Massive glaciers, staggering mountains, plains dotted with wild animals: We sure live in a big, beautiful world. In fact, when looking at the most beautiful places in the world, it can feel impossible to decide where to visit next. While pinpointing all of Mother Nature’s greatest hits could take a lifetime, we think these 51 out-of-this-world landscapes and awe-inspiring wonders—from Arizona to Antarctica—need to move to the very top of your travel list. Whether you’re looking for beaches, forests, or national parks, you’re sure to find you new favorite destination on this list. Which one will you travel to first?
1. Tunnel of Love, Ukraine
It’s one of the most photographed places in Ukraine. Visitors travel from around the world to see the famous tree tunnel running through the small western town of Klevan. As RFE/RL’s Amos Chapple discovered when he explored the site, Ukraine’s “Tunnel of Love” can reportedly trace its origins all the way back to the tensions and secrecy of the Cold War.
2. Mendenhall Ice Caves, Juneau, Alaska
The Ice Caves located at the Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau, Alaska are natural ice formations tucked away in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. The caves come and go as mother nature chooses and are accessible only to the most adventurous of travelers. When you step inside, you will immediately notice the glacial ice surrounding you is cerulean blue. The ice appears this color because it absorbs all colors of the visible light spectrum except blue, which it reflects. Thousands of years of packed snowfall creates an enormous amount of weight and compresses air bubbles out to form the ice.
3. Svalbard, Norway
Svalbard, the northern archipelago off the coast of Norway, is known for spectacular Northern Lights viewing opportunities—the sky is pitch black all day and night October through February, due to its position within the Arctic Circle. Svalbard is also known for its wildlife, including polar bears and arctic foxes who live out their days among the deep fjords and sheets of ice.
