A single ripple edges its way across the lake’s still, glassy surface. Shades of deep azure and royal blue are interrupted by flecks of bright turquoise and vivid aquamarine as wavelets lap the shore. Since time began, humans have been drawn to bodies of water, and lakes especially can offer the pupil-dilating beauty and untamed majesty that we crave. Fearful lake monster myths such as Nessie and Ogopogo are replaced by the curiosity to explore these pools of unfathomable beauty. Whether surrounded by monochromatic rocky amphitheatres, magical medieval towns or just the expanse of the vast midnight sky, and whether world-famous or an under-the-radar gem, Earth’s lakes are truly spectacular. Below is our list of the most beautiful lakes in the world…
- Lake Como, Italy
- Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand
- Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
- Dead sea, Jordan
- Lake Nakuru, Kenya
- Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
- Moraine Lake, Canada
- Kirishima Crater Lakes, Japan
Lake Como, Italy
It doesn’t get much better than Lake Como. This pristine body of water is thought to be Italy’s most bellissimo lago (beautiful lake) and is a dreamy destination for honeymooning newlyweds, adventurous families and water sports lovers. This Lombardy jewel is nestled at the food of the Italian Alps, so there are plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounds of this film-set stunning lake too. With Renaissance architecture-fringed shores, mountainsides decorated with ever-moving funiculars and bluer-than-blue waters bustling with swimmers and speed boaters, Lake Como is a must when diving into the most beautiful lakes in the world.
Image © Faustine Poidevin
Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand
Lake Wakatipu is an adrenaline junkie’s haven. From heliskiing off pristine glaciers over the lake’s glassy waters to hair-raising jet boat rides, there are adrenaline-fueled activities to keep every explorer happy. When you’ve had your fill of thrills, settle down on the shoreline to the sound of gently lapping waves, where bustling cafes, lively bars and luxury lodges provide the perfect place for some R&R with a view like no other. Keep an eye out for the Māori legend of Matau, the monster that sleeps at the bottom of the lake and whose snoring makes Wakatipu unusually tidal.
Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
Guatemala’s Lake Atitlan is flanked by volcanoes. Eden-like beauty surrounds the deep waters of the lake, making this the perfect place for hiking, mountain biking and kayaking adventures. If it’s a spot of romance you’re after, nothing beats heading out onto the gin-clear waters on a sunset cruise to experience Mother Nature’s serenity. Sail past tiny villages that hug the shoreline, where you may catch a glimpse of Mayan residents proudly wearing beautiful traditional clothing.
Image © Pia Riverola
Dead sea, Jordan
The Dead Sea is one of the most famous bodies of water in the world and also happens to be the lowest point on the planet. This alone makes it one of the most spectacular places on our list, but its palm tree-lined shores, desolate mountainsides and serpentine salt formations also make it one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. You couldn’t travel all the way to Jordan and not try out its saline-heavy waters, so hop in and spend an afternoon floating your worries away in this extraordinary body of water (just make sure you keep your eyes shut), or even head to a luxury spa to test out the water’s world-famous healing properties.
Lake Nakuru, Kenya
The Great Rift Valley, the extraordinary geological force that nearly broke Africa in two, is brimming with eye-wateringly spectacular landscapes. The great swathes of grassy plains that make up the valley are dotted with pockets of acacia forests and volcanic peaks, and are also home to some of Kenya’s greatest lakes. Lake Nakuru’s water expands 17 square miles across the valley floor, where lone rhinos meander through flamboyances of flamingos, their lanky limbs a stark contrast to those of the stocky-legged rhinos. Hop aboard a boat and head out into the lake to explore the wildlife on offer – keep your eyes peeled for hippo nostrils on the surface of the water or a thirsty lion heading to the shore for a drink.
Image © Droits Reserves
Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
Plitvice Lakes in Croatia’s Adriatic hinterland are made up of 16 terraced pools connected by tumbling falls in all shades of blue and green. Water cascades from lake to lake, through verdant greenery and over time-weathered rocks. This is such a significant spot for locals and tourists alike, with its starkly beautiful scenery and constantly tumbling falls, that in 1979, UNESCO made the national park a World Heritage site. Although you can’t swim in these beautiful lakes in order to protect the fragile environment, the area is a great place in which to don your boots and head out along the boardwalks to explore the gin-clear waters with a camera in hand.
Moraine Lake, Canada
Nestled deep in the Banff National Park, surrounded by pine-wrapped mountains and snow-capped peaks, Moraine Lake is a gem of the Rocky Mountains. As you round the corner leading to the lake, its electric blue waters shine bright, like a glacial beacon calling out to be explored. Venture out on a traditional wooden canoe to explore every inch of this impossibly blue lake.
Kirishima Crater Lakes, Japan
The Kirishima crater lakes are an untapped treasure of Japan’s Kyushu Island. With the exception of the filming of ‘You Only Live Twice’, the lakes have remained unpolluted by urban glare and are some of the most remote and most beautiful lakes in the world. Follow in James Bond’s footsteps (hopefully without an international villain on your heels) with a hike up to these under-the-radar waters where your eyes won’t believe what they’re seeing.
Written by Immy Kelly
Header image © Faustine Poidevin