Ireland has stunning landscapes that will take your breath away. You can find everything from hills and ocean to beaches and curvy roads. It is a dream destination for nature lovers. Ireland is among the most beautiful countries in the world, if not the most. The only downside is the weather. It is often rainy, cloudy, and drizzly. You never know when your perfect shot will be spoiled by the weather. As the saying goes: climate is what you expect, weather is what you get.
The Alps are a tough rival for Ireland in terms of beauty. They have the advantage of having snow and towering peaks. Whether you are in Switzerland, France, Italy or Austria, the Alps are simply amazing!
The Algarve is almost a paradise on earth with its mild and sunny weather. Its beaches are breathtaking, and its cliffs and rocks are spectacular. It is a wonderful destination for a relaxing week off.
Iceland is an amazing island in the middle of the Atlantic, far away from the European mainland. It has a volcanic landscape that offers stunning views and adventures. But be prepared for the roads: they are rough and rocky, and you will need a 4wd to drive on them. Even the main highway of the country is partly gravel!
As a European, I am by nature skeptical of the ‘Everything is awesome in the USA’ attitude. But I have to say: the nature there is amazing. Highway 1 or Coastal Highway deserves to be called one of the most beautiful roads in the world. And with the desert and Yosemite National Park so close by, it is surely a place I want to visit again.
Israel is a country of amazing natural beauty, if you can ignore the political and religious conflicts. You can travel from snowy peaks in the north, to hills and deserts, and finally to the coast, in a matter of hours. The diversity of scenery is unmatched in such a short distance.
Note to myself: The only things is.. next time I need to bring a much better camera.
As I gaze out of my window, I long for the sight of mountains, hills, cliffs, and winding roads, but all I see is the endless plain of my homeland: Holland. When travel is difficult, I sometimes fantasize about the other places that are not as green as here. Yet, I can still appreciate the beauty of my surroundings, occasionally.