Europe's Top 15 Stunning Spots Worth Exploring
Get ready to be amazed, mate! Europe is just bloomin' full of stunning locations you've gotta see to believe. Let's take a gander at 15 of the most beautiful spots that'll make you want to pack your bags and start roamin'.
1. Swiss National Park, Switzerland
If you fancy a proper hike through Alpine countryside, the Swiss National Park is just the ticket. It's the only national park in the country and has remained untouched since 1914. Ible to access from quaint Engadine villages like Scuol, Zernez, and S-chanf, this park is a glimpse of pristine Alpine wilderness before the rise of tourism. You'll be trekking up hills, through forests, and gazing at jaw-dropping vistas. There's even a 21km (13-mile) day hike to the Lakes of Macun, which'll lead you to an Alpine plateau with 23 jewel-coloured lakes. Or, stick with a friendly guide from the visitor center in Zernez and increase your chances of spotting ibex, chamois, golden eagles, and bearded vultures!
2. Stromboli, Italy
Now, imagine floating on a colossal volcano smack-bang in the middle of the sparkling Tyrrhenian Sea off Sicily's coast. You've just pictured Stromboli, known as the 'Lighthouse of the Mediterranean'. This volcanic island is the most captivating of the Aeolian Islands, and home to natural drama, fireworks displays, and a relaxed, old-time romance. Relax on a black-sand beach like Ficogrande, dive into turquoise waters, or scale the volcano's smoking crater with a reputable guide like Magmatrek. Come for the volcanic vibes, but stick around to explore the island's history and scenery!
3. Ring of Kerry, Ireland
Ireland's beauty will leave you stunned, especially on the wild, Atlantic coast of County Kerry in the southwest. The Ring of Kerry, a 179km (111-mile) loop around the Iveragh Peninsula, is a tour de force of stunning views, as it fingers sea cliffs, lush fields, rugged mountains, stone fortresses, and charming villages. The drama kicks it up a notch on the Skellig Ring, where you'll find the twin-pinnacled craggy island of Skellig Michael, home to early Christian monks since the 6th century.
4. The Azores, Portugal
Stepping stones to a different world, the nine volcanic Azores islands bubble up from the mid-Atlantic. These overlooked gems began to attract attention from nature lovers due to their incredible beauty. Featuring lava peaks, brilliant blue caldera lakes, misty laurel forests, tea plantations, subtropical gardens, and hissing fumaroles, the Azores are utterly unique. Sink into the dazzlingly turquoise thermal waters of Caldeira Velha on San Miguel Island, hike through botanical gardens overflowing with azaleas, camellias, and hydrangeas on Flores, or marvel at sperm whales and humpbacks emerging from the deep blue on Faial.
5. Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria
Mother Nature really went to town in the Hohe Tauern National Park, with an Alpine landscape that'll take your breath away. With mountain peaks reaching over 3000m (9843ft) high, mighty glaciers, and a skirl of waterfalls, it's a dramatic playground for wildlife like marmots, chamois, ibex, golden eagles, and bearded vultures. For the best odds of spotting them, join a guided themed tour led by the park rangers.
6. Black Forest, Germany
For a dash of fairytale magic, wander into the thick fir forests of the Black Forest, draped across Germany's southwest. With towering mountains, glacier-carved valleys, verdant meadows, idyllic lakes, and picturesque villages, this enchanted forest feels like it was plucked straight from a bedtime story. Lace up your boots and explore on foot, and you might bump into a woodland sprite or a wandering bear!
7. Lofoten Islands, Norway
The Lofoten Islands, nestled off the northwest coast of Norway, are a dazzling landscape of steep granite mountains, golden sand beaches, and deep blue sea. You can visit in the Midnight Sun or the depths of winter, and you'll always be entranced by the islands' remote allure. Trek up 1029m (3375ft) Hermannsdalstinden for awe-inspiring views above the pointy peaks and azure waters.
8. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
With cascading waterfalls, crystalline lakes, and lush vegetation, the Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that'll leave you spellbound.URIMAGE
As you stroll along wooden paths and bridges, you'll traverse green, turquoise, emerald, cobalt, and azure lakes, each with a different hue. Top it off with a year-round stargazing session in the park's dark night skies, or keep an eye out for elusive brown bears, wolves, and lynx noiselessly drifting through the old-growth forests.
9. Loire Valley, France
Fancy a château-hopping adventure? Head to the Loire Valley, home to around 300 grand chateaux, including the kid-friendly Château de Chambord, the sumptuous Château de Chenonceau, and the romantic Château de Villandry with its formal gardens. Thirsty yet? Make your way through the region, sampling some of France's finest wines while taking in the stunning landscapes.
10. Parque Nacional do Picos de Europa, Spain
Nestled in northern Spain's Asturias and Cantabria regions, the Picos de Europa National Park offers breathtaking vistas of limestone peaks, rolling valleys, and glittering lakes. Buckle up for a thrilling adventure, as you hike through rugged landscapes, marvel at cascading waterfalls, and seek out some of Europe's most elusive wildlife, such as the Cantabrian brown bear and the Iberian lynx.
11. Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland
Step onto the dramatic landscape of the Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site located on the north coast of Northern Ireland. This geological wonder is made up of over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. As you wander along the coastline, imagine the mythical giant Finn McCool building the causeway to challenge the Scottish giant Benandonner.
12. Meteora, Greece
Prepare to be amazed by the ethereal beauty of Meteora, a cluster of monasteries perched atop towering sandstone pillars in central Greece. These monastic complexes, dating back to the 14th and 16th centuries, are accessible via a series of elaborate staircases carved into the cliffsides. Discover centuries-old frescoes, chat with monks, and drink in the stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
13. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Step back in time as you explore the medieval walls, churches, and grand palaces of Dubrovnik, a picturesque coastal city on Croatia's Adriatic coast. Stroll along the well-preserved city walls, savor delicious Dalmatian cuisine, and lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets of the Old Town. Don't forget to catch a remarkable sunset over the glittering Adriatic!
14. Gdansk, Poland
Explore the charming port city of Gdansk, nestled on the Baltic coast of northern Poland. Wander through the bustling Long Market, surrounded by beautifully restored Town Hall, Artus Court, and other historical and architectural gems. Don't miss the impressive Neptune's Fountain and the awe-inspiring Church of St. Nicholas, known for its stunning golden altar.
15. Split, Croatia
Finally, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the bustling city of Split, Croatia. Explore the ancient Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and wander the labyrinthine streets of the city, filled with local cafes, shops, and historical sites. Soak up the sun on the charming beachfront promenade, and don't miss a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.
- In the Swiss National Park, located in Switzerland, you can experience a hike through Alpine countryside, where displays of diverse flora meet the fairest views of pristine Alpine wilderness.
- The picturesque island of Stromboli, Italy, offers a breathtaking sight of a volcano in the Tyrrhenian Sea, which presents natural drama, fireworks, and a relaxing lifestyle for travelers.
- The enchanting island chain of Lofoten, Norway, offers visitors the opportunity to walk along golden sand beaches, trek steep mountains, and witness the remote beauty that calls to adventurers from around the world.
- The Azores, Portugal, consists of nine volcanic islands that have become a sanctuary for nature lovers. The archipelago presents unique landscapes, such as lava peaks, botanical gardens, and marine life, offering a truly authentic travel experience.
- Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria, showcases the fairest and most diverse Alpine habitats, home to a variety of wildlife, including the ibex, golden eagles, and bearded vultures.
- For a glimpse of a fairytale world, explore the Black Forest in Germany, brimming with towering mountains, verdant meadows, charming villages, and the occasional woodland sprite.
- The Ring of Kerry, Ireland, offers travelers a stunning 179km loop around the Iveragh Peninsula, providing a tour de force of stunning views, rugged mountains, and charming villages.
- The Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia, unveils a landscape of cascading waterfalls, crystalline lakes, and lush vegetation, earning it the title of UNESCO World Heritage site.
- The Loire Valley in France offers a unique lifestyle travel experience, with opportunities to visit grand chateaux, sample delicious wines, and bask in the rural beauty of the region.
- The Picos de Europa National Park, Spain, invites visitors to explore rugged landscapes, rocky peaks, and glittering lakes in the Asturias and Cantabria regions.
- At the Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland, you can wander along the dramatic coastal landscape, made up of interlocking basalt columns, which are said to have been formed by mythical giants.
- Meteora, Greece, showcases a cluster of ancient monasteries perched atop towering sandstone pillars, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the region's rich history.
- Dubrovnik, Croatia, provides a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved medieval walls, churches, and palaces, all nestled along the picturesque coastline.
- In the charming port city of Gdansk, Poland, you can explore historical sites, vibrant markets, and the stunning Church of St. Nicholas, famous for its golden altar.
- Complete your European adventure by immersing yourself in the vibrant energy of the bustling city of Split, Croatia, a melting pot of history, culture, and the sparkling waters of the Adriatic Sea.
