While the Grand Canyon, Stonehenge, and the Pyramids are undoubtedly the top travel locations on anyone’s list, this list delves deeper. These 9 fascinating and lesser-known travel locations are all reachable with a little preparation, albeit many are a little more difficult to get to than typical tourist places! These locations are similar in that they are either incredibly gorgeous, provide an unforgettable adventure, or are far from the usual path. Continue reading to learn more about these enchanted locations, then begin organizing your upcoming vacation!
1. RAINBOW MOUNTAINS: CHINA
North West China’s breathtaking rainbow mountains are first on our list. These geological formations, which are over 24 centuries old and made of colorful slabs of sandstone and minerals, are situated within Gansu province’s Zhangye Danxia Geopark. You can enjoy the opportunity for some excellent pictures as well as marvel at the brilliant colors, which resemble a scene from a children’s book, when you watch this amazing show. While in the vicinity of the Rainbow Mountains, be sure to visit the Bingdou Danxia Landform Scenery Area. Because of a range of intriguing landform shapes, such as slabs of stone and tall columns, the area has its own charm even though it is not as well-known to tourists.
2. HUACHINA DESERT OASIS: PERU
Consider a vacation in the desert to be hot, dull, and the last thing on your list of options. Hopefully, when you visit the southwestern Peruvian desert oasis of Huachina, you will reconsider. This little but charming community is encircled by enormous sand dunes nearly totally and features a wide variety of street merchants, restaurants, and hotels. In addition, Huachina is well known for its amazing sandboarding and dune buggy rides. If you’d like, you can even set up camp in the sand and sleep beneath the stars! It’s amazing how few travelers know about Huachina and the exciting things to do here. Instead of missing out on the chance to enjoy the bliss of strolling on golden sand between your toes, why not visit Huachina?
3. ENCHANTED HINUATAN RIVER: PHILIPPINES
This amazing river is located near the edge of Hinuatan Surigao del Sur, a town located in the Philippines in the eastern part of Mindanao. With its calm, clear waters, it really bears up to its charmed name, luring tired travelers greatly. There are several local stories that attempt to explain the strange origin of the Hinuatan River, and the crystalline waters itself have amazing color variations that shift from blue to green. The enormous variety of fish that live in this salty river and are handfed every afternoon are another big attraction for tourists.
4. Giant’s Causeway – Northern Ireland
The Antrim coastline is one of the most well-known drives in Northern Ireland, but it is by no means humble. Often referred to as the UK’s fourth wonder, the Giant’s Causeway is incredibly stunning. An previous volcanic eruption produced the vast regions of interlocking basalt columns. If you’re concerned about transportation, a bus may transport you to the causeway; for those who feel like taking a stroll, the trek is stunning.
5. MONASTERY OF SANTA MARIA: TROPEA ITALY
Have you ever had the desire to visit a rocky cliffside medieval castle? The “Coast of the Gods,” an enchanting beachfront resort in Italy on the Calabrian coast, offers a scene straight out of a fairy tale. From its upper windows, the old monastery with its meandering stone path provides visitors with a panoramic view of Tropea, a beach town. As far as the eye can view, there are immaculate beaches with milky white sand and azure ocean water. Even more stunning are the panoramas from the monastery throughout the day when the castle is illuminated at night. Additionally charming is the garden behind the church, where patrons can buy snacks and souvenirs.
6. Whitehaven Beach – Australia
One of the best-picturised beaches in the world, Whitehaven Beach is located on Whitsunday Island, off the coast of Queensland, and spans 7 kilometers. The beach is composed of 98% pure silica sand.
7. KAPITI ISLAND: NEW ZEALAND
Outside the coasts of Wellington and Kapiti in New Zealand is an island called Kapiti Island. A fortunate few can get up close and personal views of native creatures and flora (like the Kiwi Bird) in this area of stunning, pristine wilderness. Because of the extreme ecological sensitivity of this area, you cannot enter the reserve without joining an authorized tour, nor can you get permission for overnight camping. On Kapiti Island, you will be welcomed by knowledgeable and kind tour guides who will make sure you have an unforgettable experience in the bush!
8. Lake Bohinj – Slovenia
Though more famous as Lake Bled, there’s another nearby lake that’s even more gorgeous! Lake Bohinj is enchanted because of the incredible panorama of the lake and the surrounding flora and mountains. When visiting Slovenia, be sure to make time to stop here; you won’t regret it.
9. APOSTLE ISLANDS WISCONSIN
This place offers miles of shoreline and a myriad of islands to explore! With so many various types of birds that breed, migrate, and nest there, it is also a birdwatcher’s heaven. The numerous lighthouses dotted around the shoreline and the diverse range of outdoor pursuits available are further draws. These include plenty of chances for scuba diving and rock formation exploration, as well as hiking, sailing, or lake boating on Lake Superior. The region is also full of historic farmland, quarries, beaches, and camping areas. While enjoying the quiet and seclusion of these peaceful islands, you can discover all these amazing things.
