The most beautiful places for a vacation in nature

Discover untouched landscapes and experience pure relaxation!

Africa: Safari Adventures and Pristine Nature Reserves — Africa: Safari
Adventures and
Pristine Nature
Reserves

Australia and New Zealand: Discoveries in Unique Ecosystems — Australia and New
Zealand: Discoveries
in Unique Ecosystems

The Alps: A Natural Paradise for Hikers and Skiers — The Alps: A Natural
Paradise for Hikers
and Skiers

The National Parks of the USA: Gigantic Forests and Impressive Landscapes — The National Parks
of the USA: Gigantic
Forests and
Impressive
Landscapes

The Scandinavian Countries: Journeys into the Wild Heart of Nature — The Scandinavian
Countries: Journeys
into the Wild Heart
of Nature

Summary for "The most beautiful places for a vacation in nature"

The Alps offer majestic landscapes and countless activities for hikers and skiers.
Hiking trails like the West Highland Way in Scotland and the Laugavegur Trek in Iceland offer spectacular views.
Scandinavia fascinates with untouched nature, fjords, and the Northern Lights.
The national parks of the USA, such as Yellowstone and Yosemite, are known for their impressive geological phenomena and breathtaking landscapes.
Australia and New Zealand impress with unique ecosystems and natural wonders like the Daintree Rainforest and Milford Sound.
Africa's Serengeti captivates with the Great Migration and rich wildlife.
South Africa's national parks offer an impressive variety, from the coast to the desert with parks like Kruger and Addo Elephant.
The Scandinavian countries allow the experience of the Midnight Sun and exciting winter adventures like dog sledding.
In Finland, you can gather mushrooms, enjoy ice swimming after the sauna, and observe rare bird species.
Norway's fjords and landscapes offer spectacular panoramas and cultural experiences.

The Alps: A Natural Paradise for Hikers and Skiers

The Alps stretch majestically across several European countries, offering an impressive variety of landscapes and activities. In particular, the Swiss Alps attract visitors with crystal-clear mountain lakes and idyllic valleys that amaze even the most experienced hikers. For skiers, regions like Les Trois Vallées in France or Ischgl in Austria offer slopes that are second to none. The combination of snow-covered peaks and well-developed Ski resorts creates an unparalleled winter wonderland.

But the Alps aren't Just suitable for adventurous outdoor enthusiasts. Nature lovers who prefer a more leisurely pace will also find refuge here. Picturesque villages with rustic wooden houses and flower-adorned balconies invite you to relax and unwind. A ride on the Gornergrat Railway in Switzerland offers breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, one of the most famous mountains in the world. The diversity of Alpine flora and fauna makes every hike a special experience, where you can observe rare plants and shy wildlife.

The Culinary Delights of the Alps should not be underestimated either. The region is known for its hearty dishes, which taste especially good after an active day in nature. Whether it's cheese fondue in Switzerland, Tiroler Gröstl in Austria, or Crozets in France, every gourmet will find something to satisfy their palate. Accompanied by a glass of regional wine or a mild alpine herbal liqueur, a day in the Alps can be perfectly rounded off.

Hiking trails with unforgettable views

Besides the well-developed hiking trails of the Alps, many other routes in Europe offer spectacular views. The West Highland Way in Scotland is a true paradise for hiking enthusiasts. On the 154-kilometer path, you will be rewarded not only with the wild beauty of the Highlands but also with fascinating views of Loch Lomond and Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in Great Britain. The Route takes you through densely forested valleys, along gentle hills, and over rugged moorlands that provide a special experience in their seclusion.

If you desire something more exotic, you should consider the Caminito del Rey in Spain. This hiking route, situated in breathtaking gorges and canyons, was once considered the most dangerous path in the world but has since been restored and now offers safe yet thrilling views. The narrow walkway leads over Steep cliffs at a height of 100 meters, from where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the river Valley below. Here you can experience the untamed nature of Andalusia up close.

Another highlight is the Laugavegur Trek in Iceland, which leads through one of the most fascinating volcanic landscapes in the world. The 55-kilometer Route begins in Landmannalaugar, known for its colorful rhyolite mountains, and ends in Þórsmörk, a green Valley surrounded by glaciers and rivers. Hot springs, steaming sulfur springs, and expansive lava fields make every stage of this hike an unparalleled adventure. Here you can discover the raw, primordial face of nature in one of Europe's less populated areas.

Ski resorts and winter sports opportunities

For winter sports enthusiasts, the Alps offer unparalleled conditions. In addition to classic ski areas, many resorts have also specialized in modern winter sports. Snowkiting, where you are pulled by a kite on skis or a snowboard over snowy plains, not only requires skill but also offers breathtaking speed experiences. Skijoring, where you are pulled on skis by a horse, combines nostalgic charm with adrenaline-filled moments.

In addition to exciting sports, many resorts shine with remarkable infrastructure. High-end Ski resorts like Zermatt or Courchevel offer not only luxurious accommodations and upscale dining but also first-class wellness facilities. Here you can relax in spas with alpine backdrops after an action-packed day on the slopes, swim in high-altitude infinity pools, or enjoy individual massage services specifically tailored for winter sports enthusiasts.

Even for families, there are innovative concepts that make winter vacations unforgettable. Many resorts offer children's ski schools with professional instructors who introduce the youngest ones to skiing in a playful way. Off the slopes, adventure parks with snow castles and ice slides invite children to let off steam. Guided snowshoe hikes or nights in igloo Camps offer additional child-friendly experiences that round off the family fun.

Unmatched conditions for winter sports in the Alps
Modern winter sports like snowkiting and skijoring are available
High-end ski resorts offer luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, and wellness facilities
Family-friendly options with children's ski schools and adventure parks
Additional experiences like guided snowshoe hikes and nights in igloo camps

The Scandinavian Countries: Journeys into the Wild Heart of Nature

The Scandinavian countries offer untouched nature that captivates even seasoned adventurers. Imagine paddling through Sweden's archipelago coast, a complex island world with thousands of small islets and crystal-clear water. Here you can pitch your tent on an uninhabited island and enjoy the tranquility, broken only by the gentle lapping of the water and the call of seabirds. Swedish National Parks like Sarek or Abisko invite you to discover wild River valleys, roaring waterfalls, and untamed mountain landscapes. These areas offer you the perfect opportunity to test your survival skills and experience adventures far from civilization and everyday hustle.

Norway should not be forgotten with its imposing fjords and dramatic coastlines. The Northern Lights, a natural phenomenon that bathes the sky in colors during the dark winter months, draws numerous nature lovers to the far north every year. A Hurtigruten Cruise along the Norwegian coast grants you spectacular insights into this wild, rugged beauty. Hikes through the Lofoten Islands let you feel the connection of land, sea, and sky in almost mystical ways. The fjord-like lakes, often surrounded by high mountains, offer picturesque panoramas and countless photo opportunities.

Finland, the land of a thousand lakes, entices with its endless forests and the arctic wilderness of Lapland. In the summer months, you can experience the phenomenon of the midnight sun, where the sun never completely sets. This allows you to be out in nature around the clock and enjoy activities like fishing, canoeing, or simply observing wildlife. Finnish outdoor sports, ice fishing, and the traditional sauna culture, often located right by a lake, provide you with complete relaxation after a frosty day in the cold. Especially in the snowy winter months, dog sledding and reindeer safaris offer unforgettable experiences in the snowy otherworld of Lapland.

Finland: The Land of a Thousand Lakes

Finland is also a paradise for bird watchers. Many rare and impressive bird species use the pristine lake landscapes as breeding and resting places. Especially in spring and autumn, during the migration periods, you can observe an incredible variety of birds, including majestic cranes and colorful duck species. A true highlight for ornithologists and nature lovers are the arctic taiga areas, where with a bit of luck you can spot the rare hawk owl or even the magnificent golden eagle.

In addition to the impressive avifauna, Finland also offers excellent opportunities for mushroom exploration. The lush forests surrounding many of the lakes are rich in edible mushrooms. Especially in late summer and early autumn, you can find porcini mushrooms, chanterelles, and many other delicious mushrooms. Mushroom picking is not only a popular hobby in Finland; it is also a culturally deeply rooted tradition. The necessary "Everyman's Right" legislation allows you to roam freely through the forests and harvest nature's bounty.

Another remarkable experience in Finland is ice swimming. After a visit to a traditional wood-fired sauna, you plunge into a hole in the ice of a frozen lake. This tingling adventure is not only a real adrenaline kick but also promotes circulation and general well-being. Many Finns swear by this invigorating tradition, which revitalizes body and mind and creates a deep sense of connection with nature. Try it, and you will understand why ice swimming enjoys cult status in Finland.

Norway: Spectacular fjords and northern lights

Norway mesmerizes with its fjords, deeply carved into the interior, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, steep rock walls, and rugged mountain peaks. The Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is particularly impressive with its thundering waterfalls like the "Seven Sisters" and idyllic mountain farms. Explore these majestic waters best on a fjord Cruise or a kayaking tour, where you can experience the serene, almost meditative atmosphere up close. Between the imposing cliffs, you immerse yourself in a world like out of a picture book.

Equally spectacular is the Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, a phenomenon that captivates visitors during the dark winter months. Especially in the regions of Tromsø and Lofoten, there are excellent opportunities to observe this breathtaking natural spectacle. As the light veils dance in bright green, red, and purple in the night sky, an almost surreal magic emerges that attracts countless photographers and adventurers. To increase the chances of experiencing this phenomenon, it is advisable to join a guided Northern Lights tour, where experts determine the best place and time.

In addition to the fjords and Northern Lights, Norway offers a rich cultural diversity and historical sites that date back to the Viking Age. Visit the charming Bergen with its Hanseatic buildings or the historic stave churches that look back on centuries of history. Culinary-wise, Norway also holds surprises, from fresh salmon to reindeer meat to traditional lefse. Each region has its own specialties Just waiting to be discovered by you. Combine these culinary experiences with hikes or bike tours in the breathtaking landscape and dive deep into Norwegian culture and nature.

Spectacular fjords like the Geirangerfjord, ideal for cruises and kayaking
The breathtaking Northern Lights, best visible in regions like Tromsø and Lofoten
Rich cultural diversity with historical sites from the Viking era
Culinary specialties like fresh salmon and reindeer meat
Activities such as hiking and cycling in the stunning landscape

The National Parks of the USA: Gigantic Forests and Impressive Landscapes

Yellowstone: A primeval forest teeming with geothermal wonders

Yellowstone hosts a wealth of geological phenomena that go far beyond the well-known geysers. Vibrant blue and green hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and hissing fumaroles shape the landscape and offer spectacular insights into the dynamic processes beneath the Earth's surface. These geothermal wonders are witnesses to the powerful forces that slumber deep within the Earth, giving Yellowstone a unique natural profile.

In addition to the geological wonders, Yellowstone surprises with an extraordinary plant world. In contrast to the barren, mineral-rich thermal areas, extensive forests dominated by dense pines and spruces spread out. These giant trees provide a vital habitat for numerous animal species and create a harmonious ecosystem that changes its colors and forms throughout the seasons. Particularly impressive are the individual trees that defy the harsh climate and geothermal influence and have developed their unique life forms.

The volcanic past of the park itself is also a wonder. The Yellowstone supervolcano, which formed thousands of years ago, shaped a gigantic caldera that is perceived today as a large, dormant plateau. This volcanic activity not only brings forth geothermal beauty but also reveals a fascinating history of Earth's transformation. Understanding the volcanic activities offers not only a scientific treasure trove but also a glimpse into the untamed power and immense beauty of nature.

Yosemite: Climbing and Hiking in Breathtaking Scenery

Yosemite is the mecca for climbing enthusiasts and hikers alike. Amid the towering granite cliffs, the famous El Capitan stands out, one of the world's most challenging climbing routes. Even experienced climbers are impressed by the sheer size and difficulty of this monolith. But Yosemite offers more than Just extreme climbing. The hiking trails lead you through ancient sequoia forests and past roaring waterfalls like the Yosemite Falls, which plunge over 700 meters.

If you want to experience the tranquility and grandeur of nature, a hike to Glacier Point is an absolute must. From here you have a breathtaking view of the Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the alpine landscapes of the Sierra Nevada. These panoramas are not only a feast for the eyes but also an opportunity to appreciate the majestic vastness of this wilderness. Depending on the season, the landscape changes dramatically, from lush green meadows in the spring to snow-covered peaks in the winter.

For those seeking seclusion in its purest form, Tuolumne Meadows offers a welcome refuge. This high-altitude meadow landscape is a paradise for wildflowers and offers less frequented hiking trails that lead to solitary mountain lakes and peaceful riverbanks. Here, you can let your soul dangle and enjoy the silence of unspoiled nature, interrupted only occasionally by the call of an eagle or the murmur of a mountain stream.

Yosemite is ideal for climbers and hikers, with highlights such as El Capitan
The hiking trails lead through ancient sequoia forests and past Yosemite Falls
Glacier Point offers breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley and the Sierra Nevada
Tuolumne Meadows offers secluded hiking trails and a tranquil nature experience

Australia and New Zealand: Discoveries in Unique Ecosystems

The Daintree Rainforest: A Journey Through Time

The Daintree Rainforest covers 1,200 square kilometers and holds secrets that offer a journey through millions of years of Earth's history. The lush vegetation is home to numerous endemic species found nowhere else in the world. Visitors can embark on a fascinating adventure and encounter plants like the ancient Gympie-Gympie, one of the most dangerous plants on Earth. This toxic plant holds a painful surprise for anyone who comes too close, highlighting the wild and pristine nature of this ecosystem.

Another highlight is the impressive mangrove forests that meet the coastal strip of the Daintree. These unique coastal forests consist of trees perfectly adapted to salty water and form a complex network of roots. Wading through these mangrove forests feels like walking in a living labyrinth teeming with crabs, fish, and countless insects. These biological marvels filter water and provide habitat for many endangered species, making them essential for the region's ecological balance.

In addition to the flora, the Daintree also boasts rich fauna, including the mysterious cassowary, a flightless bird considered the guardian of the rainforest. These magnificent birds roam the undergrowth and feed on fruits, helping to spread them throughout the forest. Encountering this majestic animal on a hike leaves one in awe of its size and the intense colors of its plumage. The Daintree Rainforest thus offers a deep connection with nature and an unforgettable journey through the ancient epochs of planet Earth.

The breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand

The breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand offer a versatility that is unparalleled. The dramatic wilderness of Tongariro National Park, home to the original volcanoes Ngauruhoe, Ruapehu, and Tongariro, captivates outdoor enthusiasts. These volcanic giants are not only physically impressive but also spiritually significant to the Maori. Hiking and trekking trails like the Tongariro Alpine Crossing provide stunning views of emerald lakes and moon-like landscapes that will take your breath away.

In the Canterbury region, on the east coast of the South Island, you will find the majestic Southern Alps and the iconic Aoraki/Mount Cook massif. This impressive mountain landscape offers a fascinating backdrop for glacier tours and alpine hikes. Light blue glacier lakes like Lake Tekapo, with its vibrant lupines in summer, provide perfect photo opportunities. On a clear night, a magnificent night sky is revealed here, making it one of the best places in the world for stargazing.

The secluded shores of the Catlins in the south are a hidden gem of New Zealand. Here, pristine sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and ancient rainforests stretch out. In these remote locations, you can observe rare animal species such as the yellow-eyed penguin or the New Zealand sea lion. The roaring Purakaunui Falls and the mysterious, fossilized forest at Curio Bay are Just some of the natural wonders that this remote region has to offer.

Tongariro National Park with volcanoes and hikes
Southern Alps and Aoraki/Mount Cook massif
Fantastic stargazing at Lake Tekapo
Remote Catlins coasts with rare animals
Purakaunui Falls and fossilized forest at Curio Bay

Africa: Safari Adventures and Pristine Nature Reserves

The Serengeti: Witness to the Great Migration

The vastness of the Serengeti offers you an unparalleled spectacle: the Great Migration. Millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles traverse the savannas in search of fresh grazing land and water. This natural wonder, which repeats year after year, is an impressive demonstration of instinct and natural cycles. The animals cover enormous distances, defying dangerous obstacles such as raging rivers and lurking predators.

The spectacle of the Great Migration is dictated by the rain cycles that govern life in the Serengeti. Every year, the migration begins with the herds departing from the southern Serengeti to the nutrient-rich grasslands of the Masai Mara in Kenya. This cycle of movement and rest is essential for the ecological balance of the region. Lion prides, hyena clans, and crocodiles await the arrival of the herds and take advantage of the abundant prey to raise their own offspring.

For you as an observer, the Serengeti offers a rare opportunity to experience the dynamics of life in a way that deeply touches and inspires. Rides in specialized safari vehicles allow you to get very close to the mass migrations. You learn fascinating details about the behavior and interactions of the animals from experienced guides. But it’s not Just big game that characterizes the Serengeti; an astonishing birdlife and rare plant species also contribute to the unique biodiversity of this vast grassland.

The diversity of national parks in South Africa

South Africa's National Parks offer an astonishing variety of natural wonders and unique ecosystems. The Kruger National Park is world-renowned for its rich wildlife, but the country has much more to offer. The Garden Route National Park spans lush forests, rugged coastlines, and crystal-clear lakes, presenting a breathtaking mosaic of natural wonders. Hiking through dense forests, boat rides on serene lakes, and dolphin watching on picturesque Beaches make every visit unforgettable.

In Addo Elephant National Park, you can experience not only the eponymous elephants up close but also marvel at the marine life of the nearby marine protected area. From dune landscapes to bays, you will be constantly amazed by the biodiversity. A safari here means discovering elephants, rhinos, and even whales within a single national park – an ideal fusion of land and sea.

On the other side of the country lies the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, a vast desert conservation area that presents visitors with the rugged beauties of the Kalahari Desert. Here, you will witness fascinating animal migrations, impressive dune landscapes, and star-filled nights. The wild and remote beauty of this park offers an especially intense experience that you will not soon forget.

Kruger National Park with its rich wildlife
Garden Route National Park with forests, coasts, and lakes
Addo Elephant National Park with elephants and marine animals

Personal travel report on "The most beautiful places for a vacation in nature"

Last summer, I ventured into nature, and it was amazing! The first place on my list was the Black Forest. A dreamlike region. The dense, dark forests, the clear streams – simply enchanting. Particularly impressive: the Titisee. The water glittered in the sun, a perfect backdrop for a cozy picnic.
Next was the Allgäu. The Alps offered breathtaking mountain panoramas. Breathtaking to climb peaks and gaze over the valleys. Especially the royal castles were like out of a picture book. Hiking and enjoying the cool mountain air – a perfect mix!
Stopover: Saxon Switzerland. A paradise for climbers. The bizarre rock formations looked like they were from another world. Crossing the Bastei Bridge and seeing the Elbe deep below was unforgettable. Hiking on the Painter’s Way and discovering new sights at every turn.
Then on to the Harz. Thick fog enveloped the mountains as the Hexentanzplatz was explored. Beautiful hiking trails and, of course, the Brocken – mystical and majestic. Recommended: the Brocken Railway. A nostalgic ride and enjoying the landscape.
The last stop: Mecklenburg Lake District. A true water paradise. Paddling with a canoe through quiet lakes and reed-covered shores – pure relaxation. Small villages and old manor houses along the waterways invited discoveries.
Each of these places offered unique experiences and memories. Nature everywhere you looked! Fantastic to discover these beautiful spots in Germany.

Leila, 26 years young

Travel Blogger for awaymag.com