RANKED: Europe’s 30 greatest natural spectacles

Europe's natural wonders

From surreal optical illusions to gorgeous natural wonders, Europe boasts some of the most incredible sights on Earth. So whether you’re planning a trip or simply dreaming of bucket-list-worthy adventures, our well-travelled team have ranked the best across the continent to inspire you.

Read on to uncover Europe’s 30 most UNREAL natural spectacles... 

30. Lake Cerknica, Slovenia

Lake Cerknica is one of nature’s most intriguing vanishing acts. Located in Slovenia, this seasonal lake disappears entirely during certain times of the year, leaving behind a vast, grassy plain. In the rainy seasons, the lake reappears, spreading out to become one of the largest in the country. The dramatic transformation from shimmering lake to verdant meadow feels otherworldly, almost as if nature itself is performing a magic trick.

29. The Mistral wind illusion, France

In Provence, the Mistral winds are more than just a weather phenomenon – they are a force of nature that shapes the landscape. Blowing fiercely from the north, these powerful winds leave a lasting mark on the region, bending trees into permanent, dramatic angles that seem frozen mid-motion. Villages and vineyards nestled in the valleys bear silent witness to the Mistral’s roar, which can persist for days on end. When the winds suddenly cease, an eerie stillness blankets the countryside.

28. The Black Forest, Germany

The Black Forest is a natural spectacle of dense, ancient woodlands, rolling hills and enchanting fairytale villages. Known for its towering pines, cuckoo clocks and Black Forest gateau, it offers scenic trails for hiking and cycling or a relaxed ride on the historic Black Forest Railway. In winter, snow transforms the landscape into a magical wonderland, perfect for exploring cosy Christmas markets and soaking in its seasonal charm.

27. Cliffs of Étretat, France

Known for their dramatic white chalk arches, the Cliffs of Étretat are a natural masterpiece sculpted by wind and waves over millennia. Their stark contrast against the deep blue of the English Channel has inspired countless artists, including Claude Monet, who famously captured their beauty. Take the time to explore the nearby pebble beaches for a closer look at these striking cliffs.

26. Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Renowned for its milky blue geothermal waters, the Blue Lagoon, near the town of Grindavik, offers a relaxing experience unlike any other. The mineral-rich pools are said to have healing properties, and guests can enjoy silica face masks while soaking. Pre-booking is essential to guarantee entry.

25. Lago di Braies, Italy

This serene alpine lake in the Dolomites features emerald-green waters that perfectly mirror the rugged peaks surrounding it, creating a picture-perfect setting that changes with the seasons. Rent a rowboat for a tranquil exploration of the lake or simply enjoy the views from one of the many hiking trails surrounding it.

24. Fingal’s Cave, Scotland, UK

This extraordinary sea cave on the Isle of Staffa is renowned for its striking hexagonal basalt columns, formed by ancient volcanic activity. It is celebrated not only for its geological wonder but also for its unique acoustics, which create a haunting, echoing soundscape as waves wash into the cavern. This natural symphony famously inspired composer Felix Mendelssohn to write the Hebrides Overture. Reaching the cave is an adventure in itself, with boat tours offering the chance to spot seals, puffins and other wildlife along the way.

23. Lago di Carezza, Italy

Known as the ‘Rainbow Lake,’ this alpine gem reflects the surrounding Dolomites in its crystal-clear waters. Legends speak of a sorcerer who conjured a rainbow to woo a water nymph, enchanting her with its vibrant colours that seemed to melt into the lake itself. Though their fate varies in different versions of the tale, the story adds a mystical element to this already stunning destination.

22. The Marble Arch Caves, Northern Ireland, UK

This intricate limestone cave system is one of Europe’s finest examples of karst landscapes, with underground rivers winding through dramatic stalactites and flowstone cascades. Guided tours take visitors deep into this subterranean world, revealing awe-inspiring rock formations and fascinating insights into the region’s geology and history.

21. Gullfoss Waterfall, Iceland

Often called the 'Golden Falls', this two-tiered waterfall is one of Iceland’s most iconic natural sights. A nearby viewing platform provides the best vantage point, and the sound of roaring water adds to the experience. Pair it with a visit to the nearby Geysir hot springs for a full day of nature exploration.

20. The Calanques, France

Tucked along the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast near Marseille, the Calanques are a display of nature’s artistry. These narrow limestone inlets, with their sheer white cliffs diving into turquoise waters, are the stuff of postcards. Accessible by boat, kayak or hiking trails, the Calanques invite you to explore their hidden beaches and secluded coves, each more enchanting than the last.

19. Mount Etna, Italy

Europe’s most active volcano is a natural spectacle of epic proportions. Its ever-changing landscape of smouldering craters, vast lava fields and steaming vents showcase the raw power of nature in action. Accessible to all fitness levels via cable cars and guided tours, visitors can safely experience this dynamic environment up close.

18. Pulpit Rock, Norway

Soaring 1,980 feet (604m) above the shimmering waters of Lysefjord, Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen) is one of Norway’s most unforgettable sights. This flat-topped cliff offers panoramic views that make the moderately challenging hike to the summit more than worth the effort. Standing at the edge feels like being on top of the world, with nothing but endless fjords and rugged landscapes in sight.

17. Trolltunga, Norway

Jutting out horizontally over Lake Ringedalsvatnet, this dramatic rock formation offers breathtaking, vertigo-inducing views of the surrounding fjords, valleys and glacial landscapes. Its sheer, gravity-defying position is a geological marvel shaped by millennia of glacial erosion. The 12-hour round-trip hike is challenging, but the reward at the top is worth the effort.

16. The Tabernas Desert, Spain

The Tabernas Desert in Andalusia is Europe’s only desert, known for its cinematic landscapes. It makes sense, then, that it has served as a filming location for numerous Westerns, earning it the nickname 'Hollywood of Europe'. Take a guided jeep tour to explore its dramatic canyons and arid plains.

15. Kjeragbolten, Norway

Perched between two cliffs over a 3,228-foot (984m) drop, Kjeragbolten is a natural marvel that defies logic. This enormous boulder, wedged perfectly in a crevasse thousands of years ago by glacial movements, creates a heart-stopping photo opportunity for those brave enough to stand atop it. The nearby Lysefjord is another highlight, with its steep cliffs plunging into azure waters.

14. Lake Bled, Slovenia

A picture-perfect lake with a small island crowned by a church, Lake Bled looks straight out of a storybook. Rent a traditional 'pletna' boat to visit the island, or hike up to Bled Castle for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Save room for a slice of the local speciality, Bled cream cake, while you're there.

13. Sarek National Park, Sweden

One of Europe’s last true wilderness areas, Sarek National Park is a haven for experienced adventurers seeking unspoiled beauty. Its remote location and lack of marked trails or cabins make it one of the few remaining places where you can truly immerse yourself in raw nature. Towering peaks, deep valleys and glacial rivers create a dramatic landscape that feels untouched by time. Summer is the best time to visit, with long daylight hours and milder weather allowing for extended exploration of this extraordinary terrain.

12. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland, UK

This UNESCO World Heritage Site features around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. Local legends suggest it was built by a giant, adding an air of mystery to the site. Visit in the evening to see the stones illuminated by the soft glow of the setting sun.

11. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

A cascading network of 16 terraced lakes and waterfalls, the vivid turquoise waters of Plitvice Lakes create a mesmerising natural spectacle that is particularly striking in spring and autumn. The lakes are interconnected through a series of falls, constantly reshaped by natural travertine formations. Wooden pathways allow visitors to get close, immersing themselves in the soothing sounds of cascading water and the vibrant colours of the lakes, which change hues depending on mineral content and sunlight.

10. Vatnajökull Ice Caves, Iceland

Accessible only in winter, these ice caves beneath Europe’s largest glacier are a stunning, ever-changing spectacle. Sculpted by glacial meltwater, they feature intricate tunnels and chambers formed within the ice, while their vivid hues are created by centuries of intense compression that filters out all but the bluest light. Each winter new caves are formed, ensuring that no two visits are ever the same. Guided tours allow visitors to explore these stunning formations safely, offering an unforgettable journey through shimmering ice walls, frozen domes and translucent arches.

9. Stromboli volcano, Italy

At night, the Stromboli volcano in the Aeolian Islands puts on a mesmerising light show. Known as the 'Lighthouse of the Mediterranean', its regular eruptions send fiery bursts of lava into the dark sky, casting a glowing red hue over the surrounding waters. While activity can vary, it is fairly consistent, meaning visitors have a good chance of witnessing this natural light show on most clear nights, especially during guided evening boat tours or hikes to observation points.

8. The Pink Lake, Spain

Las Salinas de Torrevieja in Spain is famous for its pink waters, caused by salt-loving algae and bacteria. While the colour is most vivid in sunny, dry conditions, its intensity can vary depending on the season. Visitors can also float effortlessly in its salty waters, similar to the Dead Sea.

7. Lake Sørvágsvatn, Faroe Islands

This lake appears to float above the ocean, thanks to a unique optical illusion caused by the landscape’s dramatic cliffs. The effect is best seen from a high vantage point, creating an Instagrammable photo opportunity. The area is also a great spot for birdwatching, with puffins and fulmars frequently spotted.

6. Egerszalók Salt Hill, Hungary

This rare natural phenomenon is formed by thermal waters depositing calcium carbonate as they flow down the hillside, creating the stunning white terraces that are often compared to Pamukkale in Turkey or Mammoth Hot Springs in the USA. It is one of Hungary's most unique geological features and a popular attraction in the region.

5. Midnight Sun, Norway

In Norway’s Arctic regions, summer brings 24 hours of daylight, where the sun just never sets. This natural phenomenon creates an almost dreamlike atmosphere, perfect for late-night hikes or midnight kayaking. Towns like Tromsø even host Midnight Sun marathons for those wanting a unique experience.

4. Aurora Borealis, Finland

The Northern Lights are a spectacular natural phenomenon best observed in Finland’s remote Lapland region from September to March. However, their visibility depends on solar activity and weather conditions, making clear, dark nights crucial for the best viewing experience. Many resorts offer guided tours and glass igloos for optimal aurora spotting.

3. Basalt Organs, Hungary

The hexagonal basalt columns of Hegyestű are a breathtaking geological marvel, rising from the earth like a colossal organ carved by nature itself. These striking formations are not only a testament to ancient volcanic activity but also provide panoramic views of the picturesque Balaton Uplands National Park.

2. Bioluminescent Waters, Malta

On certain summer nights, Malta’s coastline glows with bioluminescent plankton, lighting up the waves with an ethereal blue glow. Head to Gozo or the quieter beaches of Comino for the best chance to witness this magical phenomenon.

1. Melissani Cave Lake, Greece

Our favourite natural spectacle in Europe is Melissani Cave Lake, a stunning underground lake where sunlight streams through a natural cave opening, illuminating the crystal-clear waters in vivid shades of blue and turquoise. The interplay of light and water creates an enchanting effect, with boats appearing to hover over the lake’s surface due to its remarkable clarity.

Now discover our pick of the best underrated destinations in Europe