The Earth is filled with beautiful places. Nature has a way of creating magical places that take your breath away, some even reminiscent of a fairytale setting. This list of surreal places will not only take your breath away, but they will spark your inner travel bug. So get ready to book your tickets and see these picturesque places for yourself.
Pamukkale Thermal Pools, Turkey
These pools may look like they are made of ice and snow, but the climate is actually warm year round. The Pamukkale hot springs are coated in a white limestone giving it a snowy appearance.
The bright blue pools against the white rock give it a dreamy appearance that is perfect to fill your instagram followers with travel envy.
Grand Prismatic Hot Spring, Wyoming
This rainbow pool is something out of our childhood dreams. Located in Yellowstone National Park, this is the third largest hot spring in the world.
The best way to experience it is from above. Luckily, the park has a viewing platform to take in the heat, smell, and magical colors of this amazing hot spring.
Fly Ranch Geyser, Nevada
Not all geysers are created equally. In fact, the Fly Ranch Geyser was created by mistake when a well drill was left uncapped.
This technicolored wonder might be apart of the Burning Man festival in the coming years. This alien-like mound is a great place to take in the nature that surrounds it.
Lake Hillier, Australia
From above, Lake Hillier can be mistaken for a giant bowl of strawberry milk, but this is just a result of salt loving algae species and pink bacteria.
Luckily, these beautiful pink waters seem to be safe for wildlife and humans. One of the best ways to take in this dreamlike sight is on a scenic flight.
Underwater Waterfall, Mauritius Island
This almost seems like an optical illusion, but the water is actually flowing into the abyss below.
Located in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius sits on an ocean shelf that has a drop off point creating this waterfall effect. Sand is continuously being pulled from the shores by the strong ocean currents.
Sea of Stars. Vaadhoo Island, Maldives
Although it may seem like stars have magically fallen from the sky into the ocean, this is actually phytoplankton that make the shores of Vaadhoo Island glow.
These tiny sea microbes create a blue color due to their bioluminescence. The best time of year to catch this phenomenon is during the late summer. So sit back and relax while the waves light up the night.
Zhangye Danxia Landform, Gansu, China
It is hard to believe that this multicolor mountain range actually exists. Over millions of years, layers of different color sandstone pressed together giving it the nickname, Rainbow Mountains.
The wind and rain shaped the rock formations into pillars, towers, ravines, valleys and waterfalls. It is a site you have to see for yourself.
Sentinels of the Arctic, Finland
You are going to need some warm clothes when you visit here, as temperatures typically range from -40 to -15 degrees centrigrade in the winter.
During the cold months, there is heavy snowfall, and large trees get covered in snow and ice. This creates a strange site like a frozen jungle from another world.
Turquoise Ice, Lake Baikal, Russia
Another exciting spot for everyone who loves winter. Lake Baikal is the world's largest freshwater lake.
In the winter, you can see 130 feet below the ice because it is so clear. On a sunny day, the light reflects off of cracks in the ice, resulting in beautiful turquoise shards.
Naica Mine, Mexico
These mines were discovered accidentally, and it looks like they could be mistaken for Superman's exquisite Arctic lair.
The caves have giant crystal beams that have been growing for thousands of years. Some parts of the mine are big enough to drive a car through.
Lake Natron, Tanzania
Although Lake Natron is beautiful, it is not a place you will want to swim.
The water has such a high pH that it burns the skin and eyes. It is still a sight to see due to its blood red color from bacteria that grows on its surface.
Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland
Where the land ends, the causeway begins. Dating back millions of years, these near-perfect hexagon tubes have an interesting legend.
Many believe that an Irish giant used this causeway as a path to teach a Scottish Giant a lesson. It is unclear who won the epic battle, but it is clear that this site is one to see.
Wisteria Flower Tunnel, Japan
Taking a stroll through this enchanting scene is like nothing you will ever experience.
The tunnel is covered with different colored flowers as if it is straight out of a painting. Hopefully you aren’t allergic to pollen.
Patagonia Marble Caves, Chile
These color changing caves are definitely a breathtaking sight. The caves were formed by thousands of years of waves crashing inside this marble formation, creating smooth walls.
The water reflects onto the cave walls, and depending on the water level and the season. To see this dancing display of color, you have to take a 30-minute boat ride.
Darvaza Gas Crater, Turkmenistan
This spot is also known as "The Door to Hell" for obvious reasons. Surprisingly, the fire was not started naturally.
The natural gas field collaped into a cavern, and scientists set fire to it to stop the spread of methane gas. It has been continuously burning since the early '70s.
Tulip fields, Netherlands
This may look like a close up of a rainbow fuzzy rug, but these are actually millions of tulips. Since the 1500's, the Netherlands have been known for their gorgeous fields of spring flowers.
Each year from March to May, these mesmerizing flowers bloom, creating a rainbow landscape. While you are there, take a quick stop in the most eco-friendly city in the world, Amsterdam.
Great Blue Hole, Belize
Grab your diving gear and jump into the deep blue...hole.
This sinkhole is 40 miles off the coast of Belize and it is a very popular diving site. It is like diving into the heart of the ocean. The incredible spot has crystal clear waters and a wide variety of species to see.
Skaftafell Ice Cave, Iceland
If you love a light hike and cold weather, this ice cave should be at the top of your travel list.
The Skaftafell Ice Cave is part of a large glacier and once inside you can experience the calming blue light from above and the feeling of being in a giant natural freezer.
Antelope Canyon, Arizona, United States
Sitting on the border of Arizona and Utah, is a unique sandstone formation creating a wavelike landscape. To many this canyon is known as "The Wave".
In the Winter, the Wave looks like a mashup of Mars and Antarctica. This makes for one heck of a photo-op!
Reed Flute Caves, China
Take a walk through this neon dream. The Reed Flute Cave or "The Palace of Natural Arts" is over 180 million years old.
Created by millions of years of water erosion, these stalactites and stalagmites are lit by multicolored lights for a one of a kind experience. The Reed Flute Caves have been China's most popular tourist attraction for over 1200 years.
Bigar Waterfall, Romania
They say "don't go chasing waterfalls", but we would recommend visiting this one. It is recognized as one of the world's most unique waterfalls.
Like many other Romanian sites, this one comes with a legend. It is said that there was a girl in love who lived in one of the caves near this site, and she wanted to be with a boy named Bigar. Her parents forbid this, but she loved him so much that she transformed into the waterfall and he drowned in its waters for them to be together at last.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled is a fairytale book that has come to life.
In the summer, you can take a dip in these beautiful turquoise lakes. You can also visit bled island via rowboat or a boat tour. Once on Bled Island, visitors can ring the wishing bell. Throughout the day it sounds like a church bell is ringing.
Salar De Uyuni - Bolivia
Have you ever wondered what it is like to walk in the air? Well, you can do so in Salar De Uyuni, but only in March or April.
During rainy season, the world's largest salt flat gives the illusion of a giant mirror. It becomes difficult to distiguish between the sky and the ground, giving you an edge of the Earth feeling.
Tianzi Mountains, China
You might recognize these tall and uniquely thin mountains from the movie "Avatar".
For those who aren't afraid of heights, you can experience a breathtaking aerial view from a cable car. These mountains have four different scenes during the changing seasons: the sea of clouds, the radiance of the moonlight, rays of sunshine, and the snow in winter.
Deadvlei, Namibia
This image is not a painting, it is a photograph of "Death Valley". Get your cameras ready to capture the vibrant colors of this beautiful location.
Surprisingly, this was once a thriving forest, but the continuously growing dessert created a barren wasteland. The valley sits in the shadow of the world's largest sand dune, which you can climb up and then slide down.
Socotra, Yemen
Calling all plant lovers! In Socotra, you can find some of the world's most exotic flora and fauna.
Due to its isolation and unique climate, some of the plant life can only be found here. This includes the dragon's blood tree. It has a unique umbrella shape, and contains red sap that was thought to be the blood of a dragon by early travelers.
Tunnel of Love, Klevan, Ukraine
Grab your significant other and get ready for the most romantic stroll of your life. Yes, singles are welcome too.
The two-mile stretch of railway is only active three times daily. Otherwise, this is a great spot for a #couplegoals picture. Legend has it that couples that visit the tunnel will be granted a wish.
Caño Cristales River, Colombia
Grab your swimsuit and take a dip in this colorful wonderland, but leave your sunscreen and bug spray at home.
The Caño Cristales River is protected by the national park, and the algae that creates all the beautiful colors is sensitive to the chemicals.
Aogashima, Japan
This island in Japan is one of the most difficult to get to. Most people, even in Japan, have never heard of it.
It's like the Russian Nesting Doll of volcanoes; inside the volcanic Island is a smaller volcano. Once you have managed to get to the Island, you can try the local alcohol made from sweet potatoes called "Aochu".
Mount Roraima, South America
Straight out of a scene from Jurassic Park, this table in the sky is a must for the outdoor enthusiasts.
This is one of the oldest mountains on earth. When you visit it feels like you have been transported back to prehistoric times. If it happens to look familiar, it was also the inspiration behind Pixar's Up.
Yuanyang County, China
If you love taking an unusual trip, a visit to Yuanyang County should be added to your travel list.
Located in southwest China, these rice terraces are best seen after the harvest in late November to Early March. You can stay over in the close by Xinjie Town.
Underwater River, Cenote Angelita, Mexico
Have you ever wondered how Spongebob would fish underwater? Well, here is your chance to find out.
How is this possible? Well, in the waters of Cenote Angelita, there is a sufficient amount of hydrogen sulfate which is much heavier than normal saltwater. This creates a separate flow of water when it sinks to the bottom.
Hidden Beach, Mexico
Enjoy the gorgeous waters of Mexico in a magical spot.
Here you can get up close and personal with humpback whales, sea turtles, dolphins, and many others. To get to this exclusive spot you have to swim through a 50 foot tunnel, so take that into account.
Fingal’s Cave, Scotland
Harry Potter fanatics, this spot should be on your bucket list for sure. If you are a true fan, you will remember this cave from "Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince".
Step into the famous scene with Harry and Dumbledore as your explore this ancient cave. There are also great acoustics, for those who like to sing in caves.
Trolltunga, Norway
This view is sure to take your breath away.
Translating to Trolls Tongue, this cliff hangs 2,000 feet up in the air. The hike will be worth the awesome instagram you will get.
Glowworm Caves, Waitomo, New Zealand
Prepare to be enchanted by the dazzling lights of the glowworms.These little creatures create a lightshow you can only find in New Zealand.
In the cave, you can take a boat ride that is reminiscent of the scene from "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory", but less creepy.
Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
The Plitvice Lakes appear to be straight out of an enchanted forest, but they are real.
Take a day to explore these cascading falls. The recomended time spent here is six hours to get the full experience. You can enjoy a bus ride up to the top and as you walk around the upper lakes. As you descend, a boat whisks you away to see the tallest waterfall in Croatia.
To-Sua Ocean Trench, Samoa
With crystal clear waters and a dock to jump off of, this is a swimmers paradise.
To-Sua was a giant hole that was converted into a swimming area when water flowed in through a lava-tube tunnel. It's also a great spot for beautiful pictures.
Bamboo Groves of Arashiyama, Japan
As you stroll through the bamboo groves, you will feel like you have stepped into another world.
This is one of the most enchanting places to visit in Japan. The light from above filters in to create a unique ambiance.
Highlands, Iceland
These mountains are a hikers paradise.
With countless caves, canyons, and hiking routes, you are sure to not be bored. In the winter, there are snowmobile tours to get to the top of the mountain much faster.