For those who crave breathtaking vistas and awe-inspiring natural beauty, the world offers countless destinations where landscapes seem to leap out of a dream. From towering mountains and vast deserts to lush forests and dramatic coastlines, these top travel destinations promise unforgettable experiences for landscape enthusiasts. Plus, if you’re thinking about booking a trip soon, check down below for an upcoming flash sale you’ll want to know about with Play Airlines.
See also: Discovering Turkey: The top must-visit destinations
Iceland: Land of fire and ice
Iceland, often called the Land of Fire and Ice, is a must-visit for anyone enchanted by dramatic landscapes. This Nordic island nation boasts an extraordinary variety of natural wonders, including volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, and stunning glaciers.
- Golden Circle: This popular tourist route includes Þingvellir National Park, the geothermal area in Haukadalur (home to the Strokkur geyser), and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall.
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: This surreal lagoon filled with floating icebergs is a photographer’s paradise. Nearby, the black sand Diamond Beach showcases icebergs that have washed ashore, creating a striking contrast against the dark sands.
- Vestrahorn Mountain: For those seeking dramatic coastal views, the Vestrahorn Mountain on the Stokksnes Peninsula offers incredible photo opportunities with its jagged peaks and reflective black sands.
Iceland’s unique combination of fire and ice creates an ever-changing landscape that’s as beautiful as it is diverse, making it a top destination for landscape lovers.
New Zealand: Middle-earth in real life
New Zealand’s landscapes are so fantastical that they were chosen to represent the fictional world of Middle-earth in Peter Jackson’s “The Lord of the Rings” films.
- Fiordland National Park: Located in the southwestern part of the South Island, this park is renowned for its rugged fiords, particularly Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. Towering cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and serene waters create a dramatic and serene environment.
- Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park: Home to the highest peak in New Zealand, this park offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, and star-studded night skies perfect for stargazing.
Whether you’re hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or exploring the lush greenery of the Hobbiton Movie Set, New Zealand’s varied landscapes are sure to captivate.
Patagonia, Argentina/Chile: Untamed wilderness
Patagonia, straddling the southern regions of Argentina and Chile, is a vast, sparsely populated region renowned for its rugged terrain, stunning glaciers, and magnificent mountains.
- Torres del Paine National Park (Chile): Famous for its soaring peaks, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife, this park is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
- Los Glaciares National Park (Argentina): This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world. The park also features the dramatic Fitz Roy mountain range, which offers challenging hikes and unforgettable views.
Patagonia’s raw and untamed beauty makes it a dream destination for those seeking solitude and spectacular landscapes.
Norway: Land of fjords
Norway’s fjords are among the most stunning landscapes in the world, characterized by steep cliffs, lush greenery, and deep blue waters.
- Geirangerfjord: This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its stunning beauty, with cascading waterfalls and steep, verdant cliffs. The viewpoint from Dalsnibba offers panoramic views that are simply breathtaking.
- Lofoten Islands: Known for their dramatic scenery, these islands feature sharp peaks, sheltered bays, and traditional fishing villages. The midnight sun and northern lights add an extra layer of magic to the landscape.
Norway’s fjords offer a blend of serene beauty and dramatic grandeur that is unparalleled.
Namibia: Desert wonders
Namibia, located in southwestern Africa, offers some of the most surreal and starkly beautiful landscapes on earth.
- Namib Desert: The world’s oldest desert, with its towering sand dunes, particularly at Sossusvlei, creates an otherworldly landscape. The contrast between the red dunes and the white salt pans is a visual feast.
- Etosha National Park: Known for its vast salt pan, which becomes a shimmering oasis in the rainy season, the park also offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Namibia’s landscapes are a testament to the beauty of desolation and the incredible forms nature can take in extreme conditions.
Calling travel enthusiasts!
To celebrate its third anniversary of flight operations, PLAY airlines is offering a special flash sale on flights to select European destinations from John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport. Between June 24th to 27th, Canadian travellers can enjoy up to 33% off on flights to 16 destinations across Iceland, Netherlands, Sweden, Germany, France and more.
Booking Details
- Booking period: June 24-27
- Travel dates: July 2024 to May 2025
- Basic Bundle: Includes one small personal item, mandatory taxes, fees, and carrier charges. Additional baggage and perks available at extra cost. Learn more about the PLAY Basic bundle at flyplay.com/play-bundles.
- Baggage Fees: Learn more about the baggage fees at flyplay.com/baggage-and-optional-fees.
- Book Now: Visit flyplay.com/canada-offers to take advantage of this exclusive offer!
Feature image by Simon Migaj