The 14 Most Beautiful Lakes in the World
In total, there are over 117 million lakes on our planet, and although we didn’t examine every single one, we did cover a substantial number to present to you the 14 most breathtaking, magnificent, and picturesque bodies of water. Have you had the opportunity to explore any of these?
Here are some of the lakes that you might visit in your lifetime:
Number one (1) on our list is the:
Dead Sea, Jordan
- Crater Lake, Oregon
One of the most unusual and noteworthy lakes in America is also its deepest. This lake’s exceptionally clear, blue water gathered in a vast caldera after the eruption of Mount Mazama over six thousand years ago. Crater Lake Lodge is situated at one end, where you can savor a delicious breakfast while admiring the magnificent scenery before embarking on a ranger-guided boat excursion that explores the park’s geological wonders.
2. Dead Sea, Jordan
The most saline place on Earth is a beloved destination for swimmers due to its natural buoyancy. However, as the lake shrinks at an alarming pace, we are not only reminded of its magnificent beauty but also its significance as the primary source of water for the Jordan River and a significant hub for health research. While this stunning location still exists, it’s worth making a trip to experience it. After immersing yourself in the cobalt-blue, salty waters, take a tour of the ancient Masada fortress before unwinding at the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea, a romantic resort situated 1,400 feet below sea level.
3. Lake Como, Italy
This sophisticated Italian destination, with its luxurious villas, marinas filled with Riva boats, and charming promenades, still captivates some of the most renowned celebrities of our time. Villa d’Este, a 16th-century palace famous for its fountain-laden formal gardens and floating pool, offers the option to rent the hotel’s boat for a lake excursion. If your preference leans towards a more modern flair, then you may want to stay at Il Sereno Lago di Como in Torno, a stunning contemporary masterpiece crafted by Patricia Urquiola.
4. Laguna Colorada, Bolivia
The “red lagoon” of Bolivia is an extraordinary sight to behold. The shallow saltwater gets its unique rusty tint from red algae, which is occasionally interspersed with white pools of borax deposits that float on the surface. The landscape is made even more spectacular by the presence of the renowned flamingos that gather here to feed on plankton. These birds, naturally white, have feathers that take on a pinkish hue due to the algae they tread through, creating a strikingly beautiful visual display.
5. Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand
Queenstown, located on New Zealand’s South Island, is recognized as the global hub for adrenaline junkies. This city is renowned as the birthplace of bungee jumping, and it also boasts excellent opportunities for skydiving, whitewater rafting, paragliding, and hiking. When visiting, it’s recommended that you choose a location that is situated on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by towering mountains, most notably the Remarkables range, with its snow-covered peaks. For a luxurious stay, our top pick is the Matakauri Lodge, which offers an elegant rustic ambiance.
6. Lake Pichola, India
In 1899, Rudyard Kipling expressed in his book, “Letters of Marque,” “If the Venetian owned the Pichola, he might say with justice, ‘see it and die.’” When you first set eyes on this tranquil retreat situated in the center of Udaipur, it’s not difficult to understand what he meant. Many people are unaware that the lake is actually artificial, created in 1362 to simplify the transportation of grain throughout the city. For an extraordinary experience, stay at the Taj Lake Palace hotel, which floats on the water and can only be accessed by boat. From a distance, admire the city’s Mediterranean-like waterfront.
7. Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe is one of America’s great destinations—an outdoor adventure paradise backed by the Sierra Nevadas that’s beautiful in every season. During the summer, visitors flock to its turquoise waters and sandy beaches for sailing and kayaking or tackle the Tahoe Rim Trail for views of the basin. When winter hits, the area’s lauded ski resorts kick into high gear. Base yourself at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe for access to its private beach, fleet of boats, cabin-like rooms, and heated outdoor pool.
8. Lake Baikal, Russia
The enchanting body of water located in Russian Siberia holds numerous records. Baikal is not only the world’s oldest lake but also the deepest, containing 20% of the world’s freshwater, equivalent to the combined volume of all five Great American Lakes. Due to its isolation and absence of minerals, Baikal is also recognized as one of the world’s cleanest and clearest lakes, making it an incredible sight to behold. In certain spots, during the summer, the runoff from the Siberian mountains allows visibility as far as 130 feet below the surface. In the winter, when the lake freezes over, fissures and methane bubbles can form in the ice, or not, creating the illusion of walking on air.
9. Pehoé Lake, Chilean Patagonia
This national park in southern Chile, Torres del Paine, spans approximately 500,000 acres and encompasses a wide range of climates and terrains, including snow-capped granite mountains, sparkling glaciers, rolling grasslands, and icy blue lakes. One of its most breathtaking vistas can be enjoyed at Lake Pehoé, where the Salto Chico waterfall cascades down and the stunning Torres mountain range can be seen in the background.
10. Inle Lake, Myanmar
Inle Lake is a beautiful destination in Myanmar that’s worth exploring. The stilted villages built over the water are unique and offer a glimpse into a way of life that has remained relatively unchanged for centuries. The ancient pagodas and monasteries add to the charm of the area. One of the most remarkable sights is the fishermen who use one-leg rowing technique to navigate the lake. Be sure to take a boat tour to explore the lake and see these sights up close.
11. Moraine Lake, Alberta, Canada
Banff National Park is indeed a stunning destination in Canada, with a plethora of natural beauty to explore. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is a luxurious retreat with easy access to the iconic Lake Louise, as well as nearby hiking trails and outdoor activities. Moraine Lake is also a must-visit, with its vivid turquoise waters and towering peaks creating a breathtaking backdrop. However, it’s worth noting that Banff can get very busy during peak travel seasons, so be sure to plan ahead and consider visiting during shoulder seasons for a more peaceful experience.
12. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
It sounds like you’re describing Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia. The park is indeed known for its series of cascading waterfalls and emerald lakes, all connected by wooden walkways and hiking trails. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Croatia’s top tourist destinations.
13. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled in Slovenia is a picturesque and serene destination with the Julian Alps as its stunning backdrop. The lake’s cobalt-blue waters are calm and mirror-like, and in the center lies an island with a Gothic church that dates back to the 1400s. The church contains beautiful frescoes and a Baroque altar made of gold. The Vila Bled hotel is a popular choice for romantics looking to explore the surrounding Triglav National Park and Vintgar Gorge, which boasts the tallest waterfall in Slovenia.
14. Lake Hillier, Australia
Lake Hillier, the pink lake you are referring to, is indeed a natural wonder located on Middle Island in Western Australia. While the exact reason for its pink color is still not fully understood, it is believed to be due to the presence of a type of algae called Dunaliella salina, as well as some other microorganisms. While it is a protected area and not open for visitors, helicopter and airplane tours are available for those who want to catch a glimpse of its pink hue from above.
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