Scenery Worth Traveling For
Metropolitan cities with their breathtaking skylines might be jaw-dropping in their own way, but nothing beats nature itself, when the mesh of green and blue and white blur into a painting so beautiful it makes your teeth ache. From towering mountains to crystal-clear lakes, the world is full of landscapes so stunning they almost don’t look real. Here are five countries to visit with views that photos can't do justice.
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1. Iceland
Icelandic might be a rare language, spoken by less than 400,000 people worldwide, but you don't need to be fluent in this country's mother tongue to understand its striking beauty. Glaciers and cooled lava have shaped the landscape into something unforgettable, and your jaw will ache long after you've experienced all Iceland has to offer.
2. Canada
You might think you'd have to roam through national parks to get a taste of Canada's natural beauty, but wherever you set foot in this country, you don't have to look too far to find something that will take your breath away. In fact, the mountains here—serene and achingly gorgeous—almost seem to follow you like a shadow.
3. Norway
Few places in the world take your breath away as much as Norway does. If you're not here to witness the stunning Northern Lights that pop up from late September to early April, then let the towering mountains, majestic fjords, and spectacular waterfalls be the source of your awe.
4. New Zealand
No trip to New Zealand would be complete without seeing Milford Sound and experiencing the hundreds of waterfalls that grace the fjord after bouts of rain. Even if you're heading to the country's bustling capital, Auckland, carving out time to see all the natural gems is a must.
5. Switzerland
Snow-capped mountains, cozy huts, valleys stretching green as far as the eye can see—it's easy to see why Switzerland is one of the most beautiful places on Earth. In fact, the breathtaking views of this country inspired several scenes in J. R. R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings.
