If you are planning a trip to the beautiful and romantic country of Italy chances are you are intending to visit the typical tourist traps such as Venice, Rome, Florence and maybe Milan. Not to insinuate you shouldn’t fit these places into your itinerary; there are just a few other places we would highly recommend you see as well.

The places we recommend for Italy vacation are a bit ‘off the beaten path’ and more locally-frequented places. We will break this down into two trip possibilities; if you have five days in Italy and if you have ten days in Italy.

If you have five days in Italy this is what we would recommend:

Fly to Milan and begin your Italy vacation there. You will want to rent a car and word to the wise – Italians drive very fast and their cars are very, very small! Now, be aware that Italy is divided into regions, provinces and municipalities.

Milan is in the region of Lombardy and on your five-day trip to Italy we will take you to two other regions – Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia.

( photo by mintimage )

Drive from Milan directly to a little village in the region of Friuli Venezia Giulia called Trieste. Why are we having you drive cross-country to a little Italian village no one has heard of? Trieste is probably the most beautiful unknown place that Italy has to offer. There is little tourism there which means you will get to see how true Italians live from the locals’ perspective.

Trieste is on the seafront as well as next to two other countries; Austria and Slovenia. So this means you will not only be exposed to the Italian culture but also the Austrian and Slovenian cultures. If you choose to, you could take a day trip to one or both of them.

While in Trieste you will also want to see the Miramare Castle, the Castle of San Giusto, the Trieste seafront and the Cathedral of San Giusto. Also, if you are a downhill skier or an avid fan of beauty, nature and quite possibly the mountains you may very well want to take a day trip to the Italian Alps.

( photo by Philipp Klinger )

This will complete your first two days in Italy vacation; the first day drive from Milan to Trieste. On day one, choose from the options we have given you and on day 2 choose from the options as well, however we will have you drive to your next destination the evening of the second day.

Your second stop in this beautiful and romantic country is going to be Venice which is in the Italian region of Veneto. Be aware that Venice is very expensive, quite possibly one of the most expensive tourist traps in Italy.

Expect to pay nearly 300 American dollars for one night at a hotel with a view of the canal which is the only way to stay in Venice. Most people speak English in Venice and are quite used to tourists. Be cognizant though that some of these people do call this city their home.

( photo by Thomas Frejek )

There are so many things to do in Venice you could literally be here for a week and not touch the surface of the attractions and things you want to do. You will be tired so get a good night’s sleep and be ready for a full third day in Venice!

Stay in Venice again the 3rd night and wake up early the 4th day and drive back to Milan. The cost of a hotel in Venice and Milan is very comparable and it would be better to utilize an entire full day in Venice. Go out for dinner and have some cocktails as well! You will stay in Milan the 4th night and catch your flight the following day, the 5th day.

Milan is a beautiful and historical city that has so much to offer by way of tourism, arts, culture and entertainment. Depending upon what your interests are you are sure to find activities to keep you busy all day. However, definitely take yourself out for dinner to experience the luxury and class of Milan.

Now you are in the same region as your flight so you will head to the airport on day five.

If you have ten days in Italy this is what we would recommend:

What would we recommend you to do with some extra time if you are financially able to elongate your Italy vacation to possibly ten days? Fly into Milan, rent a car and drive to Trieste.

We recommend staying in the region of Friuli Venezia Giulia and more specifically, Trieste, for up to three days. Take one day to spend with the locals and seeing the local sights that we mentioned in our five-day trip planner. Spend a day in either Slovenia or Austria.

( photo by pninaN )

Depending upon the season, Austria may be much more beautiful but maybe you have Slovenian relatives and want to see a part of your past, then head to Slovenia for a day! On the third day we recommend the Italian Alps.

Ski them, just once if you can. Otherwise, walk around the base of the mountain and take in the beauty of the surrounding marvels and nature.

( photo by invaxion )

You have spent three full days in Trieste and we now recommend staying the night in Trieste and leaving early on the 4th day to drive to Venice. You can get accommodations for under 100 American dollars in Trieste and it would be best to drive into Venice in the daylight to catch the beauty.

On day four you have driven into Venice and will have the entire afternoon. Walk around the canals and just take everything in; maybe decide where you will want to spend more time.

( photo by andertho )

Spend day five at the historic, cultural and breathtaking Piazza San Marco including St. Mark’s Campanile and the gorgeous Basilica. You will stay in Venice for day six and wake up on day seven to drive to Milan. You will spend the latter half of day seven familiarizing yourself with Milan and determining what you would like to see in your next two days.

Regardless of how many days you intend to spend Italy vacation or where you will land once you are there, you are sure to enjoy the country, the people, the food and the culture.

Many of the winter newly weds are tempted to postpone the honeymoon until spring or summer so they could enjoy a peaceful romantic time in warm weather and sunshine.

The good news is that, if winter spreads a cold blanket over some parts of the world, the exotic destinations retain all the splendor and amazing beauty that can offer a young couple a spectacular chance for a beautiful vacation.

Here are the most spectacular exotic beach destinations able to make honeymooners feel all the joy and romance of the first days spent as a wedded couple.

1. Pink Sands Beach, Bahamas

Bahamas Archipelago is known for the paradise appearance and the amazing blue waters. Pink Sands Beach is perhaps the crown jewel for the ones seeking a honeymoon destination. Tropical grounds, luxurious treatment, clear waters and endless beautifully colored sands, make Pink Sands Beach a memory you would want to treasure.

2. Tranquil Lagoon, Bora Bora

Bora Bora is the land of promised perfect time. The newly weds can find here the sweet chance of freedom in a secluded picturesque beach called Tranquil Lagoon. The exotic nature all around the lagoon offers the best as view and natural beauty are concerned.

3. Whitehaven Island, Australia

Endless blue and endless fun are waiting for the newly weds here. Beautiful white beach and amazing places to party are making this place ideal for a young couple ready to have amazing good time during the honeymoon.

4. Boracay Beach

Philippines are famous for the beautiful exotic places they hold. Of all of those amazing beach destinations attracting tourists, the most beautiful is Boracay. The spectacular beach is completely seductive and a honeymoon there would offer any couple the best possible memories.

5. Anse Source D’Argent, Seychelles

Almost like it was brought down from the endless sky Anse Source D’Argent, Seychelles is truly a place where love can flourish. The wild beauty of the unique scenery and the peaceful nature bringing only the best in sounds and impressive landscape makes this one the perfect honeymoon getaway.

6. Palm Beach – Aruba

There are many Palm Beach destinations in the world but none like Aruba’s. The island itself is filled with all a love story would need as scenery and Palm Beach Aruba retains the wild side of nature next to the finest treats of civilization. A modern couple wanting to mix the rest and fun would find here exactly what they need.

7. Anguilla, Lesser Antilles

You would have to say : “Oh my!” when looking at this exotic fairytale place. If you plan a honeymoon cruise make sure you pick one that stops on this island because it is a lifetime opportunity to see its tremendous beauty. The beach here has the smoothest sand and shallow waters harbor a picturesque adventure for the passionate about snorkeling.

8. Poipu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

If there ever was a paradise for young people, Poipu Beach it is. Hawaii is one of the most famous exotic vacation spots and Poipu Beach is a surfer’s paradise. Beautiful scenery and the most spectacular morning and evening sky make it a romantic spot filled with magical beauty.

9. Natadola Beach, Fiji

Fiji is a place known for keeping its exotic beauty untamed. The island with all its magical wonders is perfect for a honeymoon and Natadola Beach offers all that nature has best in landscape, food and treatment. Here the young couple can make sweet memories to treasure for a lifetime.

10. Negril, Jamaica

Jamaica and the fabulous music and rum! One of the top exotic beach destinations for young couples, Negril is the right place for those couples that want to feel life with all its wonders. Here they can find adventure, fun and joy and also amazing waters to dive and swim.

11. Fernando de Norohna, Brazil

Brazil in all its luxuriant nature is a place where exotic and cosmopolite meet to have a good time. Fernando de Norohna is one of the famous beach destinations of this country ready to invite newly weds to savor all that such a romantic destination has to offer.  The sightseeing is outstanding here and you can have a wonderful time no matter what you choose to do for fun.

12. Horshoe Bay, Bermuda

Bermuda and everything about it reminds everyone about a truly beautiful heaven on earth. Horshoe bay is the place where the nature remained untamed and filled with all the wild beauty untouched by technology. The bay is not exactly the largest beach but the white sand and shallow waters are perfect for a close to nature romantic getaway.

13. Tulum beach, Cancun

Part of the recently made famous Mayan Riviera, Tulum beach is the right place to go for young married couples on a budget. Beautiful beach destinations with green waters, historical sites to enrich your knowledge and not very expensive food and accommodation can be exactly the place you would want to spend your honeymoon.

14. Amankila, Indonesia

If luxury getaways are your thing then the right honeymoon for you is the one spent in Amankila. Here the notion of privacy is sacred and the honeymoon couple can take advantage of a royal treatment. Spa sessions and endless relaxation can be enjoyed in a beautiful paradise where everything is at your disposal.

15. Caneel Bay, Virgin Islands

A paradise spot on the territory of Virgin Islands, Caneel Bay is a place fit for honeymooners of all ages. The place has pretty much everything for everyone and the royal treatment is part of the tourist package you purchase.

16. Grand Baie, Mauritius

Grand Baie is the right place for those not minding traveling a long way for just the fun of discovering new places of paradise. Beautiful beach destinations, palm trees whispering in the wind and all the beauty nature reserved for this spectacular place can’t wait to be explored by honeymooners.

Here you can have a great time partying but also make the most of your adventure seeing the historical places of this colony. There are plenty to do here and the locals will make sure you have a wonderful time.

Yoga will never be the same after you’ve experienced it in the tropical environs of Latin America. These stunning and well-rounded yoga experiences are unparalleled in their offerings.

1. Atmananda Yoga Retreat, Cartagena, Columbia

Melt away your stress and gain a deeper understanding of your inner self by immersing yourself in the sand and surf of Colombia. This country is still in its infancy as a tourist destination, so that means lots of room and lower prices. This yoga retreat is in a beautiful colonial Caribbean town and uses the practice of vinyasa yoga to help you unwind.

2. PURE, Granada, Nicaragua

PURE in the beautiful colonial town of Granada, Nicaragua, is another gem in the world of yoga retreats. Here you’ll find daily and week-long yoga programs and wellness retreats for every style and level from itinerant and established instructors. After hours, explore Granada where you’ll find affordable accommodation and a tropical paradise.

3. Costa Rica Yoga Spa, Costa Rica

Practice your yoga by the rising or setting of the sun, by the beach or with the tropical rainforest as your backdrop. Here you’ll find a relaxing and unique yoga experience as well as wonderful spa packages. There are yoga experiences for men and women, yoga combined with eco adventures, and much more.

4. Present Moment Retreat, Troncones Beach, Mexico

Who said you can’t have yoga without luxury? This amazing Mexican spa and yoga resort is just what the doctor ordered. Here you can work out your tension as the sun rises, then finish the morning with a massage or sit by the pool. There are activities, workshops, and healing arts enough for everyone.

5. Hacienda San Lucas, Honduras

Practice your yoga amidst ancient Mayan ruins at the Hacienda San Lucas in Honduras. This yoga retreat center and eco lodge lets you relax in a tropical environmental, enjoy organic coffee, and participate in the local culture (if you like). Spectacular views of the valley and the ruins will stay with you forever.

6. Willka Tika Garden Guesthouse, Peru

Located in the sacred valley of the Inka in Peru, this is a spiritual, cultural, and architectural haven for those yogis looking for a truly awe inspiring experience. It features vegetarian and organic foods, tropical gardens, and classes in yoga, pilates, nia, Tai Chi, and much more.

7. EcoParaiso, Celestun, Yucatan, Mexico

Enjoy intensive yoga workshops at this resort in Mexico where you’ll experience talks, psycho-social dynamic exercises, aerobic warm-ups, relaxation sessions, mantras, and kundalini yoga kriyas in a tropical beach environment. Experienced instructors provide a highly beneficial experience regardless of your skill level.

8. Nica Yoga, San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua

This yoga center is located in the little fishing village of San Juan Del Sur in Nicaragua and bills itself as the first yoga retreat in the country. They offer a regular retreat schedule where you can join small groups for truly relaxing yoga experiences. And if you’re a budding yogi, join this retreat center to work the kinks out of your teaching style.

If you want beautiful surf spots that’s yet to be discovered, then look no further than Latin America. With amazing waves and tunnels galore, Central and South American beaches are calling surfers like you.

1. Choco Pacific, Colombia

El Choco is one of the poorest places in Colombia, but it offers amazing surfing opportunities for those looking for deserted beaches and unique surf spots. Locals are learning the craft and offer lessons and other assistance, but seasoned surfers will find the breaks enviable and enjoyable.

2. Bocas del Toro, Panama

This option is great for budget surfers and those looking for a quiet but challenging place to practice their surfing craft. Panama is a vast country with a small population but miles of unused beaches, so you know that almost anywhere you go, you’ll find a deserted surf break. This is one of the best.

3. El Paredon, Guatemala

Guatemala is still developing into a tourist destination, and as such, most of the beaches are unspoiled and relatively undiscovered as of yet. This is especially true given the fact that there are only a handful of Guatemalan surfers native to the country! Enjoy black sand and rustic living in this amazing surf spot.

4. Itacare, Brazil

Brazil boasts of more than 4,500 miles of coastline, and since much of it has yet to be developed, that means there are plenty of locations for surfers looking for an undiscovered treasure.

The winter season is especially quiet when the bigger waves (suitable for experienced surfers) come out. Itacare is just a small fishing village, so go prepared to live rustically.

5. Popoyo, Nicaragua

One of the poorest countries in Latin America is Nicaragua, but what they lack in development, they have in culture and beautiful waves.

The surf breaks here are best along the Pacific coastline in Rivas (the province). Popoyo is particularly good in that it’s completely undiscovered but provides great lodging and generous waves.

6. Pico Loro, Nuqui, Colombia

Here is another deserted surfing beach spot in Colombia. By and large, this beach is only accessible by boat – hire one for the day to take you to this amazing surf spot where you’ll have the waves all to yourself. El Cantil Ecolodge offers tours and transportation to this and many other quiet surf spots in Colombia.

7. Santa Catalina, Panama

This beach is somewhat busier than some of the others, but is said to have one of the most consistent breaks in Latin America, so it made to the list. Here you’ll find wave faces up to 20 feet with ample space for surfers of all skill levels.

Heading out of town on vacation and looking for the perfect location for your travel retreat? If you’re a green traveler, then we have got the list of green hotels for you!

Whether you’re looking for a tropical hideaway, a mirror pond, or a hot beach, we’ve got 8 of the most tranquil and beautiful green hotels in the world to choose from.

1. Banff Park Lodge

Lover of mountains and outdoor adventuring? Looking for a challenging hike or to just sit beside a brilliant blue, calm lake? Fancy a quiet canoe trip with your sweetheart? Then you’ll want to check out Banff Park Lodge in Alberta, Canada.

They’re Canada’s first EcoLogo Certified Hotel, but also sport affiliation with Green Key Hotels and iStayGreen.org. They’ve taken measures to reduce their environmental impact by reducing waste, developing a green purchasing policy, making recycling facilities easy and accessible, and more.

2. Hotel Monaco

As a Green Seal Certified Hotel,  the Hotel Monaco in Salt Lake City is one of the green hotels for anyone looking for a playfully eclectic luxury stay in a buzzing urban center.

Get a complimentary chair massage and glass of wine each evening, then relax with a treatment or two from their spa – in your very own room! Their green initiatives include eco-friendly cleaning supplies, green printed materials, water conservation, organic food offerings, and more.

3. Alaska’s Sadie Cove Wilderness Lodge

Get away from it all at Alaska’s Sadie Cove Wilderness Lodge. It’s been voted one of North America’s top ten green hotels by Natural Home Magazine, partly because of their involvement in programs such as Green Star Hotel Rating and the Green Globe certification program.

Do some bird watching, spend some time watching whales go by, take a berry-picking hike, or venture out on some horseshoes. It’s a rugged paradise.

4. Cheli & Peacock

Immerse yourself in the adventures of Africa with a stay at Cheli & Peacock. As an innovator in the green hotel community and a member of Green Star Hotel Rating, this accommodation scores big on sustainability, socioeconomic, cultural, and environmental scales.

They hire mostly locals to work in the hotel and specialize in giving you an authentic, breathtaking wildlife experience.

5. Kerala Houseboat

If you’ve always wanted to go to India, then perhaps an Eco Trails Kerala Houseboat trip would be just the thing. Known as “God’s Own Country,” Kerala is an experience in and of itself with its rivers, beaches, wildlife, and more.

You’ll ride your houseboat through the backwaters of the area, seeing rustic homes, coir villages, lush paddy fields, and other enchanting sights. Dine on this green boat as you enjoy all the sounds and flavors of India.

6. Inn by The Sea

If seaside life is more your thing, then check out the Inn by the Sea in Crescent Beach, Maine. Registered with several green hotel organizations, this property offers tranquility that can only come from spending time near the ocean.

They use biofuel for heat, warm the pool with solar energy, and take measures to project the local monarch butterfly. Spending time in the Spa or at the Spa Glass Dining restaurant will further enchant you.

7. Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach

For beach lovers, there’s always the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach all-inclusive resort in the Dominican Republic.

Hang out by the pool, eat in one of the many on-site or local restaurants, spend time on the water skiing, snorkelling, or fishing, play some tennis or bocce ball on the beach, or learn how to scuba dive. And you can do it all knowing that they’re rated well in iStayGreen.org.

8. The Atami Hotel

With a three-star green hotels of the world rating, the Atami Hotel is a spectacular choice if you’re looking to travel to the Middle East. Located in Bodrum, Turkey, this boutique hotel is situated on the undisturbed Paradadie Bay surrounded by natural beauty.

But you’ll also find luxury here, with beautiful water for swimming and snorkeling, yoga classes, ikebana lessons, a Mediterranean garden, and much more. They’ve received very good ratings in many environmental categories, including energy and water use, disposal practices, environmental projection, and so on.

There are dozens of activities to try and many locations to do them, but we’ve tried to narrow it down to some of the very best American adventure trips.

1. Get Your Kicks On Route 66

Take an American adventure trip down the famous route, the route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles or vice-versa. Stop at the most interesting spots along the way such as Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon, and the Petrified Forest National Park in Gallup, Walnut Canyon, Santa Fe, Pecos National Historical Park, Amarillo, Clinton, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, the Meramec Caverns, St Louis, Terra Nova National Park, and Springfield.

( Photo by PC – My Shots )

This amazing American adventure trip will allow you to hike the Grand Canyon, visit the ghost towns of the Wild West, tour the ancient east-west trail, explore fascinating caves and bluffs, examine Native American ruins and artifacts from the 14th century, canoe pristine lakes, cycle the coast, and visit Abraham Lincoln’s final resting place.

2. Take On The Sierra High Route In California

The Sierra High Route is definitely one of the best American adventure trips, as it sits between Yosemite National Park and Kings Canyon.

The route weaves through pine trees, lake basins, jumbled passes, and jagged peaks for close to 200 miles and also crosses over high-mountain streams.

( Photo by emma19002 )

It takes about a month to hike the whole trail, but if you’d just like to get a taste of it then the best section to tackle is from Merriam Lake to Duck Lake as this will take you up the 12,400-foot high Italy Pass.

3. Diving For Shipwrecks In Lake Superior, Minnesota

The North American Great Lakes are famous for their dangerous shipping conditions as 30-foot waves can be whipped up in just a few hours. This led to the sinking of hundreds of ships in brutal storms in the past.

( Photo by jwartman59 )

Lake Superior in Minnesota dragged at least 10 ships to the bottom of it around the area of Isle Royale National Park over the course of the years. These wrecks have been frozen in time since sinking and have been well preserved in the fresh water.

Taking a dive down to forgotten ships from a forgotten time will send you back into another era. However, the cool water and treacherous conditions at Isle Royale are meant for good divers only, not beginners. You’ll need a full dry suit or wetsuit and a boat to get out there for this American adventure.

4. Cycling Down The Continental Divide Trail

If you’ve got the energy to do it, how about cycling along the longest mountain-bike ride in the world as it stretches about 2,500 miles down the Continental Divide. You can start at the Canadian border close to Eureka, Montana, and end at the Mexican border in Antelope Wells, New Mexico.

( Photo by Laurent L. )

This American adventure trip means you’ll climb 200,000 feet and ascend passes that are two miles high. Along the way you’ll pass the Rocky Mountains, Grasslands, Alpine Wilderness, Scrub Desert, and stretches of openness.

The majority of the trek takes place on forest roads and takes about two months for the average Joe to complete. If you’d like a shorter version, just choose your favorite state along the route and take it on. For instance, the section in Montana is about 700 miles long.

5. Sea Kayaking Across Lake Yellowstone In Wyoming

The remote and the scenic Thorofare area in Yellowstone National Park is where the Yellowstone River flows into Yellowstone Lake via a series of interwoven canals.

( Photo by Travel Advantage Network )

In this American adventure trip, Stick close to the shore for safety reasons and from the water you’ll be able to witness a spectacular assortment of creatures such as Grizzly Bears, Bison, Elk, Wolves, Bald Eagles, Ospreys, Moose, Trumpeter Swans, Cutthroat Trout, and Sandhill Cranes.

6. Row, Row, Row Your Boat down The Grand Canyon In Arizona

This American adventure will allow you to row down the country’s most stunning river, the Colorado, which has close to 50 sets of major rapids along it. Rowing in a dory is the way to go, as the boat is quite maneuverable.

( photo by Scandblue )

This type of boat will also let you travel at a leisurely pace so you can soak in the scenery. You can stop along the way at Vasey’s Paradise to take a hike and witness the waterfall tumble gently into the canyon. You can also explore Red Wall Cavern, and climb up to Anasazi Granaries which will take you about 1,500 feet above the river.

7. Conquering Mount Rainier In Washington State

While Mount Rainier isn’t the tallest peak in America, it’s generally considered to be the most exciting and thrilling to climb. The 14,410-foot mountain has its share of ice and is prone to avalanches and storms so it’s not to be taken lightly.

( Photo by Craic )

In fact, in this American adventure, half of the climbers are usually beaten by the mountain/and or the weather conditions and end up turning back. There are just over 42 official routes to the summit, which allows you to tackle the mountain from just about any angle. One of the most enthralling and least busy paths is the Kautz Glacier route.

8. Exploring Alaska

Because it’s so far up north, most Americans miss out on this beautiful area of the country. The state’s filled with Rugged Mountains, Glaciers and superb National Parks, not to mention the wildlife such as Red Foxes, Moose, Bald Eagles, and Brown Bears. You can explore the land by foot, canoe, cycle, and dog-sled and spend time Camping, Fishing and Whale Watching.

( Photo by moonjazz )

Take in Anchorage and the wilderness of Denali National Park to visit Mt McKinley, the tallest mountain in North America. In this American adventure trip, other must-see places include Fairbanks, Delta Junction, Kluane National Park and Reserve, Tok, Wrangell-St Elias National Park, Valdez, Prince William Sound, the Columbia Glacier, Anchorage, Seward, Kenai Fjords National Park, the Kenai Peninsula, and Anchorage.

9. Hanging Five On California’s Lost Coast

There’s an 80-mile stretch of spectacular coastline in northern California between Eureka and Fort Bragg that’s just made for surfing. It’s known as the Lost Coast and produces legendary surfing waves all year round.

( Photo by dmountain )

The fast, clean waves are perfect for surfing and there are numerous breaks, but only a few surfers present to ride them. The scenery is as perfect as the waves as it consists of Rugged Cliffs, Coastal Redwoods, and Playful Gray Whales. Camping out and falling asleep to the crashing waves completes the American adventure.

10. The Des Moines Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa

This week-long cycling trip across the state of Iowa takes place annually every third Sunday in July and attracts 10,000 cyclists to the western border of the state. The ride in this American adventure trip consists of seven stages and crosses Iowa’s heartland.

( Photo by DavidRAGBRAI2006 )

Along the way the riders stop in small towns amid amazing fanfare from the locals who welcome them with waving flags and marching bands. Cyclists stop up to eight times a day to eat and celebrate and then work it off by cycling up thousands of feet of hills. To top it all, they camp under the stars anywhere they can, along the route.

If you want to move around quickly in the city, there are numerous water buses and water taxis.

Here are 25 travel pictures of Venice, Italy…

Photo by cuellar

Photo by daniele romagnoli

Photo byGiuseppe Desideri

Photo byjosemazcona

Photo by Christopher Chan

Photo by Nick Carlson

Photo by Giuseppe Desideri

Photo by josemazcona

Photo by LusoFox

Photo by josemazcona

Photo by josemazcona

Photo by omphale44

Photo by janetfo747**off for a while****

Photo by alfvet

Photo by Dominiq (en partance)

Photo by Cristina 63

Photo by Carlo Pieroni (Bologna)

Photo by lele orpo

Photo by josemazcona

Photo by valerius25

Photo by venicewow

Photo by dachalan

Photo byCarlo Ch

Photo by vgm8383

Photo by Daniele Mineri

The most beautiful lakes of the world have different origins. Some of them are as old as the Earth, some of them are home to the most extraordinary animals and birds and some have them saw their beauty altered by the human civilization.

All of them are beautiful and it is hard to pick a favorite. Here are 25 of the most beautiful lakes of the world.

1.Turkana Lake, Ethiopia, Kenya

( Photo by Yannick Garcin )

Strangely positioned in the Great valley of Kenyan Rift, Turkana Lake is the 4^th largest alkaline still water formation in the world. Extremely picturesque because of the central island that releases vapors because of the evaporation process, the former Lake Rudolf is home to a very rich salt water life contrasting with the deserted volcanic soil of its shores.

2. Toba Lake, Indonesia

( Photo by Mas Tok )

The largest volcanic lake in the world is supposed to be the home of a legendary  volcanic eruption that drastically influenced the human genetics from 70 thousands of years ago because of the huge climate change it caused. The Northern Sumatran caldera is a very beautiful site especially because of this lake.

3. Tahoe Lake, (USA)

( Photo by ~ K ! M ~ )

Lake Tahoe is the largest fresh water lake in North America and the home to a powerful ecosystem. One of the most beautiful lakes in the world, it is placed in the middle of a tall mountain fortress and the home to some of the most famous American resorts, this wonderful piece of sapphire stone is surely a sight worthy of a memory.

4. Baikal Lake, Russian Federation

( Photo by rasenkantenstein )

The largest and the oldest glacier lake in the world , this “Pearl of Siberia” is the owner of an amazing rift valley filled with unbelievable views and true proof that natural beauty can be both wild and breath taking. Because of its size it is worthy of the name “Northern Sea” the ancient Chinese texts have given it.

5. Ohrid Lake, Albania, Macedonia

( Photo by Ognen Bojkovski )

The deepest lake of the Balkan Mountains is an UNESCO asset because of its unique ecosystem that makes it a treasure of the world. Placed at the border between Albania and Macedonia the lake is truly an amazing place to visit.

6. Biwa Lake (Biwa-ko)

( Photo by Martin Tenbones )

The largest fresh water lake in Japan is the place where beauty, tradition and cosmopolite development created an amazing place to visit. This beautiful lake inspired poetry in the Japanese literature, was mentioned in the Japanese history as a place where important history events happened and it is a distinctive part of the Japanese culture.

7. Teshekpuk Lake, United States of America

( Photo by The Wilderness Society )

A beautiful display of blue fresh waters, this lake unfortunately was contaminated with sea water because of the erosion or the soil caused by melting Arctic Ice. This home of the most varied Arctic ecosystem is endangered because of the global warming. Still it is so beautiful that you will have to see it at least once in a life time.

8. Atitlan Lake, Lago Guatemala

( Photo by FherR )

The deepest lake in South America is resting in the lap of three different volcanoes. Blue and clear, a mirror of the sky, cradled in the Guatemala highlands, this is perhaps one of the most picturesque hiking places in the world especially because the area all around it is a Guatemala national park.

9. Malawi Lake, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania

( Photo by Krieger Conradt )

A Tanzania paradise of unbelievable beauty, and a piece of Eden for all the snorkeling fans of the world , this lake is in the UNESCO treasure box and because it is the home of an extraordinary number of cichlid fish species some unique in the world, this beautiful lake makes visiting it a lifetime experience. Too bad it is under dispute between Malawi and Mozambique.

10. Titicaca, Bolivia, Peru

( Photo by Julia Manzerova )

With a rich history and a plethora of legends that surround its existence Titicaca Lake is the largest lake of the South American continent and the largest of the high altitude lakes in the world. Due to its amazingly large surface it is also the lake with the highest commercial role on the planet.

Isla de Sol is closer to the Bolivian Border of the lake and it contains important vestiges of Inca civilization. Isla de Luna slightly smaller is surrounded by many ancient legends.

11. Lake Michigan, United States of America

( Photo by Indy Kethdy )

One of the North America’s most beautiful lakes, Michigan is known for its cosmopolite shores and extraordinary beaches famous for their beauty all over the world. With cities like Chicago nested on its shore and the geographical position it has, this great lake is surely a cradle of the modern civilization.

12.Boiling Lake, Dominica

( Photo by jessenme )

A volcanic water formation resulted from an active volcano meeting a rich in sulfur water spring which caused a powerful fizzy effect, responsible for the way this picturesque lake attracts tourists. All around this lake there are tourist resorts getting people close to this spectacular natural beauty.

13. Tana Lake, Ethiopia

( Photo by Deirdre Snook )

Ethiopia is the home of Tana Lake, the source of the Blue Nile and the largest water formation from Ethiopia. With a large number of islands spread all over its surface conditioned by the rate the lake waters grow or decrease.

The larger islands are home to religious monasteries dating from ancient religious times and holding the tombs of ancient Ethiopian Emperors and many archeological treasures.

14. Taal Lake, Philippines

( Photo by b_macd )

One of the most beautiful lakes in the world, it is very spectacular due to its unique display of water-inside-island-inside-water, this amazing freshwater caldera is not only the third as size in Philippines but also a very large display of natural beauty. The lake harbors a volcanic island which holds inside another lake.

15. Sevan Lake, Armenia

( Photo by Vahancho )

One of the three seas of Armenia stretching over the Armenian territory the Sevan Lake is the only one completely on the Armenian land. Although the Soviet ruling of the country dramatically changed the lake and its ecology, this one remains one of the few largest high altitude natural lakes of the world.

16. Natron Lake, Kenya, Tanzania

( Photo by meetaustria )

This beautiful lake is a bird paradise and cradle to the pink flamingo nesting grounds because of its safe position and auspicious conditions. The lake is a rather narrow and very rich in mineral salty waters pretty unique because of the fauna so specific for the area.

17.Lake Superior, Canada, United States of America

( Photo by FlappinMothra )

The largest of the five Great lakes in America and the largest fresh water gathering in the world, the Lake Superior is responsible for a huge part of the weather and natural ecosystem of the North American Continent. With a rich history and an important commercial position this beautiful lake is surely one of the natural wonders of the world.

18. Huron Lake, Canada, United States of America

( Photo by Miles Away )

Lake Huron is the third largest lake in the Northern United States. Part of the five Great lakes of the American continent, Huron Lake is surely impressive both by size and importance. The water level is variable but very important to the ecosystem which went through dramatic changes in the last years.

19.Maracaibo Lake, Venezuela

( Photo by Steven House )

This is one of the oldest and most beautiful lakes in the world and during millenniums its geography was changed from an actual lake to a bay like water structure holding one of the major oil resources on the Venezuelan territory.

The exploitation of this resource has changed the structure of the land and many platforms sunk but this lake remains one of the most beautiful large inland waters in the world.

20. Dianchi Lake, China

( Photo by Misse Ward )

Beautiful cyan waters under a spectacular formation of clouds and surrounded by spectacular land, Dianchi Lake is only the sixth freshwater lake in China. In spite of that is surely a sight for sore eyes.

21.Issyk-Kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan

( Photo by KiraMakina )

The second largest salt water lake in the world Issyk-Kul Lake is also the second as dimension to the high altitude lakes on our planet. The lake is a popular tourist resort and has a large number of natural beaches.

22. Sibaya Lake, South Africa

( Photo by Panthera007 )

Because of the scarce raining this huge freshwater lake is the main water source for a large number of wildlife species. Due to its unique position it is also a scuba diving paradise for tourists.

23.Slimbridge Swan Lake, United Kingdom

( Photo by Anguskirk )

Part of the Slimbridge Wetland Reservation, this beautiful lake is the home of a large population of birds and wildlife representatives that make this place an animal paradise. The lake is part of a large English wetland formed on an estuary.

24. Peipsi Lake, Estonia, Russian Federation

( Photo by ilrem )

Dating from Paleozoic era this lake was severely damaged by the Soviet agricultural modifications. One of the largest and most beautiful lakes of European continent, it has a rich flora and fauna and it is popular for sport fishing.

25. NakurU Lake, Kenya

( Photo by muddlehead )

A Kenyan piece of paradise on earth harbors the most beautiful gathering of flamingoes and large mammals on the African continent.  This soda lake formed in a Rift Valley is part of Nakuru National Park.

Banff Canada is also a place where the passionate traveler can find that simple sentiment of freedom that is craved by all of us living in the city.

The beauty of the mountains and the spectacular resorts spread over one of the most picturesque region of Canadian land is something able to connect you with the beauty of nature in its entire splendor.

The wonderful green spread over the forest, the endless sky and the blue mountain waters are all part of the truest feeling of freedom and ultimate peace where relaxation and fun is enhanced buy the fresh air of the beautiful Canadian mountains.

Here are 30 Spectacular views of Banff National Park.

( Photo by champy1013′s )

( Photo by PhotosEcosse )

( Photo by NY_Doll )

( Photo by PhotosEcosse )

( Photo by Scott Future )

( Photo by NaturalLight )

( Photo by Glenbourne At Home )

( Photo by champy1013 )

( Photo by papalars )

( Photo by champy1013 )

( Photo by Igor Bespamyatnov )

( Photo by mschroeter140 )

( Photo by ZEDZAP )

( Photo by JLMphoto )

( Photo by aberdidi )

( Photo by under the influence of dub )

( Photo by NaturalLight )

( Photo by gladner )

( Photo by champy1013 )

( Photo by jason edlund )

( Photo by no body atoll )

( Photo by Parabola-Pop )

( Photo by Devonaire Eye )

( Photo by alykat )

( Photo by champy1013 )

( Photo by njchow82 )

( Photo by cerulean_blue )

( Photo by Phil’s Pixels )

( Photo by Tim Yuan )

( Photo by Daniel Newcombe )

The crater lake was created in the crater of Mazama volcanic mountain in the south Oregon. With 594 meters in depth Crater Lake is on the ninth place in the world as deep lakes are concerned. Surrounded by mountain peaks and wild forest the lake has in its middle a picturesque island the only remain of its volcanic history.

The crater lake park will leave you breathless and you will remember it for the rest of your life.

( Photo by ThorsHammer94539 )

( Photo by jonathanpercy )

( Photo by Jersey JJ )

( Photo by wilsonti )

( Photo by Timo Erkkilä )

( Photo by LiefPhotos )

( Photo by Oregon Hiker )

( Photo by ThorsHammer94539 )

( Photo by Timo Erkkilä )

( Photo by Mambooman1 )

( Photo by SunnySideYp )

( Photo by ThorsHammer94539 )

( Photo by Forestalx )

( Photo by unique3 )

( Photo by Revo_1599 )

( Photo by StevenLPierce )

( Photo by digitaleye81 )

( Photo by Photom72 )

( Photo by Photom72 )

( Photo by timopfahl )