The internet era has made it easier than ever to travel and go on an adventure. With access to multi-day group tours, premium accommodation booking services, flight deals, remote work, and travel hacks, it’s easier than ever to cure a bad case of wanderlust.
Regardless of how technological advances impact travel, nothing will ever compare to the beauty of a natural landscape. Fortunately, you can use one to reach the other. Here are some of the most unexpected and astonishing landscapes to fuel your wanderlust in 2019.
1. Mallorca, Spain
When most travellers think of Spain, they have visions of whiling away the hours in Barcelona and Madrid — taking in the beautiful architecture, eating paella, and sipping on sangria before their afternoon siesta. But, off the coast in the beautiful Balearic Islands, you can see another side of Spain. Mallorca is just one of these incredibly scenic, astonishing landscapes.
Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands and is home to beautiful beaches below soaring cliffs. Beautiful architecture is punctuated by citrus groves and old Mallorca homes are expertly crafted with incredible stonework. Relax in the lap of luxury and watch the unforgettable sunset over the water for the trip of a lifetime.
2. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
The Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia is unlike any other place in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site spans over 73,300 acres and is home to scores of beautiful lakes cascading over terraces into one another, creating a lush forest and series of waterfalls. You can walk through the park and take in the beautiful sites, crossing the waterways on bridges and boardwalks. In some areas of the park, you can swim in the lakes and splash in the waterfalls.
The crown jewel of the Plitvice Lakes is the “Big Waterfall” where water thunders over the edge and drops over 250ft into the lake below. Hike through the expansive park and enjoy the many hidden gems scattered throughout or take a boat from lake to lake while relaxing in the sunshine.
3. Great Barrier Reef, Australia
One of the things that makes Australia such an incredible part of the world to visit is the diversity of the ecosystem from one part of the country to another. With stunning beaches, tropical forests, and dry deserts, Australia offers it all.
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the natural wonders of the world. It’s the world’s largest coral reef system, and spans over 214,000 square miles. It is the only living thing visible from outer space. There are many different islands to visit and explore surrounding the reef, and you can explore the reef itself by boat, snorkelling or special helicopter trips. The reef is at risk due to environmental factors; see it now before it’s too late.
4. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled in Slovenia is one of the world’s hidden gems. What makes this landscape so astonishing is the feeling that you’ve stepped into a fairytale. The isolation of the lake paired with the stunning architecture on the centre island will make you feel like you’ve gone back to medieval times. Take a rowboat out to Bled Island at sunrise and sail quietly through the mist for an unforgettable experience.
When you arrive at Bled Island, step into the ancient church. There, you can ring the famous Wishing Bell, which, legend has it, will make all your dreams come true. Climb the tower for an amazing view of the lake and surrounding shoreline.
5. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Needless to say, Zimbabwe is filled with astounding sights to behold. One of the most breathtaking attractions in Zimbabwe is the massive Victoria Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the world. At nearly 3000ft tall and stretching over 5,600ft across, Victoria Falls is neither the tallest or the longest waterfall but earns the title of largest for its incredible size and capacity for water.
The mist from the waterfall floats up to 130ft in the air and can be seen from 50 kilometres away. Be sure to stop by the Devil’s Pool, a wading pool against the edge of the falls. You can also do a safari walk with live lions to bring your adventure to a close.
