Best 5 Most Beautiful Places in South Wales

Often overlooked in comparison to England and Scotland, Wales actually packs a hell of a lot of beauty into a relatively small mass of land with sprawling mountain ranges, lush green valleys, rugged coastline, gorgeously preserved castles and postcard-pretty market towns. We feel Wales doesn’t receive half the amount of attention it deserves, and once you’ve seen our list for the best and most beautiful places to visit in Wales, we think you’ll also agree…

1. Snowdonia National Park – one of the best and most famously stunning places to explore in Wales

Home to the biggest mountain in Wales and some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, Snowdonia National Park is a hugely popular holiday spot and a big draw for adventurous types.

Boulder-strewn summits, stark mountain ranges, and serene lakes make up much of the landscape, making it a popular destination for walkers, climbers and mountain bikers. Make sure you include a visit to one of our favourite spots, Llanberis Pass (where twin lakes cut through a vast mountain range) and if you’re fit enough, also consider tackling all 3,560 feet of glorious Mount Snowdon.

2. Pembrokeshire Coast – one of the most gorgeous coastlines in the world

The county of Pembrokeshire is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Wales. Its craggy and dramatic coastline imprints itself in the hearts of anyone who goes there and we love how uncrowded this places feels, even at high season. Rugged cliffs, a naturally beautiful coastline and more than seventy sweeping beaches calling this place home.

Highlights include gorgeously preserved conservation areas, a National Park and excellent hiking trails which will take you close to medieval castles and towns, secret coves, Napoleonic forts and postcard-pretty ports.

3. Brecon Beacons – a sprawling mountain range and national park and easily one of the best places to visit in Wales

This is a famously beautiful, heather-clad mountain range in South Wales which has a protected status. A popular activity and holiday spot, it attracts plenty of visitors to its excellent walking, mountain biking and horse riding trails. Scenery includes thick forests, grassy hills, waterfalls, peaceful reservoirs and South Wales’ highest mountain – Pen y Fan.

Also expect a handful of characterful towns dotted with the odd Michelin-starred restaurant or a gourmet farmer’s market.

4. Mumbles – a cosy but cosmopolitan fishing village which is an underrated beauty spot in South Wales

Catherine Zeta-Jone’s home town and one of Dylan Thomas’ many stomping grounds is one of the UK’s best-kept secrets. It’s a super cute historic seaside retreat dotted with gourmet restaurants and quaint teashops and just happens to be newly fashionable with travellers-in-the know.

The town stretches along the shoreline at the southern end of Swansea Bay – a place which has now been designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty. Expect award-winning beaches, spectacular sunsets and miles of the unspoiled countryside just waiting to be explored.

5. Betws y Coed – one of the prettiest villages to visit in North Wales which is also a gateway to Snowdonia National Park

A beautiful yet bustling village which tourists seem to love but they never spoil. It’s actually a gateway village to one of the most stunning and beautiful places in Wales, Snowdonia National Park.

It also happens to be one of the prettiest villages in Wales and is nestled snuggly in a valley near the point where the River Conwy is met by both the River Llugwy and the River Lledr. As well as being home to a number of independent shops selling crafts, clothing, gifts, and local homemade produce it’s also a hub for mountain biking due to its pristine and unspoiled surroundings. Just up the road is the Marin Route, a fabulous mountain bike trail that will take you through the stunning peaks and pines of Gwydir Forest.

Best 5 Most Beautiful Places in Croatia

There was once a time where Croatia was once one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. With its natural beauty and timeless cities, the country is often said to be reminiscent of the Mediterranean but what it was like 30 years ago. Now with the scars of its recent history very much healed, intrepid European travellers and trendy jet setters are beginning to discover everything Croatia has to offer. From chic coastal resorts to wild, rugged national parks, here are my Top 20 of the best and most beautiful places to visit in Croatia

1. Brela Beach – one of the most beautiful beaches to visit in Croatia

Brela Beach is located on Makarska Riviera and it’s well known as being one of the most beautiful beaches to visit in Croatia. In 1968, the beach was crowned the ‘Champion of the Adriatic’ probably due to its stunning clear waters, beautiful intimate coves, spectacular views, and a winding Victorian promenade.

In the midst of the turquoise waters is the breath-taking Kamen Brela – the stunning rocky outcrop which is the symbol of Brela Beach. With plenty of gorgeous hotels in Croatia, there’s no excuse not to stop for a while.

2. Hvar – a stunning cosmopolitan island resort and a popular place to go in Croatia

Holding the title of the ‘Queen of Dalmatia’ it’s commonly accepted that Hvar is the greenest and sunniest island of the many islands residing off Croatia’s coast. The island’s landscapes are characterized by vast fields of lavender, lush olive groves, and rambling vineyards.

Hvar town is the cultural centre of the island and with its innumerable sandy beaches surrounded by cosmopolitan cafes, bars, and restaurants, it has become a necessary stopping-off point for yachting trend-setters.

3. Plitvice Lakes National Park – one of the most beautiful national parks to visit in Croatia

The wonderful Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the oldest national parks in Southeast Europe, with miles of unspoiled beauty, cascading waterfalls, rugged hills, and turquoise lakes. Despite the stunning vistas, arguably the real stars of the show are the wild bears and wolves that still roam freely (something which is very unusual in Europe).

The 120 species of birds, uncountable butterfly breeds, and plenty of woodland animals also keep the wildlife fans happy. Having earned its place among UNESCO’s collection of heritage sites in 1979, it is a veritable jewel in Croatia’s crown.

4. Mljet Island National Park – a sprawling island park with stunning beaches, caves, and wildlife

Mljet island is the most southerly and easterly of the larger Adriatic islands of the Dalmatia region. In the northwestern part of the island is an area of protected land – the Mljet National Park. It has a unique beauty featuring two connected salty lakes and rich forested landscapes.

You are free to roam as you please as there are no motor vehicles permitted on the island. We highly recommend taking some swimming gear as the park is scattered with a few stunningly clear, and beautifully clean, lagoons and lakes. Also, take a walk along the many lakes, hire a bike, and cycle through the immense forest that covers 78% of the island. Don’t forget to take a picnic, breathing in the fresh air, and admiring the breathtaking views.

There is also an opportunity to wander around the Benedictine monastery and visit the small chapel attached to it. Only a one and a half-hour ferry trip from the mainland, a trip to Mljet island is definitely worth it!

5. Krka National Park – a beautiful protected area filled with cascading waterfalls

Whilst Dubrovnik is wonderful, you may feel like you want to get away for a while. If this is the case, this is the place to go in Croatia. Located in Southern Croatia this place is not exactly a secret, as it features in most guidebooks, so if you want to avoid the crowds in this popular place then its best to time your visit well.

Once here though you’ll see it’s a very special place to visit, named after the Krka River is home to a series of seven very beautiful waterfalls. Other highlights include a waterfall flanked by traditional watermills, a scenic nature trail, the Krka Monastery which has been built above ancient Roman catacombs, and the 15th-century Franciscan Monastery of Our Lady of Mercy.

Best 10 of the Most Beautiful Places in Indonesia

With long white sand beaches, virgin rain forest jungles, unique diving spots with 100 species of corals, friendly and smiling locals the Southeast Asian nation made up of more than more 17,000 volcanic islands, isn’t short of jaw-dropping places to visit – in fact, it was once ranked as the 4th most beautiful country in the world. Here are her favorite best and most beautiful places to visit in Indonesia…

Indonesia is a big country. Due to its size, it is necessary for you to plan your trip properly in order to enjoy your time while seeing the best things Indonesia has to offer. Indonesia is a unique and diverse country that’s spread throughout thousands of islands in the ocean.

Here you can easily explore beaches, jungle, and volcanoes, and each region offers something you probably wouldn’t see somewhere else. A thorough trip to Indonesia takes some time, so you either plan to explore just a couple regions or go all out with a stay of two weeks or more. There are many remarkable and outstanding places to go in Indonesia whether you are relishing the benefits of traveling alone or choose to go with your friends or family.

1. Bali – one of the most popular places to vacation in Indonesia

Most travellers start their Indonesian journey in the country’s most famous island. It’s really one of the world top famous destinations which make your trip absolutely memorable. Labeled as the Island of Gods, Bali is bounded with breathtaking natural beauty. Relaxing on white-sand beaches will definitely one of the most beautiful feelings you will ever experience when here.

The magnificent waves, clear waters that reflect the blue bright sky and tropical weather are enough reasons why everyone must visit this place even once in their lifetime. Bali has a rich culture and has strong Hindu religion so expect to see temples galore.

2. Komodo Islands and the Pink Beach – gorgeous beauty spots to explore 

This island is to be found on the island of Sumbawa in West Nusa Tenggara and Flores in East Nusa Tenggara and this is where you will get the opportunity to spot the ancient reptile Komodo dragon. There are also many blissful sandy beaches on the island to explore and relax on including the unique and famous aptly named Pink Beach (pictured above).

If you tire of the beaches, go deeper and see the marine life. The marine life the surrounds the Komodo Island is known to be one of the best ones in the world!

3. Bunaken, Sulawesi – one of the best places to visit in Indonesia

This is another slice of paradise on earth. Bunaken is easily one of the most stunning places to visit in Indonesia and a place you shouldn’t miss when you visit.

Bunaken Marine Park is famous worldwide and offers a very laid back lifestyle which isn’t found in big cities. To really make the most of the place I would recommend diving – either on a day trip or night trip.

4. Mount Bromo, Java – the most iconic and the most hiked mountain in Indonesia

If trekking is your thing, you shouldn’t miss a visit to Mount Bromo. The mountain is situated in the province of East Java and is one of the active volcanoes in the country.

The best thing about this mountain is that a visit here is very easy and cheap. This is a perfect place for those nature lovers who love climbing mountains.

5. Lake Tiga Warna, Flores island

Extensively known as one of the nine wonders of the world, Lake Tiga Warna is definitely one of the most scenic places to visit in Indonesia.

The volcano Kelimutu close to the small town of Moni in central Flores island in Indonesia is home to three lakes which lie next to each other with waters of different colours – the red lake called Ata Polo, a blue lake called Tiwu Ata Mbupu, and green lake called Tiwu Nua Muri Kooh Fai.

6. Bunaken Marine Park – the place to visit in Indonesia if you love diving

Situated in the province of North Sulawesi, Bunaken Marine Park is another spectacular place to do diving to see a rich water bottom part of the country. There are more than 20 diving spots that you are able to go to the park.

On top of the countless diving spots, Bunaken Marine Park also offers beautiful beaches for you to relax and experience some of the beauty that the country is famous for.

7. Tangkuban Perahu, Java

This is another mountain I would recommend visiting while you’re visiting Indonesia. It’s an interesting site which is famous for its unique inverted boat shape.

The panoramic sights of the mountain and the forests are also a very ethereally beautiful experience. This peaceful mountain exploded in 1969 and Kawah Ratu is the main hollow or the Queen’s crater.

8. Gili Islands, Lombok – a popular tropical paradise and dive site

If you are looking for the best of both worlds then look no further than the Gili Islands in Lombok. Fringed by white-sand beaches and crystal clear waters, the composite of three beautiful and isolated islands namely Gili Meno, Gili Trawangan, and Gili Air boasts unique picturesque appeal.

In addition to adventure water activities such as snorkelling, diving, surfing, you can also go kayaking or watch fishes while riding a glass-bottom canoe. Alternatively, you can simply spend the day relaxing and the night partying.

9. Borobudur Temple – a stunning must-see attraction to explore in Indonesia

The Borobudur Temple is the world’s largest Buddhist sanctuary, and neither its religious significance nor its beauty and charm will cease to amaze you. With jungles, faraway hills, and ornate stone carvings, this structure is certainly a sight to behold.

Whether you’re there for the religious or cultural significance of the temple or simply because you love being in the middle of beautiful surroundings, your visit is certain not to disappoint. The main statue is nothing short of amazing, but the entire location offers you a way to learn more about these temples and enjoy something unique.

10. Raja Ampat – a scenic Indonesian archipelago

Clearly one of the most stunning places to visit in Indonesia, this tropical paradise boasts more than 500 species of coral, 1300 types of fish, and 700 species of mollusk.

It is a fairly remote location; therefore, its waters are perfect and gorgeous. Even though it is known for its amazing diving opportunities, it is also a great place to enjoy photography, bird-watching, and simply being on an outdoor adventure. If you love the outdoors and especially beautiful and luxurious views, Raja Ampat is where you want to be.

Best 5 Most Beautiful Places in Arizona

Land of sprawling burnt red and orange deserts and other-worldly rock formations that have to be seen to be believed, Arizona is seemingly made for lovers of the great outdoors and scenic road trips. It’s also home to villages dating back thousands of years of history, sacred sites, world-famous protected areas, and endless skies, yep this US state has soul! Here are my favorite best and most beautiful places to visit in wonderful Arizona…

1. The Grand Canyon National Park – one of the best and famously most stunning places to visit in Arizona

I’d have to start my Arizona list with one of the most popular and famous national parks to visit in the country. This beautiful national park is the home to the majestic Grand Canyon which houses layers and layers of red rocks. These divulge in millions of years of geological history.

Some of the popular viewpoints which will give you a stunning and up-close view to the Grand Canyon are Mather Point, Yavapai Observation Station, and also the renowned architect Mary Colter’s Lookout Studio and her Desert View Watchtower as well. Another stellar viewpoint you should not miss would be the Lipan Point, which will give you a direct view of both the canyon and Colorado River. I’d also give you a heads-up on trying to either catch the sunset or sunrise in this beautiful place to visit in Aronizia.

2. Monument Valley – a beautiful and an iconic symbol of the American West

This extraordinary red-sand desert region located on the border of Arizona-Utah is famous for its jaw-dropping and highly photogenic tall and gigantic sandstone buttes. The Monument Valley is located within the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park and is famous for being the shooting locations for several Hollywood movies over the years.

John Ford’s Point is one viewpoint that gives you a sweeping view of the slopped Mittens buttes. There are several stories behind this monument valley and if you are someone who likes to visit a place and know more about its history, then definitely visit this wonderful natural attraction in Arizona!

3. Cathedral Rock – one of the most-photographed sights in Arizona

This incredible natural sandstone butte which soars upwards on the Sedona skyline and has the accolade of being one of the most-photographed sights in Arizona. It also offers one of the most scenic hikes in the US and people flock for miles to hike and climb the wonderful landmark.

The views from the top are just beautiful! Although please be warned the 1.5-mile round trip can steep in some places and requires some climbing along the way. Visit and sunset though and you really won’t be disappointed!

4. Grand Falls Navajo – often known as ‘Chocolate Falls’ due to its unique color

This natural waterfall system is situated 30 miles from the northeast of the town of Flagstaff. The Grand falls are a part of the Painted Desert on the Navajo Nation.

Definitely one of the most stunning places to explore in Arizona, the color of the waterfalls has given it a direct nickname – Chocolate Falls and is said to be taller than the Niagara Falls at a height of 185-feet. The Little Colorado River receives snowmelt or seasonal rain dump from the waterfalls.

5. The San Francisco Peaks – a stunning and scared volcanic mountain range in Arizona

Ths volcanic mountain range is both a beauty spot and a sacred Native American site. Located in north-central Arizona, not too far from the popular city of Flagstaff so this makes a great day trip if you’re staying overnight there.

It’s also home to Arizona’s highest point, Humphreys Peak, stands at a huge 12,633 feet in elevation. A lovely place to visit in Arizona, the beautiful mountain range offers visitors many outdoor activities. There are many hiking trails offering pretty scenery, a few campsites and you can also play golf, go skiing, snowboarding, take the Skyride lift up Mt. Humphreys from Snowbowl, or just go for a scenic drive.

Of course, it’s hard to mention every fantastic place to visit in this incredibly stunning US state, other great places to explore in Arizona include Phoenix the capital and most populous city in Arizona which is known for its year-round sun, Tucson with its thriving cultural scene and stunning natural surroundings, Scottsdale a desert city in Arizona known for its spa resorts and golf cour, the increasingly cool desert city of Flagstaff, and of course sin city itself, Las Vegas!

Best 5 of the Most Beautiful Places in Egypt

One of the oldest tourist destinations in the world, Egypt and its collection of world-famous ancient sites and legendary national treasures have been wowing the crowds for centuries. Beauty is, of course, is subjective but Egypt isn’t short on places that could be considered very beautiful. From world-famous historical sites to hippy-dwelling laid-back beach resorts, here is our list of 20 of the best and most beautiful places to visit in Egypt…

1. The Red Sea Coast – a beautiful diver’s paradise

A highlight of many a traveller to Egypt, Sharm el Sheik is a holiday resort filled with luxury hotels, casinos, nightclubs and tourists getting their sun, sea and sand fix. Sharm el-Sheikh holidays are very popular although the real beauty of this area is the Red Sea.

The Red Sea has clear azure waters and an incredible amount of exotic fish and coral – which is why is so highly regarded as a diving destination. In fact, it arguably offers some of the best diving and snorkelling experiences in the world. Get hold of some scuba gear (and an experienced instructor) and take a look for yourself – you won’t regret it.

2. Pyramids at Giza – Egypt’s must-see destination

Eternally a top-rated attraction in Egypt, no visitor should leave without visiting Great Pyramids and the Sphinx of Giza. They are the only remaining seven wonders of the world of the ancient world and over 4600 years old. They’re an imposing sight and the whole complex is still shrouded in mystery.

If time is an issue it is possible to see the main parts of the Pyramid site in around 2 hours but spend a full day in this area if your schedule will allow.

3. Siwa Oasis – a beautiful desert gem

The Siwa Oasis is often mentioned as one of the most stunning places to visit in Egypt. Located off the beaten track between the Qattara Depression and the Egyptian Sand Sea (in the Libyan Desert) it has its own distinct Siwan culture which differs from the mainstream Arabic culture.

The Siwans speak their own language and this area is known for its hot springs, fine jewellery and tasty dates and olives. Take a trip here and kick back for a while, swim or just try your luck at some sandboarding.

4. Hurghada – a beautiful and popular beach resort

Hurghada is a stunning resort town located on the Northeast coast of Egypt, just below the Gulf of Suez. A better description of Hurghada would be the Hurghada Riviera as it stretches for 40 miles along the Red Sea Coast and is home to many luxurious resorts. Originally a fishing town, Hurghada has grown quickly over the past few decades to become something of a tourist hotspot. There are many excellent restaurants, tourist attractions and accommodation options to choose from in the region.

This includes luxurious resorts like Makadi Bay, Sahl Hasheesh and El Gouna which make it the perfect location if you want to be pampered. However, it is the stunning natural beauty of Hurghada that is the highlight of this destination. There are many pristine beaches to explore with bright white sand and crystal clear water. The coastline is also dotted with coral reefs, which is the reason why Hurghada is one of the most popular locations for diving and snorkelling in Egypt.

If you intend on exploring the reefs, be sure to check out Careless Reef, Giftun Islands, and Omo Gamaar. You can also swim with the dolphins off the coast of the Aden Beach Resort.  Finally, be sure to visit the Eastern Arabian Desert. There are many tours available for activities including quad biking, and visiting historical sites.

5. Abu Simbel Temples – home to two huge and incredible rock temples

The Abu Simbel Temples are one of the most instantly-recognisable historical sights in Egypt. They are massive rock temples built by the ancient Egyptians between 1264 BC and 1244 BC. Known as the Temple of Ramesses, beloved by Amun they are one of six rock templates built-in Nubia during the reign of Ramesses II. The scale of the Abu Simbel Temples is incredible. They have a timeless beauty that continues to attract millions of visitors each year. The temples are a must-see location for any visitor to Egypt.

Best 5 of the Most Beautiful Places in Portugal

A sunny, friendly, and laid-back Southern European country on the Iberian Peninsula, this is a place that borders Spain and has a feel of a Mediterranean country but still has a strong cultural identity of its own. Visitors flock to Portugal for affordable food and wine, ancient history and architecture, and of course, its famously beautiful beaches. With its cities fast becoming chic hotspots and gorgeous coastline where you still can escape the crowds, Portugal is also entering a new era of cool. So what are you waiting for? Here are twenty of the best and most beautiful places to visit in Portugal…

1. Lisbon – a sunny picture-perfect capital and easily one of the best places to visit in Portugal

Being the capital of Portugal, Lisbon is an obvious place to start. It receives around half the fuss of other European capitals, but can easily equal them in beauty and charm and is a must-see attraction in Portugal. A lot of its appeal probably lies in its deep-rooted history, coming second only to Athens in the oldest European capital stakes.

It’s actually a beautiful mix of old and new, and alongside the city’s endearing old-fashioned qualities, there is also plenty to please the boutique crowds. Visit the Gothic cathedrals, historic cafes, vintage trams, and the narrow lanes of Lisbon’s lovely backstreets, and don’t forget the vibrant alfresco coffee bars and fabulous restaurants.

The city is built on a series of hills, meaning that everywhere you venture within Lisbon you are practically guaranteed to have a gorgeous view.

2. Praia da Marinha – one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve and one of the best places to visit in Portugal

There are many beautiful beaches in Portugal but this definitely one of the best. Although because of its proximity to the crowded Algarve region, many dismiss the gorgeous beach at Praia da Marinha. Located on the Atlantic coast in Caramujeira, Lagoa Municipality, Algarve it’s one of the top attractions in Portugal and is considered by many to be the best beach in Portugal and is classed as one of the Top 100 beaches of the world.

It’s a seriously spectacular stretch of sand, ideal for snorkeling, and the striking rocky cliff faces set it apart from other beautiful Mediterranean beaches.

3. Sintra – a pretty resort town known for its unique hilltop 19th-century palace

Located in a privileged position the foothills of Portugal’s Sintra Mountains, near the capital, Lisbon, it’s said to be one of  Lord Byron’s favorite Portuguese haunts. It’s an exceptional village and easily one of the top-rated attractions in Portugal – ripe with richly colored buildings and breathtaking architecture.

Palaces, turrets, a romantic Moorish castle, and a misty dense forest are all part of this sweet little place. The vegetation is lush and exotic due to the microclimate. There are a host of historic buildings to take a look at, as well as clusters of leafy mansions with immaculate lawns and stunningly decorative features.

4. Porto – Portugal’s charming and beautiful second biggest city

With its 14th century walls, medieval winding streets, colourful picturesque houses, bell tower and ornate tiles there is much to see in the newly fashionable city of Porto. It’s the country’s second-biggest city, located on the coast in the Northwest and an increasingly popular place to visit in Portugal.

Sit under the arches at Placa da Ribeira (the riverfront square) and watch the boats float past and then take a visit to the palatial 19th-century Palácio de Bolsa. Most apartments in the area have terraces that overlook the tranquil waters. Declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, it’s a combination of old-world charm with cobbled streets and a bustling metropolitan culture, making it a very intriguing travel destination indeed!

5. Azores – a beautiful and unique Portuguese archipelago

Made up of nine different islands and located way off the coast of Portugal in the mid-Atlantic, The Azores may be the ideal place for those who are looking for adventure, however, they are also a great place for those who are searching for beauty and awe-inspiring scenery too.

An unusual travel destination, every single one of the islands has its own charm to bring and in order to really absorb it, we advise you to try and discover as much as you can. Expect vineyards, dramatic landscapes, fishing villages, green pastures, and lake-filled calderas, and don’t forget your walking boots and surfboard!