

34. Piacenza, a hidden gem in Northern Italy

By Helga from ShegoWandering

Piacenza is a small Italian city located near the Po river in Emilia Romagna. While still easily accessible by train from Milan or Bologna, it remains a hidden gem.

This town boasts over 1,000 years of local history. Discover the beautiful historic centre of Piacenza with its colourful houses and beautiful passages. Make sure the Piazza Cavalli, home to the town’s most famous landmark, the Palazzo Gotico, is also on your list.

Piacenza has some of the oldest, most important Romanesque churches in the region, including the Duomo di Piacenza, the St. Antoninus Basilica, and the Church of San Francesco. Another important landmark is the Palazzo Farnese, an immense palace now houses a collection of museums.

The region of Emilia-Romagna is famous for its food products. Be sure to sample Salame Piacentini , Coppa Piacentina and Pancetta Piacentina .

35. Brasov, the gateway to Transylvania

By Nicola Rae of See Nic Wander

The Transylvanian town of Brasov, Romania is tucked away in the Carpathian mountains just 2.5 hours from the capital on the way to Transylvania .

Since many people travel to Romania to explore Bucharest or relax on the Black Sea coast, the smaller Romanian city of Brasov often gets overlooked. But for travellers interested in great hiking, quirky historical sites and a bit of Dracula folklore, Brasov can’t be missed. 

Explore the 14th century Black Church, which got its name after being scorched in a fire, a 15th-century citadel that also served as a prison, and Rope Street, one of the narrowest streets in the world.

Brasov is just a short drive from Bran Castle, a fortress that dates back to the 1200s and is famously also known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’.

When in Brasov, make sure to take the Tampa Mountain Cable Car up to the prominent Hollywood-style ‘Brasov’ sign for the best views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Unusual holiday destinations: Share it on Pinterest

Wow, that’s a great guide.

That was an amazing article. Good work Keep it up!

Lichtenstein castle (named after the family) pictured above is in Germany and not in The Principality of Lichtenstein and hence that part of the article is misleading. One visiting Lichtenstein (the country) will not find this castle how hard one looks.

Good pick up, PK! That is my fault – I will update it immediately. Thanks for letting me know!

This was so helpful, I’m doing a school project and I have to find a unique travel destination. Got lots of ideas

Awesome Tshia, glad I could help!

Fantastic list! Considering many of your picks are also on my own list, I have a feeling we are of the same mindset. As I sit at home travel planning for a post-Covid-vaccine world, you have helped to add more places I hadn’t thought of but was searching for in concept.

Thank you and stay healthy!

So glad to hear you found this post inspiring, Nancy! Thanks a lot for the feedback. Happy future travel planning 🙂

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20 seriously weird places around the world

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written by Rachel Mills

updated 11.07.2023

The world is a weird (and wonderful) place. And from a rose-coloured lake to a Japanese island ruled by cats, we've got twenty pictures to prove it.

20 of the strangest places in the world

1. spotted lake, british columbia, canada.

• 2. The Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland

3. Thor’s Well, Oregon, USA

4. pamukkale, turkey, 5. lake hillier, western australia, 6. badab-e surt, iran, 7. the tianzi mountains, china, 8. the nasca lines, peru, 9. the bermuda triangle, north atlantic ocean, 10. socotra island, yemen, 11. the hand in the desert, chile.

• 12. Chocolate Hills of Bohol Island, the Philippines

13. Red Beach, Panjin, China

14. plain of jars, laos, 15. goblin valley state park, utah, usa, 16. whale bone alley, siberia.

• 17. Glass Beach, California, USA

18. The Catacombs, Paris, France

19. fly geyser, nevada, usa, 20. cat island, japan, travel ideas for peru, created by local experts.

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Peru: into the Incan Empire

Who were the Incas? What did they do? What happened to them? Discover the answers, and much more, with this unique trip into the heart of the former Inca Empire.

8 days  / from 2822 USD

Female Empowerment Tour

From meditations in Miraflores over visits to craftswomen in Chincheros to gratitude rituals in the Sacred Valley. This itinerary will allow you to reconnect with your feminine energy and learn more about women's lives in Peru.

19 days  / from 3510 USD

Culture, Nature and Adventure in Peru

Get to know Peru through its locals and breathtaking trails- full of history. Hop aboard a motorboat to get to know the local way of life of the Uros people, before you start the great Inca trail, where beautiful landscapes, archaeological sites and fresh air are waiting for you.

8 days  / from 1885 USD

The Inca Empire and the Nazca Culture

Peru has a rich history and culture, this itinerary will give you a taste of just how special it is. Take a flight over the mysterious Nasca lines, head to Cusco for some brilliant archaeological sites and discover the Inca cities. This trip will leave you wanting more!

12 days  / from 6970 USD

Peru - the modern, the iconic, the wild

Spend 12 days in magnificent Peru - famous Machu Picchu, legendary Titicaca Lake and the wild Amazon await. This tour is great for foodies with amazing Peruvian delights, for history and culture lovers in the Sacred Valleys as well as wildlife enthusiasts in the Amazon. Something for everyone!

14 days  / from 6565 USD

Best of Peru & Galapagos Islands

Split your South America trip into two fascinating countries: Peru with Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, as well as ocean-facing capital Lima. Afterwards, proceed to the Galapagos Islands. You will stay on 3 different islands and explore many more.

Canada's Spotted Lake has long been revered by the native Okanagan (Syilx) people and it’s easy to see why they think of it as sacred. In the summer the water of the lake evaporates and small mineral pools are left behind, each one different in colour to the next.

The unique lake can be viewed on Highway 3, northwest of the small town of Osoyoos , although visitors are asked not to trespass on tribal land. If you're looking to explore more waters, read our selection of 20 breathtaking lakes around the world.

Spotted Lake in Okanagan valley in Canada is a truly funny place to visit © sebastienlemyre/Shutterstock

2. The Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland

Sixty million years ago a huge volcanic eruption spewed out a mass of molten basalt, which then solidified and contracted as it cooled, creating the cracks that can be seen today. There are an estimated 37,000 polygon columns at this World Heritage Site , so geometrically perfect that local legend has it they were created by a giant. It's a firm contender for one of the weirdest places on earth.

Consider taking a day tour from Belfast to explore the scenery . If you're thinking of heading further afield to find natural wonders, read our write-up on the  best volcanoes around the world .

The Giant Causeway with its otherworldly basalt columns is a very unique places to visit in the world © Shutterstock

In rough conditions at Thor’s Well in Oregon , also known as Spouting Horn, the surf rushes into the gaping sinkhole and then shoots upwards with great force. It can be viewed by taking the Captain Cook Trail from the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area visitor centre – but for your own safety stay well back, especially at high tide or during winter storms.

If you're looking to travel around the surrounding area, read up on our reasons for exploring either Portland or Seattle , or both!

Thor's Well © Mike Trachtenberg/Shutterstock

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A remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site in southwest Turkey, a visit to Pamukkale (Cotton Palace) also takes in the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, the once great city that was built around it. Water cascades from natural springs and down the white travertine terraces and forms stunning thermal pools perfect for a quick dip.

We recommend joining a small group tour to have a guide with you. If this is the first you've heard of Pamukkale, you may also want to find out more facts about Turkey .

Pamukkale's striking terraces are certainly a weird place to visit © Shutterstock

This remarkable lake is on the largest of the islands in Western Australia’s Recherche Archipelago. The lake keeps its deep pink colour year-round, which some scientists say is down to high salinity combined with the presence of a salt-loving algae species known as Dunaliella salina and pink bacteria known as halobacteria.

To really take in this spectacle, consider a scenic flight (1:40h) from Esperance airport . If you're travelling around this part of Australia, discover the must-see sights in our stunning gallery of Western Australia's remote northwest .

Pretty in pink: Lake Hillier — a seriously weird place © Shutterstock

These beautiful travertine terraces in northern Iran are an incredible natural phenomenon that developed over thousands of years. Travertine is a type of limestone formed from the calcium deposit in flowing water, and in this case it's two hot springs with different mineral properties. The unusual reddish colour of the terraces is caused by the high content of iron oxide in one of the springs.

There is plenty of colour elsewhere in Iran. Head to the Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Esfahan to find endless bright tiles in one of the biggest squares on the planet. Iran's Masjid i-Imam mosque also features in our round-up of awe-inspiring architectural wonders ,

Badab-e Surt at sunrise © Jakob Fischer/Shutterstock

Found in the northwest of Hunan Province in China , these staggering limestone pinnacles are covered in lush greenery and often shrouded in mist. A cable car goes as far as Huangshi village and from here there are plenty of trails to take in the breathtaking views of Tianzi ('son of heaven'). Unsurprisingly, they are the inspiration for the floating mountains in the blockbuster movie Avatar .

If you're looking to explore more of what the country has to offer, discover things not to miss in China .

Tianzi Shan Mountain Peak © Ayotography/Shutterstock

The animal figures and geometric shapes etched by the ancient Nasca into Peru’s barren Pampa de San José are one of South America ’s great mysteries. Visible only from the air or from a metal viewing tower beside the highway, some of the unexplained shapes are up to 200m in length and each one is executed in a single continuous line. It's most certainly one of the strangest places in the world.

The Nasca Lines are best to be explored from one of the scenic flights , to discover the huge figures and animals. Beyond the Nasca Lines, there is plenty more to explore in the fascinating country of Peru. From the Uros Islands to the Valley of the Pyramids, don't miss out on its must see sights .

The Condor © Robert CHG/Shutterstock

Long shrouded in myth and mystery, the infamous 500,000 square miles also dubbed the Devil’s Triangle is roughly the area between Bermuda , Florida and Puerto Rico .

Although the US Coastguard disputes any such area exists, conspiracy theories thrive on stories about unusual magnetic readings and ships, planes and people who have disappeared here without a trace.

Catamaran Sailing

Separated from mainland Africa more than six million years ago, this remote island looks like the set of a sci-fi film. Socotra’s incredible and unique biodiversity means that there are plants and trees here not found anywhere else in the world – particularly bizarre are the ancient and twisted dragon’s blood tree and the bulbous bottle tree. Definitely one of the most unique places to visit in the world!

Endemic dragon trees of Socotra Island © Michail Vorobyev/Shutterstock

Chilean sculptor Mario Irarrázabal is responsible for this very weird work of art rising out of the sand in the middle of Chile’s Atacama desert, 46 miles south of the city of Antofagasta . Irarrázabal is known for his works associated with human suffering and this huge unnerving sculpture captures a feeling of loneliness, exacerbated by its desolate and secluded location.

If you're a creative type, check out our selection of artwork around the world , you won't have to travel far for some of these.

The bizarre Hand in the Desert is one of the weirdest places in the world © Ksenia Ragozina/Shutterstock

12. Chocolate Hills of Bohol Island , the Philippines

Bohol’s 1700-odd conical hills dot the middle of the island in the Philippines . they range in height but are so regular in shape that they could be mistaken for being man-made. However, according to UNESCO they are the uplift of coral deposits and a result of rainwater erosion. The hills only earn their 'chocolate' nickname in the dry season when the foliage goes from lush green to brown.

Consider combining a trip to the Chocolate Hills with a visit to the Tarsier Sanctuary and a lunch cruise along the Loboc River. Bohol Island is just one of our favourite islands in the Philippines . Make sure to head to Olango Island to find migratory birds and try diving on Panago Island.

The famous Chocolate Hills on Bohol Island in the Philippines are one of the most interesting places in the world © Pelikh Alexey/Shutterstock

Very cool and very weird, this beach is covered in a type of seaweed called Sueda, which turns bright red in autumn. Thirty kilometres southwest of Panjin in China , these tidal wetlands are an important nature reserve for migrating birds. Only a small section of the beach is open to the public, but it can be explored via a wooden walkway that stretches out to sea.

Red Beach may just be one of China's best secret beaches. Head here quick, along with these other secret beaches around the world before the crowds arrive.

Red Beach in China, one of those unique, really weirdcore places © 54613/Shutterstock

Shrouded in myth, megalithic stone jars are scattered across Xieng Khouang Province , Laos , in groups from one to one hundred. A working theory is that the huge cylindrical jars were used in ancient funeral ceremonies, though local legend has it that the jars were used to brew rice wine for giants.

In the 1960s Northern Laos was subject to a massive aerial bombardment by the USA and it’s only been relatively recently that some areas have been cleared and declared safe for visitors.

Plain of Jars © Dmitry Chulov/Shutterstock

No, this is not Mars but an uninhabited valley 216 miles southeast of Salt Lake City in Utah in the USA . Soft sandstone has, for many years, been eroded by wind and water to form strange pinnacles or hoodoos that some think resemble goblins. The eerie landscape is only about a mile across and two miles long and it’s well worth exploring the marked trails to get up close to the bizarre formations.

Also relatively unknown is the fact that you can go on a spectacular canyoneering adventure in the Valley of Goblins. Looking for more outdoor adventures in Utah ? Why not stargaze in Antelope Island State Park?

Goblin Valley State Park © Natali Glado/Shutterstock

A stretch of the northern shore on remote Yttygran Island, 82km off the coast of Alaska , has become a macabre tourist destination. Massive whale jawbones, ribs and vertebrae stand horizontal in the ground forming an eerie alleyway.

It’s generally agreed that the site dates back to the fourteenth or fifteenth century, but whether it was a sacred spot for native tribes to meet or simply a gathering place for mass slaughter, no one knows. What we do know is that it stands as one of the weirdest places in the world.

Whale Bone Alley © Shutterstock

17. Glass Beach, California , USA

This glittering sea glass beach in California is a remarkable side effect of years of rubbish being dumped on the beach. It wasn’t until the 1960s that this was stopped and by then the sea was full of everything from electrical appliances to bottles and cans.

Over time, the waves broke everything down into colourful pebbles and the beach became a major tourist attraction – now ironically under threat because visitors are taking home the glass. It's not all glass on the beaches in the state! Here are the best 10 beaches in California if you're looking for sun, sea and sand.

Glass Beach © Shutterstock

The deeply creepy catacombs are a network of old quarry tunnels beneath Paris and the final resting place of around six million Parisians. Most are anonymous skulls and bones taken from the city’s overcrowded graveyards during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. It wasn’t until the authorities realised its potential as a tourist attraction that the bones were arranged in the macabre displays seen today. It's a sure contender for one of the strangest places in the world.

As a popular tourist attraction nowadays, make sure to get your Catacombs tickets beforehand to skip-the-lines . The catacombs are open from Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 8.30pm. If you're keen on exploring the underground of Paris, you might like to discover these  subterranean wonders elsewhere too.

Les Catacombes de Paris © I. Casavechia/Shutterstock

This otherworldly geyser is on private land on the edge of Black Rock Desert in Nevada . Created accidentally in 1964 after an energy company drilled down into geothermal waters, today a scalding fountain erupts up to five feet high and the resulting mineral build up means the cone is growing by several inches each year.

The brilliant hues of red and green are down to thermophilic algae. Interested in more beauties in this part of America? Read more about the most spectacular sights in Southwest USA .

Multi-hued Fly Geyser © Shutterstock

One of the weirdest places on earth has to be the Japanese Cat Island. A short ferry ride from Japan’s east coast, Tashirojima has a population of one hundred humans who are vastly outnumbered by their furry friends.

Originally the cats were encouraged since the island produced silk, and mice are a natural predator of silkworms. Local fishermen regarded them as good luck. The island even has a cat shrine, along with newly built cat shaped cabins for tourists to stay in. It goes without saying that there are no dogs allowed. If you're looking to find more animals on your travels, enjoy reading more about where to see animals up close in Japan, or further afield.

Cat island's feline inhabitants © SakSa/Shutterstock

For more inspiration, explore the most beautiful countries in the world — as voted by you. Or, if it's weird you're after, discover weird foods of the world .

Top image: Endemic dragon trees of Socotra Island © Michail Vorobyev/Shutterstock

This article contains affiliate links.

Rachel Mills is a freelance writer, editor and broadcaster based by the sea in Kent. She is a co-author for Rough Guides to New Zealand, India, Canada, Ireland and Great Britain a contributor to Telegraph Travel, the Independent, AFAR, DK Eyewitness and loveEXPLORING.com and an expert in sustainable, responsible tourism. Follow her @rachmillstravel on Twitter and Instagram and listen to her show Over Here on ramsgateradio.com .

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The Strangest Places on Earth (Are Also the Most Sublime)

By Caitlin Morton

Reed Flute Cave: Guilin, China

Sadly, magical fairy dust is not the secret behind Reed Flute Cave 's glowing interior: Multi-colored lights have been hidden all around the subterranean spot to attract tourists.

Read more: 20 Places That Are Straight Out of Fairy Tales

Socotra, Yemen

With UFO-like dragon's blood trees as its most notable feature, the island of Socotra looks like it was transported to Earth from a distant planet.

Read more: The 50 Most Beautiful Places in the World

Grand Prismatic Spring: Yellowstone National Park , Wyoming

As its name suggests, the largest hot spring in the United States is essentially a rainbow ring of vibrant colors.

Zhangye Danxia Landform: Gansu, China

These striped, technicolor mountains are Mother Nature's answer to Photoshop. Red sandstone and mineral deposits have been building up in China's Danxia Landform Geological Park for more than 20 million years, causing the surreal layered effect.

Read more: 10 Places You Have to See to Believe

Hitsujiyama Park: Chichibu, Japan

Japan may be known for its cherry blossoms, but the country also features another pretty plant— shibazakura , or pink moss. Come springtime, Shibazakura Hill in Hitsujiyama Park becomes a carpet of pink and purple blooms, drawing crowds to appreciate the hundreds of thousands of flowers set to the backdrop of Mt. Buko.

Read more: The Most Colorful Places on Earth

Wulingyuan Scenic Area: Zhangjiajie, China

Scenic might be an understatement: This 100-square-mile attraction contains thousands of sandstone pillars that are nature's version of skyscrapers—some even stretch taller than the Empire State Building's midpoint.

Marble Caves at General Carrera Lake: Chile

Caves don't always have to be dark and dingy. Case in point: The Marble Caves off of the Patagonian Andes. These swirling marble walls, formed by 6,000 years of crashing waves eroding the stone, are as vibrant and lovely as the azure water that surrounds them.

Kawah Ijen Volcano: Java, Indonesia

Indonesia's Kawah Injen volcano is equal parts terrifying and spectacular. Terrifying? The Java peak has abnormal amounts of sulfuric gases that reach temperatures of more than 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit and combust as they seep through the cracks and come in contact with the air. Spectacular? The gases sometimes condense into liquid sulfur, which then takes on an otherworldly shade of blue and flows down the volcano like lava.

Read more: The Most Terrifying Places on Earth

Buzludzha Monument: Bulgaria

Built by the Bulgarian Communist regime toward the end of the Cold War, the Buzludzha Monument is a relic from another time. Decades ago, the UFO-esque building was the site of many state functions, with Lenin and Marx posters and a red-star ceiling setting the ambiance. Though the monument was abandoned and closed to the public in 1989, sneaky explorers continue to venture in to gaze at the otherworldly dome.

Read more: The Most Stunning Abandoned Places on Earth

Pamukkale: Denizli, Turkey

The stacked pools in Pamukkale are usually surrounded by snow and frozen waterfalls, but the blue waters are hot and open to bathers. You'll never be satisfied with your hotel's infinity pool again.

Rakotzbrücke (Rakotz Bridge): Kromlau, Germany

When reflected in the still waters below it, this 19th-century bridge creates a perfect stone circle.

Salar de Uyuni: Bolivia

Salar de Uyuni is the largest salt flat in the world, and it is beautifully surreal no matter the time of year. When dry, the flat is a perfectly horizontal sheet of hexagonal salt tiles. During the wet season, the shallow lake perfectly mirrors the sky, creating a dreamy illusion of infinity.

Valle de Cocora: Quindío, Colombia

In case you were wondering where to find the world's tallest palm trees (palma de cera), you needn't look further. Nestled in Colombia's Cocora valley, these lithe trees are even more incredible set against the backdrop of misty green hills and sharp mountains.

Mendenhall Ice Caves: Juneau, Alaska

The ice caves inside Juneau’s Mendenhall Glacier are not easily accessible nor for the faint of heart—those who want to see them in person must first kayak to the glacier and then ice-climb to reach it. But once adventurers stand under the glowing blue ceilings of ice, we’re pretty sure they’ll tell you it’s worth the trek.

Angel Oak: Charleston, South Carolina

What looks like a set piece from Pan's Labyrinth is actually a massive and ancient oak tree that stands six stories tall and is more than 300 years old.

Koekohe Beach: South Island, New Zealand

Maori legend has it that the Moeraki Boulders scattered along Koekohe Beach are the remains of eel baskets, gourds, and sweet potatoes from a large canoe wreck. Scientifically, the spherical rocks are the result of a natural process known as concretion, where grains of sand and stone combine to form these masses. Reaching a diameter of up to six feet, these boulders dot the eroded Otago coastline along the South Island of New Zealand.

Read more: 12 Unusual Beaches You Won't Believe Exist

Slope Point: South Island, New Zealand

The next time you want to complain about the wind messing up your hair, just consider the trees of Slope Point , which are permanently twisted and windblown by intense Antarctic gusts.

Snæfellsjökull: Iceland

An otherworldly landscape complete with caves and craters, Iceland's Snæfellsjökull glacier , has appeared in Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth and the film Batman Begins .

Moravian Fields: Czech Republic

It's more believable to think the Moravian Fields are the product of an oil painter's genius brushstrokes, but these pastel-colored hills are very much a reality.

The Great Blue Hole: Belize

Located about 60 miles off the coast of Belize, the Lighthouse Reef boasts beautiful coral and shallow turquoise waters—oh, and a vertical drop that's more than 400 feet deep. Meet the Great Blue Hole, a 1,000-foot-wide, perfectly circular sinkhole in the middle of the atoll that was made famous by Jacques Cousteau in 1971 when he declared it one of the best diving sites on the planet. Formed as a limestone cave more than 15,000 years ago, the hole has underwater stalactites and stalagmites that formed when sea levels dropped below the reef.

Namib Desert: Namibia

Red sand dunes and skeletal trees make Namibia the closest thing we have to Mars on Earth . The Namib Desert was also the filming location for Mad Max: Fury Road.

Lake Reschen: South Tyrol, Italy

This area of South Tyrol was once home to several villages, but the towns were purposefully flooded when a dam was built nearby. The only visible reminder of the drowned cities is a 14th-century bell tower—sort of like Rapunzel meets the Quarter Quell .

Bryce Canyon: Bryce, Utah

Bryce Canyon's layered red and orange rock pillars, known as hoodoos, make it a can't-miss destination for campers and shutterbugs alike.

Okavango Delta: Botswana

The lush Okavango Delta is like a real-world Eden, where cheetahs, zebras, buffalo, and rhinos roam freely.

Redwood National Park: California

Standing in the middle of California's Redwood National Park is a humbling experience to be sure, especially when you look up at the 2,000-year-old, 300-foot-tall natural giants.

The Sea of Stars: Vaadhoo Island, Maldives

The beaches at Vaadhoo Island have received their fair share of Internet swooning, and for good reason: The bioluminescent phytoplankton in the waters emanate a dazzling blue glow, making it look as though the stars have somehow found their way down to earth for the night.

Painted Cliffs: Maria Island, Tasmania

Tasmania's Maria Island is a motherlode of fascinating geology, including the swirling, Triassic-era limestone of the Painted Cliffs .

Pink Sands Beach: Harbour Island, Bahamas

Miles of pink sand beaches stretch along the coast of Harbour Island in the Bahamas. The source of the pinkish hue? Shelled marine creatures called foraminifera that live in the coral reef off the island’s coast.

Mono Lake: Mono County, California

Mark Twain once wrote of California's largest natural lake: "Mono Lake lies in a lifeless, treeless, hideous desert...This solemn, silent, sailless sea—this lonely tenant of the loneliest spot on earth—is little graced with the picturesque." It's a shame Mr. Twain couldn't see how the lake has transformed since the 1860s. Mono is now renowned for its abnormally high amount of salt—about twice as much as the ocean—and creepy/cool tufa formations (built-up limestone formed by carbonate minerals in water). The tufas were submerged during Twain's time, but lowering water levels had exposed them by the 1980s.

Read more: The Most Beautiful Lakes in the U.S.

Paro Taktsang: Bhutan

Paro Taktsang, also known as "The Tiger's Nest" monastery, hangs on a cliffside precipice more than 10,000 above the ground. Even monks like to live on the edge sometimes.

Read more: The Most Unbelievable Temples in the World

The 45 Weirdest Places in the World

Are you into weird and wacky? Great. So are we. Here’s a handy guide to finding some of the oddest, most interesting locations on Earth.

Are you the kind of traveler who loves to visit the weirdest places in the world? Great! So are we. Earth is filled with fascinating historical sites, famous cities, and stunning landscapes that keep visitors flocking. However, some of the most interesting destinations are not on the mass tourist track. In this guide, we’ve gathered the strangest places in the world to add to your bucket list. We’ll cover otherworldly landscapes, mysterious triangles, ghost towns, and a few manmade oddities too! If you’re intrigued by all things peculiar, then strap in, we’re heading around the world to find the strangest and most awesome sites out there.

Roam wild. Roam weird!

By far the best way to discover secret spots and hidden locations is to ask an expert. At Let’s Roam we’re all about the oddities, and we can help you enjoy a strange day out or an alternative adventure with no fuss at all! Perhaps you fancy a ghost tour of a haunted city? Or maybe you’re in the mood for date night with a difference ? Whatever weird and wonderful trip you have in mind, do it with the Let’s Roam app .

The Weirdest Travel Destinations in the World

“Weirdness” is certainly a vague concept. What is weird to some is completely normal to others. Most of the odd destinations on this list probably seem normal to those who were born and raised there. That’s the beauty of travel, it allows us to come face to face with customs that are, at first, jaw-droppingly weird, and leave with a new understanding of humankind. Some of the places on this list are just weird geologically. A few are “weird” due to the rare population who inhabit the area. Some are weird because they just don’t seem to belong in their particular location, and others are a bit more sinister.

1. Utah, USA

Weird Factor: The landscape

Utah is covered in the strangest rock formations. From famous national parks like Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park to the curious creatures that fill Goblin Valley. Utah is littered with hoodoos, slot canyons, and salt flats. It’s home to one of the saltiest lakes on earth, and Salt Lake City, while beautiful, can give off an eerie vibe.

2. Darvaza Crater, Turkmenistan

Weird Factor: Hellish

The Darvaza Gas Crater is nicknamed, the “Gates of Hell,” and for obvious reasons. When a natural gas field collapsed into a giant sinkhole in the desert, the rumor is that Soviet geologists lit it on fire to prevent the spread of methane. That was in 1971, and it’s still burning with no end in sight. The almost 70 x 100 feet firey inferno has become a popular tourist attraction.

3. Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

Weird Factor: It’s all for the show

Turkmenistan is one of the least visited countries in the world but has a very strange capital which is, to say the least, intriguing. Once liberated from the Soviet Union, the new dictator of Turkmenistan went on a major remodeling rampage, ripping out shady trees, gazebos, and canals and replacing them with wide travertine streets, conifers, golden-clad monuments, and huge marble-faced skyrises. The whole place was built to break records—the largest star in the world, the most marble buildings in the world, and the largest indoor Ferris wheel. The weird thing is… there are no people, save thousands of portraits of their leader. Locals call it “the city of the dead,” under their breath, of course. Sadly, the world press often dubs reclusive Turkmenistan as the next North Korea, with all the same scare tactics.

4. Love Valley, Cappadocia, Turkey

Weird Factor: Giant phalluses

Turkey is a wonderland of historic cities, fabulous architecture, and natural wonders. Tourist flock to the ethereal hot springs of Pamukkale and the cave homes of Cappadocia, but one wonder is weirder than the rest. The walking paths of Love Valley meander through towers of rock shaped like male genitalia. Yep, hundreds of giant phalluses! Believe it or not, these monoliths are completely formed by nature.

5. Tangier, Virginia

Weird Factor: The accent

Twelve miles off Virginia’s shore, you will find Tangier Island. The population of this isolated region has retained much of the English accent of the original British settlers. The island dialect includes words and phrases not used anywhere else in the modern world. The island can only be reached by boat service, which is infrequent. A visit to Tangier is like stepping back in time… way back!

6. Magnetic Hill, Ladakh, India

Weird Factor: It defies gravity

Just outside of Leh City, India, there is a unique stretch of road that defies physics and the constraints of the mind. The region sits 14,000 feet above sea level, and due to a particularly magnetic phenomenon, cars driving this road are actually pulled up the mountain. Tourists are amused by parking on the road, shutting off the engine, and letting magnetism take them to the top of the mountain at speeds of up to 20km/hr! Local legend says this is the original road to heaven, and only the worthy will be pulled up the hill.

7. Suicide Forest, Aokighara, Japan

Weird Factor: Its creepiness

The dense forests around Japan’s famous Mt. Fuji are eerily silent. The trees grow so thickly that only small streams of light can pass under the canopy, and the porous, lava forest bed absorbs all noise. Aokigahara Forest is the home of the yūrei, ghosts of Japanese folklore. Unfortunately, the dense forest has become the home of many modern-day ghosts, as the government is battling a surge of suicides committed in the forest. At its peak, over 100 people per year chose this forest to take their lives. It makes you wonder what is drawing these poor souls here.

8. The Ruin Bars, Budapest, Hungary

Weird Factor: Fantastic quirkiness

Budapest is a funny city with a friendly and quirky vibe. It’s known for its super cheap alcohol and the huge variation of nightlife spots. Among the most unique are its Ruin Bars. All across post-communist Europe, you will find derelict Soviet structures. Most cities destroy them, update them, or just try to ignore them. Not Budapest! They have turned their crumbling, boring squares into garden-filled bars. The funny thing is, they didn’t get rid of the junk, so these bars have booths built into 50’s era cars, random bathtubs, and communist-era knick-knacks. Each bar has its own vibe, but they are all eccentric and weird… in the best way!

9. Coober Pedy, Australia

Weird Factor: People live underground

This teeny Australian town was founded on the mining of opal. The outback heat is pretty atrocious though, so miners decided to just stay underground once they went home, and built their castles into the earth. The approximately 1,600 residents still mostly live underground like prairie dogs. They say it cuts down drastically on heating and AC bills.

10. The Federation of Damanhur, Italy

Weird Factor: Eccentric Futurism

The Federation of Damanhur is a tiny town of 600, formed by some inventive hippies, in 1975. The city consists of several “Temples of Humankind,” buried far beneath the ground. They are a multinational, multilingual population with their own constitution and different levels of citizenship. They even have their own currency, the Credito. They describe themselves as a “living laboratory for the future,” whatever that means, but hey, it looks like they are living in peace and having fun!

11. The Bermuda Triangle, North Atlantic Ocean

Weird Factor: Disappearances

The Bermuda Triangle is one of the most mysterious places on earth. This iconic region has lured ships, planes, and curious travelers to their deaths for centuries. Or, at least, to their disappearances. Some say that the disappearances are no mystery and are overexploited. Nothing is going on here, but others insist that compasses lose their bearing, communications don’t function correctly, and the whole place feels strange. Theories abound from Atlantis to vortexes—the truth, who knows?

12. Centralia, Pennsylvania

Weird Factor: It’s on fire

The population of Centralia, Pennsylvania is a whopping seven people. That’s because the former mining town experienced a horrendous coal fire in 1962. The thing is, the fires are still burning beneath the city, and they are not expected to stop for another 250 years! The road into town is littered with graffiti, mostly just blatantly obvious odes to hellfire, but one section “penis trail,” is lovingly devoted to male genitalia. Main Street is split by a steaming crevice. The government has revoked the zip code, and the whole town has been officially condemned. These seven weirdos have decided to stay though, and the government says they can. I guess they figure you can’t fix weird.

13. Elista, Russia

Weird Factor: Obsession with chess

Not only is Elista the most prominent Buddhist community in Europe, and doused in giant pagodas, but it also has an entire section built around chess. “Chess City” was reportedly created by megalomaniac Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, leader of the province and the International Chess Club. Get ready, here comes the weird… Kirsan says that he was abducted by aliens who gave him the utopian chess vision.

14. Nazca Lines, Peru

Weird Factor: Desert geoglyphs

The Nazca Lines are geoglyphs in the Nazca Desert of Southern Peru. Scientists believe they were created as early as 500 BC. These desert carvings take the shape of animals, plants, and geometric shapes. Their creators and tactics are a mystery, and we are still finding more carvings today, thanks to tourist and researcher drones.

15. Dwarf Village, China

Weird Factor: Wizard of Oz-ish

Dwarf village is an unusual place with a height limitation of 4’3.” While it’s a bit weird, this “tiny” village arose out of necessity and is a haven for many. The residents built this home to escape persecution. They now have 120 residents, their own police and fire departments, and a unique source of income. The inhabitants have chosen to make light of their situation and build their homes in fanciful and whimsical shapes to draw in tourists. Their village is essentially a living theme park, which, depending on perception, is either very fun and liberating or very sad. We aren’t sure which.

16. Colma, California 

Weird Factor: Dead people ratio

San Francisco decided to ban new cemeteries, which created a dead-people problem! The nearby town of Colma has taken on the deceased as a source of income. The town now consists of 1800 living residents and about 1.5 million underground residents.

17. Ireland’s Fairy Forests

Weird Factor: Strong belief in fairies

Nobody does “fairy tales” like Ireland—just look at the Giant’s Causeway—the clue’s in the name. The folklore of “The Emerald Isle,” is loaded with fairies, nymphs, and trolls, and if you have ever hiked in its mossy, misty forests, you can see where the belief comes from. They are mystical forests, indeed! In homage to their little forest friends, the Irish create “fairy forests” all over the country. These paths are littered with adorable tiny homes cut into tree trunks and hanging from limbs. They keep the homes updated and comfortable for their very real visitors.

18. Monowi, Nebraska

Weird Factor: The population

Monowi is officially the smallest town in America. According to the 2010 census, it has just one resident, Mrs. Elsie Eiler. She spends her days running the town’s library, which is named after her late husband. We aren’t sure who comes to check out books, though. Since 2004, she has been the mayor, the sole proprietor of the Monowi Tavern, and much more. She files and collects the taxes, and does all the city paperwork for government funding for water, lighting, etc. She’s a one-woman show!

19. Thames Town, China

Weird Factor: Out of place

In a strange move to decentralize the population out of the major cities, the Chinese government went on a building spree of copycat cities. Thames Town is a replica of part of London, with a row of Tudor houses, its own Tower Bridge, traditional pubs on every corner, and those characteristic red phone boxes. Unfortunately, they made the prices so high that the gorgeous little town is grossly uninhabited, making it even weirder. They also have an almost identical replica of Hallstatt, Austria, Interlaken, Switzerland, Paris, France, and Florence, Italy.

20. Richat Structure, Mauritania

Weird Factor : Natural Earth rings

Mauritania is one of those locations that has mostly been consumed by the ever-expanding Sahara Desert. The once thriving desert communities have migrated to live along the sea, due to the harsh conditions, but in a low area, surrounded by towering dunes, one of the earth’s greatest natural wonders captivates NASA and pilots. What looks like rock, from the ground, is actually a giant circular multi-ring structure that no one really understands. Is it a meteor impact scar? Or the lost city of Atlantis? Is it a dome formed by the Pangea separation of tectonic plates, millions of years ago? Who knows?

21. Battleship Island, Japan

Weird Factor: Abandoned

Hashima Island was used as a coal mining operation, established in the late 19th century (1887, to be precise). The sea wall of the island looks like a gigantic battleship, which is weird enough, but the little island gained fame in the early 2000s due to its eery pristineness. Abandoned by its 5,000 citizens, in 1974, when the coal dried up, the island city persists, almost unchanged. The island started trending as a tourist attraction when CNN featured it as one of the “10 Freakiest Places Around the World.” It was voted a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.

22. Kathmandu, Nepal

Weird Factor: Child goddesses

Kathmandu is a wonderful mystery to outsiders. The streets are littered with tiny, shining temples, and homes to their millions of gods. While perfectly normal to Nepalese citizens, it’s a strange maze to outsiders. You can watch a Hindu burial ceremony from the pyres at Pashupatinath Temple. “Freak Street” is populated by dreadlocked inner-peace-seekers from all over the world. Durbar Square is filled with temples and representations of the gods-some ethereal, others, downright terrifying. It’s a fascinating and somewhat strange city walkabout.

The square also boasts a palace that serves as home to the Kumari, a child goddess of sorts. She is plucked from the Shakya caste of the Newari Buddhist tribe and moved to Kathmandu where she undergoes a series of tests, after which, she is considered to be endowed with the divine female presence known as Devi. You can sometimes see the secluded child goddess from her balcony window. She only leaves the palace to perform religious ceremonies and allow dignitaries to grovel at her feet.

23. Roswell, New Mexico, USA

Weird Factor: Aliens

In 1947, an unidentified flying object landed in Corona, near Roswell. The official government story is that it was a weather balloon. However, this was not the original statement, and theories of a cover-up abound. Roswell just might be the capital of conspiracy theories, and the town has accepted its alien heritage. Ufologists come here to study, and the city’s large tourism industry thrives on little green men. It’s a weird little city.

24. Easter Island, Chile

Weird Factor: Giant heads

Mysterious Easter Island is one of the most remote inhabited locations on earth. It’s 1200 miles from its nearest neighbors. This island was home to the Rapa Nui people who made the island famous for the over 1,000 giant moai that they erected all over the island. Researchers aren’t sure how old they are, and they aren’t sure how the Rapa Nui executed the seemingly impossible task of erecting these giants. Theories abound, but no one knows the answers.

25. Las Vegas, Nevada

Weird Factor: Overly flamboyant

To Americans, Las Vegas is just a party town, a place to go to blow off some steam. However, to outsiders, Vegas is weird. It’s a glimmering, neon-laced anomaly in the desert. Sphynxes and glass pyramids, the Eiffel tower, and now they are building a giant resort shaped like the moon. It’s otherwordly! Add in a few prostitutes, wild cabaret shows, and costumed street performers, and you have one seriously strange place.

26. Blood Falls, Antarctica

In a land of endless white, Blood Falls stands out as a pretty strange anomaly. It’s an outflow of iron-oxide-rich saltwater from out of a glacier. The natural phenomenon gives the illusion that the flowing water is made of blood. It’s quite an unusual sight.

27. Lake Hillier, Western Australia

Weird Factor: The color

Lake Hillier is best seen from above! This 2,000-foot lake is surrounded by dense forest and is just a short distance from the coast of Middle Island. The saline lake is the perfect shade of Pepto-Bismol pink due to the single-celled organism, Dunaliella Saline . It’s a weird place, but it’s gorgeous!

28. Socotra Archipelago, Yemen

Weird Factor: Alien plants and hermits

Socotra is a bit of Africa that is drifting between the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. The isolation of the area has produced flora and fauna that do not exist anywhere else in the world. Ninety perfect of the reptiles on the archipelago are unique, and there are almost 300 endemic plant species. It’s a stunning landscape, full of unseen (to most) wonders. Oh, and there is a hermit named Ellai that refused to live in the town with the others and still calls the ancient caves of Socotra home. He sometimes meets with tourists for conversation or to help pitch a tent.

29. Cat Island, Japan

Weird Factor: Fanatical about felines

Aoshima Island introduced cats to handle the mice brought in by the shipping industry. The cats eventually took over and, by some estimates, outnumber humans 36 to 1. They are fed by donations from all over Japan and weirdly have become a tourist attraction.

30. Nagoro, Japan

Weird factor: Doll obsession

Okay, we are just starting to think that Japan is just weird, in general! The population of Nagoro, Japan consists of 35 people and 350 life-sized dolls. Artist Ayano Tsukimi was distraught at the decline in the population of her hometown, so she replaced the dwindling human population with dolls. Her creations sit in classrooms, stand in the fields, and hang out at the bus stop… weird!

31. Lake Natron, Tanzania

Weird Factor: It’s petrifying

Tanzania is a stunning country, full of powder-white beaches and thundering waterfalls, but one natural wonder is a bit more unusual than these beauties. Lake Natron is made from a unique mixture of highly alkaline minerals, part of the reason is the surrounding ground, which is very low in calcium and magnesium levels. The lake is salty enough to poison animals and hot enough to boil them. While the region is home to an endangered species of flamingos that thrive in harsh environments, any animal unlucky enough to die in the lake is petrified in perpetuity. The lake is populated with dead birds and bats, all perfectly calcified statues of their former selves!

32. The Doorway Railway, Hanoi, Vietnam

Weird Factor: Train safety

In a commercial neighborhood in Hanoi, Vietnam, the city train passes twice a day, just inches from onlookers. The train runs down a thin street, filled with shops and restaurants. The locals know the schedule, and everyone either goes indoors or squishes themselves flat against the wall to allow the train to pass, mere inches from their faces.

33. Sedona, Arizona

Weird Factor: Vortexes

Sedona, Arizona is claimed to be the home of several energy vortexes. Spiritualists swear that the vibrations of this energy can bring healing of all kinds. These vortexes were once home to Native American rituals, but now mostly host drum circles, yoga sessions, and shops selling crystals.

34. La Isla de las Muñecas, Xochimilco, Mexico

Weird Factor: Dolls

Doll Island was created by Don Julian, after leaving his wife and family. He secluded himself on the island where he reportedly found the body of a dead girl and her doll floating in the canal. To honor her, he hung her doll from a tree, but then he proceeded to hang hundreds more dolls from every space available on the little island. These dolls were found in the trash, and they are scroungy at best. It’s an incredibly creepy tourist attraction, made by a man that locals say was not of sound mind.

35. Slab City, California

Weird Factor: Squatters

Slab City was once a Marine base, but it was decommissioned. The abandoned concrete slabs are now home to a population of desert dwellers. In the summer, there are only a few dozen, but in the winter, the population of squatters grows to around 4,000. You can rent an Airbnb squat spot and go hang out with the artsy community if you want.

36. Iceland

Weird Factor: Odd landscapes

Iceland is a weird and wonderful marvel. The little island features a ravine where you can scuba dive between two continents, ice caves, basalt column masterpieces, painted mountains, ice-blue hot springs, and black and red beaches dotted with ice sculptures. The weird little capital also has a museum devoted to the penile parts of Icelandic creatures, with over 215 specimens.

37. Chocolate Hills, Bohol Island

Weird Factor: Otherworldly

Bohol Island in the Philippines has a series of 1700 cone-shaped hills, rising out of the lush, Avatar-ish jungle. They are so perfectly formed that they look like something out of Willy Wonka. During the dry season, the foliage dies, and the hills are brown, giving them their nickname of “Chocolate Hills.”

38. The Catacombs, Paris, France

Weird Factor: Bone sculptures

The Catacombs of Paris are a huge tourist attraction because people can’t get enough of the macabre. The underground tombs are home to 6 million folks, their anonymous skeletons stacked to the ceilings. Paris isn’t the one with a bone issue. When Sedlec Ossuary, in the Czech Republic, was built over a popular cemetery, the bones were moved inside the chapel and arranged into all kinds of decorations, including the creepiest chandelier you have ever seen in your life!

39. Waitomo Caves, New Zealand

Weird Factor: Glowing worms

The extensive cave system on North Island is home to a species of worms that glow! Arachnocampa Luminosa is unique to New Zealand, and tourists can take a boat ride on an underground river to gaze at the thousands of bright blue creatures that populate the subterranean walls and ceilings.

40. Ilha da Queimada Grande, Brazil

Weird Factor: Venom

You cannot visit “Snake Island,” but why in the world would you want to? The island is only 0.066 square miles, but it’s home to between 2,000 and 4,000 Golden Lancehead snakes. Rising ocean levels isolated the endemic species during the last ice age, but they have been thriving on the island and seem to be doing just fine.

41. The Merry Cemetery, Romania

Weird Factor: Too happy

Transylvania is a strange place. The home of misty mountain castles and vampire lore, but the strangest site has nothing to do with Dracula. It’s actually quite happy. The Merry Cemetery has become a popular tourist attraction due to its vibrantly painted tombstones. The colorful arrays feature poetry describing scenes from the deceased person’s life and sometimes even their manner of death, to celebrate their existence. It’s weird, but it’s also kind of great.

42. Salar De Uyuni, Bolivia

Weird Factor: Eeriness

Salar de Uyuni, amid the Andes of South America, is the dried-up bed of a prehistoric lake. It covers 4,000 square miles and is the largest salt pan in the world. Standing in the vast nothingness, surrounded by salt and rock formations, gives you an awe-struck but eery feeling. Not to mention when a little moisture covers the salt bed, the pan turns into the world’s largest mirror, perfectly reflecting the sky.

43. Restroom Cultural Park, South Korea

Weird Factor: Poop obsession

Korea has a theme park devoted to toilets and poop. Yes, you heard that right. The main building is shaped like a giant toilet. All the art is toilet-themed, and they hold an annual Golden Poop Festival.

44. Rajasthan, India

Weird Factor: Too many to list

India is a weird and wonderful cacophony that can only be adequately described as beautiful chaos. Rajasthan is another level of fantastic weirdness. There is a wind palace, a pink city, and a shrine to a motorcycle, but perhaps the strangest to outsiders is Karni Mata Temple. The region is loaded with glorious, stunning, temples, but this one is filled with over 25,000 rats. The rats are worshipped by thousands of devotees that come on long journeys to share nibbled food, as the rat’s saliva is believed, by some, to have healing properties. Rajasthan is one of the strangest places on earth, and it should be on your travel list!

45. Lake Baikal , Russia

Weird Factor: Bubbles

Lake Baikal is the world’s oldest, largest, and deepest lake! It holds 23% of the world’s fresh surface water. It’s gorgeous year-round, but in the winter, the lake freezes, and its copious amounts of methane form some of nature’s greatest artwork. Skaters and curious tourists walk the lake to try to capture the beauty of these methane-bubble creations, frozen in time. Canada also features a lake, Abraham Lake, with a similar phenomenon, as well as a “spotted lake.”

Ready to roam?

Well, that was a lot of weirdness in one article, and it’s just the tip of the oddities that are out there! Let us know in the comments which weird wonder you’re heading off to see. We want to hear your thoughts.

If you’re going to be hanging out in petrifying lakes and rat temples, you better watch out for your health! Our new guide on “How to Avoid Getting Sick While Traveling” is here to help! And don’t forget to take the Let’s Roam app with you on your quirky adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Earth is filled with truly strange places! Cities like Reykjavik, Ashgabat, New Orleans, and Pyongyang are often listed as the weirdest.

The globe is full of unique places , too many to pick one. Check out the Richat structure of Mauritania, the Blood Falls of Antarctica, or Lake Baikal in Siberia.

For a one-of-a-kind vacation, pick some fun activities from the Let’s Roam Adventures From Scratch , book a trip through a surprise travel agency, or visit one of the weirdest places on Earth !

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42 seriously strange places in the world you didn’t know about

Travel Travel Inspiration Offbeat Travel Strange places in the world

The best thing about traveling the world is the ability to discover the places that are lesser known to most. Media is ubiquitous and all-powerful now but one thing it still can’t provide is the sheer joy and exhilaration of travel. Even prolific travelers have often admitted that it is impossible to explore all the gems this planet has to offer. Whether you prefer adventurous destinations or the ones that are known for their spiritual experiences, some places on earth are simply bewildering. Read on to know about some of the most fascinating and downright bizarre places on Earth where you can go for your next trip. These destinations are bound to be a hot talking point at every party.

42 Weird Places In The World

• Spotted Lake, Canada
• The Catacombs, France
• Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland
• Tianzi Mountains, China
• Salar De Uyuni, Bolivia
• Thor’s Well, USA
• Pamukkale, Turkey
• Guelb, Mauritania
• Lake Retba, Senegal
• The Wave, USA
• Mendenhall Ice Caves, Alaska
• Fingal’s Cave, Scotland
• Nyaung Ohak, Myanmar
• Danakil Depression, Ethiopia
• Pancake Rocks, New Zealand
• TMan-Pupu-Nyor, Russia
• Plain of Jars, Laos
• Hand in the Desert, Chile
• Nazca Lines, Peru
• Whale Bone Alley, Siberia
• Die Rakotzbrück, Germany
• Chocolate Hills of Bohol Island, Philippines
• Lake Hillier, Australia
• Badab-e Surt, Iran
• Dead Vlei, Namibia
• Socotra Island, Yemen
• Fly Geyser, USA
• Huashan Mountain, China
• Christ Of The Abyss, Italy
• Red Beach, China
• Montaña de Siete Colores, Peru
• Tunnel of Love, Ukraine
• Glass Beach, USA
• Jellyfish Lake, Palau
• Caño Cristales, Colombia
• Slope Point, New Zealand
• Painted Hills, USA
• Lencois Maranhenses National Park, Brazil
• Giant Crystal Cave, Mexico
• Cat Island, Japan
• Moai, Chile
• Island Of Dolls, Mexico

1 Spotted Lake, Canada

Entry: free.

The native Okanagan people have long respected Spotted Lake, and it is simple to see why. In the summer, the lake's water evaporates, leaving behind 365 little mineral pools, each one different in color from the next. Visitors are cautioned not to trespass on tribal grounds when seeing the unique lake on Highway 3, northwest of the little town of Osoyoos. Best time of the year to visit: June to August Hot Tip: British Columbia has been infamous for fickle weather in recent times, so enquire about the weather before you visit.

2 The Catacombs, France

Entry: starting from 29€.

The Paris Catacombs are a network of old quarry tunnels beneath Paris that serve as the ultimate resting place for about six million Parisians. The majority of the skulls and bones were collected from the city's overcrowded cemeteries in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. The bones were not arranged in the horrific displays seen today until the government realized its potential as a tourist attraction. Best time of the year to visit: April and October Hot Tip: Book Skip the Line tickets to Paris Catacombs as the queues outside can go upto 2 hours long.

3 Giant's Causeway, Ireland

A massive volcanic eruption sixty million years ago blasted forth a mass of molten basalt, which consolidated and contracted as it cooled, forming the fractures that can still be seen today. This World Heritage Site is home to an estimated 37,000 polygon columns, which are so geometrically perfect that local mythology claims they were built by a giant. It is a strong contender for one of the world's strangest locations. Best time of the year to visit: June and July Hot Tip: Make sure you take your time and walk the shores of the Giant’s Causeway.

4 Tianzi Mountains, China

These towering limestone pinnacles, located in Hunan Province, China, are surrounded by lush foliage and frequently shrouded in mist. A cable car connects Huangshi village to Tianzi (meaning 'son of heaven') village, and from there, there are numerous routes to enjoy the spectacular views of Tianzi. They are, unsurprisingly, the model for the floating mountains in the hit film Avatar. Best time of the year to visit: March and November Hot Tip: Don’t skimp on the cable car ride to the top if you want to fully feel the might of the Tianzi Mountains.

5 Salar De Uyuni, Bolivia

The world's largest salt pan, as well as one of the strangest locations on the planet, is located in the Potos and Oruro departments. It is also the world's largest natural mirror when a thin layer of water forms on the surface. Salar de Uyuni is the dried-up remains of a prehistoric lake, leaving behind a void of bright-white salt, granite formations, and cacti-islands. Best time of the year to visit: December and January Hot Tip: The best view of this Salar de Uyuni may be had from Incahuasi Island in the center.

6 Thor’s Well, USA

In stormy weather, the surf rushes into the gaping pit at Thor's Well in Oregon, also known as Spouting Horn, and then shoots upwards with enormous power. Take the Captain Cook Trail from the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area visitor center to see it, but keep well back for your own safety, especially at high tide or during winter storms. Best time of the year to visit: May to August Hot Tip: If you are particularly adventurous, head to Thor’s Well in Winter to witness its fury.

7 Pamukkale, Turkey

Pamukkale (Cotton Palace) is a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site in southwest Turkey that also includes the ancient ruins of Hierapolis, the once great city that was built around it. Water pours down the white travertine terraces from natural springs, forming lovely thermal pools ideal for a brief dip. Best time of the year to visit: March and November Hot Tip: Go for a group tour with friends and family to Pamukkale for a relaxing experience.

8 Guelb, Mauritania

The Richat Structure, also known as Guelb er Richât, is a remarkable circular geological formation in the Adrar Plateau of the Sahara, near Ouadane, Northwest Africa. Richat means feather in the local dialect, and it is also known as tagense in Arabic. This is one of the weirdest places in the world and you will want to see it for yourself. Best time of the year to visit: April and October Hot Tip: If you are a photography enthusiast, take a drone shot of this place.

9 Lake Retba, Senegal

Because of the presence of specific plankton and minerals, the lake has a peculiar pink color. It is a 30-kilometer drive northeast of Dakar. The presence of Dunaliella salina algae in the water body is what causes the water to be pink. It is notable for having a high salt content, up to 40% in some places. Best time of the year to visit: December and January Hot Tip: Pack your swimsuit and experience swimming at this lake.

10 The Wave, USA

Entry: starting from us$9.

The Wave is a sandstone rock formation close to Arizona's northern border with Utah. It is a surreal world of psychedelic patterns and whirling hues. The Jurassic epoch is supposed to be represented by the rock formations. There is no signage for hikers in order to protect the natural beauty and integrity of this natural place. You will have to figure out how to get in and out of this place. Best time of the year to visit: April and October Hot Tip: Be very sure before you go for this activity as the canyon experiences extreme temperatures.

11 Mendenhall Ice Caves, Alaska

Entry: us$5 (may to september); free (october to april).

The many tints of blue in the ice crystals within these tunnels is a natural phenomenon that has perplexed scientists for years. With global warming on the rise, these ice caves may be harmed. Geologists are doing all in their power to prevent the extinction of these ice caves. While this phenomenon still occurs naturally, you will do well to visit the caves and see them with your own eyes. Best time of the year to visit: June and July Hot Tip: If you can bear the cold, visit the ice caves in winter to save your entrance fee.

12 Fingal’s Cave, Scotland

Caves are usually bounded by asymmetrical rocks naturally formed over centuries. Take a peek at these square caves in Scotland that are symmetrical. These caverns are located on Staffa's uninhabited islets. People rarely enter these caves, with the exception of researchers and scientists. However, if you are interested, you can visit these caves and take a peek at this nature’s anomaly. Best time of the year to visit: June and July Hot Tip: Take a ferry from Ulva to visit this strange attraction.

13 Nyaung Ohak, Myanmar

Entry: 300 kyat.

Image Courtesy: Mark Fischer | Flickr

Myanmar may not be the most well-known location, but it is undoubtedly one of the countries you should see at least once before you die. This is why. Myanmar is home to Nyaung Ohak, which is a sight to behold in and of itself. It is difficult to find a strange forest community with over 1000 ruined temples anywhere else. This location is lush with vegetation. It is quite a sight to see. Best time of the year to visit: November to February Hot Tip: Take photos of the site with your phone cameras instead of camera equipment as the site charges for cameras and video photography equipment.

14 Danakil Depression, Ethiopia

These are not your typical swimming pools; they are essentially acid pools. Even what appears to be land is made up of brittle salt and sulfur crusts. This is one of the oddest places on the planet. Even after millions of years, the tectonic plates beneath the Danakil Depression are still moving. Scientists predict that unless the movement stops, the land will continue to sink below sea level. Best time of the year to visit: November to January Hot Tip: Reach the destination from the town of Berahile to save your travel expenses

15 Pancake Rocks, New Zealand

These stacks of pancake-like rocks were formed by thousands of layers of sandstone and limestone that collected on the ocean floor. A series of walkways flowing through the rock formations lead to the Pancake Rocks, some of which are wheelchair accessible and others carved into stairways up and down the rock sides. On your trip to New Zealand, make sure to stop by this location. Best time of the year to visit: January Hot Tip: Visit this attraction during high tide to witness the blowholes in full flow

16 Man-Pupu-Nyor, Russia

The Manpupuner rock formations are a group of seven stone pillars found west of the Ural Mountains in the Komi Republic's Troitsko-Pechorsky District. They are situated on the mountain Man-Pupu-nyor, between the Ilych and Pechora rivers, on the Pechoro-Ilychski Reserve's land. Best time of the year to visit: July Hot Tip: Don’t attempt to visit this place in the winter as it tends to get frigid here.

17 Plain of Jars, Laos

Entry: 15000 kip.

Megalithic stone jars, shrouded in legend, are found in clusters of one to one hundred around Xieng Khouang Province. The enormous cylindrical jars may have been used in ancient death rituals, according to one notion. Northern Laos was bombed heavily by the United States in the 1960s, and some regions have just lately been cleansed and designated safe for travelers. Best time of the year to visit: January Hot Tip: Use local buses to reach the destination if you want to save some money.

18 Hand in the Desert, Chile

This strange work of art, growing out of the sand in the center of Chile's Atacama desert, 46 miles south of Antofagasta, is the creation of Chilean sculptor Mario Irarrázabal. Irarrázabal is recognized for his works that depict human pain, and this massive unsettling sculpture evokes a sense of loneliness, which is heightened by its desolate and isolated setting. Best time of the year to visit: March and October Hot Tip: Set out early as the monument is located far away from any civilization and the to and fro journey is bound to be time-consuming.

19 Nazca Lines, Peru

Entry: free from land, us$100 by an aircraft.

These colossal lines seared into the desert landscapes of southern Peru are one of the world's most bizarre destinations. These only make sense from the skies where people can see the unusual forms etched into the normally desolate desert landscape, as illustrated in the film, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. Best time of the year to visit: May to October Hot Tip: The best way to see this attraction is by hiring an aircraft.

20 Whale Bone Alley, Siberia

On lonely Yttygran Island, 82 kilometers off the coast of Alaska, a stretch of the northern shore has become a macabre tourist attraction. Massive whale jawbones, ribs, and vertebrae form an eerie passageway in the ground. The site is thought to be from the fourteenth or fifteenth century, although no one knows whether it was a sacred gathering place for aboriginal tribes or merely a gathering place for mass killing. Best time of the year to visit: July Entry: Free

21 Die Rakotzbrück, Germany

Entry: €2.50.

The Die Rakotzbrück bridge is another unique location that belongs in the category of strange places in the world. Built in the 19th century, the bridge and its mirror merge into a complete and perfect stone circle no matter which way you look at it. The bridge, however, has little utility as there is no way for people to mount it. Best time of the year to visit: May to September Hot Tip: Take a cab and ask for Devil’s bridge from Dresden to reach this site.

22 Chocolate Hills of Bohol Island, Philippines

Image Courtesy: Didier Baertschiger | Flickr

The 1700-odd conical hills of Bohol, Philippines, dot the center of the island. They vary in height, but their shape is so consistent that they may be mistaken for man-made. They are, however, the elevation of coral deposits, according to UNESCO. Only during the dry season, when the foliage turns from rich green to brown, do the hills earn their moniker of "chocolate." Best time of the year to visit: March and April Hot Tip: Visit during the early part of the dry season to avoid crowds as well as witness the chocolate hills in all its glory.

23 Lake Hillier, Australia

On the largest of the islands in Western Australia's Recherche Archipelago, this unique lake was found in 1802. The lake's deep pink color is maintained all year, according to some experts, due to high salinity paired with the presence of salt-loving algae called Dunaliella salina and pink bacteria called halobacteria. Best time of the year to visit: April and September Hot Tip: Witness the lake and its beauty from above by taking a flight from Esperance airport an hour away from the lake.

24 Badab-e Surt, Iran

These stunning travertine terraces in northern Iran are a natural wonder that has evolved over thousands of years. Travertine is generated by calcium deposits in flowing water, and in this case, the calcium deposits are from two distinct hot springs with varied mineral compositions. The terraces' unique reddish color is due to a significant concentration of iron oxide in one of the springs. Best time of the year to visit: November to January Hot Tip: Visit Badab e Surt during sunrise or sunset to witness its reflective beauty.

25 Dead Vlei, Namibia

Deadvlei translates to 'dead marsh,' and the area is also known as 'Dooie Vlei.' It is a sun-blackened dead forest in a white clay pit, resembling a dried oasis. The lack of water causes tree roots to come outside in search of moisture, making it one of the strangest places on the planet. This location has been used for filming feature films before. Best time of the year to visit: December Hot Tip: Cover yourself as much as possible before you head to this place as the extreme dryness of the air will cause dehydration through the surface of the skin.

26 Socotra Island, Yemen

Entry: round trip flights from cairo would cost in the region of us$1300.

This lonely island, which was separated from mainland Africa more than six million years ago, seems like something out of a science fiction movie. Because of Socotra's extraordinary and unique biodiversity, there are plants and trees found nowhere else on the planet, like the old and twisted dragon's blood tree and the bulbous bottle tree, which are particularly strange. Best time of the year to visit: March and November Hot Tip: Compare the airfares of the different airlines providing services to Socotra from both Cairo and UAE to find the cheapest deal.

27 Fly Geyser, USA

Entry: us$43.

Image Courtesy: Ken Lund | Flickr

This unearthly geyser can be found on private land on the outskirts of Nevada's the Black Rock Desert. A scorching fountain erupts up to five feet high today after an energy firm bore down into geothermal waters in 1964, and the consequent mineral build-up means the cone is increasing by several inches each year. Best time of the year to visit: August to October Hot Tip: Photograph the colorful rock around the geyser that is the result of several different types of thermophilic algae.

28 Huashan Mountain, China

Entry: starting from 100 yuan.

Although there is only a tea house at the end of this dangerous death-defying trail in China, the Mount Huashan Plank Walk in the Sky is famous for its adrenaline-pumping effects. The Road to Heaven is what it is called because of the near-deadly consequence you face if you happen to meet an accident. Best time of the year to visit: May to July Hot Tip: Try the cable car experience if the plank walk seems too much of a risk to you.

29 Christ Of The Abyss, Italy

Entry: snorkel tours start at $55.

Christ Of The Abyss is a 2.50-meter tall bronze statue of Jesus Christ. Deep-sea divers' favorite spot, and undoubtedly one of the strangest underwater locations on the planet. Guido Galletti's submerged bronze statue of Jesus Christ is one of the top tourist attractions in Italy for thrill lovers. Best time of the year to visit: May to June Hot Tip: Explore Christ of the Abyss via a snorkeling boat to get a close look at this strange attraction.

30 Red Beach, China

Entry: starting from 60 yuan.

This beach is covered in a species of seaweed called Sueda, which turns a vivid red color in the autumn. These tidal wetlands, located 30 kilometers southwest of Panjin, are an important wildlife reserve for migrating birds. Only a small area of the beach is exposed to the public, but a wooden path that goes out to sea can be explored. Best time of the year to visit: September to November Hot Tip: Take a day trip to this fascinating location and watch the migratory birds at Red Beach.

31 Montaña de Siete Colores, Peru

Wide lines of pastel blue, vibrant red, green, pink, and yellow cover the surface of this mountain. There are no scientific explanations for this behavior at this time. Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca or Montaña de Siete Colores, is a multicolored peak in Peru. The views from the summit of the mountain will astound you and show you why it is on every list of the strangest places on the planet. Best time of the year to visit: May to July Hot Tip: Remember that the trek is quite strenuous. Attempt it if you are used to trekking.

32 Tunnel of Love, Ukraine

This green leafy tunnel, part of an industrial railway in Ukraine, looks like something out of a fairy tale. It is well-known for being a popular spot for couples to promenade in the morning or evening. If you want to surprise your significant other on Valentine's Day, schedule a vacation to the Tunnel of Love instead of going to Disneyland. Best time of the year to visit: May Hot Tip: Add this trip to your Kyiv itinerary to make the most of your time in Ukraine

33 Glass Beach, USA

This gleaming sea glass beach in California is an amazing result of years of trash deposited on the beach. This was not stopped until the 1960s, by which time the sea had been clogged with everything from electrical gadgets to bottles and cans. The waves eventually shattered everything into colorful pebbles, and the beach became a popular tourist destination. Best time of the year to visit: April and October Hot Tip: Glass Beach is now endangered because of the high number of visitors collecting glass pieces. Do not add to that when you visit and let the beach thrive.

36 Jellyfish Lake, Palau

Entry: us$100.

In this region of Palau, there are 70 marine lakes. This lake is distinct from the others because it contains jellyfish. Jellyfish Lake was closed to the public in 2012 due to a decline in the number of jellyfish in the lake. However, the jellyfish population has bounced back now. Jellyfish Lake is one of the strangest places on the planet. Best time of the year to visit: December to February Hot Tip: Take a dive into Jellyfish Lake to be in close proximity of the dwellers of the lake.

35 Caño Cristales, Colombia

Entry: 53,500 pesos.

This Colombian river glows red throughout the hot months. The riverbed is covered by a peculiar variety of plants that turns red, making it one of the strangest places on the planet. The "River of Five Colors" or the "Liquid Rainbow" are two names for the river. It has been dubbed the most beautiful body of water on the planet. Best time of the year to visit: May to August Hot Tip: Make a day out of your visit to the river by touring the La Macarena National Park.

34 Slope Point, South Island, New Zealand

Slope Point, the southernmost point of the South Island, is another of the world's weird places. Because of the strong Antarctic winds, the trees in this woodland are permanently bent and windblown. This is one of the world's windiest and oddest locations. The steep cliffs, eroded by powerful winds and time, add to the beauty of the scene. Best time of the year to visit: December to February Hot Tip: Don’t forget to check out the AA signpost that shows the distance to the equator and the South Pole.

37 Painted Hills, USA

Painted Hills is one of the strangest places on the planet. Make plans to visit Oregon as soon as possible to explore this fascinating place. Minerals stain the slopes at John Day Fossil Beds' Painted Hills in a variety of colors. The yellows, reds, golds, and blacks are affected by altering light and moisture levels. Best time of the year to visit: June to August Hot Tip: When you drive to Painted Hills, be sure to download your navigation map because you will lose cell service when you are close to the destination.

38 Lencois Maranhenses National Park, Brazil

Entry: starting at us$19.84.

Lencois Maranhenses National Park is a protected area in Brazil and one of the most mysterious places on Earth. There is a reason why this location is considered unique in the country. Although it appears to be a desert, this Brazilian national park features numerous tiny lakes separated by sand dune-like structures. The contrasting colors of the area make it a great fit for your Instagram photos. Best time of the year to visit: May to July Hot Tip: Take an ATV ride through the dunes if you are looking for an exhilarating activity in the area.

39 Giant Crystal Cave, Mexico

Entry: us$16.

The Naica Mine's Giant Crystal Cave is also one of the strangest places on the planet. These massive gleaming mineral pillars deep within the Earth's innards are enough to make you feel claustrophobic. For more than 500,000 years, this massive structure has been built beneath Mexico. It is a fascinating case study of how creatures cope with high heat and humidity. Best time of the year to visit: December to February Hot Tip: Ask for the paid parking spots near Naica mine when you purchase your tickets.

40 Cat Island, Japan

Entry: 1230 yen.

There are only 100 humans on this island, but there are thousands of cats. The inhabitants, on the other hand, are ecstatic about their living situation. Cat Island is located in the Ehime Prefecture of Japan, which is a remote part of the country. The cats surpass the humans by a factor of ten. Cats were introduced to fishing boats to kill rats, but they stayed on the island. Best time of the year to visit: June and July Hot Tip: Visit the shrine at the center of this island that is said to bring good luck to married couples.

41 Moai, Chile

Entry: us$80.

There are innumerable carved effigies of huge heads sprawled across the beach, made by the Rapa Nui civilization back in the first millennium CE when this place was not even called Easter Island. They were fashioned right out of the black rock rocks on the island, chiseled and chipped to perfection, by the Para Nui people using primitive tools. Best time of the year to visit: May and November Hot Tip: Avoid touching the Moai as they are protected by law and it can land you in legal trouble.

42 Island Of Dolls, Mexico

Entry: us$4.

Eerie and battered toys hang from the trees on the desolate Mexican island of Xochimilco. The scene seems like something out of a horror film, with dolls dangling in the middle of nowhere. Legend has it that these dolls began washing up on the sand after a girl drowned in one of the nearby canals. After that, one of the town's single residents hung them from the trees for unknown reasons. Best time of the year to visit: October and November Hot Tip: Visit this place during Día de Los Muertos to get the spookiest of experiences.

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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36 Unknown Places in The World That Will Take Your Breath Away

We all know the travel destinations that are usually at the top of every traveller’s list: Stonehenge, the Pyramids, the Grand Canyon but this list looks deeper.  Here are 36 of the world’s most interesting and unknown travel spots (many are slightly more inaccessible than the normal tourist destinations), however all can be reached with just a little forward planning! What these places have in common is that they are either stunningly beautiful, offer the adventure of a lifetime, or are way off the beaten track. Read on to find out more about these magical destinations and then start planning your next getaway!

1. RAINBOW MOUNTAINS: CHINA

First on our list are the stunning rainbow mountains of North West China. Located within the Zhangye Danxia Geopark in Gansu province, these geological formations are composed of colourful layers of sandstone and minerals and are over 24 million years old. When viewing this amazing spectacle, you can marvel at the glorious colours (which resemble the scene from a childhood storybook) and savour the chance for some great photography. While in the vicinity also ensure you visit Bingdou Danxia Landform Scenery area which is adjacent to the Rainbow Mountains. Although less popular with tourists the area has a charm all its own, with a diversity of intriguing landform shapes such as tall columns and stone pillars.

2. HUACHINA DESERT OASIS:  PERU

Think a holiday in the desert would be hot, boring and absolutely the last option on your list? Hopefully you will change your mind when visiting the Huachina desert oasis in southwestern Peru. This tiny but amazing village has a diverse array of street vendors, eateries and hotels, and is surrounded almost entirely by massive sand dunes. Huachina is also renowned for its fantastic dune buggy and sandboarding tours, and you can also camp in the sand and sleep under the stars if you want! It is surprising that so many tourists are unaware of Huachina and the fun that can be had here …why not experience the joy of walking in sand dunes and the feeling of golden sand beneath your toes?  When you have had your fun, take a dip in a pool surrounded by cooling palm trees and enjoy an ice cream or tasty treat from one of the friendly street sellers.

3. ENCHANTED HINUATAN RIVER: PHILLIPHINES

This remarkable river lies just outside of the town of Hinuatan Surigao del Sur (on the east side of Mindanao in the Philippines). It certainly lives up to its enchanted name, being incredibly enticing for weary travellers with its cool clear waters. Thought to originate from an underground cave system that has not yet been fully explored, the river then flows into the Phillippean sea and Pacific Ocean. The crystalline waters also have remarkable shades of colour which change from blue to green, with many local legends abounding to explain the mysterious nature of the Hinuatan River. Another major drawcard for visitors are the huge variety of fish that inhabit this saltwater river, that are handfed every afternoon. You will love this secretive place which is hidden deep in the Philippine jungle and home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. A mysterious enchanting river with a past yet to be uncovered…how exciting!

4. ISOLA BELLA GARDENS AND PALACE: ITALY

Isola Bella is a stunningly beautiful island located in northern Italy (one of the Borromean Islands that make up Lake Maggiore). Isola Bella also means “beautiful island” which is a fitting name for this place of splendour where you can tour an ancient Baroque palace with beautiful hanging tapestries and sculptures.  The palace windows overlook a crystal-clear lake, and you can see gorgeous white peacocks strolling through the gardens. The heavenly garden with a diversity of floral scents is what attracts the majority of visitors who also love the array of statues, rare plants and shrubbery. You will also love the peace and serenity of the gardens…what’s more, you will be in the vicinity of one of the most beautiful islands in the world, situated just 400 metres off the coast of Stresa.  You must come view for yourself these breathtakingly beautiful Baroque Style gardens and ancient palace!

5. Giant’s Causeway – Northern Ireland

There is nothing modest about the Antrim coastline; it is one of the most famous coastline drives in Northern Ireland.  The Giant’s Causeway is often called the UK’s fourth wonder, truly breathtaking. The large areas of basalt columns that interlock were the result of a volcanic eruption in ancient times. If you are worried about getting around, there is a bus that will take you down to the causeway; the walk however is beautiful for those who are up for a dander.

6. MONASTERY OF SANTA MARIA: TROPEA ITALY

Have you ever dreamed of visiting a medieval castle which sits atop a rocky cliff? This fairy-tale like scenario can be experienced by visiting Italy’s “Coast of the Gods” which is a charming seaside town on the Calabrian coast. The ancient monastery with its winding stone path offers visitors a sweeping view of the seaside town of Tropea from its top windows. The ocean water is azure blue and there are pristine beaches and creamy white sand as far as the eye can see. The views from the monastery in the daytime are also breathtaking, even more so at night when the castle is up in lights. The garden at the back of the church is also very quaint and one can purchase refreshments and souvenirs from a small on-site store.

7. VAGAMON: KERALA INDIA

Vagamon (located in Kerala: India) is a serene and peaceful place that is ideal for those seeking respite from city life. It will certainly reconnect you with nature, being surrounded by hillsides and mountains, pine forests and beautiful cascading waterfalls. (One of the strong points of Kerala is that it is one of the lesser known tourist destinations in this region). The climate is also pleasant and mild and there are many lovely sights to see such as tea plantations, green meadows and breathtaking scenery where the fog rolls in off the hills. For the more adventurous folk there are ample opportunities for trekking and mountaineering which you can enjoy to your hearts content. Also expect to see wildlife sanctuaries and plenty of flora and fauna when you are out and about.

8. Whitehaven Beach – Australia

Located on Whitsunday Island off the Queensland coast, Whitehaven Beach stretches a 7km span and is made up of 98% pure silica sand, which is why it is one of the most photographed beaches in the world.

9. KAPITI ISLAND: NEW ZEALAND

Kapiti Island lies off the coast of the Kapiti and Wellington region in New Zealand. It is an area of beautiful unspoilt wilderness where the lucky few can see native animals and plants (such as the Kiwi Bird) up close. As this area is so ecologically sensitive, you must join an approved tour for access to the reserve and to obtain permits for overnight camping. Knowledgeable and friendly tour guides will make you feel at home on Kapiti Island and ensure that you enjoy a wilderness experience like no other!

10. Ice Caves – Chile

Often referred to as the most spectacular ice-marble cave network anywhere in the world, this one we couldn’t leave off our list. Located in Patagonia in Chile, these beautiful ice caves have been formed by continuous action created by water over the past thousands of years.  The cave network is also known as the marble caves due to the unreal formation. The crystal tortoise water from the lake produces the most beautiful reflection of light making this a true natural beauty, one that needs to be seen, in order to be believed.

11. Lake Bohinj – Slovenia

While Lake Bled is more well-known, it turns out that another lake nearby is even more breathtaking! Lake Bohinj is absolutely magical, thanks to the stunning views of the lake, combined with the surrounding mountains and greenery. Make sure you stop here while you’re in Slovenia; you won’t be disappointed.

12. APOSTLE ISLANDS WISCONSCIN

This location has a multitude of islands and miles of coastline to explore! It is also a birdwatcher’s paradise with many different species of birds that breed and migrate and nest in the area. Other attractions are the large number of lighthouses that dot the lakeshore and the wide variety of outdoor activities that can be undertaken. These include hiking, sailing, or cruising on Lake Superior and plenty of opportunities for scuba diving and exploring the rock formations. In addition, the area is rich in old farm sites, quarries, beaches and campsites. You can explore all these wonderful things while experiencing peace and solitude of these tranquil islands.

13. The Great Blue Hole – Belize

The name whilst perfectly self explanatory, doesn’t do it justice.  The great blue hole is the world’s largest sea water hole located in the coast of Belize in Central America. Known for its circular shape and strikingly deep blue colour, the Great Blue Hole is a 1,000-foot-wide sinkhole in the middle of Belize’s Lighthouse Reef. It is a world heritage site protected by Belize Audubon Society and is one of the bucket list ideas of any avid scuba divers list.

14. Steps to Heaven – Spain

Only 45 minutes from Barcelona, in the Monserrat Monastery, there are eight huge steps are in a spiral that leads to ‘Heaven’. These are the Steps to Heaven, and they are definitely awe-inspiring. You get stunning views of Catalonia when you get to the top of the mountain; it’s definitely worth the trip.

15. HITACHI SEASIDE PARK JAPAN

Hitachi Seaside Park is a wonderland of natural treasures located on the Pacific Ocean side of the Japanese coast. You will find the area rich in sand dunes, forests and native grasslands as well as plant and animal life. There are also plenty of opportunities for entertainment as there is an amusement park, cycling areas and BBQ facilities. The flowering plants are particularly beautiful and a delight for nature lovers who will enjoy the floral aromas and huge variety of plants on display. There are tulips, poppies, roses, lilies, daisies and lavender to name just a few. Many natural springs abound here too which add to the ambience of the park.

16. Antelope Canyon – Arizona

Antelope Canyon is the world’s most photographed slot canyon. Located in the Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park you can only visit with an authorized tour guide. It is worth the effort of arranging a tour to see this truly amazing hidden wonder.

17. PANGONG TSO LAKE HIMALAYAS: LADAKH

Pangong Lake is an enticingly beautiful stretch of lake surrounded by rugged mountains. The renowned beauty of the lake is due to the combination of brackish water reacting with sunlight which causes a stunning array of brilliant shades to appear on the surface of the water.  Due to its beauty, Pangong Lake is also often featured in many films and movies. You are sure to return a second time to experience the beauty of this region and for the pleasures of swimming, hiking and mountain climbing.

18. Ashikaga Flower Park – Japan

Ashikaga’s wisteria trees bloom brilliantly for only a few weeks every spring, turning the park into a vision of pastel pinks and purples. If timing allows try and align your trip for spring – you absolutely won’t regret it.

19. PARADISE FOR CYCLISTS: TAMHINI GHAT

The area of Tamhini Ghat (which connects the regions of Pune to the coastlines of Konkan), is truly a paradise for bike riders! Watch out for potholes (which will make your ride a bit more challenging) and enjoy the fantastic scenery, thundering waterfalls and flora and fauna as you cycle leisurely through the paths and byways. If you happen to visit during monsoon season be also prepared for a truly wild setting covered in shrubs, moss and an entirely different coloured landscape (picturesque red and green hues).

20. KAKSLAUTTANEN ARTIC RESORT: FINLAND

The Kakslauttanen Artic Resort in Finland is a truly unique place where you can view the Northern Lights from the comfort of a glass igloo hotel. The glass igloos are tucked away neatly into the snow for a once in a lifetime experience!  Visitors describe the pure luxury of seeing a snowy winter wonderland from inside their glass igloos, which are made of thermal glass to retain heat and keep you warm and cosy. The luxurious resort also boasts all mod cons such as spa sauna open fireplace and kitchenette. Come and experience the crystal-clear views of the Northern Lights and beauty of the falling snow…a sight to behold!

21. Neuschwanstein Castle – Germany

This is the definition of breathtaking. Called the ‘Disney Castle’, you’ll think you’re in a fairy tale when you arrive. It’s just one of the gorgeous castles to be found in Germany, so why not plan a ‘German Castle Tour’?

22. NAMAQUALAND: CAPE TOWN AFRICA

Namaqualand lies approximately 5km north of Cape Town and is also referred to as the “Flower Route” by locals and guides for the beauty of its spring wildflowers.  One moment you will be viewing red dusty plains and then suddenly be surprised by the carpets of stunning wildflowers which seemed to appear by magic. Around 4000 different species of plant seeds lie dormant on the plains, waiting to spring to life when conditions are ideal, for a dazzling floral display. There are also lots of picnic and camping spots for those who want to stay longer and enjoy the scenery.

23. Brasov – Romania

This little city is at the centre of Transylvania, and it’s a perfect place to start your journeys. Brasov is a blend of modern and traditional city charm, with plenty to see and do. Visit Dracula’s Castle, Strada Sforii, which is the narrowest street in Europe! This is the perfect introduction to the beauty of Romania.

24. LOFOTEN ISLANDS NORWAY

The amazing Lofoten Islands archipelago in Norway offers the traveller some unforgettable scenery, gorgeous alpine mountain peaks and a choice of great fishing settlements. If you are a bird and nature lover you will be very impressed with the bird life which include species such as puffins and majestic sea eagles. There are also many caves to explore (with ancient cave and rock art) and other picturesque small villages in the region with similar treasures.  Take your time to explore the snowy mountain peaks and pebbled beaches and rejuvenate with fresh mountain air.

25. Cappadocia – Turkey

This is one the most amazing locations in the world for hot air ballooning, and for good reason! There’s breathtaking rock formations that are dubbed ‘fairy chimneys’, and you can see the caves that have been carved in the valley walls. These date back to the Bronze Age!

26. ITHAA UNDERSEA RESTAURANT: MALDIVES

Ithaa is the world’s first all-glass undersea restaurant and is located in the Conrad Rangali Maldives Island resort in the Maldives. While visitors feast on fine food such as caviar and French chocolate they can watch thousands of fish swim around them of all shapes colours and sizes. The awesome sight of so many fish is what makes this undersea restaurant a world class attraction, however the many islands that make up the Maldives are also a drawcard. Plenty of beautiful beaches, clean sand and space to explore the natural flora and fauna of these surroundings.

27. Waitomo Glow-worm Caves – New Zealand.

The Waitomo Glow-worm Caves house a species of glow-worm that can only be found in New Zealand. These stunning caves, filled with glow-worms, will take your breath away. A tourist attraction since the 1880s, the caves remain a source of wonderment for visitors.

28. Kelimutu Crater Lakes – Indonesia

The Kelimutu Volcano is actually active, and the beautiful colours of the craters make this a must-see destination for anyone who loves visiting natural wonders.

29. ICELAND: DETTIFOSS WATERFALL

The Dettifoss waterfall (located in North Iceland) is said to be the most powerful waterfall in Iceland and in the whole of Europe! Iceland of course is home to many grand waterfalls which are worthy of further exploration, however the monster of Dettifoss must be seen to be believed! Measuring 100 metres wide and 44 metres tall, the waterfall discharges 193 m3 of water per second in a stunning display of power and ferocity! Visitors report feeling the ground trembling when standing in close proximity to the waterfall. You will certainly feel a state of total awe as well as (temporary) fear!

30. Arashiyama Bamboo Groves – Kyoto

Bamboo doesn’t sound very exciting, but you have to see the Bamboo Groves of Arashiyama to believe them! These bamboo trees are absolutely mesmerising to watch sway in the breeze. Follow the path through these trees and be prepared to take advantage of the stunning scenery, because it provides plenty of amazing photo opportunities.

31. FJADRARGLIUFUR CANYON: SOUTHERN ICELAND

Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon is another of Iceland’s awe-inspiring spectacles that you must see when travelling in the region. The canyon itself measures around 100 metres deep and 2km long with very sheer walls. Probably the most fascinating thing about the canyon (besides its majestic proportions) is the chance to hike and explore inside it (the water level is very low in most parts so this can be done safely). There is a great walking path which leads to the canyons edge and visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of the area above the canyon.

32. LOST CITY: COLOMBIA

Come and see the Lost City of Columbia which was built way back in 800AD. The architecture and designs are mesmerising and totally unique. To reach the Lost City a 4-5-day trek through tropical rainforest (along the trail that leads to Teyuna) is required which is an adventure in itself!  Don’t be concerned… it is an exciting and totally beautiful experience directed by local guides who are very friendly and only too willing to share their indigenous knowledge. Expect to see lots of interesting flora and fauna on the trek, including colourful bugs insects and butterflies with the most intricate patterns and designs.

33. Tunnel of Love – Ukraine

Tunnel of love is the one most interesting, romantic and truly unbelievable places anywhere in the world. Tunnel of love is located in the town of Kleven in the Ukraine. One of the reasons it is so incredible is because you see the perfect fusion of great architecture of nature and men. Many of lovers believed that their love life become success if they visit tunnel of love with true passion and as such the tunnel of love is now considered one the most romantic place in the world, even ahead of Paris, the city of love.

34. GREEN LAKE: AUSTRIA

The Green Lake in Austria is a dream come true for those who love scuba diving and nature or hiking. The sparkling clear waters are relatively shallow in winter time, however in spring and summer time they are beautifully refreshing and ice cold. There are also many other similar dive sites of great beauty scattered around Austria’s Lungau region. Of course, make sure to check the current regulations before travelling to make there are no current restrictions on scuba diving activity in the region you wish to travel!

35. SMOO CAVE: SCOTLAND

Smoo Cave (located near the village of Durness on the north coast of Scotland) on is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Scotland, however don’t let this put you off. The natural sea caves carved into limestone cliffs allow plenty of room for private exploration and for personal guided tours. The inside of the caves is an awesome spectacle with numerous chambers which one can take a boat into if desired. Thundering waterfalls inside the cave provide regular cascades of water and at times the caves are shrouded in fog and mist (a wonderful yet eerie experience).

36. Monteverde – Costa Rica

Have you ever dreamed of walking across a canopy in one of the most beautiful rainforests? In Monteverde you can. This Costa Rican mountain town, suspension bridges span thick cloud forests, coffee plantations and volcano peaks. This is loved by travellers of all ages. A truly memorable experience and something you really can’t just do anywhere else.

Some places not so unknown that we just had to share because they are so amazing. (Sorry no points for these ones).

Tulip Fields – The Netherlands

Tulips are often the first things that come to mind when you think of Holland and the Netherlands, and for good reason! You’ll be blown away by seeing the vast tulip fields in person nothing can compare than seeing the fields in person.

Great Wall of China – Beijing China

Yes one of the greatest wonders of the world and loved by tourists from all over the world but it still has to be seen to be believed. It’s over 21,000 km long, thousands of years old, and can be seen from space—no wonder it is loved by all and secured a spot on our list.

Ha Long Bay – Vietnam

Ha Long Bay was chosen as one of the new 7 Wonders of Nature, and was designated in 1994 as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Loosely translated, the name means, ‘descending dragon’, and it is outlined by over 1,600 islets and islands. These islands and islets are made of limestone, with a lot of them given names by the locals, depending on their shape. There’s so much natural beauty here, and it’s a must for those who love travelling by water.

Lake Louise – Canada

Set inside the world-renowned Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise is a year-round resort destination. No matter what time of year you visit, it really is truly remarkable. On a sunny day, the impossibly blue lake reflects the surrounding snow-capped mountains and in winter it transforms into a winter wonderland. Even if you aren’t particularly an outdoorsy type, you will find Lake Louise truly breathtaking, no matter when you choose to visit.

There is no doubt that we could write about another 20, possibly more breathtaking places you must see. However we just know that these breathtaking places around the world will make your next getaway truly unforgettable. Every corner of the world houses something that will take your breath away, so don’t just stop at the 40 places listed here! Get incredible photos and experience what life is all about by travelling to these utterly incredible cities, towns, and landmarks. We know you will enjoy.

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13 seriously weird places to visit

Have you ever just seen something so strange that you could not look away? I once saw a man in Vietnam drink a shot of Vodka with a still-beating snake heart inside and I was so fascinated that I could not look anywhere else. Is there something wrong with me? Well, let’s not deny it. We all love a little bit of weirdness in our lives.

It adds a touch of twisted enjoyment into our lives. Whatever that means. If you are shaking your head right now, keep reading. The world is full of weird yet very cool places created by both man and mother nature.

We are about to spice up your day with some seriously strange places on earth listed below!

Here are 10 of the weirdest places on Earth

• Nazca Lines, Peru
• Cat Island, Japan
• Chocolate Hills, Philippines
• Thor’s Well, Oregon, USA
• Red Beach, Panjin, China
• Crazy House, Dalat, Vietnam
• Glass Beach, California
• Tianzi Mountains, China
• Spotted Lake, British Columbia, Canada
• Pamukkale Pools, Turkey
• Giant’s Causeway, Ireland
• Salar De Uyumi, Bolivia
• Plain of Jars, Laos

1 Be confused by the Nazca Lines – Peru

Walking on the barren desert sands of Pampa San de José will not reveal anything out of the ordinary. Looking down from the sky, however, you will suddenly understand why this is one of the weirdest places on earth. From a bird’s eye view, you will clearly see thousands of lines up to 9 kilometres long etched into the ground forming hundreds of animal shapes and mysterious geometric sketches. These massive drawings are believed to be the work of the Nazca culture that thrived from 100 BC to 800 AD.

2 Make furry friends at Cat Island – Japan

Cat lovers, get ready to update your travel bucket list. There are 3 cat islands in Japan, each home to over 100 small and adorable cats and even fewer humans. Aoshima, the most famous of the 3 cat islands, stretches a modest 1.6 kilometres near the southern coast of Japan. The cats were introduced as a means to fix the island’s rodent problems. Today the cats have multiplied in population and have drawn many curious tourists.

3 Marvel at the Chocolate Hills – Philippines

Spanning across 50 kilometres are enormous, ready-to-eat chocolate drops. No, the hills are not made of actual chocolate, but rather are uplifts of coral that have been shaped by rainwater erosion into seemingly perfect mounds. During the dry season, the grass on all 1,700 hills turns brown, which explains its ‘chocolate’ appearance. It may be one of the weird places, but it is definitely a very unique sight to behold.

4 Go speechless at Thor’s Well – Oregon, USA

Make your way to the Oregon coast to witness one of the strangest places in the world. Located in the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, you will see Thor’s Well, a 6-metre-deep, bowl-shaped hole in the rocks draining and spouting up ocean water. It truly resembles something out of a sci-fi film.

5 Experience confusion at Red Beach – Panjin, China

During autumn, a unique seaweed called Sueda turns from green to a dark-red hue. As a result, the Sueda-covered wetland 30 kilometres south of Panjin transforms into a remarkable red beach. No swimming is allowed, but there is a wooden walkway to allow tourists to check out one of China’s most weird places to visit.

6 Bend your mind inside Crazy House – Dalat, Vietnam

Imagine Disneyland’s castle, but completely bizarre. Drawing inspiration from the natural environment of the city of Dalat, Vietnamese Dang Nga architect designed this bizarre house to resemble a giant tree. The 5-story house, riddled with enigmatic rooms and sprawling designs, draws tourists daily to appreciate the artistic expression in the design of a house.

7 Enjoy the colors at Glass Beach – California

Years of dumping garbage near the Fort Bragg coastline have led to unexpectedly strange yet beautiful results: colourful glass pebbles lining the beaches. The glass pebbles formed as the lapping waves broke down the littered bottles and cans over numerous years and have resulted in the beach being known as one of the most unusual places to visit in the world. Nature brings beauty, although sometimes in unexpectedly weird places.

8 Be mystified by the Tianzi Mountains – China

The Tianzi Mountains are an extremely unique example of the way the earth has developed over history. A product of millions of years of rising crust and running water erosion, the Tianzi Mountains are staggering greenery-covered peaks that seem to shoot vertically to the sky. With some peaks reaching over 1,200 metres high, the mountains can be observed from cable car access.

9 Witness the Spotted Lake – British Columbia, Canada

During the hot summer months in British Columbia, the 1.7-kilometre long Spotted Lake near Osoyoos evaporates, revealing colourful mineral deposits that give the ‘spotted’ look. The other-worldly appearance makes it a big draw for tourists seeking the weirdest places on earth. However, as the lake is a part of private property, no swimming is allowed.

10 Take a dip in the Pamukkale pools – Turkey

The UNESCO World Heritage site is a gorgeous yet very strange spectacle. Located in Western Turkey, Pamukkale is a small town known for its shimmering mineral-rich waters flowing down white travertine terraces. What results is an incredible formation of blue, heavenly pools that are open for a quick dip.

11 Admire the perfectness at Giant’s Causeway – Ireland

Formed after an enormous volcano eruption that blasted a mass of molten basalt six million years ago, these were the fractures of the consolidated and cooled aftermath. It is home to an estimated number of 37,000 geometrically perfect polygon columns. Legend has it that a giant built this structure as it seems almost impossible and weird for the polygons to be so geometrically flawless.

12 Be careful of the salt in Salar De Uyuni – Bolivia

The world’s largest salt flat, Salar De Uyuni. It is a dry lake of around 11,000 square kilometres that curated a landscape of crystal-like white salt ground. Classified as a cold climate desert, the temperatures are below 18 degrees Celsius (64.4 Fahrenheit). Well if you are daring, it is 100% safe to walk on the salt flat and even take reflection photos as your weird places discovery’s souvenior!

13 Awe at the Plain of Jars – Laos

Classified as one of the UNESCO Historical sites, these stone jars are located around the central plain of Xiangkhoang Plateau. The jars are clustered in varying numbers, from one to a few hundreds of them. According to local mythologies, these were created by Cheung after a victorious war to brew lao lao rice wine for the celebrations. However, as much as your curious and daring self would want to explore the whole of this weird place, do note that only a small portion of the area is safe for visiting.

These unusual places are worth a visit

The world is full of weird places, some are simply beautiful to gaze at while others leave you more confused than when you arrived. From cat-filled islands to heavenly white pools, these strange places on earth must be seen to be believed.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

7 Most Unusual Places To Vacation In The World

• Destinations

Travel is all about experiencing something new, learning about something previously not encountered, and meeting the unexpected. When we go abroad, we often do so to get out of our comfort zone, to be confronted with the unknown, but also to have fun and enjoy a really good time away from our day-to-day life.

So, what better than searching out not only great new destinations but also staying in some unique places? And, while the experience might be surprising, it does not have to be out of your comfort zone. I have discovered some strange and wonderful hotels, motels, and resorts — some of which fit into neither category. All bring something new to the table. Strewn across six continents, there is bound to be something that appeals to many of you.

1. The Lookout Cave Underground Motel, Coober Pedy, Australia

Coober Pedy is a strange place. It is the middle of nowhere, in northern South Australia, roughly halfway between Adelaide and Alice Springs. It is pretty much a hole in the ground, which also gave the “town” its name: it comes from the local aboriginal name for “white man in hole .” That hole, though, is what makes Coober Pedy the opal capital of the world, with it supplying roughly 90 percent of the world’s opals.

But with Coober Pedy being a hole in the ground, surrounded pretty much by desert, the people living and working there live in caves dug out within the hole. No windows, but cooler than outside in the blazing heat with all the creature comforts, make the Lookout Cave Underground Motel an ideal place to experience just how people live in this isolated spot. From your cozy cave, you can learn more about the history of opal mining, and even mine yourself. Should you come up empty, the local shops have all the multi-colored sparkle you could wish for.

Pro Tip: Getting there is usually by car, driving along the Stuart Highway, which crosses Australia; by plane and then hiring a car , or as an excursion from the Ghan Train .

2. Kakslauttanen Igloo Village, Finland

From one empty wilderness to another, on the other hemisphere. The Kakslauttanen Igloo Village lies in northern Finland above the Arctic Circle. Here trees vastly outnumber people, as do the reindeer and sled hounds. It’s most magical in winter. The Igloo Village is just that: a selection of glass-domed igloos, one a room, allowing you to lie in bed and look up at the sky, watching the northern lights, or the stars. Activities here revolve around the snow, with sled or snowmobile safaris, reindeer or husky safaris, skiing, and, of course, a visit to Santa. The resort is open throughout the year, and each season brings something special to the table, but if you have a choice, go in winter.

Pro Tip: If you need a break from snow, then in Kakslauttanen West Village you’ll find an art gallery that probably houses the northernmost art exhibitions.

3. Manta Resort, Pemba Island, Tanzania

If staying on an island in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Tanzania with neighboring island Zanzibar close by isn’t enough, along comes Manta Resort . We have all seen the over-water villas in places such as Tahiti, but they tend to be connected to the main resort by a wooden walkway. This resort’s Underwater Sea Room floats on its own, only reached by boat ( your dinner and breakfast will be delivered by canoe), and has two floors — or three if you wish. The sea-level platform is perfect for swimming from, and above you, there’s a roof terrace where you can sunbathe and enjoy the view across the turquoise ocean. Steps down from the sea-level platform is your bedroom, underwater and encased in glass so you can watch the fishes while they watch you. Solitude and romance, and utter privacy. If you don’t count the fish.

Pro Tip: Between October and April, you will see why it’s called the Manta Resort, with elegant manta rays coming close to the coast, and from your underwater room, you’ll have the best vantage point.

4. Treehouse Lodge Resort, Iquitos, Peru

I never had a treehouse when I was a kid, but I would dearly have loved one. Is there anything more magical than sitting in the branches of a large tree, in a lush green forest? The light is soft, the birds sing, and you can really relax and hide from the outside world. The Treehouse Lodge Resort is located near Iquitos by the Yarapa River, a tributary of the Amazon River, and right in the rainforest. The only way to get to Iquitos is by plane or boat, there are no roads connecting you with the outside world. There are 12 treehouses to choose from, all comfortably designed and open to the elements. Some have been built incorporating the tree’s branches, making for unique clothes hooks.

Pro Tip: Lying close to the equator, the temperatures are similar throughout the year, but between December and May there is the rainy season, making the rivers more navigable and offering sightings of pink dolphins below the treehouses.

5. Kruger Shalati, Kruger National Park, South Africa

Turning a train into accommodations is not necessarily a new thing, even if the train is no longer in use. But what is different about this luxury train, it is parked on a historic and abandoned Shalati or Selati bridge across a beautiful river with stellar views. Not only has the train been turned into luxury accommodations, but there is even a pool platform right in the middle of the bridge. And, all around you, the famous Kruger National Park, teeming with lush greenery and abundant wildlife is your landscape. The train and the bridge were once used to transport chic 1920s travelers through the national park, now it offers modern travelers a bit of time travel and nostalgia and a truly unique place to stay a night.

Pro Tip: Kruger National Park is a year-round destination, just keep in mind that summer (the Northern Hemisphere’s winter) is the rainy season.

6. Hotel Everest View, Solukhumbu, Nepal

There are hotels with great views in every city and in every country, and there is nothing unique about having a view. Or is there? Try Mount Everest right outside your window. Hotel Everest View delivers what the name promises. Each of the 12 rooms has a seating area in front of panoramic windows which open up to a balcony, and Mount Everest’s iconic triangular peak is right in front of you. From the hotel, you will be able to explore the area going on hikes ranging from moderate to challenging, all several hours’ duration, and you can even choose to hike to the hotel for check-in. Alternatively, there are helicopter transfers available.

Pro Tip: This hotel has been mentioned in the Guinness Book of Records as the highest in the world, at 13,000 feet. Altitude sickness is a very real possibility, so allow yourself either sometime in the hotel to adjust to the altitude, or opt for the trekking up, as that will give you time to slowly reach the height.

7. Fogo Island Inn, Newfoundland And Labrador, Canada

This is another of those wonderful unique places to stay that combine an unusual location to call home for a few nights with a destination you have put some effort in to get to. Once you get there, your experience will be multiplied. In this case, it is a flight, a drive, and a ferry ride to get to reception. Fogo Island, out in the iceberg-strewn north Atlantic, is an island where living is tough. Tech entrepreneur Zita Cobb was born there and after a high-flying career away from home, came back and built Fogo Island Inn using local materials, inspiration, design, and manpower, and all with sustainability and her island foremost in her mind. 

The views of this rough and tumble corner of the world are so magnificent that there are binoculars supplied everywhere. Beautifully designed, with local materials woven and knitted on the island, to modern art and architecture, the Fogo Island Inn offers every possible luxury you could ask for. The inn is a testament to the island and its people.

Pro Tip: Hikes, northern lights, whale and birdwatching, food foraging, art and more, provides plenty to do. Plan your trip according to the “Seven Seasons” of Fogo .

To add to your travel portfolio, visit some of these unusual destinations:

• 14 Amazing Places To Visit Around The World
• 13 Most Beautiful Places To Watch The Sunset In The World
• 7 Places Where You Can See The Bluest Waters In The World

A travel writer and guidebook author for the last 20 years, Ulrike's work has been seen in National Geographic , BBC , The Independent , Australian Women's Weekly , The Telegraph , The Australian , Fodor's , France Today , CNN Travel , Lonely Planet , Travel + Leisure , CNTraveler , numerous inflight magazines, and many others.

She has written three books for Moon Travel Guides: 'Living Abroad in Australia' (3rd edition), 'Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef', and the shorter version 'Spotlight Sydney' and are all available in print and as e-books.

Having lived in seven countries (Germany, UK, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Australia, and France) to date and traveled to more than 100, she specializes in writing about travel, art and architecture, expat living, and life and style.

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The 60 most beautiful places in the world

By Katharine Sohn

Where are the most beautiful places in the world? On a planet home to flamingo-pink lakes in Mexico, plus vast, multi-coloured hills in the USA, green ripples of rice paddies in Indonesia and epic icescapes in Antarctica, it's hard to choose a favourite – but why pick one? From countries all around the world, these are our top 60 most beautiful places to visit.

Outer Hebrides, Scotland

Scattered along Scotland 's west coast, this chain of isles is one of the country's most beautiful places to visit. Think shimmering white-sand beaches , sparkling seas and crowd-free hinterlands – it's one of the UK's last remaining secrets, and for good reason.

Douro Valley, Portugal

With endless rows of vines tumbling down hillsides and birds of prey swooping along the riverside, at first glance you'd think this place was anywhere but Europe. Right in the depths of Portugal , this valley is as romantic as it comes – hike along ridges, taste-test your way through the region's wine and cosy up in some of the country's very best hotels, before waking up and doing it all again.

Shark Bay, Australia

The most westerly point on mainland Australia is this UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was founded before Captain Cook discovered land at Botany Bay, with Dutch explorers touching down here in the 17th century. The area is diverse – there’s a beach made up entirely of tiny white shells, stromatolites on the shore of Hamelin Pool and the salt mine at Useless Loop, which produces the purest grade of salt in the world and is only accessible via four-by-four – or visible from the sky.

Paracas, Peru

A small seaside town in the Ica region of Peru , Paracas is where the desert meets the sea. A trip to the area isn’t complete without a boat ride to Islas Ballestas, the rocky islands off the Pacific coast known for their diverse wildlife including flocks of sea lions and crowds of baby penguins.

Algarve, Portugal

The red-cliff coastline and pristine whitewashed Moorish villages that dot the south-western region of Portugal have started shifting crowds away from the region’s busier hotspots. It has its own sunny microclimate and affordable places to stay such as Casa Mãe in Lagos make it a great winter-sun option too.

Paris, France

With its striking architecture, grand boulevards, world-class art, jewel-box patisseries and classic places to stay , this is a city that never sleeps. Its unrivalled food scene is best experienced by stumbling upon corner bistros down cobbled streets.

Hòa Bình, Vietnam

Vietnamese for peace, Hòa Bình province is located in the north of the country and is home to hill tribes including the Hmong, Muong and Dzao, plus endless rice fields.

Sarakiniko Beach, Milos, Greece

Off-radar Milos has some of the best beaches in the Aegean without the buzz of Mykonos or Santorini . Moon-like Sarakiniko is made up of mounds of undulating bone-white, wave-like volcanic rock and forms one of the island’s most mesmerising bays.

The most extreme continent on earth is also the coldest, windiest, driest and most inhospitable to forms of life. Pristine and practically untouched, no one lives in Antarctica full time, apart from seals, penguins and marine life. It’s as remote as one can get.

Death Valley, California

Known as the hottest place on earth, Death Valley reached a record temperature of 53°C in 2019. It’s a vast area of extremes: with snowy peaks, scorching sands and wildflower meadows, the National Park encompasses a wide range of different landscapes. One of the most popular locations is the multi-hued Artists Palette, a series of eroded hills whose colouring is due to the oxidation of natural metal deposits in the mountains. ‘ Star Wars ’ fans will be keen to see the site that inspired the planet Tatooine.

Provence, France

In summer, endless fields of lavender in bloom turn the Provençal landscape purple. At the end of the season, when the crop is harvested, honey, soaps and pastries are made with a fragrant dose of the plant.

Bayon, Cambodia

Built in honour of one of Cambodia’s most famous kings, Jayavarman VII, Bayon is a 12th-century state temple that’s a unique architectural feat in the heart of Angkor Thom. Fifty-four gothic towers carved with 216 gargantuan smiling faces of Avalokiteshvara – the bodhisattva of compassion – fill the temple , and the design showcases the shift from Hinduism to Mahayana Buddhism. With Angkor Wat not far away, Bayon, its off-the-beaten track little sister, is a close second in popularity.

Grand Teton National Park, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

The famous three peaks of the National Park are among Wyoming’s most recognisable sights, the Grand forming the highest point of the range. It’s a hike on many pro adventurers' list, but for newbies looking for an outdoors excursion floating down the Snake River or mountain-biking through the 310,000-acre landscape are viable options, too. Top it off with supper at Snake River Grill in Jackson’s town centre and an overnight stay at the cliff-side Amangani .

Angel Falls, Venezuela

The world’s highest waterfall, with 3,212ft cascades, is located in the UNESCO-protected Canaima National Park and was the inspiration for the Disney film ‘Up’. The site is only accessible by boat or plane.

A gateway to the East, Kyrgyzstan has natural beauty. Unspoilt pine forests, rocky ridges and rolling jailoos (summer pastures) are typical of the country. In the warmer months visitors flock to glacial lakes, while in winter a stay with semi-nomadic shepherds is an experience unlike any other.

Grand Canal, Venice

The 12,500ft-long canal runs straight through the centre and has inspired numerous artists including Canaletto, Monet and JMW Turner. Flanked by buildings dating from the 12th to the 17th centuries, it’s the grandest waterway in the Floating City .

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Hwange has a greater diversity of mammals than any national park in the world and is the largest natural reserve in Zimbabwe . The size of Belgium , it is home to more than 50,000 elephants and 500 species of bird. The wet-season winter months are the best time to see migratory birds or book an off-season safari when the park gets fewer visitors.

A third of Mongolia is covered in desert, and while it’s the 18th-largest country in the world, its three million inhabitants make it the most sparsely populated. Visitors can go local: riding horses, helping to look after livestock and sleeping in a herder's ger – a traditional felt yurt.

Lake Eyre, Australia

This salt lake constitutes the lowest point on the continent. Normally dry due to evaporated water, with its salt-deposit haze, the body only fills completely twice every 100 years on average.

Bali, Indonesia

Minutes from scooter-buzzing Ubud are artsy, low-key villages, vivid green rice paddies, lush forests and vast jungles. Bali is one of Indonesia’s 17,000 islands and sees an average temperature of about 30°C year round. Explore by bicycle and then head to one of its many cool beach clubs.

Seven Sisters Country Park, East Sussex, UK

Britain’s unspoilt south coast is home to one of the country's greatest walking trails and seaside parks, the Seven Sisters. Made up of 280 hectares of chalk cliffs, a winding river valley and flat top grasslands with views of the English Channel, the coastal path begins near Eastbourne, the start of the 100-mile South Downs Way.

Atacame Desert, South America

On a route made famous by revolutionary Che Guevara who kicked off his motorcycle journey in Buenos Aires , head down to Chile through the Atacama Desert into the Peruvian Amazon and up to Venezuela. Vast expanses of sandy flats quickly roll into high tops of dunes and gorges leading to plateaus of dusty grass. It’s a trip for explorers, with the Andes standing tall above the Argentine –Chile border, blurring one side into the other. NASA even uses the desert as a testing ground for future Mars missions.

Mount Fuji, Japan

Fuji-san, the tallest peak in Japan , is a sacred mountain and symbol. On a clear day, it can be seen from Tokyo , but one of the best ways to view the still-active volcano is by taking the shinkansen bullet train from the capital to Osaka (top tip: sit on the right-hand side for the best views). Surrounding areas Hakone (where there are natural hot springs) and Fujigoko are worth visiting during cherry-blossom season.

Jaipur and the Hawa Mahal Palace, Jaipur, Rajasthan

The largest city in Rajasthan is filled to the brim with buzzing bazaars, sacred lakes and gilded royal palaces – the decadent 18th-century royal-owned Rajmahal Palace is a smart hotel. Among the famously rosy-hued buildings of the Pink City, the honeycomb-like Hawa Mahal, or Palace of the Winds, is surely the most recognisable of all. The incredible sandstone structure has 953 small exterior windows (called jharokhas ) decorated with intricate lattice work.

Skeleton Coast, Namibia

The Namib Desert is the oldest in the world, and in the middle of its vast Skeleton Coast are endless miles of stone and sand, dry riverbeds and dunes. Desert-adapted animals here include elephant, giraffe, lion, brown hyaena and Cape fur seals that thrive in the area.

The Scottish Highlands

It’s a few hours from buzzing Edinburgh , not far from the Cairngorms, to the start of the eastern Highlands. Stretching around Skye, around the North Coast 500 route up to the village of John O' Groats, the region is also home to the tallest mountain in the British Isles, Ben Nevis. There’s natural beauty everywhere, from babbling Fairy Pools and big-horned cattle to clear coastal waters and snowy mountain caps.

Pamukkale, Turkey

Meaning cotton castle in Turkish , this natural wonder is made up of layers of white travertine terraces of ice-blue spa pools. It’s also next to the site of the well-preserved ruins of Hierapolis, the Greek-Roman city established in the 2nd century BC.

Stretching over eight countries – France , Switzerland , Monaco, Italy , Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany and Slovenia – the Alps are the most extensive mountain range in Europe . It has some of the greatest skiing in the world with popular towns including Chamonix -Mont-Blanc (the highest mountain), Lech , Gstaad and Courchevel .

Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique

This archipelago of five islands – Bazaruto, the largest, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and the smallest Bangue – was once part of a peninsula connected to the mainland but now, when the Indian Ocean retreats at low tide, swirls and ripples of white sand become visible. A protected marine park, its waters are rich in manta rays, schools of dolphins, hawksbill turtles and dugongs (cousins of equally curious manatees).

Ojos del Mar, Bolivia

Six turquoise waterholes lie within the salty plains of Ojos del Mar in the Tolar Grande region of Bolivia . Inhabited by stromatolites (deposits formed by algae) and microorganisms, the water can change slightly in colour, depending on the angle of the sun, from bright blue to seafoam green.

Mount Cook, New Zealand

Home to the tallest mountain in New Zealand , the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, part of the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Site on the South Island, is a mountaineer’s dream. More than 40 per cent of the area is covered in glaciers, with the largest and longest named the Tasman Glacier. It was here that Sir Edmund Hillary trained for the first momentous ascent of Mount Everest.

Gordes, Provence

One of the Luberon's most striking hilltop hamlets, Gordes stands tall on the edge of the Vaucluse plateau. With views across the surrounding region of Provence , the quintessential medieval town is a must-visit. A stay at Bastide de Gordes , the village’s most glamorous hotel, will make the trip complete.

Emerald Lake, British Columbia, Canada

Easily one of the Canadian Rockies’ most recognisable landmarks, Emerald Lake is located within Yoho National Park in British Columbia. Backed by the towering mountain peaks of the President Range, in summer the clear glacial water is ideal for canoeing and attempting a quick swim.

The Faroe Islands

The self-governed group of 18 volcanic islands makes up this remote archipelago where sheep outnumber humans. Grass-lined houses, craggy coastlines and lush waterfalls are all part of the Nordic landscape but there’s a surprising food scene too.

Modern high-rise buildings meet period architecture in retro Hong Kong , one of the most densely populated cities in the world. It’s a street-food capital where eating dim sum like a local in an old teahouse is a mandatory experience. For the best views of the harbour, catch a Star Ferry or hike the hills of Ma On Shan, one of the summits that surround the city.

Jodhpur, India

The magical, walled Blue City is a tangle of winding medieval streets. The monumental 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort, which is still run by the royal family and now serves as a museum, looks out over the old city and its mesh of box-shaped buildings, shops and bazaars.

Antelope Canyon, Arizona

The Navajo name of this slot canyon translates to ‘the place where water runs through rocks’ and the narrow ravine is an American Southwest treasure, filled with ripples of eroded stone formations, and sunlight creating orange filters and bright patterns. The popularity of this spot among keen photographers speaks for itself – this is one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Svalbard, Norway

This Arctic archipelago , about a three-hour flight north of Oslo , has one of the harshest environments on the planet. Nearly two-thirds of it is protected and the islands are made up of bird sanctuaries, nature reserves and national parks where polar bears roam. The Northern Lights can be seen in the winter and in the summer, when the temperature tops out at 6°C, the sun doesn’t go below the horizon.

Copenhagen, Denmark

The forward-thinking capital of Scandi cool appeals to foodies, design junkies and a cool young crowd. With its ground-breaking food scene , including world-famous Noma (and Noma 2.0 ), it’s a city to be taken seriously. Colourful buildings dot the central Nyhavn port, but it’s worth exploring alternative community Christiania, quirky Vesterbro and hipster Nørrebro, too.

Lamu, Kenya

The old town of Lamu , on the Indian Ocean island of the same name, was established in the 14th century. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the port city is a mish-mash of cultures – Swahili, Asian, Arabic, European – while along the laid-back coast majestic dhows sail by all day long.

Wulingyuan, China

More than 3,000 narrow, quartz-sandstone pillars make up Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area in the Hunan Province. These natural wonders, many higher than 656ft, are broken up by ravines, gorges, caves and waterfalls. It’s easy to see why the UNESCO World Heritage Site was James Cameron’s inspiration for Avatar .

Redwood National Park, California

Home to the world’s tallest trees, Redwood National Park, north of San Francisco , is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of an International Biosphere Reserve that protects close to half of the planet’s old-growth redwoods – some of which are 370ft high. With more than 200 miles of trail routes, it’s ideal for camping, hiking and riding.

Havana, Cuba

The crumbling façades of this island nation's capital keep bringing in waves of travelling artists, rum fanatics and cigar smokers to the city. It’s where Hemingway wrote seven of his books and drank Mojitos at La Bodeguita del Medio. And with temperatures of 27°C in December, it’s an ideal winter-sun destination.

Kyoto, Japan

Considered to be the cultural centre of Japan, Kyoto is awash with ancient temples and shrines, serene teahouses and sublime gardens. The bright-orange Fushimi-inari, a shinto shrine in the hills, is a visual beauty. Grab an artisan coffee, taken very seriously in the traditional city, and make the two-hour pilgrimage through the shrine's thousands of torii (gates). Other spots worth visiting include Gion, the home of the geishas, the golden pavilion of Kinkaku-ji and Nishiki market for street food or a traditional kaiseki feast at one of the city's local restaurants.

Marrakech, Morocco

The kaleidoscopic city may best be known for its market life, spice sellers and ancient medinas, but its reimagined riads, cool independent shops and contemporary art scene are giving it a modern edge. There are lots of places to discover – from Yves Saint Laurent’s restoration of cobalt-blue Jardin Majorelle to the smoky street-food stalls in Jemaa el-Fna.

Ischia, Italy

A quick ferry ride from Naples , the island of Ischia – famed for its thermal spas and unshowy local life – is a tumble of fishing villages and beaches that match Amalfi but without the crowds.

Bondi Iceburgs, Australia

Bondi Icebergs might easily be the most famous pool in the world. The Olympic-size structure has been standing on the southern end of Bondi Beach for more than 100 years. It’s not heated or chlorinated, but filled with seawater, with the Tasman Sea crashing against its edge.

The Philippines

The Philippines has more than 7,000 islands – about 5,000 of which are uninhabited – where roughly 175 languages are spoken. For diving, El Nido is the ideal spot with crystal-clear water and vibrant marine life.

Arashiyama, Bamboo Forest, Japan

About 20 minutes outside Kyoto’s city centre is the atmospheric Arashiyama bamboo forest. Arrive at around 7am to avoid the crowds and get a chance to see and feel the wood, as well as hear it creaking in the wind. Morning light is just as ethereal, too. Arabica coffee shop is nearby, overlooking Hozugawa River.

Las Coloradas, Yucatan, Mexico

The incredible pink lakes here make up part of the protected nature reserve of Ría Lagartos Biosphere on Mexico’s Yucatán peninsula. Red-coloured algae, plankton and brine shrimp that thrive in the waters not only turn the native flamingos pink but help produce 500,000 tons of salt per year.

Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

This is one of Madagascar's most visited natural sites – and for good reason. Aside from the spectacular photo opportunities on offer as the sun casts auburn shades on the trees, travellers come to support local conservation efforts, and spot the unique wildlife that frolics in the overgrowth nearby.

Blue lagoon, Iceland

One of  Iceland's  most spectacular sites is, surprisingly, man-made. The Blue Lagoon's waters are a byproduct of a nearby geothermal power plant, which passes through turbines and into the lagoon. Natural geological layers account for the water's rich mineral content, which travellers use to their benefit, bathing and smothering themselves in the rich clay.

Cape Town, South Africa

Eager to spot a waddle of penguins in the wild? There's no need to save up for the ultimate excursion to Antarctica – although that's just as high on many bucket lists. On the shores of some of  South Africa's  most picturesque beaches, the animals mingle in search of a mate – safe from the fearsome great white that circle beneath the waves just metres away.

The Grand Canyon, USA

The Grand Canyon is part of the Colorado River basin and, aside from its beauty, is geologically significant as the waters that pass through here have revealed billions of years worth of rock layers. While it's popular with travelling day-trippers, native Americans still call it home, having first settled in the caves thousands of years ago.

Cenotes, Mexico

Formed by the collapse of eroded limestone,  Mexico's  cenotes harbour secrets and beauty discovered by sunshine-chasers each year. The unique formations were celebrated by the ancient Maya people, and archaeological investigations over the years have found artefacts made from gold, jadeite, shell and more on the sandy depths.

Joshua Tree National Park, USA

Stone tools and spearheads discovered in Joshua Tree National Park suggest the region was inhabited as long as 8,000 years ago. Modern travellers experience this wilderness in a very different way, checking into luxurious micro-resorts and serviced holiday homes. Think the landscapes are otherworldly by day? Look to the skies at night for an altogether different, and unforgettable, sight.

The Maldives

Spoiling retreats of all shapes and sizes litter the sandy banks of the Maldives , an archipelagic state in the Indian Ocean. Between the indulgent wellness resorts and exotic restaurants, the crystal-clear waters offer ample opportunity for snorkelling and diving excursions. Dive into the blue and find yourself in a world of kaleidoscopic colour as fish fizzle in and out of focus.

Peyto Lake, Canada

One of Canada's most beautiful and most-photographed lakes is a pool of cerulean on darker days, while its glacier waters mirror the sky's dappled blue on brighter days. Keen amblers are well rewarded as they reach Bow Summit, the highest point on the Icefields Parkway.

La Digue, Seychelles

The third most populated island in  the Seychelles , La Digue takes its name from a ship in the fleet of French explorer Marc-Joseph Marion du Fresne, who visited the Seychelles in 1768. Thanks to its otherworldly granite formations, glassy waters and fine sand, Anse Source d'Argent is often regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world – a spot travellers fawn over as they venture out from the island's uber-luxurious hotels and resorts.

Yellowstone National Park, USA

Bison, bears, geese, deer – these are just some of the animals that call the oldest national park in the world home. Each change of the seasons beckons new residents out of their homes, as many cosy up during the cold winters and await the first signs of spring. A highlight of the park is the Yellowstone Caldera, a gargantuan crater that was formed by a cataclysmic volcanic eruption some 640,000 years ago.

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