With the majority of Brits living in urban areas, many of us crave a deeper connection to nature and wildlife – particularly when we’re deciding where to go on holiday. Whether you love the drama of a mountain peak, the stillness of a lake, or the soft sand beneath your feet, nature has a way of touching our souls.
And the good news is that there are plenty of places to experience some of Mother Nature’s best work – both near and far. From tropical jungles and waterfalls to the natural beauty right on our doorstep, here are nine holiday destinations with unbelievable natural beauty.
1. Iguazu Falls, Brazil and Argentina
Straddling the border between Brazil and Argentina, Iguazu Falls is one of the world’s most impressive waterfall systems. Here, the thunderous sound of nearly 300 waterfalls pouring over the dramatic cliffs of the Atlantic Rainforest is accompanied by rainbows dancing in the water mist.
Creating a unique microclimate, Iguazu Falls is home to beautiful wildlife – including colourful, long-beaked toucans and playful capuchin monkeys.
On the Argentinian side, walkways take you right up to the action, including the Devil’s Throat, where half the Iguazu River crashes into a dramatic chasm. And, from the Brazilian side, well-maintained trails through the rainforest lead to panoramic viewpoints.
For an extra thrill, why not take a helicopter tour of the falls, or hop on a boat ride where tour guides take you up close to the cascading water? Just be prepared to get wet!
2. Fjords of Norway
The Norwegian fjords stretch up much of the country’s dramatic western coastline. Carved into the landscape by glaciers, these deep, narrow inlets are framed by dramatic cliffs and waterfalls – occasionally interrupted by charming hillside villages.
There are various ways to explore the fjords, though cruising is one of the most popular. On a cruise, you can put your feet up and take in the jaw-dropping scenery as you glide by. Plus, with most cruise lines offering a selection of offshore excursions, you can make the most of what this breathtaking region has to offer.
Alternatively, why not fully immerse yourself in nature with a wild camping holiday? Areas like Lysefjord and Hardangerfjord make ideal bases, and you can spend your days; exploring by foot or kayak!
There’s no wrong time to visit the fjords as each season has its own magic. In spring and summer, the fjords are dotted with colourful wildflowers; in autumn, spectacular golden foliage appears and, in winter, an icy stillness creates a chilling, otherworldly atmosphere.
3. Grand Canyon, USA
The Grand Canyon in northern Arizona stretches across the vast Colorado Plateau. Carved out by the Colorado River, its layered rock formations span shades of red, orange, and gold, each representing different eras of Earth’s history. Having been compressed and shaped over millennia, the Grand Canyon is stunning in its detail.
Mather Point, near the South rim, is a popular spot for its sweeping views; while the Bright Angel Trail offers a chance to descend into the canyon and see the rock layers up close. The area’s diverse ecosystems are home to ponderosa pines, desert wildflowers, and you’re likely to spot elk near the canyon’s southern rim.
Ranger programmes provide guided insights into the canyon’s geology, wildlife, and cultural history, often lasting an hour or two and taking place at various points along the rim.
4. The jungles of Sabah, Borneo
The Asian island of Borneo is shared between three countries – Brunei, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Here, the tropical jungles of Sabah are some of the oldest rainforests in the world. Known for their biodiversity, these jungles brim with life – home to countless plant species and rare animals, including the critically endangered orangutan.
Cruises along the Kinabatangan River are a fantastic way to breathe in the refreshing jungle air and spot unique wildlife. Herds of pygmy elephants, odd-nosed proboscis monkeys, and curved-beak hornbills come to the riverside for water, poking out from the old and tangled jungle behind them.
For a more immersive jungle experience, head to the Danum Valley Conservation Area, which is home to some of the most untouched and remote jungle in Asia. The plantlife here is unmatched, as everything from carnivorous pitcher plants to wild orchids thrive. Jungle-based lodges also offer guided treks to hidden lakes and cascading waterfalls.
5. East Sussex, UK
For something a little closer to home, East Sussex contains some of the most jaw-dropping nature in the UK. Plus, with the most sunshine of any region in the country, while you’re not guaranteed a sunny trip, it’s certainly a welcome bonus!
Seven Sisters Country Park is home to the white Seven Sisters cliffs, which line the magnificent stretch of coastline between Seaford and Eastbourne. On sunny days, the chalk from the cliffs paints the crashing waves a cloudy turquoise; and, on the pebbled beach below, visitors can often be seen running joyfully from the waves as the tide closes in.
Further inland, the rolling hills of the South Downs are covered in clifftop meadows – perfect for a leisurely walk. At the top of Beachy Head, you can enjoy dramatic views of the famous red and white-striped lighthouse, too.
Nearby, the trendy streets of Brighton and the laidback promenade of Eastbourne are home to a range of welcoming hotels and independent cafes suited to every taste. Though, you won’t be short of traditional village pubs dotting the countryside either!
For more ideas on nature-inspired UK breaks, check out our article: 10 most breathtaking areas of natural beauty in the UK.
6. Patagonia, Argentina and Chile
Spanning southern Argentina and Chile, Patagonia forms part of the world’s longest mountain range: the magnificent Andes. Famous for its dramatic, jagged cliffs that pierce the sky, Patagonia is a bucket-list travel destination.
Though accessible from both Argentina and Chile, Argentina’s well-established tourist trails are particularly popular with visitors. The small mountain village of El Chaltén, Argentina’s hiking capital, contains a range of fantastic trails; including the Laguna de los Tres, which leads to spectacular views of Mount Fitz Roy – arguably Patagonia’s most iconic peak. In spring, vibrant bursts of blooming firebush flowers contrast against the glacial blue ice.
However, the Chilean side is best for spotting colonies of Magellanic penguins. A short boat trip to Magdalena Island will take you right up to these quirky birds in their natural habitat.
7. Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Beneath the turquoise waters of Australia’s northeast coast lies the world’s largest coral reef system: the Great Barrier Reef.
Teeming with colourful fish and coral gardens, snorkelling and diving here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Watch as sea turtles, tropical clownfish, and blue tangs swim by.. Alternatively, glass-bottom boat tours and yacht charters offer the chance to take in the natural beauty without getting wet.
For a more secluded experience, the Great Barrier’s outer reefs tend to be less busy. Explore the peaceful jungle and beaches of Fitzroy Island, or explore the tranquil mangrove estuaries of the uninhabited Hinchinbrook Island
8. Swiss Alps
The stunning Swiss Alps cover over half of Switzerland, and the country’s dedication to ecological preservation means the nature here is pristine – boasting some of the best eco-tourism options in the world.
The region of Bernese Oberland is home to some of the Alps’ most beautiful scenery. Sparkling alpine lakes like Lake Thun and charming mountain villages create picture-perfect scenes year-round.
If you like exploring on foot, the Swiss Alps are a paradise for hikers – particularly in summer, when the wildflowers are in bloom.
And, of course, you’d be hard-pushed to top the Swiss Alps as a skiing destination – boasting the popular destinations of St. Moritz and Zermatt, as well as smaller-scale slopes.
9. Taiwan
The mountainous island of Taiwan in East Asia is often celebrated for its culture and history, but its astonishing natural beauty shouldn’t be overlooked either.
With landscapes as diverse as they are dramatic, in the mountainous region of Alishan, you’ll find misty high-altitude forests and terraced tea plantations. In Taiwan’s northern mountains, rivers carve out deep gorges, waterfalls rise almost 300 feet into the mountains, and thermal hot springs offer the ideal pit-stop after a long hike.
Exploring the island by train is easy, efficient, and comfortable, too. Peer out the windows to see breathtaking views of the Pacific crashing into the rugged mountains of Taiwan’s east coast.
Final thoughts…
From the white cliffs of Eastbourne to the stillness of Norway’s fjords, our world is full of breathtaking natural beauty, whether you decide to travel near or far.
Wherever you choose to visit next, we hope this list has inspired you.
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What are your travel plans this year? Which of these destinations would you like to visit most? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!