Our Top Five Hidden Gems Across The Globe

There are so many beautiful places in the world, some more well-known than others. We know of the top wonders of the world, amazing places such as The Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls, many of which will be on our bucket list of places to visit. However, there are far more beautiful landscapes around the world that often go unnoticed. In this article, we thought we’d shed a light on some of these unique locations you may not have heard of, but will be well worth capturing on camera.

Sedona, Arizona

You may be thinking of visiting the Grand Canyon, one of the seven ‘Wonders of the World’, but a beautiful place nearby which is often overlooked is the landscape of Sedona, only a two-hour drive from the popular national park. Sedona is a desert town in Arizona near Flagstaff that’s surrounded by red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls and pine forests. Whilst in Sedona, you can walk through the town which is full of shops and galleries and is known for its vibrant arts community. Visit beautiful landmarks on the town's outskirts; such as the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a place of worship sat upon a rock that overlooks the amazing landscape through a floor to ceiling window, or its more famous landmark Cathedral Rock. And don't forget to take up one of its many hikes, like Fay Canyon!

Arashiyama in Kyoto, Japan

On the western outskirts of Kyoto is a landmark known for its photogenic scenery during the cherry blossom and fall seasons. Arashiyama is a nationally designated historic site and place of scenic beauty. While here, we would recommend taking a walk through the Bamboo groves from outside the north gate of Tenryū-ji to just below Ōkōchi Sansō villa. This path is one that is often described as magical because of the many green bamboo stalks that line the whole path, towering over you. Here you can also visit the Daikakuji Temple, made up of several buildings connected by elevated wooden walkways. It was built in the early 800s as a separate palace outside the city for the Emperor at the time. Following his death, the palace was converted into a temple and remains one of the biggest temples in Kyoto.

Vatnajökull, Iceland

The largest glacier in Iceland, covering 8% of the island's landmass, is also one of the country's most beautiful locations. In 2008 it was declared a national park, making it the largest in Europe. The subglacial landscape is dissected by numerous broad and narrow subglacial valleys and spectacular canyons. Explore beneath the glacier and you will find a magical scene that is every photographer’s dream. The landscape is made of ice caves, canyons and some of the most active volcanoes in the country, creating a magnificent struggle between fire and ice. Here you can see the power of nature in its full glory, with the white glacier descending to black sands, hot streams erupting from frozen banks of ice and Iceland’s highest mountain presiding over its deepest proglacial lake.

Provence, France

For some incredible views, visit the Provence region in the south of France where lavender fields create the most stunning purple hues. During the Summer solace, in June and July, these fields of lavender begin to bloom, creating the most spectacular views amongst a backdrop of thick green trees and mountain tops. A picture can tell a thousand words but you have to physically go to experience the view and the overwhelming scent of lavender for yourself. Les Baux-de-Provence, an Ancient village at a fortified rocky site is another very picturesque place to visit. The village is stretched out along a steep hillside, with narrow cobblestone streets between grey-stone Medieval buildings, now housing tourist shops, restaurants and museums. The road leading up to the old ruins passes through olive groves and vineyards. When approaching the village, you are welcomed with a stunning landscape, but the views once you climb to the top of the Chateau-Fortress des Baux are far more spectacular.

Slavonia, Croatia

Recently, Croatia has become a popular country to visit but the region of Slavonia is one that is often overlooked. However, this is part of its appeal. As one of four historical regions in Croatia, it is made up of the majority of the east of the country. Being untouched by tourism, the culture and history of the region is very much intact, which makes for a more authentic look and feel. Here you can explore Croatia’s fourth largest city; Osijek, situated on the river Drava. It is known as the greenest city in the country for boasting 17 parks and the most amount of greenery. The most photogenic landscapes in Slavonia are in the wetlands of the Kopacki Rit Nature Park. You can catch a boat ride across here where you will be inundated with rich foliage and wildlife. The Kopacki Rit is one of Europe’s largest wetlands, formed from the meeting of the Drava and Danube Rivers. Visit here to capture some unique pictures.

Get the Gear

Next time you’re out exploring new ground, you’ll need the right clothing to ensure you’re comfortable and protected against the elements. We know you’ll be too busy focusing on getting the perfect shot to have time to worry about the weather. Don’t worry, we have you covered - clothing engineered with GORE-TEX product technology is water and windproof, and comfortable. See our top gear for trekking to help you when choosing the perfect outdoor clothing. Have you found any hidden gems on your travels? Share yours with us in the comments below