To help you plan your next vacation, we’ve compiled this list of 10 amazing lakes around the world that you need to visit at least once in your life.
No matter where you live, you can find an exotic lake to add variety to your travels and, best of all, some of these places are closer than you think!
So check out our picks for the 13 most beautiful lakes in the world, and get planning your next escape!
1. Lake Toba, Indonesia
Lake Toba is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. It is also one of the deepest, measuring over 1,300 feet at its deepest point. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and has a number of small islands dotting its surface.
Visitors can participate in several activities such as swimming, hiking, and biking. If you are looking for solitude, this may not be the place for you because there are always people on the shores or floating on rafts. If you’re looking for some thrills, try Jet Skiing or Parasailing!
2. Lake Titicaca, Peru
3. Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como is one of the most beautiful places in the world. The water is crystal clear, the scenery is breathtaking, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, this is the perfect spot. There are also several luxurious hotels and resorts located on the lake. You can book an entire villa or stay at an upscale hotel like Villa d’Este or the Hotel Splendido.
4. Lac du Der, France
Located in the Champagne-Ardenne region of France, Lac du Der is a man-made lake that’s perfect for those who love watersports.
With over 27,000 acres of water, it’s one of the largest lakes in Europe and is popular for activities like windsurfing, sailing, and fishing. The lake is also home to a large bird sanctuary, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
you can also visit Lac de Garde, France: Known as the largest natural freshwater lake in France, Lac de Garde offers visitors a serene environment with plenty of opportunities for recreation.
Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, hiking, cycling, and more on its shores. A picturesque train line even runs along its edge.
for more lakes in France, you should check the best 10 lakes in France you won’t want to miss
5. Lake Bled, Slovenia
6. Andong Lake, South Korea
7. Lady Elliot Island Ocean Beach, Australia
One of the best things about Lady Elliot Island is that it’s home to some of the most beautiful and diverse marine life in the world.
You can snorkel right off the beach and sea turtles, manta rays, and colorful fish. Plus, there’s an abundance of coral reefs to explore.
If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Lady Elliot Island is the perfect spot.
8. Uvs Nuur Basin, Mongolia
This massive lake is actually a dried-up ocean that’s been around for over two million years.
It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most unique places in the world. The best time to visit is between June and August when the weather is warm and there are plenty of activities to enjoy.
Uvs Nuur Basin is also home to the only freshwater seal population in Asia, which can be seen swimming or sunbathing on the shoreline.
As well as being surrounded by some incredible scenery, it’s also home to nine different species of fish that inhabit its waters, as well as a variety of other wildlife including reindeer, snow leopards, and ibexes.
9. Førde/Vatlestraumen, Norway
Førde/Vatlestraumen is one of the best lakes in the world for travel.
The water is so clean and clear that you can see the bottom even when it’s over 100 feet deep. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking, with towering mountains and pristine forests.
And there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, from hiking and biking to fishing and kayaking. If you’re looking for an unforgettable travel destination, Førde/Vatlestraumen should be at the top of your list.
It doesn’t get any better than this!
Pro tip: If you are looking to travel to Europe you should consider Corfu.
Here is a list of the best things to do in Corfu, Greece.
10. Baikal Lake, Russia
11. Lake District National Park, England
Boasting 250 different bodies of water – from deep lochs to wild mountain tarns – the Lake District National Park is England’s most extensive area devoted to water recreation.
From simple canoeing trips to climbing high peaks overlooking vast open expanses of water below, this scenic destination offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration no matter what your interests may be.
12. Borana Lakes, Ethiopia
Known as the Lakes of Life, Borana Lakes are a collection of three crater lakes set among scrubby vegetation.
These natural pools have served as a site for religious ceremonies and cultural rituals since ancient times.
With fresh drinking water, these crystal clear lakes are perfect for bird watching or simply relaxing by their shores.
13. Taj Lake Palace, India
Just 20 minutes from Udaipur in Rajasthan lies Taj Lake Palace. The palace was built by Maharaja Jagat Singh II in 1743 on the eastern bank of Pichola Lake in his capital city where he ruled until 1754.
Its iconic architecture and magnificent beauty have been featured extensively in paintings, photographs, television series, films, and advertising campaigns for decades. These days it has a hotel but it still remains closed to tourists for much of the year.
To get there, visitors can take a ferry across the lake and then be guided through gates on foot. They will be greeted with classical music as they arrive and are led through courtyards lit up with candles. A stay at this gorgeous destination will cost about $900 per night (not including meals).